sicily catamaran charter

Catamaran Charter Sicily

• Build year : 2020
• Length : 40 ft
• Boat type : Catamaran

BLUE DESTINY

• Build year : 2013
• Length : 61 ft

• Build year : 2019
• Guests : 10
• Berths : 10
• Length : 55 ft

Lagoon 55 Salerno

• Build year : 2024

• Build year : 2022
• Length : 78 ft

Build your own unique trip!

• Length : 51 ft

• Guests : 12
• Berths : 12

• Length : 60 ft

• Build year : 2021
• Length : 76 ft

LISA OF THE SEAS

• Length : 67 ft

• Build year : 2023

• Build year : 2008
• Length : 70 ft

• Length : 77 ft

• Build year : 2016

• Build year : 2015
• Length : 69 ft

• Build year : 2017
• Length : 50 ft

Borrow A Boat is the leading Sicily catamaran charter website. Whether on a day trip out to the Aeolian Island archipelago or for a longer sailing holiday, we have dozens of charter yachts, both powered and sailing on a skippered yacht charter or bareboat charter basis.

At Borrow A Boat we're on a mission to make boating more accessible and to make it easier for you to get on the water. We believe boating should be available to everyone, and we can help the boating industry, boat owners, marinas, and everyone who wants to go boating by providing a 21st-century boating marketplace. Borrow A Boat is the best place to find and rent boats of all sorts, from a canal and riverboats across Europe to a sailing boat, motor yacht, catamaran across North America, the Mediterranean and Caribbean and further afield, along with some of the world's most impressive superyacht charters and luxury yacht charters .

A smaller alternative than a superyacht charter, catamarans are the fastest growing type of charter yacht at the moment and once you've sailed on one it's easy to see why. In terms of your ideal catamaran charter think of locations like Thailand, the Ionian Islands, BVI (British Virgin Islands), Croatian Adriatic, Ibiza, French riviera and Mallorca for your sailing adventure.

Types of Catamarans Available For Rent Or Charter In Sicily:

When searching a geographical area on Borrow A Boat you can filter by the below boat types. There is also the option to further filter your searches by price, the number of guests, cabins or bathrooms, what year the catamaran yacht was launched, the boat length and the boat manufacturer.

Types of Catamarans Available:

Catamarans: Luxury catamarans are stable and spacious, with quick sailing performance, and and have been gaining in popularity in recent years. Better for larger groups, they have lots of room for water toys, and are big enough for a little privacy. A catamaran charter is easy and comfortable for novices not used to heeling and are loved by families due to their extra space when compared to a monohull sailing yacht. Typically far more luxurious than a sailboat the larger catamarans have en suite toilets and showers in the cabin as well as ample entertaining space in the saloon and on deck.

Power Catamaran: These motor boat are relatively new but have also been gaining in popularity as the two hulls keep the boat more stable when compared to a monohull. The wider beam also means more deck space and as they don't have sails or a mast, they have a lot more space on deck than a sailing catamaran rental or monohull. For a luxury catamaran charter, consider taking a crewed catamaran charter sailing vacation with an experienced skipper.

Catamaran Sailing Areas In Sicily

Sailing Sicily can mean a multitude of things. It can mean island hopping or exploring romantic towns. Sicilian wine and food is among the best even in Italy. Ancient ruins abound from empires long past. Let's get a taster of what you can do on your catamaran rental around these beautiful Mediterranean Sea islands!

Palermo administers dozens of islands with Sicily the largest island in its purview. On your Sicily yacht charter out of Cabo d'Orlando you can head north to the volcanic Aeolian Island archipelago with its black sandy beaches and see the volcanic island of Stromboli glowing and exploding by night - possibly from nearby Lipari or nearby Panarea.

The Egadi islands to the west of Sicily are a quieter affair but have evidence of pre-historic man as well as playing an important role in the Punic Wars. On your Sicily sailing holiday out to the Egadi Islands it is likely you will be based in Palermo on the north coast, so you will have the opportunity to explore quiet towns like Marsala, San Vito and the renowned fishing town of Castellammare del Golfo with its excellent fish restaurants.

Crewed Catamaran Charter or Bareboat:

When it comes to a Sicily catamaran charter you typically have two choices - bareboat or crewed catamaran charter.

When using Borrow A Boat you can filter all catamaran searches to be with or without skipper depending on what charter yachts you are looking for and below we cover some of the main points to consider for your catamaran hire.

Skippered Charter: A skippered yacht charter gives you the advantage of being able to get afloat without having to invest in getting sailing qualifications beforehand. For a crewed catamaran you will pay a fixed fee for the crew and skipper as well as their food and a tip at the end.

When you get to a luxury yacht charter with crew these prices will increase and costs also depend on where you plan to sail to along with the size and type of yacht rental on your sailing holiday.

In some cases, skippers will also be the boat owner (typically day charter) which means they will know all the best - secluded beaches to show you the best that the area has to offer with their local knowledge.

For day trips you will often be able to use a skipper as well and prices will vary depending on the type of charter boat.

Bareboat Catamaran Charter: For skilled sailors, a bareboat charter is cheaper and gives more privacy for you and your charter guests. Many sailors prefer to be helming the charter yacht while choosing their own course, and provided you have the knowledge and relevant qualifications you can skipper these boats yourself.

Do You Need A Licence To Charter A Catamaran In Sicily

If you are on a crewed Sicily catamaran charter you do not need a license to sail - you can just turn up at the marina and go.

You do need a license if you are on a bareboat catamaran charter and in some countries a day skipper or ICC may not be enough for boats over 45 feet in length, you will need to check with the charter agent but here are some examples of typical sailing qualifications that will allow you to charter in most countries:

International Certificate of Competence: This is issued on request by your European sailing authority and you should automatically qualify with certain national sailing qualifications.

RYA Qualifications: If you have the following qualifications you will typically be able to take a bareboat charter out of Thailand (but it is worth checking as per above), these include Day Skipper, Coastal Skipper (*sail or motor endorsement) or Yachtmaster.

American Sailing Association (ASA): The ASA 104 Bareboat certificate is commonly accepted but also check as per above

US Sailing: The International Proficiency Certificate is widely accepted and The Bareboat Cruising Certificate is also accepted in many cases.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should i consider when hiring a catamaran.

The main points to consider are what is your budget, have you got the necessary sailing experience and qualifications to manage the boat if it's not going to have a skipper, whom you are taking sailing, where exactly you wish to go and what will the weather be like on the proposed dates of your trip.

Do you have to pay a deposit when hiring a Catamaran in Sicily?

You will typically pay 50% up front on booking the catamaran hire and the balance on arrival. You will either pay a security deposit with your credit card on departure or can get insurance covering damage in advance. In some cases (such as the recent Covid situation) charter companies may be more flexible but this depends on the individual charter companies themselves.

What happens if my Catamaran breaks down?

If you are at sea and in danger, call MAYDAY on VHF Ch16 or ring the coast guard on your phone if you have reception. If you have a mechanical fault and can make it to or are on a mooring you will be able to phone a help line number given by the boat charter company and they can typically send someone from the charter base

What should I think of before I hire a Catamaran in Sicily?

You should consider do you have the experience to handle the catamaran before you book and where do you want to go along with what the weather will be like. Bring warm weather and cool weather clothing if it looks like the weather can be cool as well as warm and remember at sea it can be cool in the evenings.

What Qualifications Do I need to hire a Catamaran?

If you want to sail without a skipper then you will need relevant qualifications like RYA Day Skipper/International Certificate of Competence (ICC)/ASA 104 Bareboat certificate or the US Sailing Certificate. If you choose to have a skipper on board your catamaran you won't require licences.

Frequently asked questions

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Latest Sicily Boat Rentals

The Sicily Journey at its Best

Great sailing aboard the finest yachts.

Sicilyboatrentals.com is the global leader in the boating activities in Sicily specialising in the charter and management of the finest boats and yachts in all the south of Italy.

Furthermore, our team of professional charter brokers and yacht managers all have a genuine passion for boating with an exceptional experience.

Discover our selection of Motor Yachts, Sailboats, Catamarans and much more for your Sicily Boat Charters

Lifetime memories, we are glad to accomplish all your wishes, as you deserve.

Tailor made cruises, customized as per your demands. You will discover enchanting destinations and wonderful seas, aboard excellent boats with amazing crews, or enjoying fully the privacy of your bareboat charter. Fun, relax, comforts, entertainment and culture, all this during the most exceptional sailing charter you have ever had.

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Yacht charter in Sicily, Sailboats and Catamarans with or without crew

Tailor-made solutions for a safe exclusive sailing holiday.

Sailing holidays in Sicily to explore Egadi and Aeolian Islands, Pantelleria and the South East, Syracuse, Catania, Taormina. Top quality itineraries with boat charter. With Sicily Travelling you will explore Sicily on a sailboat with skipper and dedicated services , excursions and assistance.

You can rely on us to charter your sailboat or catamaran and live an unforgettable experience.

Our fleet Bavaria, Dufour, Benetau, Fountaine-Pajot, Lagoon

We have a large selection of monohulls or catamarans to rent with or without crew. Embarkation in Palermo and Marsala for Egadi Islands; embarkation in Capo d’Orlando, Porto Rosa and Milazzo to sail to the Aeolian Islands. We offer the best solution tailored to your needs; comfortable boats with 3 to 5 cabins and catamarans with maximum comfort. Every single itinerary is bespoke to offer you an exclusive and safe sailing experience.

Expo Sicily by Boat 2024

Sailing tour of Sicily

Embarkation and disembarkation in Palermo, Egadi Islands, Pantelleria, East coast, Aeolian Island and Cefalù… Excursions to the most beautiful cities, pristine beaches and bays, guided visits and wine tastings, Food & Wine experiences and much more.

#exposicilybyboat is an experiential tour for sea and sailing lovers, whether experts or beginners. During the entire navigation, with a qualified Skipper, you will discover Sicilian culture from its history and origins to nature and enogastronomic treasures with tastings and recipes on board. Thank to the partnership with Tour Operator SICILY TRAVELLING you will enjoy a unique experiential tour with dedicated assistance.

Next departure from Palermo on the 28th September 2024

SEE ITINERARY DETAILS Click on the images for the complete tours

Route Tour 1

Route Tour 2

Route Tour 3

Route Tour 4

Why Expo Sicily by Boat?

Not only cabin charter – sea and sailing, but much more. Food and Wine experiences, guided tours and dedicated assistance 24/7. No Stress for a complete holiday.

You can book your cabin for the whole tour of 4 weeks or a single week from Saturday to Saturday. Transfers and ground handling services included.

By Flottilla? Absolutely Yes!

If you have your own boat or if you are thinking to rent it, join us to discover together the features of this wonderful island. You will benefit our ground services and excursions, galley kit, itinerary guide but above all lots and lots of friendly company.

Food & Wine Selection

We select for you the best Sicilian products to make dishes of the ancient tradition to be tasted on board. A quality and original sensory journey supported by wine tours and activities.

In partnership with

www.isicilyitaliancorner.com Sicilian Enogastronomic Delicacies

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INFO & RESERVATIONS

Sicily Travelling* – Tour Operator

Office Alcamo: Corso 6 Aprile, 260 – Alcamo (Italia) Telephone: +39 0924 040024 Mobile:   +39 3664451210 E-mail: [email protected]

*Autorization cat A/Ill Regione Sicilia con DDS n. 732/S. 7 Tur del 14.04.17

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Sicily Yacht Charters

Considered to be one of the most alluring yacht charter destinations in the Mediterranean, Sicily and the surrounding Aeolian Islands exude an endearing charm. Here, you’ll find a juxtaposition of culture and natural history. From the active volcanos like Etna or Stromboli, to the quaint fishing villages rich in history, in every port of call a new experience awaits.

Sicily boasts a cultural melting pot of villages, cities and upscale ports. Palermo, the bustling capital city, offers visitors a chance to explore the island’s unique history – the Palermo Cathedral is a must-see – and indulge in the island’s amazing cuisine and wine. Outposts like Cefalu, a quaint fishing village, and historic Syracuse are favorite yachting destinations as well, that offer excellent food, beaches, and cultural sights to explore, while Catania sits below Mt. Etna and provides access to the active volcano.

