Sicily Event Guide
Non-route information (yacht packages, deposits, kitty process, app, kit, event team roles, safety forms, etiquette, themes, NPS) lives on the Yacht Week Operations page. This guide contains only what’s specific to Sicily.
MANAGEMENT TEAM






IN AN EMERGENCY
IN AN EMERGENCY
If you have an emergency, your first port of call should be the COAST GUARD. Use channel 16 on your VHF to initiate the call and you will then be directed to another channel. You can also call 112 on any mobile phone, regardless of whether it has an operational service plan.
After the coast guard, notify the Route Manager as soon as possible for any major emergencies. For minor emergencies, contact your lead skipper.
Fill out an accident report ASAP: Accident Report Form
IMPORTANT NUMBERS
Emergency Numbers (Italy)
Coast Guard (real emergency only; misuse will be fined)
Emergencies at sea
- VHF Channel 16
Yacht Week comms
- VHF Channel 72
Hospitals
Hospital | Address | Number | Milazzo Hospital | Villaggio Grazia, 98057 San Pietro | +39 0909 290 111 |
|---|---|---|
Ospedale Cutroni Zodda | Via Gesù e Maria, 98051 Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto
| +39 09097 511 |
Lipari Hospital | Via S. Anna, 98050 Lipari | (phone TBC) |
Embassies & Consulates
Embassies & Consulates
Embassies and consulates are the right point of contact for serious matters affecting a guest or a crew member’s home country. They are not a general help line. Reach out to the relevant embassy or consulate when:
- A passport is lost, stolen, or damaged and a replacement or emergency travel document is needed.
- A guest or crew member is seriously injured, hospitalised, or has died. Embassies can assist with notifying next of kin and coordinating support.
- A guest or crew member is arrested, detained, or otherwise involved in a criminal matter.
- A guest or crew member is the victim of a serious crime.
- There is a wider crisis (natural disaster, civil unrest, large-scale incident) requiring consular assistance.
- A guest or crew member needs welfare support and cannot reach family or friends.
Search online for the embassy or consulate of the relevant home country in Italy. Confirm the latest contact details and opening hours before calling, as these change. Most embassies operate a 24-hour emergency line for citizens in distress.
PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION
Standard YW pre-departure steps (crew lists, online check-in, lead booker / skipper check-in, deposits) are on the Yacht Week Operations page.
Guest Comms
In the Day 8 app you’ll be introduced to your crew before the week. If any crew members are missing from the introduction, email app@yachtweek.com.
Common reason: guests don’t check in until the last minute. We send multiple reminders to push them through online check-in, and only once they’re checked in do they get app access. The app is critical: it’s how the weekly schedule, last-minute changes, and push notifications about critical situations reach every guest. App usage and functionality is improving every season, and we want to keep all guests connected to each other through it.
Use the app as your number-one comms channel. This applies particularly to cabin and solo booking charters where guests don’t already know each other.
Do
- Encourage your crew to use the app.
- Send all messages in the app.
Do Not
- Start by asking your crew to join a private WhatsApp group.
- Switch to WhatsApp unless guests ask for it.
WhatsApp Groups
Please join the WhatsApp groups for the weeks you are assigned. Don’t join weeks where you aren’t assigned. Join 2 groups per week.
For each week we run 3 groups: one combined “All Skippers & Hosts” group, a Skippers-only group, and a Hosts-only group. As a skipper, join the All Skippers & Hosts group plus the Skippers group. As a host, join the All Skippers & Hosts group plus the Hosts group.
-
- Week 24 (Sicily): All Skippers & Hosts | Skippers | Hosts
- Week 25 (Sicily): All Skippers & Hosts | Skippers | Hosts
- Week 26 (Sicily): All Skippers & Hosts | Skippers | Hosts
You can create groups in the YW App. There will automatically be a Skipper and a Host group in the app for each week. YW is building app functionality to meet operational demands, but it’s not up to speed yet.
Drones
Flying drones may be restricted in some areas. Check current Italy drone regulations: uavcoach.com/drone-laws-in-italy
Packing Tips
Packing blog: Yacht Week packing list
Early Arrival
If you plan to arrive in Italy a few days before check-in, book accommodation near Catania or Taormina. Many hotels and apartments are also in Portorosa: Tindari Resort or Portorosa Residence are popular options.
