Various dates available
Autumn Tall Ship Sailing The Aeolian Islands
From £1095 per person
Deposit 25%. Trip balance due 12 weeks before departure.
7 Nights: Various dates available in September & October 2024
Price: From £1,095 Per Person
Set sail on an Italian island hopping adventure aboard the historic tall ship, Florette. You’ll navigate through the Aeolian Islands on a 7-night adventure leaving from the small Port of Vibo on the “Costa degli Dei” or the Coast of the Gods. The Aeolian Islands are a lesser known area of the Mediterranean which were granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2000 for their rich history and volcanic activity.
Stepping ashore on some of the islands is like stepping back 80 years where cars aren't so frequent and cuisine focuses around little, local cafes serving family secret recipes. Many of these revolve around the seafood native to the area such as Mediterranean sardine and anchovies which are a staple in the local cuisine.
Daily trips ashore are a nice contrast to the social atmosphere onboard. We will swim in secluded bays, visit dark beaches made of fine, black lava sand and experience the most active volcano in Europe on an adventurous night-time hike. It’s not all about active adventures though, we will meader through historic towns and taste sweet wine right from the source. The crew is up for catering this versatile sailing holiday to the needs of everyone on board.
Why You’ll Love This Trip
- Observe the active volcano Stromboli, an ancient guidepost for sailors, which erupts every 15-20 minutes. See for yourself the lava fountains that shoot hundreds of meters into the sky, accompanied by the distinct scent of sulphur.
- Enjoy stunning island beaches with crystal-clear waters, such as the pebbly Spiaggia Bianca on Lipari or the black sand beaches on Vulcano. Swim, tan, or indulge in water sports like snorkelling.
- Taste the flavours of fabulous Mediterranean cuisine on board and on the islands. Dishes to look out for are octopus salad, caponata (a savoury and sweet eggplant-based dish), and swordfish involtini, all of which are made from locally sourced ingredients with loads of flavours.
- Take a stroll through Lipari which is home to approximately 5,000 residents. It is a typical Sicilian village, which features a delightful archaeological museum and charming, quaint shops.
- Taste the flavours of the “Green Island”. Salina is famous for producing prestigious Malvasia delle Lipari dessert wine and boasts top-quality capers which are globally recognised for their excellence.
- In Malfa, hiking trails lead to stunning viewpoints. Monte Fossa delle Felci has the highest peak in the Aeolian Islands and offers panoramic views of the archipelago.
Who The Trip Is For
- For this sailing trip, you don't need a sailing background. Whether you prefer to unwind and enjoy the ride or get involved in the crew's activities, the choice is yours.
- Florette welcomes those eager to actively participate in her traditional sailing style, featuring an original rig that embodies an all-hands-on-deck approach, contributing to the appeal of this adventure sailing holiday.
- You will be treated to all breakfasts (including tea and coffee) along with six meals, which can be a combination of lunch or dinner by our onboard chef, Nicole.
- Guests have access to all onboard facilities, including snorkelling gear, paddle boards, kayaks, and board games.
- If you share our commitment to sustainability, believing in the preservation of our environment like we do at Kraken, then join us on a journey where eco-consciousness guides every aspect of our operations.
YOUR SAILING AREA
DISCOVERING THE AEOLIAN ISLANDS
This active sailing adventure in Italy is packed with phenomenal experiences. From sailing with a historic tall ship, hiking volcanos to immerse yourself in 6000-year old culture and exploring the beautiful archipelago which is under the protection of UNESCO World Heritage.
The volcanic islands of the Tyrrhenian Sea off the north coast of Sicily are characterised by wild, unspoilt nature. They are called the “Aeolian Islands” because, according to Greek legend, the god of the wind, Aeolus, once lived here.
The jewel in the Mediterranean has seven inhabited islands, and each one is different. From lovely green hills to seething craters, you will find a wide variety of unique natural landscapes in a very small space. In 2000 the archipelago of the Aeolian Islands was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Regular volcanic eruptions of the Stromboli offer a true natural spectacle, and the volcanic mountains and Mediterranean landscapes are a true hiking paradise.