Many Sicily yacht charters also choose to explore the Aeolian Islands, a seven-island UNESCO-protected archipelago. Located off Sicily’s north coast, the Aeolian Islands are a beautiful paradise, home to stunning natural sights and amazing outdoor experiences including diving, kayaking, and trekking.

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282.2ft / 84m

278.1ft / 83m

239.6ft / 71m

Serenity 236

236.3ft / 70m

Sicily Yacht Charter Highlights

• Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano
• Bubbling mud baths & refreshing hot springs
• Dramatic coastline with towering mountains
• Mouth-watering local cuisine
• World-famous vineyards
• Incredible water sports facilities

Sicily Yachting: When to Go

Summer is prime yachting season in Sicily, and like most of the Mediterranean, July and August are peak months for charters. During peak season, visitors are welcomed by amazing weather – temperatures hover in the 80s with the sun every day – and ideal yachting conditions, e.g. refreshing breezes of 5- to 20-knots.

Many prefer the quieter shoulder months of June and September of yacht charters. In June and September, the weather remains mild – in the 70s – and the beaches and ports are less crowded. During the summer season, water temperatures are inviting, remaining in the upper-70s to low-80s and providing ideal conditions for swimming, snorkeling, or water sports.

Area Guide: Sicily Charter Destinations

During your next yacht charter stop in Sicily, explore the sites and areas listed below to experience the best the island has to offer. Some must-visit destinations on a Sicily yacht charter include:

Palermo While Palermo is regarded more for its crowds and chaos than its serene Sicilian lifestyle, its baroque palazzos, lively market streets, family-oriented feel, and glimmering Byzantine churches make it a place worth visiting. Perfect for yachters and foot travelers alike, Palermo is well-positioned for local excursions to Mondello beach, the island of Ustica, Corleone and Monreale.

Milazzo Milazzo is a town on the northern coast of Sicily, visible from afar due to an enormous citadel within its borders. Its “Borgo Antico,” or “Old Town,” and secluded, rocky coves paint a picture of historic and beautiful Sicily. One of the first Norman buildings on Sicily, the castle, along with the Sanctuary of St. Francesco from Paola, are the highlights of Milazzo.

Syracuse Once the largest city in the ancient world, today, Syracuse is a picture of Sicily’s timeless beauty. Dotted with fragrant citrus orchards, hidden Ancient Greek ruins, streets lined with cafes, and Baroque piazzas, this Medieval town still embraces life as it was 3,000 years prior. The city boasts a Greek and Roman amphitheater, the Tomb of Archimede, and the Temple of Zeus.

Catania Mount Etna looms over Sicily’s second-largest city, Catania, which makes this eastern city a must-visit for those wanting a closer look at the famous volcano. In Catania, visitors will find a smorgasbord of history and culture. The world-famous Cathedral of Catania is a sight to behold, and the nearby bustling fish market is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Cefalu Just 40 miles from Palermo, the beachside resort town of Cefalu offers a more relaxed vibe. Known for its stunning promenade lined with Old World inns and apartments, the town is the perfect shoreside escape when cruising around Sicily. Plan to hike La Rocca, a cliff that overlooks the town, and the town’s double-towered duomo is a must-see.

Aeolian Islands

Lipari As the most accessible of the Aeolian Islands, Lipari, is the meeting point of city life and serenity. The destination’s focal point, Lipari Town, encompasses a whimsical, pastel-colored seafront while its countryside – a rugged, Mediterranean landscape – is filled with verdant shrubbery, calm highlands, jagged cliffs, and celestial blue waters.

Stromboli A volcano-turned-island, Stromboli is just the tip of a large underwater volcano that sits on the seafloor 1476 meters below. As captivating as it is unique, Stromboli boasts a slow, relaxed lifestyle, romantic vibes, famous black-sand beaches, and a reputation as being the summer favorite of Dolce and Gabbana, who have a house there.

Salina With its lush, green landscape, thick woodland forests, plentiful vineyards, and colorful wildflowers and gorse bushes, Salina is the second-largest of the Aeolian Islands. Shaped by two extinct volcanoes, Monte dei Porri and Monte Fossa delle Felci, Salina boasts grandiose coastal cliffs, volcanic soil, and natural, freshwater springs.

Panarea The most fashionable of the Aeolian Islands, the small island of Panarea, which is only active during the summer, attracts international jet-setters and Italian fashionistas looking for a taste of “la dolce vita.” From May to October, it is not uncommon for Panarea’s harbors to be filled with luxury yachts, nor its footpath-only streets to be covered with affluent travelers.

Why Charter a Yacht in Sicily

Sicily is one of Europe’s – and the world’s – favorite yachting destinations. That’s due in part to the island’s incredible weather and stunning scenery. Yet, Sicily and the Aeolian Islands offer plenty to do and explore – from Old World vineyards to Norman and Roman theaters and cathedrals. The bottom line, a yacht charter in Sicily is a luxury vacation you won’t soon forget.

Stunningly Beautiful Beaches Sicily offers an eclectic mix of postcard-worthy beaches. From sandy outposts to dramatic, rocky shorelines, Sicily and the Aeolian Islands are home to some of Europe’s best beaches. Near Palermo, the coastal towns of Cefalu and Mondello boast sprawling golden-sand beaches, while San Vito Lo Capo is known for its dramatic cliffs. Isola Bella, a nature reserve near Taormina, is another can’t-miss beach, known for its sparkling deep-blue lagoons.

Amazing, Locally-Sourced Food & Wine Sicilian cuisine is as unique as its history and culture, as it fuses Arab, Greek, Italian, and Spanish flavors. The result are rich, vibrant dishes that awaken the palate, and feature locally sourced citrus fruits, olives, artichokes, seafood, cheeses and figs. You’ll also find numerous Sicilian vintages that are made from native grapes, including Grillo, Zibibbio, and Nero d’Avola. Tenuta Tascante, a vineyard located on the slopes of Etna, is a must-visit.

World-Heritages Sites and Well-Preserved History All across Sicily and the Aeolians, you’ll find historic sites dating back thousands of years. The Greek Theater near Taormina, which sits on a cliff overlooking the sea, is a stunning site, with Mount Etna serving as a backdrop. Syracuse is another perfect destination for history buffs. Here, you’ll find sites like the Temple of Apollo and the Neapolis Archaeological Park. No matter where you go, you’re bound to find Roman, Greek, and Norman historical sites.

Things to Do and See on a Sicily Yacht Charter

• Tour the Greek Theatre in Taormina and snap photos of the clouds over Mount Etna.
• Sample cannoli, the world-famous Sicilian dessert at kiosks, and street-side vendors in Catania.
• Hike La Rocca in Cefalu and enjoy the splendid views of the aquamarine harbor and town below.
• Take a 4×4 tour of Mount Etna and see the crater at the summit of the world-famous volcano.
• Explore the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, the island’s most important archaeological site, which is home to the majestic Temple of Concord.
• Take a trekking tour of Stromboli, the active volcano in the Aeolians, that’s known for its continuous stream of lava.
• Visit Quattrocchi overlook in Lipari for the best coastal views in the region.

Explore the scenic beauty of Sicily on your luxury yacht charter in Italy .

175.8ft / 52m

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Catamaran rental in Sicily

• Yacht charter
• Catamaran rental with/without captain

LAGOON 40  (2019)

From €856 per day.

Catamaran Lagoon 40 11.74m  (2020)

DUFOUR — DUFOUR CATAMARAN 48  (2022)

From €1,714 per day.

Bali 4.1 "Negroni" 2019 refit 2022 4 cabs (4 baths) + 2 crew cab (1 bath)  (2019)

From €1,014 per day.

Lagoon 40 isole Eolie  (2022)

From €1,571 per day.

Lagoon 400 - Maisha  (2012)

Lagoon 380  (2019)

From €670 per day.

Lagoon 440  (2008)

From €929 per day.

Lagoon 380 from Milazzo (Sicily): Aeolian dream  (2012)

From €771 per day.

C-CAT 37 "Amunì"  (2024)

From €757 per day.

LAGOON — LAGOON 40  (2022)

From €864 per day.

LAGOON — LAGOON 42  (2021)

From €936 per day.

Lagoon 40  (2020)

From €836 per day.

Luxury Catamaran Lagoon 46 (2020)  (2020)

From €2,141 per day.

LAGOON — 42  (2018)

From €679 per day.

Catamaran Lagoon Lagoon 50 14.75m  (2022)

From €1,972 per day.

Lagoon 42 - CAPOVENTO  (2023)

From €1,141 per day.

Lagoon 52F Samoa  (2021)

From €2,357 per day, catamaran rental in sicily with click&boat.

An ancient and fascinating land, linked to its long traditions and the history of civilisations that have succeeded each other through time, Sicily is the perfect place if what you expect from your next trip is to be amazed and surprised.

What better way to combine the pleasure of sailing with the view of its incredible landscapes? No solution is better than renting a catamaran in Sicily!

Palermo and the Égadi Islands, Catania, Syracuse or holidays in the Aeolian Islands: the region is a veritable succession of wonders to be discovered.

Guardian of a world-famous historical heritage, home to one of the most popular gastronomic cuisines of all time and a warm and welcoming region, Sicily is truly one of the brightest jewels of the Mediterranean Sea, which will win you over from the first moment.

Hire a catamaran with Click&Boat and, while you immerse yourself in absolute relaxation in Sicily, take in the views of its rugged coastline, nature-framed bays and coastal villages that await you with open arms.

One of the advantages of the catamaran? The shallow draft of their hulls will allow you to get close to the shore and moor where sailboats or motorboats cannot reach. This will ensure plenty of peace and privacy for most of the trip.

Organise your next holiday in Sicily and set sail with family or friends: by booking with Click&Boat you can take advantage of the best deals and book with complete peace of mind with the help of an expert consultant. Are you going to climb on board?

How much does it cost to hire a catamaran in Sicily?

On average, the cost of a catamaran rental in Sicily starts at 2,250€ per week for the low season months, i.e. from October to May approximately.

With the arrival of summer, prices rise, with a departure cost of around 5,000€  per week, excluding kitchen, captain and any additional services requested.

What happens if you want to hire a captained/tripped catamaran in Sicily? Simply choose this option when booking, or contact the boat owner directly and discuss the possibility of a captained/tripped rental. Therefore, the extra amount to be paid may vary depending on each owner, the season and the type of service requested. In any case, do not hesitate to ask one of our dedicated consultants for advice: they will be able to guide you towards the best choice and present you with the offers that are still available on our platform.

Catamaran holidays in Sicily: a mix of sea and culture

With origins dating back to the ancient Greeks, then passing into Roman, Norman and Spanish cultures, Sicily has over the years been a crossroads of history and culture. Thanks to its centrality, the historical testimonies accumulated from era to era have given it over time one of the most important heritage sites in the world.

Treasures of inestimable beauty can be found, for example, in Syracuse, Palermo and Ragusa, or, also, in Agrigento and Taormina. One paragraph is certainly not enough to mention them all!

So what better idea than to hire a catamaran in Sicily to sail from one town to another, combining the best of relaxing moments along beautiful beaches with discovering beautiful historical towns? On the other hand, the sea is among the region's strong points, envied in many areas of the Mediterranean, with an intense blue capable of winning over travellers from all over the world.

Do you want to know which are the best areas for sailing in the region? Discover below the unmissable destinations for your holiday.

Unforgettable destinations to visit when renting a catamaran in Sicily.

