The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy's most attractive destinations for both tourists and sailors. From the deck of your boat you'll see a magnificent mountain range rising up from out the turquoise waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, with vibrant villages nestled in its slopes. One of these is Amalfi itself, where you can admire historical sights, romantic hideaways, a beautiful beach and natural beauty all around. So, what's worth seeing and where can you anchor?
The Amalfi Coast is UNESCO protected
The coastline along the spectacular Amalfi Coast near Naples is appropriately recognised as one of the most beautiful in the world and is protected by UNESCO. As a result, the Amalfi Coast attracts thousands of tourists each year. Since the 7th century, the town of Amalfi itself had actually been a powerful and significant maritime republic with its own fleet of ships. However, it was ultimately destroyed by an earthquake and subsequent tsunami in the 14th century, when the majority of the town sank into the sea. As a result, the population is only one tenth of the original 70,000 residents.
What to see in Amalfi
There are still many sights to visit from Amalfi's glory days. The most noteworthy is without a doubt the early Christian Cathedral of St. Andrew (Cattedrale di Sant'Andrea), with its splendid Byzantine doorway accessible via an impressive staircase. Leaving the cathedral's pleasant shade, you can lose yourself in the narrow streets full of small fountains, sampling the local lemonade and purchasing some "lemon" souvenirs along the way. Don't forget to stop into the well-known stationery shop La Scuderia del Duca.
Where to moor in Amalfi
Just a few steps from the centre of Amalfi, you can moor your boat at the Coppola Marina-Dock in Porto di Amalfi, run by the enthusiastic Coppola siblings. Coppola Marina-Dock is well-sheltered from all adverse weather conditions and guarantees its visitors assistance on arrival and departure, day and night security, 220 and 380 V electricity and running water. The capacity is 90 berths, which is not that much when compared to the number of visitors who pass through, so we definitely recommend booking in advance.
YACHTING.COM TIP: Amalfi, Positano, Capri, Naples — the Bay of Naples and the Amalfi Coast is a sailor's paradise. So, what places to visit, what sights to see, where to moor and what delicacies to sample? Check out our guide — Sailing in Italy: the 15 most beautiful places to sail.
Going sailing in Italy? Take a look at more articles on this destination:
The best places to visit around Amalfi
There is so much to love in this region. On one hand you have the majestic high mountains and the enchanting natural beauty, and on the other, the quaint picturesque little villages and towns. Positano, Sorrento, Ravello, or Atrani are all beautiful examples. The entire coastline is flanked with cliffs that drop into the crystal-clear sea with numerous little staircases leading up to the houses. If you'd like to combine sailing with some sightseeing, follow the famed Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods) from Nocelle to Bomerano. Along the route, you'll take in breathtaking views of the entire Amalfi Coast.
The local fresh lemons are legendary, with up to 8,000 tonnes of lemons produced each year and the sweet scent of their blossoms is truly intoxicating. Lovers of fine wine will also find some local treats.
What to do when sailing the Amalfi Coast
Charter a yacht in Salerno and sail along the Amalfi Coast to the famous island of Capri or Ischia. Alternatively, take a romantic cruise to the volcanic and virtually unknown Pontine Islands. In Capri, don't miss the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra), which can be visited in calm seas on small boats.
If you sail further south along the coast, the Cilento National Park on the mainland is well worth a visit. Inaccessible mountains and poor roads have preserved the park in its original beauty. The rocky cliffs are guarded by a series of towers, bordered by beautiful olive groves and there are several secluded sandy beaches that swimmers will love. The promontory on which the park is situated is dominated by the fabled Cape Palinuro with the jagged rock formations reaching out into the sea, creating countless beaches and coves. For scuba-divers, there are dozens of interconnected caves to be explored in the massif.
Why you should also sail to the Gulf of Naples?
If you're heading to the Amalfi Coast, be sure to explore the Sorrento Peninsula and sail into the Gulf of Naples. There are plenty more Italian treasures to be found there. Stop off in Naples and enjoy a stroll around this vibrant and beautiful city. Explore the fishing district of La Corricella, visit the Royal Palace and the Church of San Francesco di Paola. Or just wander the streets. Naples is raw and dirty, but has a charm that few can resist. Not to mention the legendary Neapolitan pizza.
If you'd like to combine sailing with some hiking, be sure to climb the 1,280-metre-high Vesuvius (alternatively, you can take a taxi) and walk the path around the crater. You'll not only get a view of the centre of the volcano itself, but also of the entire Bay of Naples. Alternatively, join the millions of tourists who have been captivated by the unique atmosphere of ancient Pompeii, which was buried by a five-metre layer of volcanic dust in the devastating eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD. Dock your boat in Marina di Stabia, which is only a short cab ride from the famed excavations.
Want to set sail in Italy? Take a look at our range of boats and set sail on an adventure of discovery, perhaps taking in some of the other islands.
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