7-Day Sailing Itinerary from Naples – An Adventure Awaiting

Take a ponant charter from Naples and set course toward positano, where cliffside streets tumble to the sea and the lush scent of lemons fills the air. The ambiance on deck invites you to slow down, savor seafood, and map a week of sailing along the coast.

Plan for roughly 40–45 nautical miles per day, with 4–6 hours of sailing and a sheltered anchor at dawn or dusk. On Day 1, reach positano, stroll the quaint lanes, and snap photos of pastel façades against turquoise water. On Day 2, glide along the Amalfi coast to Amalfi town, then drop anchor for a sunset swim and a rejuvenating stroll along the marina. Mooring slots are available for beach clubs and shore dinners.

On Day 3, sail to Capri to explore coral in protected bays and swim through crystal water. A short statue near the harbor makes a memorable photo stop, and a climb up to a lookout gives a panorama of the island’s cliffs. For history fans, the authentic town center offers cafés where you can try lemon granita and local bitters.

Captain Davalos steers toward your expectations with steady hands, while crew members carry spare fins, masks, and weather gear to keep activities flexible. The carrying tempo stays comfortable, and the crew can tailor worldwide guest preferences for snorkeling, wine tasting, or a quiet afternoon by the bow. davalos keeps a close watch on the wind and currents, ensuring safe maneuvers near shore.

From Naples, the 7-day arc covers a line of quaint harbors and inlets, with careful planning that suits both light and more ambitious days. Either you linger over a sunset seafood dinner or jump back on deck for a late sail, the ambiance stays inviting, and the coast remains close enough to contact land quickly if weather shifts. This plan attracts worldwide travelers seeking authentic Mediterranean charm on a single, rejuvenating voyage, with things to savor like lemon desserts, local ceramics, and fresh catches enhancing each day.

Practical Route & Logistical Breakdown

Depart Naples at first light and target Capri as Day 1, anchoring by Marina Grande and dining aboard after a short afternoon visit to the Blue Grotto and the village of Anacapri. If you’re dreaming of antarctica someday, this warm start offers stunning scenery and straightforward sailing, setting a confident rhythm for the week.

Day 2 sails along the coast toward Sorrento or Praiano, with roughly 20–35 nautical miles depending on wind and stops. In the afternoon, explore a cliffside site and drop anchor in a sheltered cove to swim. This leg suits several main yachts, and choosing a friendly harbor for a second dinner ashore or on deck helps keep the pace relaxed while you’re surrounded by dramatic coastal views.

Day 3 continues toward the Amalfi coastline, with a morning leg to Praiano and a pause at Conca dei Marini to sample the Emerald Grotto or simply enjoy a quiet swim in emerald water. Reaching Amalfi’s main harbor provides easy access to town sights, and in the afternoon you can stroll the churches and piazzas before a sunset dinner on deck as the cliffs turn rosy.

Day 4 moves you to Ischia or Procida, depending on mood and wind. This stretch is well suited to long-range yachts thanks to protected bays, clear approaches, and reliable marinas. Before departure, verify onboard technologies (GPS, AIS, satellite comms) and plan the leg for comfortable speeds. In Ischia you’ll find thermal baths and friendly harbors; finish with a royal-blue sea view over a relaxed dinner on deck.

Day 5–6 shifts to Procida’s Corricella or Ischia’s coves for a quieter pace and practical provisioning. You can replenish water and supplies, top up fuel where approved, and check gear in calmer surroundings. If crowds feel withdrawing, these anchorages offer several peaceful options surrounded by calm seas and easy shore access. In the late afternoon you sail toward Naples with a short hop or a slow, scenic passage along the coast, experiencing sea air and sunset silhouettes before docking for the last night’s dinner ashore or aboard.

Logistics and safety are built in: book marinas in advance at Capri, Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi, Ischia, and Procida, and reserve berths during peak season. Carry multiple payment methods, keep fuel and water topped up, and carry extra shore power cables and a spare anchor. Each stop provides nearby grocery stores, fresh seafood markets, and reliable crew-friendly services; use the main harbors for reliable weather updates and easy access to town amenities.

Choosing a skipper with local knowledge smooths transitions between coves, ensures orderly lines at berths, and aligns anchoring with wind windows. A crew focused on safety, comfort, and efficient provisioning makes the trip more enjoyable, with a rhythm that lets you experience the coast’s sites while keeping a steady pace toward Naples for a safe, memorable finish.

Leg-by-leg Itinerary: Naples to Sorrento, Positano, Capri, and Amalfi

Book an early dawn ferry from Naples to Sorrento to maximize daylight and minimize crowds at the dock. As you arrive, stroll the marina and the pastel lanes, then pause at a monastery courtyard to set your pace for the day; this quiet moment helps you find focus before the action begins.

The first leg takes you from Sorrento to Positano. From the harbor, hop a quick ferry or ride a local bus along the coast; in Positano, the assunta church crowns the town with its iconic dome, and the hillside lanes invite you to photograph pastel staircases. Sample snacks at a waterfront stall, and plan a few hours to explore a small bridge that links the town square to the beach path. This stop also offers a chance to pick up treasures and set the heart of your trip for what comes next.