The sailing areas of Sicily are plentiful and all truly incredible, becoming even more perfect when it comes to organising a catamaran excursion along the coast of the region. Looking for ideas for your holiday? Find inspiration below:

• Eolian Islands, undoubtedly one of the most requested and photographed destinations every summer. Loved by those looking for nature holidays, perfect for sea lovers, a trip to the Aeolian Islands on a catamaran with a captain guarantees fun for all!
• The Aegadi Islands, another pearl of the Mediterranean, are among the favourite destinations for sailors. Whether it's a day trip to Favignana or perhaps a weekly cruiero to discover Levanzo Island and Marettimo: it's impossible not to include them on your list of excursions.
• San Vito Lo Capo and the Zingaro Guided Nature Reserve feature in this ranking thanks to the boundless beauty (and importance) of its natural landscape, and the romantic sunsets that can be observed in this part of the region.
• The island of Lampedusa, located a little further south of Sicily and usually reached by plane, is certainly the ideal starting point for a catamaran trip around the region: there is no better way to explore its beautiful beaches.
• Taormina is one of the most charming towns in Sicily, as well as an excellent starting port for those who want to explore the southeastern part of the region. How about visiting it?

When to arrange your catamaran rental in Sicily?

When is the best time to organise a catamaran holiday in Sicily? We have good news for you, as the region is characterised by good weather for much of the year, from early April to late October, so the travel options are endless, just choose the season that works best for your plans.

In July, August and September the sea temperatures are ideal for cooling off from the summer heat, especially in the areas of Palermo, Catania, the Égadi Islands and the Aeolian Islands.

On average, the coolest months in Sicily are January and February, and they also correspond to the low sailing season.

Hire a catamaran in Sicily with Click&Boat: how to do it?

Are you planning your next holiday in Sicily and looking for pure relaxation and quiet? Also known as the "quintessence of sailing", the catamaran is the answer to your wishes, even better now that renting a boat is easier than ever!

Did you know about the possibility to directly and free of charge contact the owners of the boats that interest you and discuss with them, personally defining the rental details? On the Click&Boat platform, all this is possible.

By creating a free account you can start looking for the boat of your dreams, saving time thanks to the available filters: boat type, destination, budget, shipyard, length and more.

Don't you have a sailing license and are looking for a skippered charter? Book the boat with a skipper on board and let a professional guide you safely through the region's most fascinating routes - it will be a trip you'll never forget!

Frequently Asked Questions about Sicily

How does the price of renting a catamaran in sicily differ between high season and low season.

In high season in Sicily, the average price for a catamaran rental is around €1,366 per day, while in low season the average is around €1,161 per day.

What is the daily fee for hiring a skipper in Sicily?

The daily fee for a skipper can fluctuate based on the location and the boat owner. On average, in Sicily, you can anticipate paying €462 per day for a skipper.

What is the maximum number of people allowed on a catamaran in Sicily?

A catamaran in Sicily can accommodate up to 20 people. When renting a boat with a skipper, they are considered as part of the total.

Are fuel expenses included in the cost of a catamaran rental in Sicily?

When renting a catamaran in Sicily fuel is typically not included in the rental costs, except for in 5 boats where it is already included in the price.

How many people can a catamaran in Sicily accommodate for sleeping?

A typical catamaran in Sicily has around 10 berths, but you can find catamarans with as many as 12 berths.

Good to know

Charter a catamaran near Sicily

In Sicily, privately owned yachts are available for charter. See other yachts in the area.

Charter another yacht type in Sicily

Are you interested in other yachts besides catamaran in Sicily? Look up at other yachts to charter on our website

SICILY YACHT CHARTERS

532 boats available for bareboat or crewed charter

Yachts from professional fleet operators in Sicily

Free cancellation of reservation without obligations within 4 days

Most popular boats For rent in SICILY

Bali 4.1 - 4 + 2 cab. (2021)

Bali 4.1 (2019)

Oceanis 38 - 3 cab. (2016)

Sun Odyssey 519 (2017)

Dufour 455 GL (2007)

Lucia 40 (2018)

Oceanis 46.1 (2024)

Dufour 430 Grand Large (2024)

Cyclades 50.5 (2008)

Dufour 430 - 3 cab. (2020)

Top destinations in sicily for boat rental.

217 boats for charter

from ₽63,000 per week

CAPO D'ORLANDO

150 boats for charter

from ₽101,430 per week

84 boats for charter

from ₽98,190 per week

43 boats for charter

from ₽97,740 per week

23 boats for charter

from ₽61,110 per week

10 boats for charter

from ₽133,560 per week

• Lipari 5 boats in Lipari 5
• Ragusa 5 boats in Ragusa 5
• Messina 4 boats in Messina 4
• San Vito Lo Capo 2 boats in San Vito Lo Capo 2

Types of boats available for rent in Sicily

Sailboat charter

There are 308 sailboats available for charter in Sicily, prices start from ₽61,110 per week. Most budget friendly option for a vacation.

Catamaran charter

199 catamarans available for rent in Sicily, form ₽102,600 for 1 week charter. Ideal option for group of friends or family vacation.

Gulets charter

15 gulets available for charter in Sicily from ₽746,460 per week. These crewed yachts usually offered with full board and provisioning.

Power boat charter

9 powerboats available in Sicily for rent, starting from ₽130,950 per week. Bareboat or crewed options available for sailing vacations.

Trimaran charter

Currently not available for charter in this country. Check other boat types.

Houseboat charter

Yacht charter types available in Sicily

Bareboat charter, crewed yachts, skippered boats, sicily sailing itineraries.

Lipari islands 7 day sailing itinerary

Egadi islands - 7 day sailing itinerary

Cost of boat rental in sicily.

Average yacht charter cost in Sicily starts from ₽295,470 per week. Graphic below represents fluctuation of charter prices in Sicily during the year, based on a sample of 50 boats ranging from 40 to 50-foot. This graphic shows months with lowest prices during the year as well high season when prices are above average. Before booking the boat at lowest rate, please check sailing conditions as usually best prices are during off season.

Sailing conditions in Sicily

Air temperature, precipitation and wind force may vary significantly during the year. Below you may find graphics with min and max temperature and average precipitation days in Sicily during the year. Book your charter vacation in Sicily wisely! Considering sailing conditions along with the best price offers

Temperature by month

Average air High and Low temperature during the year

Rainy days by month

Average number of days with precipitation during the year.

Sicily Yacht Charter Reviews with 12knots

Michael Zulla

United States

“Private charter with 12 Knots”

Our week-long private charter with 12 Knots on a Bali 46.5 catamaran was a remarkable experience. Sailing through Sardinia and Corsica was made even more enjoyable by our capable and friendly crew. And the team at 12 Knots planned a wonderful itinera…

“This was our first bareboat charter”

This was our first bareboat charter and we had a lot of questions. Julia and Grigory were great at walking us through the process and connecting us with a skipper. The boat was fabulous, and Raffaele is a talented skipper. Happy to say we had a wonde…

Alberto Goosen

“Thank you and your team so much for arranging everything”

Dear Grigory, I have been wanting to write you since I got back. Thank you and your team so much for arranging everything. Everything turned out as planned and we had an unforgettable trip! There were some unexpected surprises along the way…. but tha…

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Sicily boat rentals

Sailing vacations in Sicily offer great opportunities for  history lovers. While sailing the warm Mediterranean Sea, stops at  secluded moorings offer the chance to enjoy Greek, Roman and Arab  influenced architecture, cuisine and culture. Since ancient times, the  different civilizations that invaded this island considered it their  duty to leave a mark of their legacy. Wise Sicilians, on the other hand,  did everything possible to preserve their own heritage. The influence  of these various cultures creates an eclectic and interesting backdrop  for a charter around the waters of Sicily.

Sicily bareboat yacht charters can start from 5 different bases including Palermo, Marsala, Portorosa, Milazzo and Tripani.

The Egadi Islands can be easily reached from both Palermo and Tripani  yacht charter bases. Visiting these islands can add to your Sicilian  adventure with opportunities to enjoy swimming and snorkeling.

Chartering a boat from the Portorosa base you can easily sail to the  Lipari Islands, located just a few miles from Milazzo. Explore Volcano  and Salina islands, well known for their unique natural beauty.

Sailing conditions

A Sicily sailboat charter is recommended for more experienced  sailors. This area can offer gentle cruising within sight of the coast  between the closest Egadi (Aegadian) Islands, as well as challenging  open-water passages to the Lipari Islands, Malta or Tunis. The average  summer temperatures in Sicily are 77 to 89 F (25 to 32 C), with steady  northwesterly winds from 8 to 12 knots (8 to 14 mph).

Sicily Yacht Charter Guide

• Inspiration

Sicily Yacht Charter Guide has 19 Photos

Related Locations

• Sicily Fact File

Featured Yachts in Sicily

TATIANA | From EUR€ 775,000/wk

Latest sicily yachting news.

44m charter yacht JEMS offers 9 days ...

• Yacht Charter Locations >
• Mediterranean Yacht Charter >

Sicily Yacht Charter Boat Vacations

The remarkable landscape of volcanic Sicily draws in sightseers every year, yet the best way to see all of the island's natural beauty is via a private Sicily yacht charter where you are free to explore at your own pace. Arguably the quintessential Mediterranean holiday experience, Sicily is scattered with UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Greek and Roman origin and the island's outstanding natural beauty is the perfect place to anchor for an alfresco meal at sunset followed by a night of revelry aboard your luxury yacht.

On a crewed yacht charter vacation you will discover that Sicily has a remarkably varied landscape, with a mountainous interior, hills and plateaus, and a wildly beautiful coastline of rocky promontories, sheer cliffs, fine sand beaches, tiny coves and clear waters. Off shore are groups of smaller islands, some of volcanic origin; Stromboli, off the northern coast, has an active volcano. Breathtaking vistas abound: the semi-tropical landscape of lemon groves and pine forests; miles of sparkling sea shore dotted by small fishing villages; and towering mountains framed by a brilliant blue sky.

Divers flock to the region for its impressive sites suited to beginners through to advanced, where corals and gorgonias attract parrotfish, nudibranches, lionfish and occasionally turtles.

The active volcanoes of Etna and Stromboli are a unique draw for tourists and vineyards and orchards cover the fertile lower slopes for a gastronomic delight at the end of your tour.

Guests looking to fit in some shopping will have a myriad of luxury brands to choose from in such locations as Palermo and Catania, while the local shops and art galleries have an eclectic selection to personalise your wardrobe or home with a memorable souvenir your trip.

With its mild climate and volcanic enriched soil, Sicily is an important agricultural center, growing vegetables and citrus fruit, including the famous blood oranges, and producing olive oil and wine. Luxuriant gardens with exotic plants grace the major cities, including Palermo , the capital.

EXA MPLE OF OUR ITINE RARY

One Week from Palermo to Messina from Ragusa to Agrigento from Siracusa to Ragusa from Taormina to Siracusa.

Minitour Aeolian islands from S.Vito Lo Capo to Egadi islands

Two Week Sicily circummnavigation Tour: Isole Eolie - Ustica - Egadi - Lampedusa - Pantelleria islands

Month Tailor Made embarking at all East Sicilian Marinas: Syracuse , PortoRosa , Milazzo , Catania or according to previous week yacht cruise location. Delivery Fee may apply if desired embarking at a Western Sicilian Marina.

Sicilian History 

On your Sicily crewed yacht charter vacation you will find that nature and history have combined to give Sicily its most striking feature: impressive monuments of the past set against backgrounds of astonishing natural beauty. You can climb the hill to the 3rd century BC Greek amphitheater at Taormina and experience a setting where nature enhances art: on one side stretches the dramatic, jagged coastline of the azure blue Ionian Sea, on the other, snow capped Mt. Etna.

The 12th century cathedral at Monreale, a masterpiece of Norman architecture famous for its dazzling mosaics, commands unsurpassed views down the Conca d’Oro Valley , with Palermo and its bay visible in the distance. With its location in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea , Sicily became a bridge between the civilizations of the East and West. Peoples from the southern Mediterranean, including the Phoenicians, were the earliest settlers, but the island’s growth, prosperity and cultural development began with Greek colonization in the 8th century BC. The powerful city-states of Syracuse, Catania, Selinute and Agrigento competed with each other to construct the most spectacular temples. The hauntingly beautiful Valley of the Temples , built parallel to the sea at Agrigento , are some of the best preserved outside of Greece .

