Sardinia Yacht Charter Guide
Experience a Sardinia yacht charter and enjoy chic marinas coupled with idyllic beaches and some of Italy's best cuisine for the ultimate summer cruise.
The second-largest island in the Mediterranean, located off Italy's west coast, is Sardinia. A yacht charter in Sardinia combines the best of both worlds, blending a wild, craggy coastline with the chic, cosmopolitan glamour and exclusivity found in Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo. Dotted with luxury resorts, shopping, and dining experiences, cruising down the iconic Costa Smeralda is a must. Head inland for the island's dramatic gorges and lush interior full of outdoor pursuit opportunities, while the coastline is home to various charming towns where you can sample the delicious Sardinian cuisine and sought-after island wines. Just a stone's throw from the island lies the La Maddalena archipelago, comprising over 60 uninhabited and pristine islands that are ideal for visiting by yacht, with their white sandy beaches, biodiverse turquoise waters, and isolated anchorages.
Best Time To Visit: The perfect time for cruising is during the Mediterranean summer, from May through to September.
Key Cruising Areas: Cruise to the famous Porto Cervo and Cala di Volpe for Sardinian glamour and iconic beach clubs, while the La Maddalena archipelago provides off-the-beaten-track adventures. Extend your itinerary and combine a visit to nearby Corsica.
Don't Miss: Anchor in Cala di Volpe Bay and head ashore to enjoy one of the island's most iconic luxury hotels. Sundowners are the perfect time to visit via tender, admiring the sunset views at the Cala Beach Beach Club.
Best Spots for Wining and Dining: The Costa Smeralda is home to some of the most exclusive restaurants in the world. In Porto Cervo, dine at the Michelin-starred ConFusion, known for its champagne list, or Il Pescatore for the saffron lobster.
Best Local Dish: There are hundreds of Sardinian breads; the most typical is pane carasau, a thin, crisp flatbread often served with olive oil and salt. Another must-try delicacy on the island is bottarga, dried, salted, and pressed roe from grey mullet.
Local Culture: Sardinia hosts numerous year-round vibrant festivals that celebrate its rich culture; one of the most important is Sant'Efisio, held in Cagliari, where you can witness colorful parades featuring traditional costumes.
Best Beach: Only accessible by sea, the Maddalena Islands are home to various beautiful beaches, including the isolated Cala Coticcio on Caprera Island.
IYC recommends: Cruise the beauty of the secluded beaches and crystal-clear waters of the UNESCO-protected Maddalena archipelago, enjoy a beach barbecue organized by your crew, and dive into the watersports while on anchor.
Sardinia is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered, with over 2000 kilometers of breathtaking coastline and ancient ruins. Located near Corsica, this Italian island is as a must-visit destination, praised by top travel publications like Condé Nast Traveller. Boasting a wealth of history, traditional cuisine, and charming towns with vibrant architecture, Sardinia offers a unique and untouched experience. The famous Costa Smeralda invites visitors to indulge in luxury stays at world-class hotels or villas and mingle with the elite at chic beach clubs. In the summertime, the marinas are bustling with private yachts, adding to the island's lavish atmosphere. Experience the enchanting "La Maddalena Archipelago", a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the captivating Budelli island, renowned for its unique "pink beach", as well as other alluring destinations such as Spargi. Be sure not to miss out on the picturesque riverside town of Bosa, famed for its vibrant houses, and the picturesque city of Alghero. These are just a sampling of the countless awe-inspiring sights that await you on your journey to Sardinia. Come with us to discover this extraordinary island, filled with deep history, lively local traditions, and astounding coastal vistas that will leave you speechless. The origins of Sardinia date back to ancient times, with a rich history influenced by diverse groups such as the Phoenicians, Romans, Byzantines, and others. Evidence of its rich history can be found throughout the island, with Su Nurax and other sites serving as ancient remnants of the mysterious Nuragic civilization. Despite ongoing research, many questions about these stone structures and their inhabitants remain unanswered. Today, Sardinia continues to reveal new archaeological sites, offering a diverse and intriguing past for those fascinated by history.
The vibrant tapestry of flavors found in Sardinian cuisine is a testament to its rich cultural heritage. Influenced by a blend of Italian, Spanish, and North African culinary traditions, the island's gastronomy offers an enticing journey for the palate. Drawing from an abundance of locally sourced ingredients such as pecorino cheese, fresh seafood, and aromatic herbs, Sardinian dishes embody centuries of culinary evolution, resulting in a harmonious fusion of flavors. For epicureans in search of an exceptional dining experience, Sardinian cuisine promises to captivate with its distinctive blend of culinary heritage.
Sardinia offers more than pristine beaches and Mediterranean luxury; beyond its celebrated coastline is an archaeological landscape that spans thousands of years. While anchored along the iconic Costa Smeralda or exploring the island's less frequented southern shores, visitors can access incredible historical sites. Offering a glimpse into Sardinia’s past, here are the top eight sites to add to your Sardinian vacation itinerary: