Sicily is a blend of picturesque villages overlooking the sea, crystal-clear waters and natural parks surrounded by silence and wild scenery. One of the areas that definitely impresses for its beauty and the variety of landscapes that switch between sea and mountain is the East coast of Sicily, where some of the most beautiful cities of the island and Mount Etna are located and from which you can create an itinerary that follows the East coast to reach Malta, located less than 90 nautical miles from Syracuse, a Mediterranean archipelago that offers Arab medinas, Spanish patios and Italian baroque cathedrals.If you are looking for a berth option in these locations, here are some hints and suggestions.
Giardini Naxos (at anchor)
Giardini Naxos belongs to Taormina area. Here yachts are allowed to anchor in this wonderful bay and use their tender to go ashore.
Taormina is a hilltop town lying near Mount Etna, an active volcano with trails leading to its summit. The town, distant one hour from Catania Airport, is famous for the Ancient Theatre of Taormina, an ancient Greek-Roman amphitheatre that is still in use today. Near the theatre, cliffs dropping to the sea form coves with sandy beaches, and a narrow strip of sand connects the city to the tiny Isola Bella, which is a nature reserve.
Syracuse Marina
Going south and situated 45 minutes from Catania International Airport you’ll find Syracuse marina that can accommodate 10 mega yachts, 5 medium/small yachts with all the necessary facilities. The marina can accommodate also yachts alongside and in this part only water from pier is available.Described by Cicero as the largest and most beautiful of all the Greek cities, the homeland of Archimedes was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2005 and it is known for its ancient ruins such as the central Archaeological Park of Neapolis, which contains the Roman amphitheatre and the Greek Theatre and the “Ear of Dionysius”, a limestone cave shaped like a human ear.
Marzamemi (at anchor)
In about an hour cruising from Syracuse and less than 2 hrs driving from the Catania Airport, you will find the sparkling Marzamemi Village, a small, dreamy town with many bars and restaurants. Yachts stay out at anchor and can bring guests ashore by tender. Close to Marzamemi, there are nice sandy beaches such as Lido “Baiamuri”, a unique place characterized by its crystalline sea.
Marina di Ragusa
Sailing south from Marzamemi, you will pass Capo Passero and head west to Marina di Ragusa, which offers a well-equipped marina that can accommodate yachts up to 55 meters LOA. This beautiful location is a good base for visiting Ragusa Ibla, the historic and picturesque old town on the hillside that is famous for its baroque architecture and its ancient ruins. It is about 2 hours driving distance from Catania International Airport.
Malta
This hidden jewel in the middle of the Med might be small, but its archipelago is bursting with an intense history, vibrant culture and endless charm every turn you take. The coast is picture-perfect with its enchanting beaches and limestone cliffs overlooking the dazzling water. Despite its size, Malta has it all when it comes to things to do. Once the cultural visits are over it is time to immerse yourself in some excellent diving, snorkelling and water sports.
In case you are looking for a berth we for sure suggest you
Grand Harbour Marina
Set against the picturesque, historic backdrop of a UNESCO World Heritage site, this marina in Grand Harbour Malta will take your breath away – by day or by night.
The 500-year-old exquisite architecture of Valletta and Vittoriosa creates a captivating atmosphere, further enhanced by the waterfront buildings, which house chic restaurants, bars, and café society.
It can accommodate vessels up to 100 mt LOA and it is only 15 minutes driving distance from the international airport with direct flights to most major EU cities and has also facilities for private jets.