AEOLIAN ISLANDS
Although Lipari has approx. 5000 residents, you will find yourself in a typical Sicilian village. With one of the most beautiful archaeological museums in Italy and a picturesque old town with many small shops that are perfect for an afternoon stroll. Obsidian and pumice stone can be found around Monte Pilato and it is well worth taking a detour on the Vespa, offering hiking opportunities for different demands.
Known as the Green islands, Salina was “rebuilt’ in the 1970’s as an agricultural mainstay. There are numerous vineyards, the dessert wine – Malvasia delle Lipari and, of course, the capers, which are considered to be some of the best in the world. Hikers can walk to the highest peak of the archipelago through a beautiful pine and chestnut forests.
Vulcano The smell of Sulphur greets us as soon as we dock here. Until the 19th century, Sulphur and alum were mined only a few meters from the quay. Today, souvenir shops, spas, hotels and bars line the harbour and for those that want to, you can wallow in the Sulphur mud. The highlight of this island is certainly the two hour crater hike through the yellow Sulphur fumaroles.
Since ancient times the Stromboli volcano has been an orientation point for seafarers at night. The Stromboli erupts every 15-20 minutes. Depending on the magma levels in the chimney, the lava fountains are thrown several hundred meters above the crater rim.
From solo travellers to couples to families or friends, there is something for everyone on this sailing adventure. An unforgettable and versatile sailing holiday with daily trips ashore, offering a pleasant contrast to the social life on board. Go for a roundtrip with a Vespa on the Lipari island or a perhaps a shopping tour on the elegant and chic Panarea luxury-island. Or go hiking on Salina island, known for its capers and sweet wine.
Swim, snorkel and kayak in secluded bays with crystal-clear water and dark beaches made of fine, black lava sand. Experience the fiery Stromboli, the most active volcano in Europe on an adventurous night-time hike. Climb Vulcano slumbering in sulphur fumes and enjoy a healing bath in the sulphur mud afterwards before dipping into the bubbling sea.
- HALF BOARD – Breakfast is included everyday plus 6 meals (combination of lunch or dinner).
- Use of all facilities on board including snorkeling gear, paddle boards, kayaks, board games
- All bedding (pillow, duvet, bedding)
- All tender trips during the voyage, to and fro the boat
- Full crew, plus tuition
BOARD CASH (in EUROS OR USD)
- Guests to bring with them – €150pp board cash for water & waste fees.
- 6-7 meals ashore (at guests expense)
- Tea/Coffee/Alcohol (cash honesty bar)
- Wash or swim towels
- Use of sleeping bags for sleeping on deck (only if you want!)
- Any local taxes including departure and landing tax – are estimated to be between €100-200 per person. If there are places guests want to go that have a landing tax, the cost will be split between those that want to go and added to your honesty tab.
- Domestic flights
- Insurance
- Crew and tour leader tips
LIFE ON BOARD
AUTHENTIC TALL SHIP SAILING
Florette and her crew always try to combine traditional classic sailing while immersing guests in the natural landscapes ashore; volcanoes, ancient culture and the specialties of the regional Italian cuisine. Florette invites you to get involved with her traditional sailing. With an original rig, it is certainly an all-hands on deck approach – which is surely part of the magic to this adventure sailing holiday.
Sailing Florette is a true family affair. Captain Ron is the 2nd generation to run and sail Florette with his family after his parents bought the boat back in the 70’s. Ron was brought up on the boat, as he is now doing with his family. Alongside Ron and his wife Nicole, Florette is fully crewed with experienced and knowledgeable sailors. Nicole is also the boats chef, cooking up fabulous Mediterranean cuisine, so you won’t be going hungry after a day of sailing and exploring.
HAVE FUN!
Florette commands attention wherever she sails with her traditional wooden hull, decoratively carved transom and her impressive sail rig. Sailing with her is part of the magic of this adventure holiday and is a huge part of the experience. She also has sea kayaks, stand-up paddle boards and snorkelling gear for guests to use at no extra cost. There is also fishing gear available which is used to catch fresh fish for supper!
