Olbia Marina is a very convenient location to embark, it being only a short transfer from the airport. It is then only a 45 minute passage from Olbia to Tavolara, one of Sardinia's most famous landmarks, a breath-taking limestone colossus rising magnificently from the azure waters off Sardinia's north-eastern coast.
12KTS . 8NM . 45M
The Spalamatore di Terra anchorage at the South-Western end of the island is one of the most spectacular anywhere in the Mediterranean. An alternative embarkation, when chartering a yacht with a chase tender, would be to transfer in that tender and embark the yacht in the anchorage. Nature lovers will be enthralled by the island's unique flora and fauna, whilst for those who are particularly adventurous, the peak of Monte Cannone is a challenging 565M hike.
Few are ever in a rush to leave the anchorage off Tavolara. They could be easily forgiven for wanting to stay longer. There are a lot of similarly exciting spots to discover along the Costa Smerelda, but in case Tavolara turns out to be the favourite, it can always be returned to for the final night. In the meantime, mid-morning would be a convenient time to take the beautiful passage North along the Southern part of the Costa Smeralda, to Cala Di Volpe.
12KTS . 14NM . 1H 15M
Situated in the heart of the Costa Smeralda, Cala Di Volpe has all of the glitz and glamour that this stretch of Sardinian coast is famous for, but restricted access to large parts of the shoreline make it a more exclusive, private and calmer area. An old fishing village at heart, Cala di Volpe features pastel-coloured homes and a classic Mediterranean port, all set against the beautiful backdrop of the mountains of Golfo Aranci.
Enjoy a final swim in the Cala Di Volpe bay, where some of the Mediterranean's largest yachts often gather, before a mid-morning passage to what many would argue is the most beguiling part of this revered coastline, the pristine and beautifully untouched Maddalena Islands.
12KTS . 14NM . 1H 15M
La Maddalena is an archipelago of around 60 islands off the north-east coast of Sardinia. It takes its name from the largest island. The whole area is now a heavily protected National park, famous for its astounding beauty, photogenic beaches and translucent seas. The island of Caprera is one of the larger in the archipelago. It is sparsely populated and particularly beautiful. There is no shortage of beaches to visit across the many islands, some of the best known include Bassa Trinità, Cala Francese, and Spiaggia di Monte di Rena. This is a day to enjoy the tranquillity of the area, removed from the glamorous buzz and energy of the Costa Smeralda. No need to seek out restaurants ashore, as there will be no better setting for dinner than enjoying the fine food which the chefs onboard are capable of preparing, in the beauty of the anchorage.
Watersports are forbidden within the National Park, and there are strict speed limits, there is very little to disturb the morning's peace and dining. The next location is as private, sheltered and as undisturbed as can be found in the West Mediterranean. It is a short and beautiful passage North through the heart of the archipelago, to the North-Eastern corner of Maddalena itself.
12KTS . 3NM . 20M
Cala Spalmatore is a picturesque, sheltered and tranquil bay which offers beautiful white sands on which to relax, and crystal clear waters to jump into. It is modest in size, which is part of its charm, and so 55M is as big a yacht as can be moored in here. The number of boats in the anchorage at any one time is tightly controlled and restricted, which makes it very peaceful for those that plan ahead to secure a spot.
Alongside Tavolara, Cala Spalmatore is one other area that many are particularly reluctant to leave. The beauty of a yacht charter is that no plans are fixed, they can be easily changed. The yacht goes where the guests wish and the knowledgeable and capable crews are there to ensure that all expectations are met and exceeded. Only a short passage from the peace, tranquillity and untouched beauty of the Maddalena National Park, blue and buzzy Baja is one of the more energetic spots on the Costa Smeralda.
12KTS . 9NM . 50M
Whilst it still has the glittering greens and powdery white sands that this area is so well known for, it is also home to Phi Beach where some of the world's most famous and renowned artists play each summer. The open air club is sprawled across the rocks in one corner of the bay. With its own dock, it is easily accessed on the yacht's tender. A phenomenal setting to watch the sun go down and the stars appear, the music continues into the night.
Mornings off Baja Sardinia and Phi Beach are usually slower ones, but there is no better place to have a slower start than onboard a Superyacht. Steam, sauna and saltwater are a remarkably reviving and revitalising combination. For any remaining aches or pains, the onboard Pilates and Yoga instructors provide a more proactive approach to loosen up any limbs still tight from dancing. It's important to get back to full speed in time for the next location.
12KTS . 3NM . 25M
Porto Cervo is Sardinia's most well-known, luxurious and chic location. The marina is situated in a beautiful, sheltered natural harbour. With steady winds, this is yacht racing territory. The Costa Smeralda Yacht Club based in Porto Cervo is one of the most esteemed in the Mediterranean and plays host to a number of Superyacht Sailing Regattas. There is a fantastic mix of wonderful shopping, entertainment and restaurants. It's a hive of activity in the height of summer, and so for those that want to be fully immersed, an evening stern to the harbour is quite an occasion, or alternatively anchor close by and tender in and out.
Unique bars, bustling nightlife, and fabulous beaches make Porto Rotondo a competitor to Porto Cervo. This spectacular and well-maintained town is easy on the eye, enjoying an elegant status. With the large Spiaggia Ira beach nearby, those not exploring the town can enjoy the powdery beaches, whilst with this area being quite sheltered, it is a good moment for watersports.