The Romans arrived in the 2nd century BC, followed by the Arabs, Normans, French, Spanish and finally the Bourbons. Churches, temples, gardens, palaces and theaters from these civilizations are scattered throughout the island. However, it was during the Arab domination in the 9th and 10th centuries when Sicily’s influence in trade and culture expanded, while the Norman occupation in the 11th and 12th centuries was a major artistic influence, leaving behind exquisite churches and palaces of Arab-Byzantine style.

On your Sicilian crewed yacht charter vacation cuisine is an adventure in history. Its cooking speaks of its complicated history of invasions and occupations as well as of the fresh flavors of the land and the bounty of the sea. There is cuscus (couscous) from Trapani , an Arab legacy, served with a fish stew. Pasta con le sarde, with fresh anchovies, is traditional. Bottarga, tuna roe that has been salted and pressed, tops pasta in the renowned spaghetti alla siracusana. Sfinciuni di San Vito, a stuffed focaccia, is not to be missed, nor is caponata, a sensuous dish of eggplant, celery and onions that are fried separately and cooked briefly in a sweet and sour sauce that includes tomatoes, raisins, pine nuts, vinegar, and a pinch of sugar. Farsumagru, a meat roll filled with cheese, sausage and boiled eggs is one of the island’s classic meat dishes, and piscispada alla ghiotta, an exuberant swordfish preparation, its most famous fish dish. Cassata, a sponge cake with ricotta, chocolate, candied fruits and pistachios, is the most beloved Sicilian dessert; ricotta-stuffed cannoli are known throughout the world. Cubbaita, a nougat with honey, almonds, and sesame seeds, speaks of Arab influence. Some of Italy’s best ice cream is made in Sicily, and little can rival the sweetness of its fruit. Sicily produces a number of great wines, most of them sweet: Marsala, Malvasia delle Lipari, and Moscato. Excellent table wines are made on the Regaleali estate; other outstanding ones are Etna, Alcamo, Corvo, Faro, and Ombra.

Sicily yacht charters search >> Below is a selection of SICILY superyacht charters, please contact us for more information and additional yachts that are availble in this beautiful Italian charter destination. 

• Sicily Eolians Itinerary
• Sicily and Aeolian Islands Yacht Charter Itinerary
• Aeolian Islands
• Salina Island
• Browse Sicily Charter Yachts
• Luxury Motor Yachts for Charter in Sicily
• Luxury Sailing Yachts for Charter in Sicily
• Luxury Catamarans for Charter in Sicily
• Sicily Yacht News

Sicily Yacht Charter Enquiry

Dear Martha, Thank you so much for helping to arrange our trip on Libertus. Having previously sailed on a classic Benetti we were keen to repeat the experience and the restrained elegance of these boats is hard to beat. We were thrilled to see that Libertus retains all the features of these beautiful vessels but has been upgraded to a superb level of luxuriousness. It is well equipped both in terms of facilities and first rate toys. The Crew under Captain Pablo De La Riera were completely excellent. Safety was a priority and Pablo worked with us from well before arrival to tailor an itinerary to suit us. He was also more than willing to adapt the plan on arrival. The service from all of the Crew was friendly and attentive and it was a complete pleasure to spend time with these attractive and interesting young people. The Chef, Maxime, delivers cuisine of such a high standard and variety that you quickly lose the will to dine on shore at all. We could not recommend this boat and team more highly and would happily charter Libertus again. Once again, thank you. We had the holiday of a lifetime on M/Y Libertus / Aeolian Islands, Sicily / June.

Yachting Destinations Near Sicily

Explore Location Guides for great destinations near Sicily .

THE MEDITERRANEAN

Naples & Capri

Yachts for Charter in Sicily

Whisper | from eur€ 1,200,000/wk.

SUNRAYS | From EUR€ 1,150,000/wk

QUEEN MIRI | From EUR€ 1,125,000/wk

O'PARI | From EUR€ 1,000,000/wk

GOLDEN HORIZON | From EUR€ 910,000/wk

74m CRN 131 | From EUR€ 870,000/wk

KENSHO | From EUR€ 850,000/wk

HBC | From US$ 850,000/wk

O'PTASIA | From EUR€ 800,000/wk

AALTO | From EUR€ 775,000/wk

HUNTRESS | From US$ 725,000/wk

ELEMENTS | From EUR€ 720,000/wk Special

EMIR | From EUR€ 700,000/wk

Christina O | From EUR€ 700,000/wk

LADY VERA | From EUR€ 700,000/wk

Sicily Superyacht News

Explore the Western Mediterranean ...

35m luxury yacht RESTLESS offering ...

Charter 20m luxury sailing catamaran ...

Sicily yacht charter specials, special offer location: west mediterranean.

KAR | From EUR€ 50,000.00/wk

15% discount location: italy.

ELENI | From EUR€ 195,000.00/wk

Special discounted rate location: amalfi coast.

55 FIFTYFIVE | From EUR€ 70,000.00/wk

Special offer location: sardinia/corsica, sicily or naples/amalfi.

LIR | From EUR€ 24,750.00/wk

10% discount location: sicily.

DVI MARIJE | From EUR€ 15,120.00/wk

20% discount location: west mediterranean.

YCH2 | From EUR€ 38,400.00/wk

THE WELLESLEY | From EUR€ 200,000.00/wk

15% discount location: west mediterranean.

HATT MILL | From EUR€ 187,000.00/wk

MINOR FAMILY AFFAIR (ex El Guajiro) | From EUR€ 110,000.00/wk

FETCH IV | From EUR€ 27,900.00/wk

CARPE DIEM | From EUR€ 280,000.00/wk

'G' | From EUR€ 76,500.00/wk

Charter yacht disclaimer.

This document is not contractual. The yacht charters and their particulars displayed in the results above are displayed in good faith and whilst believed to be correct are not guaranteed. CharterWorld Limited does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information and/or images displayed. All information is subject to change without notice and is without warrantee. A professional CharterWorld yacht charter consultant will discuss each charter during your charter selection process. Starting prices are shown in a range of currencies for a one-week charter, unless otherwise marked. Exact pricing and other details will be confirmed on the particular charter contract. Just follow the "reserve this yacht charter" link for your chosen yacht charter or contact us and someone from the CharterWorld team will be in touch shortly.

Sicily Crewed Yacht Charters

Find a yacht

Itineraries

Start planning your charter, top features.

General information

Best time to charter:

May to September, with the peak season being July and August.

Closest Airports:

Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA).

Palermo Airport (PMO).

Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

Central European Time Zone (GMT/UTC +1 hour).

Additional Information

Language: Italian & English - Currency: Euro - Religion: Roman Catholic

Learn more about Sicily

Sicily is the epitome of a Mediterranean summer vacation, with its picturesque coastline punctuated by beautiful fine sand beaches, lovely fishing villages, and a mountainous interior scented with lemon groves and pine forests.

Featured Yachts

Sleeps 10 guests in 5 Cabins

Size: 78 Ft

Sleeps 6 guests in 3 Cabins

Size: 58 Ft

SEA LADY II

Size: 135 Ft

Sleeps 8 guests in 4 Cabins

Size: 82 Ft

Sicily & Aeolian Islands - One Way Yacht Charter Itinerary

Visiting: Palermo, Stromboli, Salina, Panarea, Lipari, Vulcano, Taormina, Syracusa, and Ragusa. .

• Destinations
• The Mediterranean

Yacht Charter Sicily

From volcanoes to Greek temples and 18th-century Baroque architecture, a Sicily yacht charter offers a true feast for the senses.

The Italian island of Sicily, located just off the ‘toe’ of Italy’s boot, boasts stunning natural beauty and a host of exclusive offerings coupled with a distinctly different identity from mainland Italy. A luxury yacht charter in Sicily offers a superb addition to your Western Mediterranean yacht charter itinerary and can easily be incorporated with an island-hopping adventure in the Aeolian Islands. The island of Sicily is home to one of the world’s most active volcanoes, Mount Etna, which — towering above the shimmering Mediterranea Sea at 3,350 meters — is also the tallest volcano in Europe. It is a must-add yacht charter destination to your itinerary if you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or ocean dreamer.

All around Sicily, you will discover quiet anchorages, beautifully scenic bays and little fishing villages painted in pretty pastel colors.  Your Sicilian charter is not complete without passing through the Aeolian Islands . Lying off Sicily’s northeastern coast, this varied cluster of islands has a fascinating topography.  Here you can take a dip in volcanic hot springs and mud baths, sip sweet Malvasia wine on the island of Salina and explore the beautiful scenery of Lipari.

A Feast for the Senses: The Sicilian Delicious Cuisine

Sicily is perhaps most famous for its food, which is heavily influenced by the island’s past. It has been conquered by the Phoenicians of North Africa, the Islamic Moors, Greeks, Romans, Normans and Spanish over the years.  The influences of Greek , Arabic, French and Catalan cuisine make Sicily’s culinary offering decidedly different from the cuisine of mainland Italy. Expect fresh fish, simple pasta, Mediterranean vegetables, and local markets fit to burst with olive stalls, cheeses, oils, raisins, saffron and pistachios. The yacht’s chef will make local provisions to ensure these local flavors are incorporated into your meals aboard. Still, we recommend you disembark to eat at least one meal ashore for an authentic taste of Sicily.

Taormina: A Cliffside Gem

We also recommend visiting the city of  Taormina on Sicily’s coast. Clinging to the cliff edge, have your phones and cameras ready to snap images of the picturesque terraces that cascade down the hillside to the water. With views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea, Taormina’s ancient Greco-Roman theater, the Teatro Antico di Taormina, is an impressive sight and is still in use today.  While there, be sure to visit Isola Bella. This little nature reserve is connected to Taormina’s beach by just a narrow stretch of sand. Lastly, stop at Bam Bar while in town to beat the heat by sampling granita, a Sicilian frozen delight.

Syracuse: A Historical Tapestry

A great migration of Greeks came to the islands in 750 B.C., establishing the stunning city of Syracuse. Home of the renowned mathematician, philosopher and brilliant mind of Archimedes, Syracuse is brimming with history. If you’re interested, your charter broker can arrange a tour of the archeological sites ashore with many well-preserved Greek and ancient Roman ruins. And your visit to Syracuse during a Sicily yacht charter wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Necropolis of Pantalica, extensive rock-cut tombs of antiquity.

San Vito Lo Capo: A Beachside Paradise

During your Sicilian yacht charter, be sure to have the yacht anchor off San Vito Lo Capo and have the crew tender you in with all of the yacht’s beach kit. The golden sands of San Vito Lo Capo adjacent to the magnificent mountains looming further inland create a stunning scene out of a postcard.

Northrop & Johnson has access to the finest yachts for charter in Sicily, the largest island in Italy, including ultra-luxurious motor yachts and sailing yachts by pedigree shipbuilders. Contact our team today and let us connect you with your ideal crewed boat rental, or browse our luxury private yachts for charter in Sicily.

Get in touch with a yacht broker in Sicily

Northrop & Johnson is a leading international yacht brokerage with access to the best and most luxurious yachts for charter, including in Sicily. With offices in the heart of Monaco , just moments away from Port Hercule, our yacht charter brokers boast unparalleled Sicily expertise and market intelligence. We take pride in listening to our client’s needs and crafting exceptional charter itineraries in and around Sicily. Rent a superyacht in Sicily and enjoy the ultimate vacation on the water. Contact our yacht brokers in Monaco today if you want to charter a luxury yacht. We will be thrilled to assist you on your yachting journey.

Other destinations closest to Sicily

• Yachts Charter Sardinia
• Yachts in Corsica
• Yachts Italian Riviera
• Yacht Charter Amalfi
• Yacht Charter Balearics
• Yacht Charter Malta
• Yacht Charter Ibiza

Charter Highlights Sicily

• Explore the ancient city of Syracuse
• Enjoy a beach picnic on San Vito Lo Capo
• Tour the mighty Mount Etna, an active volcano and UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Discover the Temple of Valleys and be amazed by the stunning views
• Visit Ragusa, in the south of Sicily, which boasts numerous Michelin-starred restaurants
• Enjoy an island-hopping adventure exploring the Aeolian Islands
• Visit the Palermo Cathedral and walk through the picturesque streets that have a rich history
• Set sail in the crystal clear waters and reach the east coast or the Egadi Islands, thanks to the consistent winds
• Create memories at cultural events, and thanks to the stunning landscapes
• Learn the local knowledge by stopping at the Syracuse Greek Theater
• Follow the narrow streets with fewer tourists and discover new hidden coves

Sicily Yacht Charter Itinerary

For a full list of all available itineraries & excursions, or to chart your own course please inquire.

