Motor yacht charter in Sicily puts the western Mediterranean at the helm of a well-chosen itinerary, combining dramatic volcanic scenery, ancient Greek temples and long stretches of turquoise water that genuinely surprise even experienced charterers. The island sits at the centre of three seas, making it possible to range widely on a single week afloat.
The Italy fleet carries around 36 motor yachts from 30 metres to over 60 metres, from sleek sportscruisers to wide-beam explorer vessels with extensive beach clubs, helipads and fold-out terraces. Crew sizes typically run to six or eight, covering a chef, deck hands and a licensed captain who knows the anchorages well.
Weekly rates for a Sicily motor charter start at around 50,000 euros for a 30-metre yacht and reach 200,000 euros or more for the flagship 60-metre vessels. On top of the base rate, an advance provisioning allowance of roughly 30 percent covers fuel, provisioning, port fees and drinks. Availability peaks in July and August; May, June and September offer the same weather at better rates.
Sicily is best cruised clockwise or counter-clockwise as a loop from Palermo or Catania. Most itineraries combine the western cape at San Vito Lo Capo, the offshore marine reserve at Ustica, the Aegadian Islands near Marsala and the sea stacks at Scala dei Turchi. The Aeolian Islands lie just off the northern coast and are often added for their volcanic energy and clear water.