From Positano, board a fast ferry to Capri. On Capri, visit the Certosa di San Giacomo monastery and ride the chairlift to Anacapri for expansive views over the waves and the island’s dramatic cliffs. Ask pietro at a harbor cafe for a local snack route and limoncello tastings, then wander the lanes to spot capris-style boutiques and colorful doors. If you’re up for a dip, plunge into a sheltered cove before wandering to the iconic Faraglioni rocks at sunset.

From Capri, take a hydrofoil to Amalfi, where a cliffside stroll leads you to the Cathedral of Saint Andrew and the lively waterfront. Dinner on a terrace overlooking the sea becomes a seamless transition from stone streets to modern cafés. The presence of centuries-old towers alongside contemporary shops creates a dynamic contrast, and cap you with limoncello as you digest the day’s experiences and search for one or two final treasures along the harbor wall.

If time allows, consider a brief ischias detour by ferry to sample thermal springs and village life beyond the usual route; it can provide a refreshing change of pace and a new perspective on the coast. For the main loop, plan practicalities: check last return ferries, reserve seats during peak months, and keep a flexible window for events or storms. A compact card that covers ferries and local transport can provide seamless connections, letting you find the next ride without stressing the process. Remember to consent to a relaxed pace when needed, as Consenting to a slower morning often yields richer experiences, local presence, and a chance to escape crowds; this approach makes the whole leg-by-leg arc feel cohesive, with the heart of each town revealing its own set of iconic memories, and the trail of tiny details becoming your personal collection of memories and adventures. Always carry a small bag of snacks and a bottle for water to stay fueled as you chase the next horizon and the next sunset. Capris, cliffside paths, and sunset dinner moments will stay with you as the trip’s first and most lasting treasures.

Optimal Daily Distances and Time on Deck

Aim for 18–22 nautical miles per day, with 3.5–5 hours on deck depending on wind and crew comfort. This cadence leaves space for shore visits, market strolls, and culinary stops, while keeping the rhythm steady for a seven‑day arc from Naples.

1. Day 1 – Naples to Procida

   • Distance: 15–20 NM
   • Deck time: 3–4 hours at 5–6 knots
   • Highlights: clear bay starting, anchorage near a rocky scoglio, marina approach into Procida, and a stroll along the seaside lanes to the local market

2. Day 2 – Procida to Ischia

   • Distance: 12–18 NM
   • Deck time: 3–4 hours
   • Highlights: cruising past calm coves, anchoring near volcanic rock features, a lunch break with gastronomic specialties, and a visit to Ischia Porto marina

3. Day 3 – Ischia to Capri

   • Distance: 12–20 NM
   • Deck time: 3–4 hours
   • Highlights: sail by emerald-green coves, drop anchor before the iconic cliffs, explore Marina Grande, and enjoy a coffee near a piazza on shore

4. Day 4 – Capri to Sorrento

   • Distance: 20–25 NM
   • Deck time: 4–5 hours
   • Highlights: a steady passage along the coast, a stop at the cultural overlook, docking near the bustling Piazza Tasso, and a stroll through the seaside lanes

5. Day 5 – Sorrento to Positano

   • Distance: 18–25 NM
   • Deck time: 4–5 hours
   • Highlights: cruising past cliffside villages, anchoring near a rare, sunlit cove, a visit to the Assunta church district (assunta), and time to wander the coastal market stalls

6. Day 6 – Positano to Amalfi

   • Distance: 16–24 NM
   • Deck time: 3.5–5 hours
   • Highlights: morning breeze along the scoglio courses, docking at Amalfi’s renewed harbor features, a seaside lunch, and exploring the vibrant cultural waterfront

7. Day 7 – Amalfi to Salerno, then back to Naples

   • Distance: 20–28 NM to Salerno, 12–20 NM to Naples if you return directly
   • Deck time: 4–5 hours to Salerno, plus 2–4 hours to finish in Naples
   • Highlights: final leg with a quiet afternoon on deck, a last stroll through a seaside market, and a relaxing marina arrival to cap the week

Harbor Guides: Which Port to Use Each Night

Dock at the Naples waterfront near Molo Beverello on night one for easy provisioning, quick tender access, and a calm start to your cruise.

Night two brings Procida’s harbor, a charming escape with myriad views of pastel houses and fishing boats. A straightforward approach keeps entry smooth, and a quick technical check helps the crew settle in fast, your buds feeling at home from the first moment.

Night three heads towards Sorrento’s Marina Grande, where the waterfront scenery unfolds along stone quays and views that carry you towards a relaxed dinner and a wander through winding lanes.

Night four leans into the Amalfi coast, with Positano’s or Amalfi’s waterfront offering a blend of cliffside drama, chic shops, and unforgettable sunsets that entice you to linger after dusk.

Night five and six explore the paestum coast around Agropoli, where ancient ruins stand as a landmark and the sea offers healing, uncrowded coves. Dock here to balance culture with sun and sea, a perfect stop for those who crave a deeper connection with the coast.