Best Yachts for Charter in Sicily

Motor yachts for charter in sicily, sailing yachts for charter in sicily, yacht charter sicily & aeolian islands: faqs, where can i moor my yacht in sicily.

There are several world-class marinas in Sicily where you can moor your yacht. Popular marinas include:

• Marina di Portorosa
• Marina di Ragusa
• Porto di Palermo
• Marina di Cala del Sole

Northrop & Johnson can arrange all your berthing requirements in Sicily. If you want to visit Sicily on a luxury private yacht, contact our team today.

Is Sicily a good place to explore the Aeolian Islands from?

Absolutely! Sicily is an ideal starting point from which to explore the stunning Aeolian Islands , a volcanic archipelago that is strung across the southern Tyrrhenian Sea. The seven Aeolian Islands – Lipari, Salina, Panarea, Stromboli, Vulcano, Alicudi, and Fillicude – are filled with natural wonders, stunning coastlines, beautiful beaches, breathtaking landscapes, active volcanoes, and charming fishing villages.

What types of yachts can I charter in Sicily and the Aeolian Islands?

As a popular superyacht destination in southern Italy, you’ll find a superb selection of luxury yachts for charter , divided by yacht type. Popular yacht types that guests choose include:

• Motor yachts
• Displacement yachts
• Planing yachts
• Sports yachts
• Sailing yachts
• Solar-powered yachts
• Superyachts
• Mega yachts

Remember to inform the broker about the main ports you’d like to visit since it’s recommended to charter a yacht with an average length according to the places you’d like to stay: not all ports can accommodate boats above a certain length.

No matter what type of yacht you seek in Sicily, the Italy yacht brokers at Northrop & Johnson can connect you with your ideal boat rental. Contact our team today or browse our luxury crewed boat rentals.

What's the weather like in Sicily?

Sicily enjoys glorious sun-drenched days during the summer, the high season, warm weather in spring and fall, and cooler, wetter weather in winter.

Summer (June to August):

• Daytime temperatures: 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F)
• Nighttime temperatures: 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)

Fall (September to November):

• Daytime temperatures: 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)
• Nighttime temperatures: 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F)

Winter (December to February):

• Daytime temperatures: 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F)
• Nighttime temperatures: 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F)

Spring (March to May):

• Daytime temperatures: 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F)
• Nighttime temperatures: 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F)

Is Sicily good for a sailing vacation?

Yes, Sicily is fantastic for sailing. A Sicily sailing vacation offers stunning coastlines, beautiful anchorages, and excellent sailing conditions, especially during the summer months. If you want to enjoy a sailing vacation in Sicily, contact the charter brokers at Northrop & Johnson. We have access to every luxury sailing yacht for charter in the Med, including elegant schooners and racing yachts built by pedigree shipbuilders.

What visa do I need to enter Sicily aboard a luxury yacht charter?

Sicily in Italy is part of the European Union. US passport holders can enter visa-free so long as they have a valid passport with an expiration date of at least three months beyond the scheduled departure date. When you book a yacht charter with Northrop & Johnson, our Sicily luxury yacht charter brokers will advise on entry requirements and ensure you have the necessary paperwork to legally enter Sicily.

How much does a private yacht charter in Sicily cost?

The cost of a crewed motor yacht or sail boat charter in Sicily will depend on the size of the vessel and its pedigree, your length of charter, your cruising itinerary, and the time of year. The entry point for a crewed charter in Sicily is US$50,000 per week. Contact Northrop & Johnson to book a luxury yacht charter in Sicily, or browse our luxury yachts for charter.

Is it possible to enjoy a bareboat charter in Sicily?

While it is highly likely that it is possible to enjoy a bareboat charter in Sicily, Northrop & Johnson specializes in arranging luxury crewed yacht charters only.

What are some other yacht charter destinations in the same area of Sicily?

Some other yacht charter destinations in the same area of Sicily include:

• Yacht Charter Turkey
• Yacht Charter Montenegro
• Yacht Charter Adriatic
• Yacht Charter Cyclades
• Yacht Charter Dodecanese
• Yacht Charter East Mediterranean
• Yacht Charter Ionian Islands
• Yacht Charter Venice and the Italian Adriatic

Get in touch with a Sicily yacht charter broker at Northrop & Johnson

Northrop & Johnson specializes in creating unforgettable crewed charters aboard the world’s finest vessels. Contact our Sicily yacht charter brokers if you want to enjoy an incredible vacation in this elegant superyacht hotspot, or browse our luxury private yachts for charter.

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SICILY YACHT CHARTER

Aboard your Sicily yacht charter, you’ll be swept away by romance and wonder on the largest island of the Mediterranean. Immerse yourself in sunkissed days on the seas and champagne nights under clear, twinkling skies. This picturesque destination will be etched in your mind forever.

From the breathtaking landscape dotted with marvelous architecture to the beautifully diverse culture, you’ll be captivated by these sparkling shores before you even step off your superyacht. Impressive views of Mt. Etna will greet you. Anchor in Palermo, and stroll the winding streets lined with architectural marvels dating back centuries. Go island hopping to the Aeolian Islands nearby. Because they’re hard to access without a plane or yacht, you’ll enjoy complete seclusion and tranquility. Spend the day diving or soaking up the sun’s golden rays on the sundeck. Tender in to enjoy an intimate beach picnic prepared by your personal chef. At the end of the day, return to your yacht for a soak in the jacuzzi and a relaxing massage.

The best way to experience Sicily is aboard a luxury superyacht. With endless options and the five-star service of your yacht crew, you’ll savor every second of your time spent in this opulent paradise on your Sicily yacht charter.

YACHTS FOR CHARTER IN THIS AREA

Curanta Cridhe

Summer Star

License to Chill

Drunken Sailor

Feel the Blue

Absolute 60

Pura Follia

Sir Hendrik

Mane Et Nocte

Silver Breeze

Champagne Hippy

Lady Yousra

Wide Liberty

George Five

Molly Malone

Estrella de Mar

Accama Delta

Blue Heaven

Falcon Island

Jajaro’

Shooting Star

55 Fiftyfive

Ashleyrose 110

White Pearl I

Project Steel

South Paw C

Sole Di Mare

Milos At Sea

Antheya III

Minor Family Affair

Infinity Nine

Can`t Remember

O’Neiro

Hakuna Matata

L’Equinox

Queen of Makri

Big Change II

Illusion II

Halcon Del Mar

Ocean Pure 2

O’Rion

Mare Nostrum

Only Eighty

O’Natalina

O’Mathilde

The Wellesley

O’Eva

Quantum of Solace

O’Ptasia

O’Pari

Black Pearl

• Cruise to the Aeolian Islands
• Take a helicopter tour of Mount Etna
• Stroll through the streets of Palermo
• Visit Florio and Donnafugata wineries for wine tasting
• Snorkel at Faraglioni Beach
• Soak in grottos on the Egadi Islands
• Visit Monreale Cathedral
• Golf at Verdura
• Watch a performance at the Greek Amphitheatre
• Go deep sea fishing in the Mediterranean Sea

Yachts for charter

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Yacht Charter Itinerary Sicily

Luxury Yacht Charter Sicily

The quieter side of the Med, offering serenity, nature, and southern Italian culture

Located at the southern tip of Italy, a  Sicily yacht charter  offers an impressive landscape of smoldering volcanoes, transparent aquamarine seas, charming villages, and ancient Greek temples. Its desirable location south in the Mediterranean allows for a blissfully elongated travel season, with warm, sun-kissed days staring as early as April and extending into October. Cruising its rugged coastline offers an experience that is certain to delight all the senses.

The Aegadian Islands off the dramatic northwest coast of Sicily reward travelers with an unmatched sense of serenity and a more remote exploration of the captivating Mediterranean. As you travel around this small, mountainous group of five islands, you’ll be transported to another world, where idyllic solitude and tranquil seclusion are yours. In stark contrast to the bustling destinations of the  Italian Riviera  and  Côte d’Azur , this voyage appeals to those who are allured by the serenity of nature and peaceful outdoor adventures.

With its fascinating history, strong cultural traditions, and diverse landscapes, Sicily continues to entice travelers from around the world to visit. The Sicilian cuisine is a highlight of its own, offering everything from charming cafes and rustic trattorias, to Michelin-star decadence, all radiating traditional Italian flair.

Nature lovers will also have their senses fulfilled. From the exploring Greek temples and the smoldering Mount Etna volcano, to navigating the precipitous coastlines and the Med’s most pristine waters, Sicily’s landscape promises to satisfy every desire.

After you meet your yacht in Palermo, venture into the historical city to explore the beautiful architecture. Stop at the Grand Hotel Villa Igiea to enjoy a cocktail enjoy a bite while taking in the fantastic view overlooking the Palermo Marina. For a more exclusive experience, reserve a table in the private dining room of Cuvée du Jour, a most desired venue where you can sample unique preparations of Sicilian fare.

Palermo to San Vito Lo Capo

As you head west from Palermo, you’ll pass the town of Scopello, a charming coastal village that’s home to the renowned Tonnara di Scopello. This site of a former tuna fishery has been transformed into a gloriously scenic little cove which can be seen from the village and explored up-close by swimmers and sun-bathers alike. Just a short jaunt away is the Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve, where windswept coastlines and dramatic cliffs make way to secluded coves, perfect for quiet exploration or a leisurely picnic.

Cruise north to the island of Ustica, a tiny island floating alone in sublime azure waters. Known as the Black Pearl of the Mediterranean, the land mass is actually the tip of a submerged volcano, with only four square miles extending above the water. Thanks to an Atlantic current, the waters here are kept pristine, and spectacular diving can be found in underwater caves and grottos, and Cape Gavazzi, the world’s first underwater archaeological museum.

The island of Mozia, set in the Stagnone Nature Reserve between Trapani and Marsala, was originally built by the Phoenicians as a trade outpost, and is now home to an archeological site tracing back more than 2,700 years. Tour the nearby Giuseppe Whitaker museum, where you’ll find the exquisite, world-famous Motya Charioteer marble sculpture is on display.  While on land, dine with the locals before heading back to the comfort of your yacht.

Head west to the distinctive Aegadian archipelago, a cluster of tiny islands that more than make up for in individuality, what they otherwise lack in size.  The main trio of islands, Favignana, Levanzo and Marettimo, intrigue travelers each in their own way. On Favignana, yachts have their choice of scenic grottos in which to anchor: Grotta Azzurra (named after the color of the water), Grotta dei Sospiri (the grotto of sighs), and Grotta degli Innamorati (lovers’ grotto), all offering excellent swimming and scuba-diving opportunities.

The tiniest and least populated of the islands, Levanzo is home to just one tourist destination, Grotta del Genovese, an ancient cave containing prehistoric art. The rest of the island can be explored via footpaths that cross Levanzo’s high plateau and hills, and lead as far as the lighthouse on the island’s northern tip. After your exploration, return to the respite of your home on the water to enjoy a meal prepared by your chef, and soak up the blissful solitude.

As you approach the island of Marettimo, its dramatic, rocky peak jutting from the sea is a breathtaking sight that promises intense hiking trails with awe-inspiring overlooks along the way. The town of Marettimo itself offers rustic charm, with its quaint whitewashed houses and the remains of a Roman settlement. Cruise southward to Punta Cortiglio for a swim and snorkeling in the crystalline waters. Enjoy a cocktail on deck and take in the beauty and solitude that surrounds you.

Your return cruise to Palermo affords the perfect opportunity to transition back to the real life. Reminisce about your trip and commit to memory the splendor of sailing on your  West Mediterranean yacht charter .

