Introduction
Looking for an off-the-beaten-path superyacht charter that combines luxury with the real Italian lifestyle? Forget the typical hotspots like Capri or the Amalfi Coast. Instead, discover the unexplored beauty of the Pontine Islands. This itinerary will guide you through the hidden treasures of the Ponza Islands—an experience where local culture, mouthwatering cuisine, rich history, and unique events await the savvy traveler.
Setting the Scene
Most luxury boats and mega yachts stick to the well-known resorts in North East Sardinia, Capri, Naples, and Positano. But if you’re after an exclusive experience that avoids the crowds and reveals Italy’s secret escapes, consider starting your journey from Naples and sailing north-west toward the Isole Ponziane. Here, you can explore remote islands like Ventotene, Polmarola, and Zannone, each offering secluded retreats and authentic Italian charm.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Embarkation in Naples – First Stop: Capri
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Location: Naples, Italy
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Activities:
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Embark at a designated port in Naples (port to be confirmed).
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Set sail immediately for Capri with your first dip in the Mediterranean en route.
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Enjoy dinner at Da Paolinos on Capri.
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Tip: Use the early hours to bond with the crew over drinks and check the weather forecast. A quick text or WhatsApp message to your contact (+44 779 205 2007) can help ensure a smooth start.
Day 2: Exploring Capri and Sailing to Procida
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Location: Capri, Italy
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Activities:
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Enjoy breakfast on Capri.
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Sail later in the morning or early afternoon to Procida.
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Dinner options include on-board dining or a meal at Restaurant Pizza Fuego.
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Capri is part of the Partenopean Islands, famed for its two-level charm—one bustling with shops and cafes around the marina and the other offering designer boutiques and scenic views from Anacapri. Make time for a visit to local sites such as Certosa of San Giacomo or the famous Il Riccio restaurant if you can.
Tip: Beat the crowds at the Blue Grotto by planning your visit early in the day.
Day 3: Discovering Procida and Setting Course for Ischia
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Location: Procida, Italy
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Activities:
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Breakfast on Procida.
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Sail late morning or early afternoon to Ischia.
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Dinner at Il Monastero on Ischia.
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Procida may be an undiscovered gem, known for its pastel-colored fisher cottages, fragrant lemon groves, and charming coves perfect for swimming or relaxing. A visit to Terra Murata—the island’s historic center—is a must for history buffs and wandering souls.
Tip: Explore the narrow streets of Procida’s old town and visit the Royal Palace of Palazzo d’Avalos for a taste of local history.
Day 4: Ischia – A Day of Exploration and Relaxation
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Location: Ischia, Italy
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Activities:
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Start with breakfast on the east side of Ischia.
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Sail along the north-west side and enjoy a hike between La Fumarole and Maronti beach.
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Visit a thermal spa or a local vineyard.
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Dinner at MezzaTorre Resort.
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Ischia offers a blend of natural beauty and wellness experiences. Wander through scenic hiking trails, enjoy volcanic steam-cooked seafood on the beach, or take in the rejuvenating thermal pools scattered across the island.
Tip: If hiking, ask the captain to wait with the tender at the turnaround point for a stress-free return.
Day 5: Full Day Immersion in Ischia
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Location: Ischia, Italy
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Activities:
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Have breakfast on Ischia’s north side.
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Spend the day exploring the MezzaTorre resort and nearby town.
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Enjoy dinner on board.
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Ischia is famed for its rabbit meat specialties and natural thermal springs. Consider visiting one of the “Spa Gardens” to relax in thermal pools set in park-like surroundings. For wine enthusiasts, a stop at a local vineyard like Pietra Torcia can add a memorable tasting session to your journey.
Day 6: Ventotene – The Secluded Escape
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Location: Ventotene, Pontine Archipelago
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Activities:
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Sail early in the morning from Ischia to Ventotene.
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Enjoy dinner at a local marisqueria.
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Ventotene is a car-free island that offers a peaceful retreat with crystal-clear waters and historic sites like Julia’s villa at Punta Eolo. Explore its quiet anchorages, where ancient mosaics hint at its rich past.
Tip: Ventotene is also one of the best scuba diving spots in the area. Consider booking a dive to explore the marine reserve and underwater treasures.
Day 7: San Stefano – A Glimpse into History
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Location: San Stefano, Pontine Archipelago
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Activities:
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Depart Ventotene for San Stefano in the late morning.