Night seven returns to Naples, where a final moment on deck crowns the trip. You circle the gulf around town, resting on your preferences and choosing a reliable provider to handle docking, fuel, and shore errands, leaving you spoiled for choice and ready to plan the next voyage exclusively with your crew.

Provisioning: Food, Water, and Onboard Supplies for 7 Days

Stock 120–140 liters of potable water in the boat’s tanks and carry 20–25 liters of bottled water for midday breaks and quick top-ups. Use the boat’s gauges to monitor, and plan occasional refills at ports along the coast.

For food, buy in Naples before departure: 2.5–3 kg pasta, 2 kg rice, 1.5 kg lentils or beans, 10–12 cans tomatoes, 8–12 cans tuna, 3 bottles olive oil (500 ml each), 1 kg coffee, 40 tea bags, 1 kg sugar, 0.5 kg salt, 3 boxes crackers, 1 kg oats or cereal. Add 2–3 fresh loaves and a packet of bread for daily sandwiches.

Keep a daily rotation: breakfast with coffee or tea plus cereal or biscuits; midday meals rely on bread, pasta salads, tuna tins, or beans; dinners center on pasta or rice with tomatoes and a protein, plus a side of fresh veg bought en route. Plan simple, executed meals that reduce washing up and use leftover ingredients efficiently.

Fresh produce can be replenished every couple of days at coastal markets. Bring onions, potatoes, garlic, zucchini, lemons, and apples. Store root veg in a shaded locker, and keep dairy in the boat fridge or insulated cooler for as long as possible.

Dairy and beverages: UHT milk or shelf-stable milk 6–8 cartons (1 L each) or a small block of hard cheese for flavor; water-friendly beverages such as juice boxes or juice pouches. Have a small stash of limoncello for a relaxed evening on calm waves to enjoy the scenery with your crew.

Onboard supplies and safety: a compact first-aid kit with seasickness meds, sunscreen, insect repellent, and basic pain relievers; toilet paper, paper towels, dish soap, and sponges; trash bags, aluminum foil, zip bags; a basic cook set, matches or lighter, and a compact spare-tool kit with fuses and duct tape. Include a fire extinguisher and life jackets for all crew. Keep a spare fuel filter and heat-resistant gloves for quick repairs.

Where to shop: start in the harbor districts of Naples at local markets and supermarkets; stock up on staples at Mercato di Porta Nolana or Mercato di Poggioreale, then top up at each marina along the route where fresh produce is available. If you see a good deal on fresh bread, cheese, or fruit, grab it and use it within a day or two to minimize waste. When you stop at midday in a bay, pop into local cafes for a quick bite and a chance to stretch your legs and swap tips with fellow sailors.

Safety & Crisis Readiness: Drills, Equipment, and Communication

Run a 15-minute safety drill before departure to verify life jackets fit, EPIRB, and radio channels; document results in the logbook. Michael leads this drill with guests observing, they learn quickly by watching roles and listening for clear commands.

• Drills and training
  • Man overboard: designate a MOB person, throw a lifebuoy, deploy a line, start tracking, and announce MOB over the VHF.
  • Fire and abandon ship: locate extinguishers, shut off galley fuel, muster points, and practice escape routes; target a 2-minute abandon sequence.
  • Containment and evacuation: rehearse rendezvous with the life raft, verify equipment, and assign observers for weather and distance.
• Equipment checks
  • Life jackets: inspect for tears, ensure proper size coverage, and store at accessible locations above deck.
  • Communication gear: VHF radios on channel 16 plus assigned channels; spare batteries; satellite messenger for remote coves.
  • Safety gear: lifebuoys, throwable flotation, fire blanket, portable bilge pump, spare fuses, first aid kit with specific meds, flares, and signaling mirror; verify expiry dates.
  • Spare parts: spare anchor line and towing gear; keep in a locked locker with clear access.
• Communication protocol
  • Chain of command: captain, helmsman, navigator, guests’ liaison; use simple call signs; confirm reception of messages.
  • Check-ins: weather updates every 30 minutes; route changes logged and shared with guests; use AIS/GPS to maintain panoramic awareness of surroundings.
  • Emergency signals: mayday procedures, distress signals, and proper radio etiquette; after a call, withdraw to a defined safety area and log actions.
• Guest safety and care
  • Brief guests with a concise safety talk; show location of cookies and limoncello; assign a guests’ liaison to answer questions.
  • Movement rules: stand on non-slip surfaces, avoid standing near lines and folding seats; keep children within sight and follow crew directions.
  • Navigation awareness: discuss narrow channels near Sorrentos and ancient ruins; point out UNESCO sites from the deck for educational context; maintain situational awareness with panoramic views.
• Post-event review
  • Log timestamp, participants, and lessons; withdraw items not used and adjust equipment inventory accordingly.
  • Locally sourced touches: cookies baked in-house, limoncello samples; use them as a relaxed debrief after safety checks, while guests enjoy rays of late-afternoon sun and a calm ambience.