The Emerald Coast of Italy
The coast of Northern Italy has some of the most stunning destinations, and Costa Smeralda is one of them. With a magical mix of sprawling coastlines, dreamlike beaches, and crystal-clear waters, Costa Smeralda is an ideal destination for tourists from far and wide. The excellent sailing conditions make it any sailor’s dream destination.
Put the Wind in Your Sails
Known for fierce winds, especially between October and April, Sardinia’s coast makes for great sailing. The main wind is a northwesterly wind called Mistral that blows in from France. It’s fresh, so it can be quite intense during colder months, but it makes for super sailing during the hot summer months.
The Ponente is another wind that cools the air. It blows in from the west to bring a must-needed chill. The Sardinian coast‘s warm breeze blows in from the southeast, bringing the African heat. Called Scirocco, this blustery force can reach temperatures of as high as 104 °F!
An Ideal Climate
Besides the slightly tempestuous winds, Costa Smeralda has a stunning Mediterranean climate. It is generally hot and dry in the summer while mild in the winter. The coldest month is January, when it gets as low as 13°C—far from freezing! Most months are pleasant and moderate. April to October are temperate and usually the best months to sail to Costa Smeralda.
Ahoy Land!
Costa Smeralda
Costa Smeralda has several ports nearby to moor at and explore. The La Maddalena Archipelago port can accommodate boats of up to 50 meters long in 140 berths. To explore the archipelago, around two days are needed as you experience old Roman fortresses and ruins and relax on pristine pink sandy beaches.
Porto Cervo harbor is known as one of the best-equipped ports in the Mediterranean. Sailors can choose between the older northern harbor and the newer one in the south. Both have a range of services available, including highly experienced specialists that take care of repairs and maintenance. Between May and September, several international sailing competitions take place here.
Olbia harbor is located in the northeast and has 270 moorings. It can accommodate yachts of up to 80 meters and is known as the Mediterranean’s safest port.
Eco-conscious sailors will enjoy Cala dei Sardi harbor, known as the most eco-friendly harbor in Costa Smeralda. There are a total of 140 berths, which can accommodate yachts up to 60 meters long. The dock has services like water, electricity, internet, and restaurants.
Island Hopping, Anyone?
Besides great sailing, excellent weather conditions, top harbors, and perfect beaches, Costa Smeralda provides excellent island-hopping opportunities. In the north, the La Maddalena archipelago is home to Caprera, an island which is around 16 square kilometers in size and has vast stretches of sandy beaches. The island is wild and untamed, completely overtaken by nature. The only inhabitants on the island reside in a tiny village called Stagnali. You can take a bridge across from Caprera to Maddalena Island, which is more densely populated.
Whether you want to moor at some of the busier harbors and enjoy the nightlife or prefer the rugged beauty of some of the smaller islands, Costa Smeralda makes for excellent sailing.