From Palermo By Train
- From Palermo Centrale, you can take a direct train to Barcelona-Castroreale, which takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes. The ticket costs approximately €15.
- Barcelona-Castroreale Station is 15 minutes from Porto Rosa.
- Another nearby station is Novara-Montalbano-Furnari, just 6 minutes from Porto Rosa.
- Check train schedules on Trenitalia: https://www.trenitalia.com/en.html
By Taxi
Taxi services from Palermo Airport to Porto Rosa:
- Giardina Viaggi
- WhatsApp: +39 0941 361462
- Email: info@giardinaviaggi.it
- Price list: https://giardinatour.it/chi-siamo/
- Taxi Jolly (Felice) – +39 350 1880581 (€300)
- Iarcar (Francesco) – +39 340 2165709 (Price https://drive.google.com/file/d/1snx-6D6uR23erG0aL3-eEWMN5NP0ghSj/view
Taxi from Train Stations to Porto Rosa Dock
- Taxi Portorosa – +39 388 4362229 (~€50) – Suggestion: call in advance
- Taxi Jolly (Felice) – +39 350 1880581 (~€50) 1 car (1-3 ppl) 50€ – Van 8 places 4+ ppl – 80€
- Iarcar – +39 340 216 5709
By Taxi
Taxi services from Catania Airport to Porto Rosa:
- Giardina Viaggi
- WhatsApp: +39 0941 361462
- Email: info@giardinaviaggi.it
- Price list: https://giardinatour.it/chi-siamo/
- Taxi Jolly (Felice) – +39 350 1880581 (€250)
- Iarcar (Francesco) – +39 340 2165709 (Price https://drive.google.com/file/d/1snx-6D6uR23erG0aL3-eEWMN5NP0ghSj/view
Transfers
- You can check Giardina Viaggi for transfer service going on for 30€ per person, check here:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IbSSTDeFJBOrTIgumRNoGVgLB7-k4V0M/view
Things to do in Palermo
INTERNET & E-SIM GUIDELINES
1. Staff Data Is Mandatory
As a skipper or host you must have continuous mobile data. All Yacht Week operational comms run exclusively through the Day 8 app and WhatsApp, and you need reliable access at the dock, on the water, and on land. Public Wi-Fi at marinas and venues is patchy. Do not rely on it for comms.
2. Onboard Wi-Fi Rentals
Guests can rent a portable Wi-Fi dongle directly from their charter company if they want a shared network for the yacht.
3. Advising Guests On Mobile Data
Personal mobile data is technically optional for guests, but they need it to fully experience the Day 8 app. Pay special attention to non-EU guests or those with limited data plans, and advise them as follows.
EU Phone Numbers
Italy is in the EU. EU-issued SIMs operate under the “Roam Like At Home” rules, so a normal home data plan typically applies in Italy at no extra charge. Fair-use limits exist for very large plans, so guests should confirm with their provider before travelling.
Non-EU Phone Numbers (US, UK, AUS, etc.)
Advise these guests to arrange data before they arrive. Roaming fees can be huge.
Travel eSIMs (Highly Recommended)
Apps like Airalo, Holafly, Saily, and Nomad sell Italy or Europe-wide data plans that activate instantly:
- 5 GB (~7 days): roughly €10 to €15.
- 10 GB (~14 days): roughly €18 to €25.
- Unlimited Europe: roughly €25 to €40.
Physical Local SIMs
Guests can buy a local SIM (TIM, Vodafone, or WindTre) for around €10. The eSIM route is faster and avoids tracking down a carrier store.
US guests: confirm with the home carrier that the phone is unlocked before leaving home (usually means the phone is fully paid off). If the phone is locked, international eSIMs and local physical SIMs will not work.
Onboard Wi-Fi: WiFi can be purchased from some charter companies. Sunsicily (€50/week) and Spartivento (€50/week). Not available from DYC or North Sardinia Sail. Use it sparingly: the data limit goes fast on streaming. Marinas and most bars/restaurants also offer internet, but coverage is patchy on the islands.
