The Mediterranean boasts an exquisite coastline filled with wonderful hidden bays and secluded beaches only accessible by boat. Antlos, a new startup functioning as the Airbnb of boat holidays, shares an insider’s guide to the top five Mediterranean destinations to visit next season.
Known to many as the prime destination for a romantic getaway, Venice is an extremely unique place for the fact that the only two ways to explore the city is by foot or boat. Rent a traditional Venetian boat and glide through the Grand Canal as well as the other numerous canals that the Lagoon has to offer and witness the city’s incredible architecture, art and history.
From Piazza San Marco, sail to the beautiful islands of Murano, home to the famous ‘Murano glass’, Burano, the island known for its lace and colourful fishing houses and Torcello, a hidden gem of the lagoon and where the story of Venice began. These islands are only visited by a fraction of people who come to visit Venice, ensuring a calm and eye-opening experience. Go swimming in a Saline, enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant and spend a calm overnight stay at anchor in the mesmerising Poveglia bay.
Perfect for romantic couples and history lovers, we commend visiting Venice during Redentore (annual tradition to celebrate the end of the pest of the 16th century), Carnival (the most famous in the world) and Biennale (extensive program of events and exhibitions dedicated to Art, history and culture).
Boasting some of the Mediterranean’s most impressive landscapes, the Amalfi Coast is a wonderful destination for the adventurous, with its steep cliff-surrounded secluded bays, hidden caves and countless hiking trails. Praised by Emperors, famous writers and composers of the past due to its breathtaking views and deep blue sea, there is no reason how visitors could not fall in love with this southern coastal gem.
Sail along the southern Italian coast and discover the scenic centuries old homes that are built on the many steep cliffs. As well as the coast, there are also islands in the bay of Naples (also home to the famous volcano Mount Vesuvius) that are very much worth visiting: Procida, Ischia and Capri. All three islands boast picturesque settings from impressive volcanic rock surfaces to an abundance of wonderful flora. Enjoy a period of relaxation in one of the many thermal spas of Ischia and unravel the hidden wonders of Capri, such as several cave dwellings, the world-famous Faraglioni and the Blue Grotto (also accessible by boat!).
Experience ancient history by visiting Pompeii, a city famously ruined in 79 A.D. after Mount Vesuvius blew its top and rediscover the ancient ruins of this remarkable Roman city.
The Amalfi Coast is the ideal destination for a group of friends wanting to have a fun, cultural and unforgettable experience on board a beautiful sailing boat.
If you believe that Ibiza is only for partygoers, you’re wrong! The island of Ibiza and its neighbouring island of Formentera are home to some of the Mediterranean’s most mesmerising sailing destinations due to its plentiful secluded beaches and turquoise waters.
Make a stop at the island’s town port and visit the famous old town of Dalt Villa, which offers a moment of history, with buildings and statues built in Roman stone and ramparts that enable you to view breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Other must-see stops include Santa Eularia des Riu, located east of the island, known for its taverns that serve local dishes such as Paella, and San Antonia on the west coast of the island, notoriously known for its clubbing scene and ‘Sunset Strip’.
The island of Formentera is only at a short distance from Ibiza Island and is a popular destination for families, friends and those seeking to view paradise in absolute peace and tranquility. With crystal clear turquoise waters and pristine white-sand beaches, Formentera offers many hidden wonders. Discover Cala Saona, a stunning beach and the perfect location for a little snorkeling, or take a small trip to the unhabited island of Espalmador, home to famous mud baths and fresh water springs.
Ibiza is the place for travellers seeking adventure, due to its famous nightlife and numerous mesmerising coastlines.
An island with incredible green landscapes and unimaginably blue waters, Lefkada, located off the west coast of Greece is the true ‘Pearl of the Ionian Sea’. Discover the beauty of Lefkada by visiting the many small ports and harbours on the main island, as well as the magical bays with calm waters and secluded beaches on the neighbouring islands of Meganisi and Kalamos.
Make a stop at the Lefkas Marina, the main port of the island and visit the many local markets and restaurants serving colourful seafood dishes. From here, a small sail trip will take you to Mylos beach, one of the quieter beaches of the island, known for its clear waters and sandy beach, surrounded by steep cliffs and wild forests. If the wind picks up, be sure to enjoy a spot of kite surfing or windsurfing for an active daytime activity. Another popular destination on Lefkada is Vlicho, home to the Vilho Yacht Club, where you can enjoy a spot of lunch or an evening drink. It is also the perfect night stop.
On the mountainous island Meganisi we suggest making a stop at Ambelakia, one of the most beautiful beaches of the island, as well as Papanikolis, a large cave that you can even sail into! From here you can cruise to Kalamos and explore the cove of Gerolimionas,
Lefkada is a superb destination for world travellers seeking to discover the culture and wonders of Greece.
Another great city to visit by boat is Split in Croatia. Navigate through the Adriatic and witness the incredible coastline of Dalmatia.
During the summer months, the city of Split is very vibrant, with young travellers and families filling the streets. Here you can enjoy local specialties in one of the typical Croatian restaurants down one of the many cobbled streets, after viewing the beautiful ancient architecture the city has to offer. A visit to Park Šuma Marjan is also a must, famous for its abundance of flora, grassy areas and children’s playground.
At only a short sailing distance away, you will find the islands of Korcula, Brač and Hvar, all offering incredible landscapes and excellent beaches boasting crystal clear waters. On Korcula, we recommend visiting the sandy beach Vela Przina in Lumbarda and the pebble beach Punatska, as well as discovering the numerous swimming spots that surround the island. Brač, comprised of limestone and dolomite, is the perfect destination for windsurfing and fishing enthusiasts. Be sure to visit the area of Bol as well as Zlatni Rat, a gorgeous pebble beach that extends over 500m off the coast. If you have the chance, Hvar is a fascinating island, home to large fertile plains and fresh water springs, which is very unusual in the area. It was a major naval base and independent commune of the Venetian Empire, so the town is also filled with great ancient structures.
Split is the ideal destination for those seeking to view history, culture and adventure all in one place.
Interested in a sailing holiday in the Mediterranean? Antlos has a variety of on board experiences for everyone to enjoy, from fishing trips in the Balearics, island hopping in Greece to boat trips along Italy’s famous coastline. Discover how Antlos creates authentic experiences on board on www.antlos.com. It’s better on board!
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