SLEEPING AND RELAXATION
Florette is one of the larger boats in our fleet so she has ample space both above and below decks. Her Captain and family live-aboard but they have their own separate quarters. Guests can enjoy private cabins in combinations of 2-3 berth bunks. All cabins share a total of four toilets and three showers with another shower on deck for a rinse off after some sea swimming! A generous saloon, bar and eating area sit below decks with a traditional wooden finish. Above decks there is a large cushioned area for relaxation, sun-bathing or sleeping beneath the stars (bring your own sleeping bag if this is something you fancy!). An alfresco dining area sits mid-ships, perfect for lunches in the sun or dinners at sunset.
EATING
Nicole prepares meals using local fresh ingredients, seasonal produce and local fish to make excellent, healthy Mediterranean dishes. Breakfast onboard everyday and six meals are included in the ticket price. These six meals can be a combination of lunches or dinners with the rest of guest meals eaten ashore at guests expense. The ticket price reflects this and gives guests the opportunity to sample and enjoy the local cuisine. If for some reason, Florette cannot get guests ashore, meals will be offered from the boat at a reasonable price.
Please check the What’s Included tab for a breakdown of the ticket price and the board cash.
Marina Carmelo, Vibo
Marina Carmelo, Vibo
YOUR SAILING AREA
DISCOVERING THE AEOLIAN ISLANDS
This active sailing adventure in Italy is packed with phenomenal experiences. From sailing with a historic tall ship, hiking volcanos to immerse yourself in 6000-year old culture and exploring the beautiful archipelago which is under the protection of UNESCO World Heritage.
The volcanic islands of the Tyrrhenian Sea off the north coast of Sicily are characterised by wild, unspoilt nature. They are called the “Aeolian Islands” because, according to Greek legend, the god of the wind, Aeolus, once lived here.
The jewel in the Mediterranean has seven inhabited islands, and each one is different. From lovely green hills to seething craters, you will find a wide variety of unique natural landscapes in a very small space. In 2000 the archipelago of the Aeolian Islands was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Regular volcanic eruptions of the Stromboli offer a true natural spectacle, and the volcanic mountains and Mediterranean landscapes are a true hiking paradise.
AEOLIAN ISLANDS
Although Lipari has approx. 5000 residents, you will find yourself in a typical Sicilian village. With one of the most beautiful archaeological museums in Italy and a picturesque old town with many small shops that are perfect for an afternoon stroll. Obsidian and pumice stone can be found around Monte Pilato and it is well worth taking a detour on the Vespa, offering hiking opportunities for different demands.
Known as the Green islands, Salina was “rebuilt’ in the 1970’s as an agricultural mainstay. There are numerous vineyards, the dessert wine – Malvasia delle Lipari and, of course, the capers, which are considered to be some of the best in the world. Hikers can walk to the highest peak of the archipelago through a beautiful pine and chestnut forests.
Vulcano The smell of Sulphur greets us as soon as we dock here. Until the 19th century, Sulphur and alum were mined only a few meters from the quay. Today, souvenir shops, spas, hotels and bars line the harbour and for those that want to, you can wallow in the Sulphur mud. The highlight of this island is certainly the two hour crater hike through the yellow Sulphur fumaroles.
Since ancient times the Stromboli volcano has been an orientation point for seafarers at night. The Stromboli erupts every 15-20 minutes. Depending on the magma levels in the chimney, the lava fountains are thrown several hundred meters above the crater rim.
From solo travellers to couples to families or friends, there is something for everyone on this sailing adventure. An unforgettable and versatile sailing holiday with daily trips ashore, offering a pleasant contrast to the social life on board. Go for a roundtrip with a Vespa on the Lipari island or a perhaps a shopping tour on the elegant and chic Panarea luxury-island. Or go hiking on Salina island, known for its capers and sweet wine.
Swim, snorkel and kayak in secluded bays with crystal-clear water and dark beaches made of fine, black lava sand. Experience the fiery Stromboli, the most active volcano in Europe on an adventurous night-time hike. Climb Vulcano slumbering in sulphur fumes and enjoy a healing bath in the sulphur mud afterwards before dipping into the bubbling sea.