LOCAL INFORMATION
Weather
- Daytime highs: 28°C to 32°C (82°F to 90°F).
- Evenings: 18°C to 22°C (64°F to 72°F).
- Water temperature: 22°C to 24°C (72°F to 75°F).
- Plenty of sunshine. 10 to 12 hours of daylight.
Wind
Prevailing winds from the West and Northwest. Scirocco winds from the Southeast are hot, irregular, and carry Sahara desert dust and Mount Etna ash. Summer thunderstorms follow and arrive quickly. Plan navigation and moorings around weather changes.
Local Currency
The currency is Euro (€). Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in hotels, shops, and larger restaurants. American Express is unlikely to be accepted, especially on the islands. Smaller establishments do not accept cards. Cash is king on the islands. Carry all the cash needed for the week before leaving Portorosa.
Time Zone
Central European Summer Time (CEST), UTC +2. Sunrise approx 06:00, sunset approx 20:30.
Language
Italian. English is understood in tourist areas like Catania, Palermo, and Taormina, but less common in smaller towns and on the islands. When contacting taxis or local services, use WhatsApp first. More reliable for written communication.
Plug Sockets
Standard voltage on yachts is 12V. Italian mains is 220V, standard European 2-pin plug.
Tap Water
Drink bottled water only on the islands.
Jellyfish & Mosquitos
Be cautious of jellyfish in the water. Pack mosquito repellent.
SICILY KITTY & FOOD BUDGETS
The process is the same everywhere. See Yacht Week Operations. The figures below are Sicily-specific.
Sicily Guest Kitty Amounts
These have been communicated to guests. Do not ask guests to bring more than the below.
- Monohull: €1,270
- Catamaran: €1,600
- 6 guests Cat: €267 pp
- 7 guests Cat: €228 pp
- 8 guests Cat: €200 pp
Sicily Cabin Booking Provisioning Budget
- 7 to 8 guests onboard: €800
- 5 to 6 guests onboard: €750
- 4 or fewer guests onboard: €700
Hosts receive a virtual Pleo card by email. Keep an eye out for it.
TIPPING
Tipping is one of the most common friction points reported by Yacht Week guests. Different cultures have very different norms around it. Here’s where Yacht Week stands.
Don't Ask For Tips
- Do not send pre-arrival or onboard messages requesting an "industry-standard tip". Yacht Week is not high-end private charter. It's an entry-level product for young people getting into yachting, and it shouldn't be priced or pitched like a luxury crew gratuity model.
- Some guests will tip generously because that's how their culture works. Others won't, because that's how theirs works. Both are fine. The decision about whether and how much to tip belongs to the guest.
Why This Matters
- Yacht Week is built to be accessible: for young people, tight budgets, and first-time charterers. Heavy tipping pressure is one of the barriers that keeps people out of yachting, and that's exactly the audience we exist to bring in.
- Yacht Week created a new niche: youth and group sailing. We're not the wider private yachting industry, and the same compensation expectations don't apply.
- A YW assignment is a summer job, not a primary career. It's about having fun, making friends, and building a network. If our tip policy doesn't fit your personal financial model, the wider private yachting industry is available, but you'll need to talk to management before signing on.
The Reality
You win some, you lose some. The bigger yachts tend to tip more often, so the path to better gratuities is racking up multiple weeks and getting onto the larger yachts. Do the job well, treat your guests as guests, and tips will follow on the weeks that follow.
EVENT INFORMATION
Event Themes (Sicily)
Remaining day/night events: casual dress, respecting local culture and community.
Event Schedule
W24: 06 Jun 2026 to 13 Jun 2026. W25 13 Jun 2026. to 20 Jun 2026. W26: 20 Jun 2026 to 26 Jun 2026..
We cannot reserve dock space wherever we’d like in Italy. Port authorities don’t allow it. Departure and arrival times must be respected.