SICILY OVERVIEW

TIME ZONE: Central European Time (GMT +2)

CURRENCY: Euro (€)

CLIMATE: Jan: high of 54°F (12°C) and a low of 41°F (5°C)

Feb: high of 54°F (12°C) and a low of 41°F (5°C)

March: high of 55°F (13°C) and a low of 43°F (6°C)

April: high of 61°F (16°C) and a low of 46°F (8°C)

May: high of 66°F (19°C) and a low of 54°F (12°C)

June: high of 73°F (23°C) and a low of 59°F (15°C)

July: high of 79°F (26°C) and a low of 64°F (18°C)

Aug: high of 79°F (26°C) and a low of 66°F (19°C)

Sep: high of 75°F (24°C) and a low of 63°F (17°C)

Oct: high of 70°F (21°C) and a low of 57°F (14°C)

Nov: high of 63°F (17°C) and a low of 50°F (10°C)

Dec: high of 55°F (13°C) and a low of 45°F (7°C)

yachts for charter

CHRISTINA O

CORAL OCEAN

QUANTUM OF SOLACE

BLEU DE NIMES

VARIETY VOYAGER

LADY KATHRYN V

THE WELLESLEY

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Sicily Charter Itineraries

Below are samples of luxury yacht charter itineraries for private crewed yachts which cover Sicily. These itineraries are here to offer inspiration and give you a feel for the area and some of the best things to do whilst sailing there.

A good yacht charter broker will be able to create a bespoke yacht vacation charter ideas for you and your party, based on your own requirements as well as the type of yacht and time of year you wish to travel.

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Featured Luxury Charter Yachts in Sicily

To help you in your search for your perfect luxury charter yacht for your next vacation, we’ve selected some of the finest and most exclusive superyachts and megayachts that are currently available for charter in Sicily.

83m | Golden Yachts

from $778,000 p/week

81m | Feadship

from $1,028,000 p/week

68m | Nobiskrug

from $525,000 p/week

61m | Abeking & Rasmussen

from $661,500 p/week

Lady Kathryn V

61m | Lurssen

from $486,500 p/week

59m | Benetti

from $467,000 p/week

31m | Sanlorenzo

from $44,500 p/week

28m | Fipa - Maiora

from $39,000 p/week

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Catamaran Charter in Sicily - Yacht Hire

Catamarans for rent in Sicily

163 boats available

Catamaran Lagoon 46 · 2022

Porto capo d'orlando marina, capo d'orlando, italy.

• 4 bathrooms
• 13.99 m long
• Captain optional

Catamaran Bali 4.1 · 2019

• 12.37 m long
• Full batten mainsail

Catamaran Excess 11 · 2024

• 2 bathrooms
• 11.33 m long

Can't find what you want? Talk to our holiday planners today.

Catamaran Bali 5.4 · 2019

Marina villa igea palermo, palermo, italy.

• 6 bathrooms
• 16.8 m long
• Crew included

Catamaran Bali 4.3 · 2020

• 13.1 m long

Catamaran Bali 4.8 · 2021

• 14.82 m long

Catamaran Fountaine Pajot Bahia 46 · 2005

• 5 bathrooms
• 14.15 m long

Catamaran Lagoon 42 · 2023

• 12.94 m long

Catamaran Lagoon 421 · 2011

Poseidon marina, milazzo, italy.

• 12.61 m long

Catamaran Leopard 50 · 2022

Marina di portorosa, tonnarella, italy.

• 15.4 m long
• Semi batten mainsail

Catamaran Dufour 48 · 2020

Marsala marina, marsala, italy.

• 14.6 m long

Catamaran Lagoon 42 · 2021

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Frequently asked questions

Once we receive your request, we will confirm the availability of the boat, as well as check for alternative ones. To ensure your experience is the best it can be, we may contact you to discuss your request in detail. Let us do the research for you - free of charge.

You can get in touch with the captain as soon as you’ve completed your booking. Our captains are highly qualified and knowledgeable about their locality.

The Charter Fee is an additional, obligatory cost, which typically includes the end cleaning of the boat, home port fees, and linen & towels. The details of the charter fee differ depending on the boat, location and charter partner.

There are marina fees and fuel costs which vary depending on the type, duration and location of your sailing holiday. Marina fees need to be paid at each marina you choose to dock overnight - the amount varies but you may be able to find this information in advance by contacting the marinas directly. Fuel costs depend on whether you’re sailing a motorboat or a sailboat. You can estimate fuel costs by double-checking your chosen boat’s engine, and the expected distance you aim to sail.

Sailing on a catamaran in Sicily

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, is full of hidden gems that you can only discover by boat - specifically with a catamaran or another kind of boat with a shallow draft. After all, you come to Sicily for a sailing vacation if you want to explore the natural beauty of the main island and the incredible smaller islands surrounding it. Charter a catamaran in Sicily to come as close to these secluded shores as you can.

The pros of renting a catamaran in Sicily

The most striking advantage of renting a catamaran in Sicily is undeniably the fact that catamarans come with a shallow draft. This means that you can sail close to all the stunning bays, shores and beaches that you came to Sicily for. Favignana Beaches is the Caribbean of Sicily and offers the most stunning turquoise waters to swim in - surrounded by incredible rock formations, of course.

Another advantage of chartering a catamaran in Sicily is that catamarans come with an engine and a sail. This makes them absolute multitaskers when it comes to navigating the sea. You can either sail with the wind when it’s strong enough or use the engine when it’s not. This means that you don’t need to wait in the middle of the sea for the wind to pick up again until you can continue your journey. You simply use the tool that you need at the right moment in time.

Another fantastic benefit of catamarans is the space you get on board. Standing on two hulls doesn’t just give catamarans more stability, it also means that there is more space to be used. This often results in bigger bedrooms and more space to relax. You will feel more like sleeping in a hotel room on water rather than a simple cabin on a boat.

The cons of renting a catamaran in Sicily

One of the downsides of renting a catamaran in Sicily is equally an advantage: The space. While it might be incredibly comfortable to sleep on board a rather spacious boat, it might also come with some difficulties. Bigger boats need bigger spots for mooring and that makes them a bit harder to navigate than other types of boats. Especially during the super busy high season in July and August it might be a challenge to find a spot for mooring in the marinas. Even if you do - you might have a hard time getting there. And you might have to pay extra. Bigger boats take up more space and therefore need to pay more.

Charter a private luxury catamaran in Sicily

Anyone who has the funds will get excited about chartering a private luxury catamaran in Sicily . You get all the benefits of a catamaran, but with more exclusive extras. Many luxury catamarans have a fridge, freezer as well as a stove board, but also snorkelling equipment, a SUP or even a jacuzzi. What more could you ask for on a sailing adventure on a catamaran in Sicily?

How many people can go on a catamaran in Sicily?

Most catamarans are built to host 10-12 people. This is also the standard size for catamaran charters in Sicily . However, there are also exceptions to the rule and some catamarans can host more or fewer people than that.

When is the best time to sail on a catamaran in Sicily?

Sailing season in Sicily lasts from April until October with many sunny days in between. The most popular months for a boat holiday are July and August. Book your catamaran in Sicily for these months well in advance so that you can rest assured that you get to spend it on your dream boat.

How much does it cost to rent a catamaran in Sicily?

Renting a catamaran in Sicily is not the cheapest option when it comes to boat holidays in this part of Italy, but it doesn’t have to break the bank either. On average it costs 140 EUR per person per day to charter a catamaran in Italy . Keep in mind that this is only the average price of a catamaran rental in Italy . You will always be able to find cheaper or more expensive catamarans in Sicily - depending on your budget and your personal needs.

What kind of boat licence do I need when renting a catamaran in Sicily?

Anyone who wants to rent a boat in Sicily needs to be in possession of a valid boat licence. It is also mandatory when renting a catamaran in Sicily . EU-residents will be pleased to hear that their boat licences are automatically valid in Italy, non-EU-residents are not always so lucky. You should always check the necessary requirements before coming to Italy. It will save you some potential disappointments.

The best routes for catamarans in Sicily

One of the most scenic routes you can take is to sail west from Palermo towards Trapani. This route also takes you to discover the Aegadian Islands Favignana, Levanzo and Marettimo . This route looks like paradise.

Day 1 - Sail from Palermo to La Praiola in Terrasini : Before you head out on your catamaran to discover the Sicilian coast, you should stroll around the picturesque streets of Palermo and visit some of the most interesting historical sites. The Cattedrale di Palermo and the Quattro Canti are two of the most interesting and beautiful places to visit in the city. You might even want to see a performance at the Massimo Theater if you have the time. Once you arrive at La Praiola you should go for a swim, soak up the sun and just relax. You’re on vacation now!

Day 2 - Sail from La Praiola to San Vito Lo Capo : San Vito Lo Capo is one of the most beautiful spots on the main island of Sicily. The Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro - Entrata Nord - San Vito Lo Capo is just around the corner from the town and offers the most stunning views as well as beautiful nature where you can hike or snorkel - depending on the activities you prefer. Many historical towers are scattered around this part of the island and make for a nice stop in between. Sailing with a catamaran in Sicily means that you get to sail closer to the shore and discover the Sicilian coast from up close.

Day 3 - Sail from San Vito Lo Capo to Trapani: In Trapani you should take in the breathtaking views when arriving at the harbour before stepping foot onto the land again. The magnificent seafront with the colourful houses and turquoise water is definitely worth looking at for a few minutes. The Museum of Illusions Trapani is a highlight when visiting the city and makes for some cool pictures that you will enjoy looking back on. Historical and architectural highlights of the city are the Cattedrale di San Lorenzo and Erice, an incredible Medieval castle high up in the Sicilian mountains.

Day 4 - Sail from Trapani to Levanzo : The island of Levanzo offers some incredible beaches that are not like regular beaches. Jump in the crystal clear water at Spiaggia di Cala Minnola which is made of unique rock formations. At Cala Faraglione you can discover some interesting wildlife and sail close to the little islet in front of the coast when sailing on a catamaran.

Day 5 - Sail from Levanzo to Favignana : Like Levanzo , you come to the island of Favignana for the views and the stunning beaches with unique rock formations. Cala Stornello, Spiaggia di Marasolo and Grotta Perciata are just three of the many spots where you can relax and discover the beautiful nature and landscapes of a small Sicilian island. If you are up for a hike and want to enjoy some stunning views from above, you should hike to Castle of Santa Catarina in the centre of the island.

Day 6 - Sail from Favignana to Marsala : This beautiful town on Sicily’s west coast charms you with its historical architecture, the lovely beaches and windmills. Treat yourself to a delicious traditional Sicilian meal. After all, your sailing holiday on a catamaran in Sicily is almost finished and you should gather some strength for the return journey the next day.

Day 7 / 8 - Sail from Marsala to Palermo : Depending on your speed, it will take you a day or two to get back to Palermo. You might also want to stop at some of the beautiful beaches you missed on your way here - just to jump into turquoise waters one last time before heading back home and back to reality.

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Top Banker, Lawyer Among Missing and Presumed Dead in Yacht Sinking off Sicily

T hree leading figures from the worlds of tech, banking and law, along with members of their families, are presumed dead after a luxury yacht sank off the coast of Sicily.

The Italian coast guard said early Tuesday that the bodies of six missing people are likely trapped in the yacht, which sank in waters 164 feet deep.

Tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch and his daughter were among the six people the coast guard said were missing after the yacht was hit by a sudden thunderstorm Monday. Corporate spokespeople confirmed Tuesday that Morgan Stanley International Chairman Jonathan Bloomer and his wife, Judy, and Clifford Chance lawyer Chris Morvillo and his wife, Neda, were among the missing.

Authorities confirmed the body of a seventh victim, the yacht’s cook, had been recovered. A total of 22 people were aboard the vessel when it went down just before sunrise Monday.

Rescuers were reassessing how to access the wreckage, after the first inspection by cave divers was blocked by debris, the coast guard said.

“The space is very tight, because everything fell when she capsized,” Luca Cari, the head of Italy’s national firefighters’ corps told reporters. “Divers are trying to remove furnishings, wires and other debris to clear the passageways.”

