8 days – 7 nights
Explore the paradise islands of Sicily and Malta sailing along their most beautiful gold coasts. This unique itinerary by private superyacht will lead you to discover ancient secrets and modern curiosities of these two lands kissed by the sun and sea. Centuries of history, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, cultures mingling, colors, perfumes and flavors will make this experience one of a kind,
a long-lasting memory to be preserved.
Highlights:
Malta: the UNESCO World Heritage city of Valletta, Gozo and Comino, Mdina by night
Sicily: the picturesque fishermen village of Marzamemi, the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Syracuse, Catani and Etna, Giardini Naxos and the enchanting Taormina
ITINERARY & PROGRAM
Day 1: Malta – Valletta
Independent arrival in Malta, afternoon boarding in Valletta area. Explore Valletta (optional excursion). The Fortress City, renowned to be “built by gentlemen for gentlemen” is Malta’s capital city. Busy by day, this city retains a timeless atmosphere by night that gives the feeling of a walking back in time. Boasting some of Europe’s finest art works, churches and palaces, Valletta is brimming with history, splendid Baroque architecture, squares and alleys, museums and bastions. Included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, Valletta also hosts two notable Caravaggio masterpieces both displayed in the Saint John’s Cathedral.
Day 2: Gozo – Comino – Mdina by night
Sailing to Gozo, the “little sister” of the bigger Malta, is a real escape from routine. Its name meaning “joy” is exactly the feeling that this paradisiac and peaceful island produces. Take your time to appreciate blue sky, azure sea, unique picturesque coastal views and a priceless uncontaminated nature; you may choose to taste a piece of the Mediterranean culinary heart in one of the local attractive sea view trattorias.
Sail to Comino the smallest island of the Maltese archipelago with a grand total of 4 permanent inhabitants. Comino is famed for its Blue Lagoon, which offers crystal clear waters for swimming in and Santa Maria Tower built by the Knights of St. John to secure the island from corsair pirates, now in use as a museum. Back at shore, you may decide for an evening shore excursion to Mdina. Erected on the top of the rough hill in the center of Malta, since at first sight, this ancient capital of Malta reveals itself in all its beauty, majesty and elegance. Well-known as the “Silent city”, due to its quiet and solitary atmosphere, it is impossible not be fascinated by the surreal peace of this antique city, full of traditions and guardian of legends, secrets and endless memories.
Day 3: On sail to Siciliy: Marzamemi – Syracuse
Your landing to the Sicilian coast will follow an astonishing sail through the Malta Channel: an intense route with a very long history incised in its waves. While enjoying the crossing, just imagine the Ottoman Empire pirates, the Romans fleets cutting through this sea. Heading towards the extreme point of Sicily, the enchanting panorama of Marzamemi will catch your eyes. Here, where Sicily and Africa meet, have a seat in one of the historical bars in the main seventeen-century little square: admire the surrounding palazzos, the Arabic courtyards and get lost into the exciting smell of the sea throughout the traditional fishermen’s little houses. History, culture and natural beauties here are the main ingredients of this fascinating small village, which is still able to seduce sun, sea and quiet lovers’ souls.
Sail to Syracuse.
Day 4: Syracuse – sailing
Don’t miss the visit of Syracuse (optional) defined by Cicero “the biggest and the most beautiful among all Greek cities”. A Unesco World Heritage site for its archeological, artistic and monumental patrimony, a perfect summary of the Sicilian history. Explore the baroque heart of Ortigia, the Euryalus fortification, the Apollo Temple, the columns of the Athena Temple set inside the Baroque cathedral like precious stones, get absorbed into the enchanting atmosphere of the ancient Neapolis, the archaeological park where the Greek Theatre is placed: here, still today you can experience the magical tradition of classic tragedy performances. Visiting Syracuse is a continuous alternation of unrepeatable sensations and emotions. Sail to Riposto, a very small town that halfway between Catania and Taormina with its port at the feet of the Mt Etna, the giant active volcano.
Day 5: Catania – Etna – Giardini Naxos
Today at shore, it is time to explore Catania highlights, the liveliest city of the island. As the cradle of the Baroque in Sicily, admire its historical and archaeological patrimony, churches and palaces. Perfectly immersed in this unique setting, don’t miss the visit to the fish market, nominated World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Placed in the bowel of the most ancient neighbor it is a must-see to discover the authentic folklore that animates the city for centuries. You may decide to continue your tour to explore the Mt Etna, where fire eruptions and blue sky intertwine to give you a unique spectacle. Here where nature mixes colors, fertile lands are imbued with the fragrance of local wines, which you will be able to taste in one of the top wineries at the bottom of its sides. Back to Riposto, we can suggest some of the best walking-distance restaurants from the port. Night sailing to Giardini Naxos, which is your next step. As the first Greek colony, this coastal village is the crib of ancient Mediterranean civilizations and at the same time a renowned tourist station. Along the promenade, series of typical restaurants and boutiques characterize the atmosphere of this town, a real postcard.
Day 6: Taormina
Land in Taormina for a shore excursion of the crown jewel of the tour that thanks to its great beauty patrimony has gained the title of “pearl of the Mediterranean sea”. Over the centuries, the magnificence of this small town has seduced innumerable poets and writers, attracted illustrious travelers, host internationally renowned celebrities. Visiting this strip of paradise on Earth, do not miss the visit to the Ancient Greek Theatre, an open window to the coast view; a walking full immersion throughout its medieval alleys; its breath-taking panoramas while tasting its excellent gastronomic soul. Taormina is a real picturesque landscape, “it will seduce your eyes, fantasize your mind”.
Day 7: On sail to Malta
Sailing back to the first step of this unusual tour, you will surely relax and enjoy this piece of sea, which is already familiar to you.
Day 8: Malta
Disembark. Independent departure.
FEATURES
General info: our 85ft red superyacht built by C. Boat has 5 five deluxe cabins (1 master suite, 2 double rooms, 2 twin rooms sleeping up to 3) comfortably accommodating a total of 10 to 12 guests, all equipped with en-suite bathrooms. The living room is equipped with TV 46”, BOSE surround system, fridge, wine fridge, Table 10 seater, air conditioning, guest toilet, command post with radar, Gps, ecoscan ×2 , automatic pilot × 2.
The Fly is equipped with fridge, ice-maker, grill, sink, stereo, jacuzzi, 4 sunbeds, Table 10 seater, 2nd command post. Four crew member, a commander on board and a personal chef on board.
Lenght: 8 days – 7 nights, sea/on shore
Departures & prices: available all year round, upon request (please, note that there are no scheduled departures)
Travel Services: we would be happy to assist travellers in case of any further services: i.e. pre-post nights in Sicily or Malta. Do not hesitate to ask for info.
Reservation & Payments: a deposit of 30% per person is required at the time of reservation. Final payment of the tour is due 60 days prior to departure.
Book this tour OR ask for a customised proposal info@isolabella.it
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