Genoa has given its name to the most widely used headsail in ocean sailing, and the city’s maritime identity runs deep. The Ligurian coastline is among Italy’s most rewarding for a sailing charter, with reliable afternoon thermal breezes from the northwest, a succession of anchorages within a half-day’s sail of one another and a backdrop of mountains that makes every passage visually striking.nnSailing yachts available for charter in Italy range from performance sloops of 15 metres to three-masted schooners and ketch-rigged superyachts exceeding 50 metres. Most carry a racing or offshore pedigree, with deep keels, large sail plans and accommodations designed for guests who want to participate in the sailing rather than simply observe it. Crews are typically accomplished offshore racers or bluewater circumnavigators.nnWeekly rates for sailing yacht charters in Italy begin at around 79,000 euros and can reach 250,000 euros for the largest charter sloops and schooners. The advance provisioning allowance of around 30 percent covers fuel, provisions, berthing and crew gratuity; sailing yachts use notably less fuel than motor yachts, which can reduce the effective APA spend. Shoulder season bookings in June or September are rewarded with lower rates and uncrowded anchorages.nnFrom Genoa the preferred sailing route tracks east, catching the afternoon breeze around the Portofino headland and continuing down to the sheltered inlet at Sestri Levante before reaching the Cinque Terre. The anchorages at Vernazza and Monterosso are best approached from the south in the morning calm, with afternoon winds building to make the return leg brisk. The Gulf of La Spezia and Porto Venere extend the itinerary further south.