The U.K. government said Tuesday it had sent a team of marine-accident investigators to Sicily’s capital, Palermo, to assist the Italian authorities.

Diving teams, helicopters and patrol boats were deployed to help the rescue effort, the spokesman said.

Lynch, one of the U.K.’s most celebrated tech entrepreneurs, was recently acquitted in the U.S. over allegations he fraudulently inflated the value of the company he sold to Hewlett Packard for $11 billion.

Many of the guests on board the boat had gathered to celebrate Lynch’s freedom following around a year of house arrest in the U.S.

Bloomer previously headed the audit committee at Autonomy, the company that Lynch founded and sold to Hewlett Packard. Morvillo, a senior partner at law firm Clifford Chance and a former assistant U.S. attorney in New York, represented the British entrepreneur during his U.S. trial.

Yacht-charter sites listed the yacht, named the Bayesian, for rent for 195,000 euros, equivalent to about $215,000, a week. It was owned by Lynch’s wife, Angela Bacares. The 184-foot vessel could accommodate up to 12 guests and 10 crew.

Fifteen people, including a 1-year-old girl and Bacares, were rescued. Ayla Ronald, a Clifford Chance lawyer who worked on Lynch’s fraud case, also was one of the survivors, her father, Lin Ronald, said.

The yacht, which brokers valued at around $35 million, was anchored near the port of Porticello overnight Sunday when a storm hit the coast, creating a tornado-like column of air and water, a coast guard official said.

The yacht was hit by a waterspout before capsizing, authorities said. Waterspouts are common during summer, but they don’t last long and are rarely picked up by radars.

Local fisherman Dino Gallo said he was up early on the day to check the weather for fishing and saw a flare from the port at around 4:40 a.m. “I went down but there were only cushions, a tender and other debris floating. The yacht was gone,” he said. The coast guard has said there were no distress signals from the yacht.

Lynch, 59 years old, founded software company Autonomy in the 1990s.

He was charged in 2018 by the U.S. government, which alleged that he and his lieutenants had used false and misleading documents to make the business-software maker more attractive to a potential purchaser. He unsuccessfully fought extradition to the U.S.

Lynch was acquitted of criminal charges in June, ending the nearly 13-year saga. He declared afterward that he was “elated” and looking forward to returning to what he loved, “my family and innovating in my field.”

After Lynch was acquitted in his case two months ago, Morvillo wrote on his LinkedIn profile to thank his team, his wife and his two daughters. “I am so glad to be home,” he wrote in his final post on the site. “And they all lived happily ever after….”

A representative from Clifford Chance said in a statement: “We are in shock and deeply saddened by this tragic incident. Our thoughts are with our Partner, Christopher Morvillo, and his wife Neda who are among the missing. Our utmost priority is providing support to the family as well as our colleague Ayla Ronald, who together with her partner, thankfully survived the incident. ”

Bloomer, 70, an accountant by training, sat on several blue-chip company boards in London, including chairing Morgan Stanley International and as nonexecutive chair of the U.K. based insurer Hiscox.

He previously sat on the board of Autonomy and was named head of its audit committee in 2010. Bloomer gave evidence in court in Lynch’s defense during HP’s legal battle against the Autonomy founder. His wife, Judy, 71, worked with several charities and listed her occupation as a psychotherapist on LinkedIn.

A few days before the sinking, one of Lynch’s co-defendants in the U.S. fraud case, Stephen Chamberlain, was struck and killed by a car while out jogging near his home in Cambridgeshire, England.

Chamberlain worked as a senior member of Autonomy’s finance department and was charged alongside Lynch in the 2018 case. He was cleared of all charges earlier this year. After leaving Autonomy in 2012, Chamberlain worked as chief operating officer for cybersecurity firm Darktrace, which Lynch also invested in.

Helena Smolak, Marina Vitaglione and Alyssa Lukpa contributed to this article.

Write to Gareth Vipers at [email protected] and Max Colchester at [email protected]

Mike Lynch and daughter among missing after yacht sinks: What we know about disaster - and 'alarming' potential cause

The British-flagged luxury vessel named Bayesian was carrying 22 people when it got into difficulty off the coast of Sicily. Seven bodies have now been recovered from the wreckage.

News reporter @samuelosborne93

Friday 23 August 2024 12:24, UK

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Seven bodies have been found after a superyacht sank off the coast of Sicily.

Twenty-two people were on board the vessel named Bayesian when it got into difficulty in the early hours of Monday, with 15 people rescued.

Here's what we know about the sinking of the luxury vessel so far.

Follow latest updates on the superyacht sinking

What might have caused the sinking?

The British-flagged luxury vessel, named Bayesian, capsized at around 4.30am local time on Monday morning off Palermo, according to ship-tracking site Marine Traffic.

It sank in as little as 60 seconds with 22 people on board, 12 passengers and a crew of 10, according to the Italian coastguard.

Waterspouts, essentially tornados that form over water, were seen as powerful winds battered the area overnight, local media said.

The yacht may have sunk faster with all the doors open due to the hot weather, Sailing Today magazine editor Sam Jefferson has said.

"I imagine all the doors were open because it was hot, so there were enough hatches and doors open that it filled with water very quickly and sank like that," he said.

Official pictures show air conditioning units in several of the rooms, however, which could counter the suggestion open windows caused the vessel to sink faster.

The huge mast is also likely to have played a role, he added.

What are waterspouts?

Waterspouts typically occur during thunderstorms and can develop very rapidly, within minutes.

Their spin generally reaches wind speeds between 75-200mph, but can reach as high as 300mph.

They can travel at about 10-20mph typically but can reach greater speeds, making them difficult to avoid - especially in something as slow-moving as a yacht.

Matthew Schanck, chair of the Maritime Search and Rescue Council, called the reports of a tornado or waterspout "rare" and "quite alarming".

"The vessel was at anchor in a recognised anchorage," Mr Schanck said.

"Depending on wind direction and the state of the sea, this informs the captain whether it is a safe area to anchor or not. There was nothing that was too concerning, for my eye. All in all, the captain used the information they had to make a safe call."

Who owns the yacht?

The yacht belonged to the family of British tech tycoon Mike Lynch. He was confirmed to have died after rescuers found his body on Thursday. Mr Lynch was on holiday with his 18-year-old daughter Hannah, who is still missing, and his wife Angela Bacares, who was rescued.

Mr Lynch, 59, was known as the " British Bill Gates " and has been in the headlines in recent months over a high-profile fraud case.

In June, a US jury cleared him of all charges, which were related to the 2011 sale of his software company Autonomy to Hewlett-Packard (HP). The yacht trip is believed to have been a celebration of the end of Mr Lynch's legal troubles.

HP accused him of deliberately overstating the value of the company before it was acquired by the American tech giant.

Mr Lynch was extradited to the US to face trial in May last year and spent 13 months under house arrest in San Francisco as he awaited trial on 17 charges of conspiracy and wire fraud brought by the US Department of Justice - which were later reduced to 15 charges. He always denied any wrongdoing and was acquitted.

Read more: Lynch's co-defendant dies days before yacht sinking

Who was on board when the boat sank?

The passengers were largely British and American, with crew members were from New Zealand, South Africa, and Canada.

Charlotte Golunski was among the Britons rescued. Her LinkedIn profile says she is a partner at Mr Lynch's firm Invoke Capital and has worked there since 2012.

Speaking after the ordeal, Ms Golunski told Italian media that she lost her daughter Sofia for "two seconds" amid the "fury" of the sea but was able to retrieve her. She said she held the infant above the waves until the lifeboat was ready.

"Many people screamed. Luckily the lifeboat inflated and 11 of us were able to get on board," she told ANSA.

The girl's father James Emsley also survived, according to Sicily's civil protection agency.

Also on board were Jonathan Bloomer, chairman of investment bank Morgan Stanley, his wife Judy Bloomer, a top US lawyer Chris Morvillo, who worked on Mr Lynch's criminal case, and his wife Neda Morvillo. Divers confirmed on Thursday that their bodies had been recovered.

The yacht's captain James Cutfield survived, along with South African crew members Leah Randall and Katja Chicken.

Recaldo Thomas, a Canadian-Antiguan chef who was working on the boat, was the first to be found dead, the Italian Coastguard confirmed to Sky News.

During rescue efforts, divers saw "corpses through the portholes" of the wreck as they recovered the body of a man at a depth of 50m (164ft), according to Salvo Cocina, the head of the Civil Protection of Sicily.

What do we know about the vessel?

The Bayesian is owned by a company controlled by Mr Lynch's wife.

It was known for its unusual 72.3m (246ft) single mast - one of the world's tallest made of aluminium - and shared its name with the statistical method Mr Lynch's Autonomy software was based on.

It was built by Italian company Perini Navi in 2008 and last refitted in 2020.

It was listed for rent for up to €195,000 (£166,000) a week, according to online charter sites.

The luxury vessel , which was managed by yachting company Camper & Nicholsons, could accommodate up to 12 guests in six suites.

It won a string of awards for its design, according to online specialist yacht sites.

Mr Schanck, of the Maritime Search and Rescue Council, said the vessel would have been equipped with "high standard" life-saving appliances and radio communications.

He added the yacht would have met all international standards and UK Maritime Coastguard Agency regulations before its voyage.

It was previously named Salute, or "health" in Italian, when it flew under a Dutch flag. Its minimalist interior featured light wood with Japanese accents designed by the French designer Remi Tessier, according to descriptions on charter sites.

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What were its last movements?

The boat left the Sicilian port of Milazzo on 14 August and was last tracked east of Palermo on Sunday evening, with a navigation status of "at anchor", according to vessel tracking site VesselFinder.

The Bayesian previously travelled to other parts of Sicily before its last sighting off the coast of the port of Porticello.

On Sunday, the boat was seen off the coast of Cefalu before it travelled towards Porticello, MarineTraffic data shows.

In the days before, the yacht travelled around four of the Aeolian islands, just north of Sicily.

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Prosecutors in the nearby town of Termini Imerese have opened an investigation into the sinking.

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Search resumes for British tech magnate and 5 others after yacht sinks off Sicily

The Associated Press

Emergency services at the scene of the search for a missing boat Monday in Porticello Santa Flavia, Italy. Alberto Lo Bianco/LaPresse/AP hide caption

PORTICELLO, Sicily — Rescue teams and divers were returning to the site of a storm-sunken superyacht off Sicily on Tuesday to search for six people, including British tech magnate Mike Lynch, who are believed to be still trapped in the hull, 50 meters (164 feet) underwater.

Divers were loading a rescue dinghy at the port of Porticello, near Palermo, after a first search Monday ended unsuccessfully. Fire rescue crews reported that divers were unable to access the below-deck cabins because they were blocked by debris that had shifted during the violent storm that toppled the luxury sailboat early Monday.

Who are Mike Lynch and the other people missing after a yacht sank in Sicily?

Fifteen people survived, including a mother who reported holding her 1-year-old baby over the waves to save her. One body has been recovered, officials said.

“Access was limited to the bridge, due to the difficulty represented by the presence of furnishings obstructing the divers’ passage,” the fire crews said in a statement.

The search was made particularly difficult because the ship was resting on the seabed at a depth of 50 meters, which limits the amount of time divers can be underwater, said fire rescue spokesperson Luca Cari. As a result, the search is expected to take time, he told The Associated Press early Tuesday.

The 56-meter (184-foot) British-flagged Bayesian luxury yacht had been moored about a half-mile off Ponticello when a storm rolled in around 4 a.m. Monday. Civil protection officials said they believed the ship was struck by a tornado over the water, known as a waterspout, which had passed over the area.

Fifteen of the Bayesian’s 22 passengers and crew managed to escape, first onto a lifeboat and then by a nearby sailboat, the Sir Robert Baden Powell, that had also been moored offshore to ride out the storm, Karsten Borner, the captain of the Baden Powell, told reporters at the scene.

One body, belonging to the Bayesian’s chef, was recovered nearby.

