Aeolian Islands

Seven volcanic silhouettes with often-demanding depths offer a cruise of wild scenery, ashore hikes, Sicilian baroque villages, and memorable food. Anchor with care: depths change quickly, and mooring fields are limited.

Starting west to east: Alicudi is a steep circular cone only approachable in settled weather; its hundred-soul village feels timeless. Filicudi brings improbable rock formations and a couple of workable bays; paid mooring buoys are set in Cala del Porto and off Pecorini a Mare.

Central green and lively pair

Salina, the greenest, is formed by two volcanoes and several villages—Malfa, Rinella, Leni, and Santa Marina with its marina. Beyond fine swimming, the island produces prestigious wines. Notable anchorages: Pollara and Lingua.

Lipari is the most indented, with gorgeous western bays and an ancient pumice quarry. The Porto Pignataro marina in Lipari Bay is the main secure berth besides Salina’s marina—book early. Alternatively, floating pontoons sit in the bay but are exposed to ferry wash.

Volcanic heart

Vulcano invites a hike to the crater, thermal mud baths, and black-sand beaches. Moor in Porto di Levante or Ponente depending on wind.

Panarea, with more forgiving depths, is beloved by younger crowds for its nightlife. Fine anchorages at Dattilo and Lisca Bianca make easy swim stops.

Stromboli

From afar you see the unmistakable outline of Stromboli—the only visibly active volcano here, often with a fiery plume. Expect black-sand beaches, a captivating village atmosphere shaped by life under “idda,” the rumbling mountain, and night glows that light up the sky.

Ask us about the Aeolian week →

Plan your cruise

• Anchoring: Depths drop fast; set ample scope and favor known sandy pockets (Pollara, Lingua, parts of Filicudi).
• Buoys: Check availability in Filicudi (Cala del Porto, Pecorini) and book Pignataro/Salina marinas early.
• Weather: Approach Alicudi only in stable conditions; plan lees based on wind direction for Vulcano (Levante vs Ponente).
• Ashore: Don’t miss crater hikes (Vulcano), Stromboli night views, and village strolls for Sicilian cuisine.