Day | Location | Activity / Party | Saturday | Portorosa Marina
| Check-In + Opening Party (Gradisca) |
|---|---|---|
Sunday | Lipari | Line Raft |
Monday | Lipari | Winery / Scooters / Turmalin Club |
Tuesday | Stromboli | Volcano Hike |
Wednesday | Salina | Portobello / Wine Bar |
Thursday | Panarea | Raya Rooftop / Banacalii |
Friday | Portorosa Marina | Check-Out |
ARRIVAL & MARINAS
Charter Company Location / Marina Map
Address: Sailitalia srl, Turistica “il gabbiano”, Villaggio Turistico Portorosa, Zona Laguna Azzurra, 98054 Furnari (ME), Italy.
Charter Companies
- Spartivento
- North Sardinia Sail (NSS)
- DYC
- Sun Sicily
Sun Sicily, DYC, and North Sardinia Sail are located close to where you drive in. Spartivento is on the other side of the marina.
Marina Facilities
Showers and restrooms, bars, restaurants, cafés, and small supermarkets.
Luggage Storage
Luggage: You may store the bags at your charter company’s office upon request. The Yacht Week crew do not take responsibility for any lost luggage or items. Prices for luggage storage differ depending on the charter company;
- Sun Sicily: no charge.
- North Sardinia Sail: €25/yacht.
- DYC: no charge, limited space.
- Spartivento: no charge, limited space.
Banks & ATMs
Withdraw enough money before arriving in Portorosa. Bank opening hours: Mon to Fri 08:30 to 13:30 and 14:30 to 16:00. Closed Sat & Sun. ATMs are operational 24h. There is one ATM at the entrance to Porto Rosa Marina. Lipari and Salina have many banks and ATMs; on the other islands, you’ll find ATMs only.
Pharmacy
Located 15 min walk from the marina entrance. Via Prestipaolo, 98054 Furnari ME, Italy.
Recommended Restaurants (Portorosa)
Local Transport
There are no regular taxi companies in the region. Transportation must be booked in advance with a local transfer company.
A Few Quick Tips:
- Cash is handy – especially at markets or smaller cafés.
- Opening hours can vary – many shops close from around 1–4 PM
SKIPPER INFORMATION
Marina Fees (Rough Guide)
Salina
- 40 ft: €173.25
- 42 ft: €190.80
- 45 ft: €198.90
- 50 ft: €225.00
Lipari (Marina Lunga)
- Catamarans 40 p: €80
- Catamarans 46 p: €100
- Sailing 50 p: €70
- Sailing 53 p: €80
Panarea, Stromboli, and Lipari further fees TBC.
Anchoring
Anchor during lunch stops, rafting, and overnight in Stromboli. Depth drops rapidly, with shoals and submerged rocks near the coastline. Stay 100 m from cliffs and 200 m from beaches. At Stromboli, ensure sufficient chain is out and reverse firmly to check the anchor’s hold. If staying overnight, set an anchor alarm and check your yacht and weather regularly.
Snorkelling
The Aeolian Islands offer great snorkelling. Remind your crew not to touch anything. Reefs are sharp, and jellyfish are common.
Garbage & Recycling (Italy)
Garbage smells quickly in heat. Dispose of it properly. Ask locals where to leave it (there may be a small charge). Italy has strict recycling rules: separate plastics, cardboard, glass, and domestic waste to avoid issues at marinas.
Holding Tanks & Pollution
Fines for pollution can exceed €1,500. Proper use of holding tanks and fuel tanks is critical. Specific rules will be explained on-site. Follow them to avoid fines.
HOST INFORMATION
To stock up for the trip, head to Conad Supermarket with a few guests via shuttle transfer. At Portorosa Marina:
- Mini Market in Portorosa Marina: smaller, limited stock (especially meat). Yacht delivery available, but supplies run out by afternoon. Shop early.
- Conad Supermarket: just outside the marina. Larger, wider variety. Yacht delivery available; provide yacht name and charter company. Shuttle service from the marina.
Island Supermarkets
- Salina: small supermarket on the main street, yacht delivery available.
- Panarea: a small supermarket near the waterfront by Raya.
- Stromboli: small supermarket on the main road to San Vincenzo Square.
- Lipari: supermarket near the ferry terminal, plus a larger supermarket on the main street. Both offer yacht delivery.
- Vulcano: Sapori & Dintorni and Conad.
Supermarket Hours
Most stores are open 08:00 to 21:00, though some take a lunch break, particularly on the islands.
