What to know about Amalfi Coast.
Capri, Positano, Sorrento — and the Tyrrhenian beyond. The most photographed coastline in cinema.
Italy is the Mediterranean's most cinematic cruising ground. From Portofino in the north to Sicily in the south, with the Amalfi Coast and the Tyrrhenian as the centrepiece, the food is the best in the Med, the harbours are postcards, and the desk has eight editors who have run a season here.
The four cruising regions
Costa Smeralda — Sardinia
Porto Cervo as the base — the Aga Khan's original superyacht harbour. The Maddalena archipelago for the granite coves and the clearest water in Italy. Premium rates in August.
The Amalfi Coast
Capri, Positano, Sorrento, and the Faraglioni anchorage. Lunch at Lo Scoglio in Nerano. Anchorage at Marina Piccola. The desk's preferred week: the second of June.
Sicily & the Aeolians
Stromboli at sunset. Salina for the capers. Taormina for the dinner. The least-trafficked of Italy's premium grounds.
Liguria — Portofino
Tiny harbour, big yacht-watching. Anchor at Paraggi and tender ashore. Day-trip to Rapallo, dinner at Da Pozzo, walk to the lighthouse.
What it costs, all-in
For a typical 50m motor yacht in August on the Amalfi Coast: base €130,000/wk + APA €40,000 + gratuity €15,000 = roughly €185,000–€190,000 all-in. Italian VAT (22%) on the base is typically navigable down to 5–7% with a competent flag.
Frequently asked.
When is the best time to charter in Italy?
May through October. July and August are peak. Late May, June, and September are the desk's preferred windows — full facilities, fewer crowds, and 15–25% lower rates than peak.
How much does a yacht charter in Italy cost?
Italy charter rates range from €20,000 per week for a 35m motor yacht to €400,000 per week for a 70m+ flagship. Mid-range (45–55m) typically runs €100,000–€180,000 plus APA of 30–35%.
Where should I cruise in Italy?
Sardinia (Costa Smeralda) for the glamour and the granite coves. The Amalfi Coast for the cinema. Sicily for the food and the Aeolian volcanoes. Portofino for the day-trip to Rapallo and dinner at Pozzo.
Is VAT charged on Italian yacht charters?
Italian VAT (22% on charters) applies to charters embarking in Italian waters; reductions apply if the yacht spends meaningful time outside territorial waters. The desk handles the documentation. APA is generally VAT-exempt.
What is the minimum charter duration in Italy?
7 nights is standard. Some yachts accept 4–5 night charters in shoulder season, typically with a small premium. Christmas through New Year on the Amalfi Coast is rare and books 12+ months out.