Salerno from the deck of a yacht: A guide to an unforgettable cruise

Published by Plujeme on 05.11.2025

Why choose Salerno for your cruise

Why Salerno? It's not Naples, it's not Sorrento. And that's precisely where its greatest strength lies. Salerno is a bit like Cinderella, waiting to be discovered. It's an authentic Italian city that hasn't yet succumbed completely to tourist madness. The marinas here are more reasonable (read: cheaper), the atmosphere is more relaxed, and the pizza tastes somehow... more authentic.
What's more, it's a strategic location straight out of a military manual. From here, you have the entire Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, and Procida at your fingertips. It's the perfect starting point for an adventure called yachting in Italy.

The magic of yachting in Italy

Sailing along the Italian coast is like leafing through a picture book on history, art, and gastronomy. Every day you wake up to a different view. One day you anchor beneath cliffs dotted with pastel houses, the next in a bay lined with luxury villas where movie stars sip their morning espresso. The wind in your hair, salt on your lips, and a glass of chilled prosecco in your hand. The only things missing are bananas, the sea, and mojito happy hour to make us feel like we're in the Caribbean. But who would trade that for Italian cuisine, right?

Salerno: Gateway to the Amalfi Coast

Before you set sail, it would be a shame not to explore Salerno itself. It is not just a transit point, but a destination in its own right.

Historic center and cultural treasures

Take a stroll through the old town. It is a labyrinth of narrow streets where history breathes from every corner. Stop at the monumental cathedral and try to imagine that this is where the world's first medical school was founded. Yes, you read that right. While the rest of Europe was treating illnesses with incantations in the Middle Ages, Salerno was already performing autopsies and conducting studies.

Gastronomic experiences

Italy and food are a chapter unto themselves. In Salerno, you must try fresh fish, buffalo mozzarella that melts in your mouth, and wash it all down with local wine. Have lunch at a small family trattoria. You'll recognize it easily—the tablecloths are checkered, the owner yells at the cook, and the food is divine.

Relaxing in the gardens and on the promenade

After lunch, take a stroll along the Trieste promenade that lines the coast. It is the ideal place to soak up the authentic Italian atmosphere. People stroll, eat ice cream, gesticulate, and laugh. It is so contagious that in a moment you will find yourself waving your hands and responding to everything with "Prego!"

Cruise itinerary from Salerno: Day by day

So, with our stomachs full and our spirits high, it's time to set sail. Here is our tried and tested Salemo sailing route, which is guaranteed not to disappoint.

From Salerno to Sorrento: The City of Lemons (19 NM)

In the morning, we weigh anchor and head west. Our destination is Sorrento, a town built on cliffs that smell of lemons.

A stroll along Corso Italia and a taste of Limoncello

After anchoring in Marina Grande, head to Corso Italia. It is the town's main thoroughfare, lined with boutiques and cafés. But the best is yet to come. Limoncello. This bright yellow liqueur is the pride and joy of the locals. But be careful, it's a treacherous drink. It tastes like lemonade, but it can knock you off your feet faster than an Italian tax audit.

Exploring the old town and hiking

The old town of Sorrento is a maze of narrow streets where it's easy to get lost, but you won't mind at all. Every corner hides a small church, palace, or shop selling handmade sandals. For the more active, I recommend hiking the surrounding trails. The views of the Gulf of Naples and Vesuvius are priceless.

From Sorrento to Procida: The Colorful Island (18 NM)

The next day, we leave Sorrento behind and head for the smallest and most colorful island in the bay – Procida.

Anchoring in Marina Chiaiolella

Procida is the complete opposite of glamorous Capri. It is an authentic fishing island where life moves at a slower pace. Anchor in Marina Chiaiolella and prepare for a feast for the eyes. The pastel-colored houses crammed together look as if they were painted by a child with a giant set of crayons.

Stroll through narrow streets and relax on the beach

Explore the island on foot. Discover hidden squares and churches and breathe in the atmosphere of the film The Talented Mr. Ripley, which was filmed here. Spend the rest of the day at Pozzo Vecchio beach. It is a small, quiet cove, ideal for relaxing after two days of sailing.

From Procida to Ischia: The island of thermal springs (5 NM)

Today, we have only a short trip ahead of us. Procida is just a stone's throw away from Ischia. And that stone will land in a paradise of relaxation.

Relaxation in thermal spas

Ischia is famous for its thermal springs. After days in the sun and salt water, immersing yourself in hot, healing water is a balm for the body and soul. You'll feel like a Roman patrician on vacation. Treat yourself to a day at one of the many spa complexes. Your muscles will thank you.

Culture, wine, and gardens

Once you're sufficiently relaxed, set out to explore. Ischia is not just about spas. It has beautiful gardens, such as Giardini La Mortella, full of exotic plants and peacocks. You can visit the Aragonese Castle or go on a local wine tasting tour. End the day with a horseback ride at sunset. Kitsch? Maybe. But beautiful.

From Ischia to Capri: The Pearl of the Gulf of Naples (18 NM)

Get ready for a change. From peaceful Ischia, we head to an island synonymous with luxury, celebrities, and crowds of tourists—Capri.

Sailing around Faraglioni and Grotta Azzurra

Just arriving in Capri is an experience in itself. You will sail past the iconic Faraglioni rock formations, which rise out of the sea like three giants. And then there is the Blue Grotto, Grotta Azzurra. You can only get there by small rowboat, and you have to lie down so you don't hit your head on the low entrance. Inside, however, a magical spectacle awaits you – the water glows an incredible blue. Just be prepared to not be alone.

Tour of villas, gardens, and Monte Solaro

Anchor in Marina Piccola and set out to explore. Rent a scooter and ride around the island. Visit the Gardens of Augustus with their breathtaking views, stroll through the streets of Capri town, and then take the cable car to the highest mountain, Monte Solaro. The panoramic view of the entire Gulf of Naples will take your breath away. Yes, it's expensive and crowded, but Capri is a must-see.

From Capri to Amalfi: UNESCO World Heritage Site (17 NM)

From glamorous Capri, we move to the heart of the coast, to the town that gave it its name – Amalfi.

St. Andrew's Cathedral and historic streets

Amalfi, once a powerful maritime republic, is now a picturesque town nestled in a narrow valley. The dominant feature is the magnificent Cathedral of St. Andrew in the Arab-Norman style, accessed by an imposing staircase. Stroll through the narrow streets, buy a souvenir made of handmade paper, and have another limoncello. Why not?

Relax on the beach and visit the Valley of the Mills

In the afternoon, you can relax on the small town beach or take a short hike to the Valley of the Mills (Valle dei Mulini), where paper was once made. It is an oasis of calm with waterfalls and lemon groves, just a short distance from the bustling center.

From Amalfi back to Salerno: Last glimpses (8 NM)

The last day of the cruise. It's a short, about eight-mile trip back to Salerno. It's the perfect opportunity to enjoy the view of the entire coastline one last time. All those villages clinging to the rocks, terraced fields, and the blue sea. It's a little melancholic, like the end of a good movie.

-17%

Fountaine Pajot Samana 59 Liberta'

Castellammare, Marina di Stabia, Italy

Year 2024
Cabins 5 + 2
Persons 10 + 3
WC 5 + 1
Length 62 ft

13.06. - 20.06.2026

17.493 € ~~21.000 €~~