What To Buy
- Food for 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 2 dinners, plus plenty of snacks.
- At least 3 litres of bottled water per person per day (recommended due to tap water quality on the islands).
- Ice: available from supermarkets, marinas, and some fish shops.
- Ice box for storage: all yachts have refrigerators, but no freezers.
SUNDAY: LINE RAFT
Sailing
Portorosa to Lipari (LINE RAFT)
Sail time Lipari/Vulcano: 3.5 hours, 20 NM Arrival at raft/anchor site: 11:00 at the latest. Arrival at Vulcano: 15:00 at the latest.
Background
Sunday night, we will raft overnight. Location TBC based on weather, but either the north east side of Vulcano or South side of Lipari. There will be a DJ set up in the centre of the raft
Guest Information
- Enjoy a swim stop en route, suggested locations will be posted in the group.
- Tunnel raft party and dinner on the yacht.
MONDAY: LIPARI
Sailing information:
Sail from the raft location TBC to Lipari, a short sail, no longer than an hour. Arrival time: 12:00 at the latest.
We will have our yachts at Lipari Service in Marina Lunga – VHF 77. The floating pontoon dock was left to the fuel dock. Water and electricity are included in the fee. 9 PM – 8 AM, water is closed
Recommended Day Stop: Spiaggia di Pomice (3h30 from Stromboli)
Plan to arrive by 11:00 at the latest and stop for lunch there.
Lipari was for centuries the world centre for pumice production, and although the mining (now stopped) has left scars on the hillsides, it has also deposited the finest white pumice dust on the seabed. The water off Spiaggia di Pomice is clear and turquoise, perfect for a morning swim and lunch stop. This is by far one of the most scenic and beautiful day stops of the itinerary! Along the beach, you will find the Havana Beach bar, where you can get some quick food and drinks. If you need ice, they can fill up your ice box at the bar.
Background
Lipari is the main tourist centre in the Aeolians, but fortunately, it still retains a charming, laid-back island vibe. It is a lovely town to stroll the labyrinthine alleyways with the sun on your face and nothing to do but enjoy the atmosphere. There are also beautiful sights beyond the soaring clifftop citadel and archaeological museum.
Guest Information
- There is a large supermarket on the main road. It also offers delivery service.
- Ice is sold at the end of the dock. Confirm how many bags you will need the day before.
- Scooters can be rented from:
Top Activities
- Lipari Island in the Glass - Wine Tasting
Followed by a sommelier, the tastings are dedicated to wine lovers and to those who want to get to know our viticulture project in depth through a guided tour of the cellar and a walk in the vineyard.
Winery guided tour and short walk in the vineyard include:
3 glasses of wine: Bianco Porticello/Rosa Caolino/Ypsilon
Homemade bread and extra virgin olive oil from Mt.Etna
Selection of cold cuts and cheeses from Nebrodi and the Aeolian Islands, Crostini with our organic caper pâté
“Curzate” olives, traditional vegetables.
Price: from 45 €
Time: 17:30
Pick-up at the harbour – 15€ pp for a collective transfer
Booking 6 days in advance: https://www.tenutadicastellaro.it/
- Visit the old town: the archaeological museum, the fortress, and the view of Marina Corta.
- Get ready for an EPIC party at Turmalin Club.
Recommended Restaurants
-
Il Filippino: €€ best restaurant in town with the best selection of fresh fish, Aeolian and Italian specialities, and a range of meat dishes. If you arrive early enough, you can enjoy an exquisite lunch with your crew in one of the most remarkable restaurants in the islands.
Lunch from 12:00 to 15:0. Book the day before or early in the morning. (+39 090 9811002) - Kasbah: €€ (+39 090 9811075)
- Osteria San Bartolo
- Trattoria Del Vicolo Lipari
Recommended Bars
- Il Giardino di Lipari
- Ice cream - cannoli - Fiore del Sale Granite e Gelati
- Evening Event - Turmalin Club: 22:00 onwards
Golden Era Theme
Where: Turmalin Club. What: Golden night celebration. Vibes: Step into the Golden Era, a night inspired by timeless glamour, elegance, and luxury. The club transforms into a glowing golden world filled with music, sparkle, and unforgettable energy.
