Rent a boat in the Aeolian Islands

Discover the Aeolian Islands by boat

Discover the mesmerizing beauty of the Aeolian Islands, also known as the Lipari islands. Classified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, these islands have something to offer to everyone. From great sailing, to stunning landscapes, and with rich history and culture, they are not to be missed.

These seven islands, each with a unique landscape, are located just to the north of Sicily. A private yacht charter in the Aeolian Islands is a great way to discover this volcanic archipelago at your own pace.

How much does it cost to rent a boat in the Aeolian Islands?

Many factors affect the cost of a boat rental. The duration of the rental, the type of boat, the location, and any extras you might want to add have an impact on the price. Extras can include snorkeling equipment, watersports equipment, SUPs…

Prices start at just €120/ day for a boat. The average cost is €937/ day during the high season. Outside the high season, a rental averages at €781/ day.

How much does it cost to charter a skippered yacht in the Aeolian Islands?

If you’re looking for a seamless sailing experience, most boats can be hired with a skipper. Your skipper will take care of the navigation, and being local, can share tips and top spots in the area you’re visiting. This is a great option if you want to explore coves and bays, as some are surrounded by rocks. Having a local skipper on board means you’ll have a safe trip. In the Aeolian Islands, skippers start at €86/ day.

Where to sail in the Aeolian Islands?

Each of these volcanic islands has something unique to offer to visitors.

Lipari

Lipari is the largest and most vibrant island of the Aeolian. Lipari town has the most bars and restaurants of the Aeolian Islands.

Visit the Castle of Lipari, built in the 15th Century. The oldest and largest church on Lipari, the San Bartolomeo cathedral, is located in the heart of the citadel. It is part of the Chiostro Normanno monastery.

And hike to the summit of Monte Sant’Angelo for panoramic views of the island and the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Renting a boat is a great way to hop between the beaches dotted all around the island. Each have their own peculiarities. Some are rocky and volcanic, while others are white and sandy.

Vulcano

The word ‘volcano’ derives from this island. According to Roman beliefs, this island was the chimney of Vulcan, the god of fire. The island of Vulcano contains several volcanic calderas.

You can hike up to the Cratere della Fossa, for example. From there, you’ll be able to enjoy 360° views of the island and of the archipelago.

Another highlight of the island are the therapeutic thermal mud baths. The mud on Vulcano is rich in minerals, and is appreciated for its purifying properties. For a relaxed afternoon, enjoy the black sand beaches of Ponente bay and Asino.

Asino completely transforms at night. Go there to enjoy a cocktail and music under the starry sky.

Salina

Salina is a beautiful island known for its lush vegetation and twin volcanic peaks. Santa Marina, a collection of beautiful traditional buildings, is the main town. Visit the Santa Marina church, built in the 17th Century. The Capo Faro lighthouse, dating back to the 19th Century, is also worth sailing past, especially in the evening.

A local specialty you can try during your visit to Salina is Malvasia wine. It is thought that this variety of vine arrived in Salina around 2000 years ago. The name derives from the Venetian pronunciation of a Greek city, and the wine is made following ancient Greek techniques.

Stromboli

Stromboli island is known as the emerged tip of the Stromboli volcano. The latter is also the most active volcano of all the Aeolian volcanoes. If volcanoes fascinate you, stopping in Stromboli is a great chance to hike up and witness eruptions at night. Also stop by the village of Ginostra, nestled among caper bushes, lemon, olive and pear trees.

Filicudi

Filicudi was the first island to emerge following the volcanic eruption, 1 million years ago, that created the Aeolian Islands as we know them.

Visit the Sea Caw Cave, Grotta del Blue Marino, accessible only by boat. According to legend, the god of the winds, Aeolus, resided there for some time.

Stroll through the three villages: Pecorino a Mare, Valdichiesa and Filicudi Porto.

You can also anchor along one of the beaches, and enjoy an afternoon in the sun. Filicudi is also known for its many diving opportunities around the seabeds rich in Posidonia and full of life.

Alicudi

With no roads around the island, Alicudi is one of the most rugged and remote islands of the Aeolian. Stop there to appreciate its simplicity and calm, as well as its untouched natural beauty. Thanks to its isolation, anchor for the night, and take the opportunity to stargaze, away from any light pollution.

Panarea

Stop over at the rocky island of Panarea, the smallest of the seven. Another car-free island, you can walk around to explore the different beaches and coves that it has to offer. In particular, don’t miss Cala Junco, a small, sheltered cove surrounded by rocks. Or Cala Zimmari, the only sandy beach of the island.

Enjoy a drink watching the sunset, before going out. Panarea is known as the nightlife island of the Aeolian, and is frequented by many celebrities.

If you’re interested in learning more about the culture of this island, stroll through the San Pietro district, and visit its church. Or walk over to Capo Milazzese, a prehistoric village dating back to the Bronze Age.

What season is the best to rent a boat in the Aeolian Islands?

The Aeolian Islands benefit from a long sailing season: warm temperatures and good winds can be enjoyed from as early as mid-April up to late October. Temperatures are at their highest during July and August. Those are also the busiest months with more visitors.

In terms of price, summer corresponds to the high season, with higher prices as a consequence of the high demand.

What are the advantages of sailing for a weekend in the Aeolian Islands?

The Aeolian Islands are quite close to one another. Sailing for a weekend is a great way to get two fantastic days of sailing in. You’ll be able to get an overview of the archipelago.

Seeing the islands from the water is the best way to appreciate their beauty and the unique landscape of each. Organize a snorkeling expedition, or an afternoon at one of the many beaches on offer. 

What is the capacity of boats in the Aeolian Islands?

Whether you’re looking to organize a holiday with family or friends, there is a wide range of boats available with different capacities. Boat capacity in the Lipari islands can go up to 30 people.