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Tour the abandoned 18th-century panopticon prison, Carcere Borbonico di Santo Stefano.
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Enjoy dinner on board or return to Ventotene.
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With just a few permanent residents, San Stefano offers clear waters and an untouched underwater world. It’s an ideal location for a day anchored in solitude or joining a local tour for deeper historical insights.
Tip: If landing isn’t allowed, simply admire the fortress from your yacht’s deck.
Day 8: The Allure of Ponza
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Location: Ponza, Italy
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Activities:
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Sail early in the morning from Ventotene to Ponza.
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Make your first stop at Chiaia di Luna, one of Italy’s most beautiful beaches.
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Dinner at Il Pescator.
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Ponza’s charm lies in its scenic semicircular port, ancient Roman sea caves, and the enchanting Grotte di Pilato. This island is where the Roman elite once gathered, and today it continues to draw visitors for its unique mix of history and vibrant nightlife.
Tip: Circumnavigate the island to discover its hidden bays and enjoy sunset aperitifs at local beachfront bars.
Day 9: Palmarola – Nature at Its Best
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Location: Palmarola, Italy
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Activities:
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Breakfast on Ponza before sailing to Palmarola.
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Spend the afternoon exploring Cala Brigantin and “la Cattedrale,” a stunning natural arch.
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Dinner on board.
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Palmarola is the most remote and rugged of the Pontine Islands—a natural reserve ideal for souvenir shopping, casual hiking, and al fresco dining under the stars. Its wild beauty and solitude make it a standout destination in the Mediterranean.
Day 10: Another Day on Palmarola
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Location: Palmarola, Italy
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Activities:
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Enjoy breakfast and spend the day discovering more of Palmarola.
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Savor dinner at O’Francese, where your chef can showcase the yacht’s culinary expertise.
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The second day on Palmarola is perfect for deeper exploration. Visit rugged sea stacks, natural caves like Cava Mazzella, and take in the untouched nature that defines this island.
Day 11: Zannone – The Wildlife Refuge
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Location: Zannone, Pontine Archipelago
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Activities:
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Sail early from Palmarola to Zannone.
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Enjoy a quiet day at sea with dinner on board.
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Zannone is known for its rare flora and wildlife, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers. With only minimal human presence, this island offers unmatched serenity and opportunities for bird watching.
Day 12: Return to Ponza for More Exploration
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Location: Ponza, Italy
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Activities:
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Depart early from Zannone and return to Ponza.
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Enjoy lunch at your chosen anchor or on board.
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Spend the day enjoying water sports or a late afternoon hike, capped with a lively dinner at Aqua Pazza.
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Ponza offers plenty to do for both relaxation and adventure. Consider hiring a local photographer or drone operator to capture memorable moments of your charter.
Day 13: Flex Day – Revisiting Favorites
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Location: Ventotene/San Stefano area
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Activities:
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Early morning sail from Ponza towards Ventotene or San Stefano.
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Enjoy on-board dining and use this day to revisit your favorite spots or explore new ones based on group preferences.
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This flexible day is your chance to adjust plans on the fly. Whether you’re in the mood for more diving, water sports, or simply soaking up the Mediterranean atmosphere, the choice is yours.
Tip: Check local shops for new water toys or gear like kite surfing equipment to add an extra thrill to your charter.
Day 14: Back to Capri
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Location: Capri, Italy
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Activities:
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Sail early from Ventotene to Capri.
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Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant such as Da Paolino.
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Use this return visit as an opportunity to try your hand at captaining the yacht under supervision.
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Revisiting Capri gives you a chance to perfect your sailing skills and capture the moment with another session by a local photographer. It’s also a great day to compile a personal family album of your adventure.
Tip: Consider a helicopter tour for a unique aerial view of Capri’s famous landmarks—an extra surprise for a loved one or as a family treat.
Day 15: Return to Naples
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Location: Naples, Italy
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Activities:
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Start with breakfast on Capri before sailing back to Naples.
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Enjoy a final brunch on board as you approach your disembarkation port, ideally Castel dell’Ovo in Naples.
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End your charter with one last toast—be it Tignanello, Deutz champagne, or simply a freshly squeezed orange juice—as you bid farewell to the Mediterranean.
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As your journey concludes, take a moment to thank the crew for their exceptional service and reflect on an unforgettable experience that combined the best of Italian history, culture, and natural beauty.