Outfit inspiration: https://uk.pinterest.com/theyachtweek/2026-theme-golden-era/
We will host our evening event at Turmalin, the most renowned club in the island.
How to get there:
Turmalin is located in the old part of town, on the cliff across the park in front of Il Filippino.
TUESDAY: STROMBOLI
Sailing
Lipari to Stromboli.Arrival time: between 12:00 and 12:30 at the latest if you are taking part in the hike.
Anchorage: Buoys are provided at www.marinadelgabbiano.it, which include land transfer until 19:30. Buoys are located 600 meters north of the Scari harbour, and as soon as you approach Stromboli, you can contact them through the VHF channel 9 or to +39 377 38 99 607. They will be waiting for you by your buoy to assist during mooring.
Laundry service, ice, night transfer, and deliveries to the boat are available.
Background
Stromboli Island is a volcano that rises from the sea, and its emergent portion has been persistently active for the last 2000 years. Stromboli is the only active volcano in Europe. For this reason, the island has been described, since the classical age, as the “lighthouse of Tirreno”. Are you ready for the most exhilarating experience? If you are taking part in the guided hike to the top of the volcano, you will embark on a 5h hike and may be lucky enough to see active eruptions! Going down the volcano will be just as exciting, as you will be gliding through volcanic ashes.
- Participating in this excursion takes a day commitment.
- The difficulty of the hike will be dictated by the weather conditions of the day.
- After the hike, the yachts will either remain in Stromboli or head to Panarea, depending on the weather
Embarking on a hike in an active volcano requires extreme precautions and preparation. Keep in mind that the tracks are predominantly steep, and the climate is particularly hot in the summer months. However, once at the summit, temperatures may reach 5 °C. Please make sure you allow enough time to rent equipment, eat, and meet the group at designated times. Keep in mind you have to stick together as a group. Please notify your Skipper and YW crew of your location. We strongly suggest drinking water the whole day and avoiding alcoholic beverages
Difficulty depends on the weather. After the hike, yachts either stay in Stromboli or head to Panarea, depending on the weather.
Hike Warnings
- Don't underestimate the hike under any circumstances.
- Respect time slots. Stay together with your group.
- The guide is the maximum authority. Respect everything he says.
- Always walk in a line.
- Don't use your phone while walking. Only on breaks (every 30 to 40 min).
- Never get off the path.
- Intoxicated guests will not be allowed on the hike.
- The guide reserves the right to stop you if you don't behave or aren't physically fit enough.
- At 230 m and 500 m, the guide decides who can continue.
- Asthma, heart conditions, vertigo, or recovery from knee surgery: not suitable for the hike.
- Time at the summit is regulated by local law (1 hour).
- Bring proper socks (or buy at a local store). Needed when trying on shoes.
- Signing the waiver is mandatory.
- It gets cold at the summit. Bring a warm jacket and a windbreaker (rentable).
Day Logistics
- Groups of 21 + professional guide.
- Equipment collection 15:00 to 16:30. Respect designated time slots.
- Hike departures 17:00 to 17:45.
If anyone is late, the whole process slows down and affects other groups. Crew, skippers, hosts, and guests must collaborate on time.
Participation
StromboliAdventures:
https://www.stromboliadventures.com/stromboli/escursioni-stromboli-vulcano-di-gruppo
Contatto Stefania: + 339527277
Stromboli Adventures will take sign-ups until 4 days before the adventure. They will send a payment link through which each participant can enrol in the excursion.
We will send a QR code for each week in the WhatsApp group, so that the skippers can forward it to the guests.
Details:
- She will give each of us 1 light for the night – mandatory and included in the price.
- Guests need to have shoes (not flat on the bottom), or they can rent them on the island.
- Price: 30 €
- If bad weather → Full refund except payment fees – 4,5€
- Direct payment through the link.
Here are the details of the excursion: Duration 5h, Elevation gain about 500m, Low difficulty. However, you need to be at least used to walking, departing from 17:00, depending on the setting of the sun
Path: S.Vincenzo landscape path Return Punta Labronzo Travel time: 2h one way. Stop: 1h at the observation point Return: 2h Cost: €30 adults. Here is the equipment list. If you are missing something, you will find Totem Trekking, a shop and sports equipment rental, within walking distance of us http://www.totemtrekkingstromboli.com
400 m Viewpoint
It is FORBIDDEN to cross the 400 m point without a professional guide. Anyone who breaks this rule will be severely fined by local authorities.
