The island of Procida lies close to two of the most popular destinations for luxury yachts: Capri and Ischia. The diminutive name of Procida doesn't really reflect the splendor and appeal of this incredibly beautiful Italian destination. The word "Procida" comes from a Neapolitan term that literally means "gentle beaches".
Ischia is an international tourist destination peacefully situated in the Gulf of Naples, with a crystal-clear sea, unspoilt landscapes, cultural sites and many other surprises. Its rugged coastline is distinguished by a series of promontories, streets and beaches where seawater flows just a few meters from the shore along with the warm water of thermomineral springs. Indeed, the volcanic island hides a high concentration of hot springs and a wide variety of waters in its subsoil, making Ischia the capital of European thermalism. More than 300 thermal baths offer relaxation for the mind and regeneration for the body. Ischia, also known as "the green island", is a springtime riot of color and fragrance, thanks to its many pine trees and lush Mediterranean vegetation. The terraced vineyards add a special touch to the island's overall landscape.
It doesn't get much better than charming Capri. A graceful jewel on the lemon-scented Amalfi coast, Capri is pure poetry, worthy of a thousand sonnets. Embedded in towering cliffs and enclosed in a sparkling sea, any other small town would disappear in the face of so much drama, but not Capri. Teeming with wisteria-adorned villas, brightly painted buildings, kaleidoscopic gardens framed by pergolas and plump, people-watching piazzas, Capri never fails to enchant. Charter travelers will want to visit the famous Grotta Azzurra - this flooded grotto was considered the refuge of sea nymphs and magic in Roman times, thanks to its iridescent hues of unimaginable blue. The Gardens of Augustus are also well worth a stroll, and Villa San Michele is sure to delight. With incredible seafood and divine confections, you won't go hungry in this fashionable summer spot.
For almost two centuries, Sorrento has been a favorite with summer visitors. Perched on a plateau above the sea, with breathtaking blue views over the Bay of Naples, this historic seaside town makes visitors swoon. Citrus flavors meet salt water, limoncellos are sipped in the sun and hidden corners of the old town breathe romance. Charter guests can soak up the historic quarter, stroll the cobbled streets, admire the pastel-colored buildings, dive into the blue bays, immerse themselves in the cool basilicas and explore the antique stores and charming boutiques. With the expanse of the Amalfi coast, the ruins of Pompeii and the shores of Capri nearby, Sorrento should certainly be on your agenda.
The ancient Roman resort of Castellammare di Stabia is a vision of black sand beaches, ancient ruins, rolling hills and sun-scorched piazzas. Nestled in the Bay of Naples, it still retains some vestiges of those golden days and is said to have been a popular holiday resort for Julius Caesar, Tiberius and Augustus before the devastating eruption of Vesuvius.
It's home to dozens of mineral springs, incredible excavated ruins and a pretty promenade lined with gelaterias and restaurants that live up to the hyperbole that Italy has some of the best cuisine in the world.
Culture, history, beaches, happiness and an unrivalled sense of ancient splendor make Castellammare di Stabia a magical mooring.
Herculaneum is a sister site to Pompeii, a Roman city buried by the same eruption of Vesuvius that wiped out Pompeii. The site of Herculaneum, which is partially buried beneath the new suburb of Ercolano in Naples, has not been completely exposed and is much smaller and easier to visit than Pompeii. The archaeological site, which was devastated in a different way, by a pyroclastic wave that killed the inhabitants, charred the wood and buried the city under 16 to 25 meters of rock, offers a unique view of the Roman world. Wooden granaries, wine racks and bedsteads can still be found here.
Pompeii is one of Italy's most famous sites, and the tragedy of the city buried under volcanic ash is well known. The eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. destroyed the entire region, but apparently froze Pompeii in time. A visit to this UNESCO World Heritage site is a must for all charter passengers sailing these shores. Close to Naples and the Sorrento coast, set aside a day to wander the haunting streets of this ancient city carved out of the southern slopes of the mountain. From the frescoes and works of art on the walls to the many buildings depicting civilization and its way of life, Pompeii is much more than an open-air museum, it's an immersive journey.
The hub of yacht charter in southern Italy, Naples is both energetic and lively, yet charming and beautiful. Here you'll find a proud, colorful culture and welcoming hospitality. It's the gateway to Capri and the Amalfi Coast, undoubtedly one of the most beautiful coasts in the Mediterranean. Naples' rich history has endowed it with a multitude of monuments and historic buildings, from classical ruins to medieval castles, as well as a wide range of sites of historical and cultural importance, including the Roman ruins of Pompeii and the palace of Caserta. There are many museums and religious sites to visit, not to mention what lies beneath Naples: catacombs, caves and ancient reservoirs. A visit to Naples is of course not complete without an excursion to Vesuvius. This city is a cultural and historical feast for the eyes!