Adelheid Chirco Charter Director, Ocean Independence.
Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean and is surrounded by enchanting groups of smaller islands. The Eastern part of the island and the Aeolian Islands are well visited but the Western part of Sicily and the Egadi Islands are still a relatively unknown treasure in the cruising world. This rugged coast is truly off the beaten track, with just a sprinkling of welcoming, tranquil ports and minimum infrastructure for yachts it is a place for those of us looking for natural beauty not neon signs and night clubs.
My absolute favourite trip in the region is to the Zingaro natural reserve near to the tiny fishing harbour San Vito Lo Capo. From there it is a short hop to the Egadi Islands; Favignana, Levanzo and Marettimo. Favignana attracts some tourists in the summer but the other two islands are sparsely populated and refreshingly unspoiled. Favignana is famed as the home of the tinned tuna with its old “tonnara” where the local catch was brought.
At the Western tip of Sicily is the city of Trapani, with its long established maritime tradition and from here it is not far to the charming picturesque village of Erice on top of the mountain where one can pick up pretty ceramics and coral jewellery.
Also within reach is the town of Marsala, where you find some of the best wines, in particular I like the Baglio Donna Franca which is an elegant resort but also a vineyard where you can buy excellent locally grown organic red and white wines.
Finally back to Palermo, a hectic city, but offering an overwhelming amount of culture, ancient sites from all epochs as well as picturesque markets, artisans’ shops with local handicrafts and also the elegant Italian Designer fashion boutiques.
Cruise aboard Andea a Tecnomar for 8 guests and 4 crew, based in Palermo, available through Ocean Independence from €40,000 pw.