For those not joining the full hike, the 400 m viewpoint is accessible without a guide.
Recommendation HOTEL VILAGGIO STROMBOLI
- For those who’d rather take it easy, you're welcome to relax at Hotel Villaggio Stromboli. The poolside area offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy the sunshine, cool off with a swim, and sip on a refreshing cocktail. The swimming pool costs 10€, and drinks and food can be served.
Recommended Restaurants
WEDNESDAY: SALINA
Sailing
Arrival time: 3 pm at the latest. Recommended day stop: Pollara Bay or Grotta del Cavallo.
Background
The first morning, we set sail to Salina, the longest leg of the itinerary. In delightful contrast to the exposed volcanic terrain of other Aeolian Islands, Salina boasts a lush, verdant landscape thanks to its natural freshwater springs. Salina is shaped by two extinct volcanoes whose peaks are 860m and 962m high.
The main port, Santa Marina Salina, is beautiful and unspoilt, with a long, traffic-free main street lined with chic boutiques and food shops. You can enjoy your first day strolling around the streets, tasting some of the amazing local food and wine, and swimming in one of the most beautiful bays of the Aeolian Islands.
Guest Information
- It is important to get sailing early on this leg, as it is the longest, and it will give you enough time to make a day stop along the way and still discover the town of Salina.
- The marina has shower facilities open from 7 AM to 10 PM - they are the only shower facilities for the next 3-4 days, so be sure to take advantage of them and make sure your crew knows this.
- Make sure you have enough provisions.
- NO music on the yachts after 22:00.
- Salina is the best island to get scooters and explore
- IF the ATM is in working order, take advantage of this. YW Crew will confirm its availability as
- soon as possible.
Top Activities
- Exploring Santa María Salina.
- Swimming in Rapa Nui.
- Wine Tasting
- ○ Hauner Winery
- ■ Sunset Wine Tastings at Hauner Winery
- ■ Experience the magic of sunset at Hauner Winery. We welcome guests around 6:30 PM, giving you time to enjoy the stunning views from our terrace before the tasting begins.
- ■ The evening starts with a guided tour of the winery, offered in both Italian and English, where we share the Hauner family story and our winemaking methods.
- ■ You can then choose between two tasting options:
- ■ – Full Tasting (€40/person): Includes 4 wines + our Malvasia delle Lipari Passito, paired with a small platter of local products.
- ■ – By the Glass (€8/glass): Select wines individually, with the option to add items from the tasting platter.
- ■ Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking so we can accommodate you.
- ■ Reservations can be made via email at degustazioni@hauner.it or WhatsApp at +39 392 776 8149. We have around 40 seats, and spots can fill quickly—booking in advance is highly recommended.
- ○ Tasca Wine Tasting Experience
- ■ Discover the taste of Salina through our curated wine experiences at Capofaro, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Aeolian Islands. We are pleased to offer tailored afternoon and evening tastings, perfect for private groups and special events.
- ■ In the evening, enjoy one of our signature experiences like Sunset in the Vineyard, Almeritivi, or Platinum Bubbles starting from 6:00 PM onward. Depending on the group size, we can host you on our panoramic terraces overlooking Stromboli and Panarea, or for more intimate gatherings (up to 14 people), on our exclusive wine bar deck set between pine trees and vineyards with stunning sea views.
- ■ Each experience lasts approximately one hour, and can be extended to ensure comfort and personal attention. We also offer transport assistance from Santa Marina to Capofaro (about a 10-minute drive), including minibus options.
- ■ For availability, pricing, and booking, please contact concierge@capofaro.it, mentioning your group and any dietary requirements. We recommend confirming reservations at least 6 days in advance to guarantee your preferred date and time.
Recommended Restaurants
Evening Event (Portobello)
Post-dinner drinks at Portobello will start at 23:00.
Party at Portobello, Via Lungomare, N.G/2, Via Lungomare, 2, 98050 Santa Marina Salina ME, Italy.