Among those missing was Lynch , who was once hailed as Britain’s king of technology. He was cleared in June of fraud and conspiracy charges in a U.S. federal trial related to Hewlett Packard’s $11 billion takeover of his company, Autonomy Corp. His wife, Angela Bacares, survived.

The vacation appeared to be something of a celebration after Lynch's acquittal, with guests including some of the people who had stood by Lynch throughout the ordeal. Among those unaccounted for, according to the civil protection agency, were one of Lynch’s U.S. lawyers, Christopher Morvillo of Clifford Chance, and Morvillo’s wife. Also among the missing was Jonathan Bloomer, the former head of the Autonomy audit committee who testified at Lynch’s trial, and his wife.

Among the survivors was Charlotte Golunski, who said she momentarily lost hold of her 1-year-old daughter Sofia in the water, but then managed to hold her up over the waves until a lifeboat inflated and they were both pulled to safety, Italian news agency ANSA reported. The father, identified by ANSA as James Emslie, also survived.

The yacht, built in 2008 by the Italian firm Perini Navi, was carrying 12 passengers and 10 crew. According to online charter companies, it has been available for charter for 195,000 euros (about $215,000) a week and is notable for its massive 75-meter tall aluminum mast, one of the tallest in the world.

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At Least 1 Dead and 6 Missing After Yacht Sinks Off Sicily

Fifteen other people were rescued. Expert divers were called in to carry out search operations in the deep water. Among the missing was a British software mogul, Mike Lynch.

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By Elisabetta Povoledo

At least one person was killed and six others, including a British software mogul, were missing on Monday after a sailing yacht carrying 22 people sank during a violent storm off the coast of Sicily, Italian officials said.

The yacht sank after a storm “with strong winds” struck around 5 a.m., according to Luciano Pischedda, the Italian Coast Guard official overseeing the rescue operations. The vessel had been anchored about a half-mile off Porticello, about 12 miles east of the Sicilian capital, Palermo.

Camper & Nicholsons, managers of the sailing yacht, said in an emailed statement that there were 12 guests and 10 crew onboard.

The authorities have yet to determine what caused the yacht to sink. “This will be ascertained later,” Mr. Pischedda said, adding that several crew members were in the hospital and had not spoken to investigators.

Among the dead and missing, four were British, two were American, and one was a man with dual citizenship from Canada and Antigua, he said.

One of those unaccounted for is Mike Lynch, a British software mogul who was acquitted in the United States in June of fraud, according to a person with knowledge of the matter who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly about it.

His wife, Angela Bacares, was rescued. Mr. Lynch, who once was described as Britain’s Bill Gates, had fought for more than a decade against accusations that he had defrauded Hewlett-Packard when he sold it his company, Autonomy, for $11 billion. The legal battle represented one of the biggest fraud cases in Silicon Valley history.

Salvatore Cocina, a top official with Sicily’s civil protection agency, said that Mr. Lynch’s daughter, Hannah Lynch, was also among the six people missing. All were passengers on the yacht, the Coast Guard said.

Mr. Cocina said the body that had been recovered was that of the yacht’s cook.

A passenger ship sailing under the flag of the Netherlands, the Sir Robert Baden Powell, anchored nearby, provided immediate assistance to the 15 surviving passengers, Mr. Pischedda said.

Karsten Börner, the captain of the Sir Robert, said in a telephone interview that he’d had to steady his ship to “keep it in position” during what he described as very strong winds. During the storm, the yacht seemed to disappear, he said. “At a certain moment she was gone behind us,” he said.

After the wind dropped down, “we couldn’t see the yacht any more, and then we saw a red flare,” he added. When he and a colleague went to check out the flare’s position, they spotted a “life raft adrift with 15 people on board, one of them a baby and four people injured,” he said. They were taken aboard the Sir Robert and Captain Börner contacted the Coast Guard, which brought the survivors to shore.

Captain Börner said he didn’t know when the ship went down because the storm made it difficult to see clearly. The wind was “really violent,” he said.

For the most part, the survivors didn’t speak much he said. “They were all under shock,” he said. “It was a bad, bad situation.”

Monday’s storm surprised experts with its intensity.

Col. Attilio Di Diodato, director of the Italian Air Force’s Center for Aerospace Meteorology and Climatology, said the agency had registered intense lightning activity and strong gusts of wind in the area at the time of the accident.

“It was very intense and brief in duration,” he said of the storm. He could not rule out that it had been a waterspout, or small tornado, but nevertheless called it “an important event.”

Italy’s firefighter corps said that its divers had started carrying out a search and rescue mission at dawn.

On Monday afternoon, expert divers with the firefighter corps arrived in Porticello to search the sunken vessel, which was under about 165 feet of water.

Operations at that depth, were “complicated,” and required specialized divers, said Luca Cari, a spokesman for the firefighters.

Fabio Cefalù, a fisherman in Porticello, told the Italian newspaper La Repubblica that he saw a waterspout — a sort of mini-tornado — that lasted “about 12 minutes” off the shore of Porticello shortly before 4 a.m.

Around 4:10, he said he saw a red flare go off “about 500 meters from the shore.” He said he waited for the weather to calm down, and went out about 20 minutes later to the site where the flare had gone off.

“We found only the cushions, and a few planks” floating in the water, he told the newspaper. There was no sign of the ship, and he immediately called the coast guard.

The boat, identified by Italian officials as the Bayesian, is an Italian-made 56-meter-long sailing yacht first launched in 2008, according to the website marinetraffic.com , which tracks ships. It sails under the flag of Britain, and was built by Perini Navi, an Italian luxury yacht maker.

Eight of the 15 passengers who were rescued were taken to hospitals in Palermo, the coast guard said. Camper & Nicholsons, the managers of the yacht, said its priority was to “provide all necessary support to the rescued passengers and crew.”

Giuseppe D’Agostino, the mayor of Santa Flavia, which includes Porticello, said the survivors would be cared for at a local hotel. The city had also brought them immediate necessities, like toiletries and clothes.

He said in a telephone interview that he had not spoken to the survivors since “they’re in shock.”

The youngest passenger onboard, a 1-year-old girl named Sophie, was taken to the Di Cristina hospital in Palermo with her mother, Charlotte, who had some scrapes and cuts, said Domenico Cipolla, director of the pediatric emergency room at the hospital.

Sophie’s father was in the hospital’s adult emergency room and had been in contact with his wife and daughter by phone, Dr. Cipolla said. He was not permitted to release the family’s surname. Both mother and child were in good condition apart from “great emotional stress” he added in a telephone interview.

“We’re comforting them more than curing them,” he said.

Michael J. de la Merced contributed reporting.

Elisabetta Povoledo is a reporter based in Rome, covering Italy, the Vatican and the culture of the region. She has been a journalist for 35 years. More about Elisabetta Povoledo

British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch missing after superyacht sinks in storm off coast of Sicily

Topic: Maritime Accidents and Incidents

Video released by Italian authorities show the stretch of sea near Palermo, Sicily, where the superyacht Bayesian sank.   ( AP: via Vigili del Fuoco )

British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch, his lawyer and four other people are missing after a superyacht carrying 22 people sank off the coast of Sicily, authorities say. 

Fifteen people, including Mr Lynch's wife, have been rescued after the boat was hit by a violent storm at sunrise, according to the Italian Coast Guard. 

What's next?

Divers had located the wreck 50 metres underwater and search operations are continuing. 

British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch, his lawyer and four other people are missing after a superyacht carrying 22 people capsized and sank off the coast of Sicily due to bad weather.

Mr Lynch's wife and 14 other people were rescued, including a one-year-old girl, and one person has died.

A person familiar with the rescue operation confirmed to Reuters that Mr Lynch's 18-year-old daughter Hannah has not been accounted for.

The British-flagged, 56-metre Bayesian had a crew of 10 people and 12 passengers, representing British, American and Canadian nationalities, the Italian Coast Guard said.

British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch is reportedly among those missing. ( Reuters: Henry Nicholls )

Managers of the sailing yacht Bayesian, Camper & Nicholsons, confirmed to the ABC that the Bayesian encountered severe weather and subsequently sank near the Sicilian capital Palermo, Italy, at 4:30am Monday, local time. 

"Our priority is assisting with the ongoing search and providing all necessary support to the rescued passengers and crew," they said. 

Fifteen people were rescued and taken to shore at Porticello, where eight were receiving treatment in hospital and remain in a stable condition, the Italian Coast Guard said.

One body has been recovered and police divers were trying to reach the hull of the ship, which was resting at a depth of 50 meters where it had been anchored.

British Bill Gates missing

Mr Lynch is often dubbed by UK media as "the British Bill Gates" and the BBC confirmed the luxury yacht was tied to his wife, Angela Bacares.

According to maritime data service Equasis, the owner of the the Bayesian is listed as Revtom Ltd, the BBC reported.

Additionally, the yacht's name would resonate with Mr Lynch because his PhD thesis and the software that made his fortune was based on Bayesian theory.

Mr Lynch was acquitted in June by a jury in San Francisco of fraud charges linked to the sale of his software company, Autonomy, to Hewlett-Packard for $US11 billion ($16.4 billion) in 2011.

He said at the time that he was "elated" to be cleared in the criminal trial in which he denied any wrongdoing, and blamed HP for botching the integration of the two companies.

In a separate incident, Mr Lynch's co-defendant in the trial, Stephen Chamberlain, died on Monday after a road accident left him critically injured.

Mr Chamberlain — Autonomy's former vice-president of finance alongside Mr Lynch — had been placed on life support after being hit by a car in Cambridgeshire on Saturday morning.

Rescued baby held above waves 

The coast guard said that rescue efforts had located the wreck at a depth of 50 metres underwater. 

The Italian fire and rescue service agency said search operations at sea were continuing with the coordination of the Italian Coast Guard, in a translated post on the social media platform X. 

One of the survivors, identified only as Charlotte, said she had momentarily lost hold of her 1-year-old daughter Sofia in the water, but then managed to hold her up over the waves until a lifeboat inflated and they were both pulled to safety, Italian news agency ANSA reported.

A spokesperson for the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said they were providing support to British nationals.

"We are providing consular support to a number of British nationals and their families following an incident in Sicily, and are in contact with the local authorities"

Captain of nearby boat helped rescue passengers

The captain of a nearby boat that helped to rescue passengers from the Bayesian said that when the storm hit he turned his engine on to keep control of the vessel and avoid a collision with the Bayesian.

"We managed to keep the ship in position and after the storm was over, we noticed that the ship behind us was gone," Karsten Borner told Reuters.

He said that his crew then found 15 survivors on a life raft, including three who were seriously injured and took them on board before the coast guard picked them up.

"There were 15 people inside," he said.

"Then we communicated with the Coast Guard and after some time, the Coast Guard came and later picked up injured people, and 2 hours later they picked up the other people."

Mr Borner said "a little baby and the wife of the owner" were among the survivors, while the owner of the sunken ship and another child were among those missing.

He described the conditions as "very strong" and said that his vessel was "heeling" but the Bayesian "went flat on the water and then down".

"There was a light and we saw that the ship was aside and then we saw a triangle," he said.

"So I think she went back down."

Storms and heavy rainfall swept Italy in recent days

Prosecutors in the nearby town of Termini Imerese have opened an investigation to look into what had gone wrong.

The Bayesian, seen the night before it sank, has the tallest aluminium mast in the world. ( Reuters: Baia Santa Nicolicchia/Fabio La Bianca )

"The wind was very strong," a coast guard official in Palermo told Reuters.

"Bad weather was expected, but not of this magnitude."

After weeks of scorching heat, storms and heavy rainfall have swept down Italy in recent days — with floods and landslides causing major damage in the north of the country. 

Local media said a fierce storm, including water spouts, had battered the area overnight but skies were clear and seas calm by Monday morning.

The ANSA news agency said the yacht, built in 2008 by the Italian firm Perini Navi, had been moored off the port at Porticello.

The yacht had won a string of awards for its design and can accommodate up to 12 guests in six suites and a crew of 10, according to online specialist yacht sites.

The Bayesian was known for its single 75-meter mast, one of the world’s tallest made of aluminium and which was lit up at night, just hours before it sank.