THURSDAY: PANAREA
Sailing
Sail time Salina to Panarea: 2 hours, 12 NM
Arrival time: 12:00, the latest to start the raft.
Raft/Anchor location: https://www.seapanarea.com/, 500m from the port, N side. Marco +39 338 5864150
Mooring buoys Sea Panarea – Yellow circle.
IMPORTANT: When coming into Panarea, do not go to a buoy right away; wait and call on the designated channel for assistance, and you will be guided in once it’s your turn. The mooring fee is around €140 per yacht and includes water taxi service to the dock.
Background
Panarea is the trendiest and most exclusive island of the Aeolian Archipelago. It is a very hip place where many VIP’s spend their holidays, as well as where young Italians go to relax. This picture-perfect town will amaze you with its beautiful white houses, charming streets and amazing views. Spend the afternoon exploring the streets of San Pietro, which you will appreciate the most during daylight. Panarea has no harbour, so we will use mooring buoys.
Guest Information
- Weather permitting, we will start the day with a raft. Alternatively, we will anchor and pump some tunes.
- Transfers are included in the mooring fee. Please use these transfers responsibly. Gather your entire crew in order to avoid multiple rides. The next morning, transfers will cost 5€ per ride (to be split among whoever uses this service).
- Get your crew on land as soon as you finish mooring, San Pietro during daylight is something you can’t miss!
- Mooring Buoy staff will come by in the afternoon to collect mooring fees - around €140 per yacht.
- You can take your garbage to the truck located at the dock before 8:00 PM.
Aperitivo – Riviera Chic Sunset Aperitivo at Raya is a MUST! Head to the rooftop at 19:30 for the most elegant sunset drinks in town.
Top Activities
- Exploring San Pietro.
- Take the path from San Pietro to Cala Junco (Allow 2h30)
- Sunset aperitivo at Raya!
Evening Event YW Party at Banacali (Riviera Chic) from 11 PM until 2 AM
- Where: Banacali
- What: Sunsets. Lanterns. Negronis. Vibes: Capri Chic. Sundowners & party bangers. Lanterns
- warm the evening sky, set against a twilight ocean. Show up in your finest linens, the air crisp, the music taking over, the stars beginning to dot the horizon. This is Riviera chic at its finest.
- Outfit inspiration: https://uk.pinterest.com/theyachtweek/2026-theme-riviera-chic/
Recommended Restaurants
FRIDAY: RETURN TO PORTOROSA
Sailing
Sail time Panarea to Portorosa: 5 hours, 30 NM
Possible day stops: Ponente Bay, Pietra Quaglietta, or Asino Beach.
Guest Information
- Absorb your last day on the water.
- Arrive at Portorosa after lunch..
- Complete the Feedback Form on the Day 8 app before leaving.
- Ensure your yacht is cleared of rubbish and all bags are packed, as your charter finishes at 9 AM.
- Tomorrow.
- Make sure that guests know they can stay on the yacht until Saturday morning, 8 AM.
SATURDAY: CHECK-OUT
Yachts must be vacated by 09:00. Dishes done, blankets and towels piled on the table, water tanks filled before leaving. Skippers must leave yachts clean for the cleaners. €200 charge shared between skipper and crew if yachts aren’t ready at 09:00.
RESPECT
YW etiquette and ethos are detailed on the Yacht Week Operations page. The notes below cover dress, music, and Sicily-specific guidance.
Dress & Music
- Uniform is mandatory when leaving or entering a marina or port.
- Always look good. Represent the brand and look professional.
- Swimwear is fine onboard, on marina docks, and at natural bays and beaches.
- No swimwear in towns and ports. We get complaints from city officials when guests wear too little clothing. We're operating in traditional island communities where their rules apply.
- Music on the yachts: keep volume reasonable, off in marinas and ports after 20:00.
Sicily-Specific Notes
- No music after 22:00. Strictly enforced in many ports (Salina especially).
- Italy has strict recycling rules: separate plastics, cardboard, glass, and domestic waste.
- Pollution fines exceed €1,500. Use holding tanks correctly.
- Many islands are quiet, traditional communities. Respect dress codes and noise norms.

