Naples Sailing

General Info
Otherwise known as Napoli to the locals, Naples is an old and famous city, the biggest in southern Italy and the capital of the Campania region. Needless to say, it’s also an attractive destination since it’s located in the beautiful Bay of Naples, overlooked by the Mount Vesuvius volcano.

Being one of the oldest and prosperous cities in the western world, it’s only natural that it’s a thriving metropolitan center for arts, gastronomy, tourism and veritable Italian culture, as well as the home of some quintessentially Italian stereotypes such as pizza or Neapolitan music. Either way, any visiting will surely get a wonderful experience.

Travel & Arrival
Naples’ International Airport is called Capodichino and it’s fairly well linked to the city’s center, which means it’s going to be easy for any group to arrive into town. You can either take a shuttle bus (Alibus) or one of the regular busses which take longer but are cheaper and make more stops. You could also take a taxi, but beware of the many unlicensed cars operating in the area.

By train Naples is reachable from all major Italian towns, as well as other cities along the coast, and the trains are also connected to the subway system, thus allowing the arrival to get around town avoiding the traffic.

Considering driving here? Then one of the easiest ways to get to Naples is via the A1 highway from Rome. The trip is always short (less than 2 hours generally) and you’ll find that the Italian highway seldom gets traffic jams. However, parking when entering the city might prove somewhat difficult so it’s advisable that your group leave the car on the outskirts of the city in attended parking lots.

There are cruise ships and ferries that stop at the docks of the Stazione Marittima. These have the bonus of being located just a couple of meters from the city center, around the Piazza Municipio. The ferry companies operate trips to and from other popular locations such as Olbia in Sardinia, Porto Vecchio in Corsica, the Aeolian Islands and even Tunis in Africa. There is another company that makes overnight trips to Cagliari in Sardinia and Palermo in Sicily.

Avant & Apres Sail
It’s definitely hard to get the full Neapolitan experience in one trip and see everything worth seeing, so make sure you at least cover the main attractions such as the Castel dell-Ovo (Castle Egg) which also houses the Museum of Prehistory, Castelnouvo (the city’s main museum complex), the National Gallery, Certosa di San Martino, Parco Virgiliano, Napoli Sotterranea (remains of the Roman city), the Duomo, Teatro San Carlo, Piazza del Plebicisto, Museo del Mare and many more, enough to last you at last you three vacations.

Let’s talk eating now, and since pizza originates from Naples, there’s one thing you must try here before you eat anything else: the famous Neapolitan pizza, also known as pizza Margherita (look for the sign Vera Pizza Napoletana on the restaurant). Other things sailors might enjoy include seafood recipes which testify to the city’s ancient harbor status. The local cuisine is also famous for mozzarella cheese, for its special sauces which bear colorful names like arrabiata (angry) or fra diavolo (brother devil), the pastries and the wines.

Shopping is a relaxing experience no matter where you do it, but when you do it on a trip, it’s a chance to carry home a little piece of that experience. holidaymakers can purchase local handmade products in shops in the Spanish Quarter like Capodimonte porcelain, cameos and gouache paintings of the most iconic city views. For elegant Italian clothing go to the Riviera di Chiaia, where you’ll find the most famous brand names in the business as well as old brands with a lot of tradition.

The vibrant nightlife in yacht charter Naples actually gave birth to the phrase “la dolce vita” so if you’re looking for a bit of fun with your buddies, then this is definitely the place for you. The Old City Center is where you’ll find the university students hanging out at alternative clubs. The posh clubs are located in San Pasquale de Chiaia, Lungomare Mergelina and Piazza Sannazzaro, where you'll also find some very nice wine bars.

Events & Actions
Here is a short list of the most important annual events in yacht charter Naples, many of which have a long tradition: the Maggio dei Monumenti is a series of cultural events and shows going on in April, May and June during which collections and monuments normally off limits to the public become available, the Festival for San Gennaro (19th of September) which is Naples’ patron saint that has been celebrated since the 14th century. The Pasta Show in October is an international event that is dedicated to the culinary delights of pasta and everything related to its making, history and evolution.

What makes Naples an ideal destination for a sailing vacation in Italy?

Naples, located on the western coast of Italy, is a dream destination for sailors, offering a blend of rich history, culture, and picturesque coastal beauty. Its strategic location in the Tyrrhenian Sea makes it the perfect starting point for sailing to renowned places like Capri, Ischia, Procida, the Amalfi Coast, and the Cilento Coast.

What facilities are available at the marinas in Naples?

Naples boasts several well-equipped marinas like Marina di Stabia and Marina di Porta di Massa, offering a range of services such as electricity and water supplies, fuel station, Wi-Fi, waste collection, repair and maintenance services, and excellent security measures. Most marinas also provide easy access to nearby restaurants, shops, and city attractions.

Are there any noteworthy anchorages near Naples?

Yes, some popular anchorages include Procida, a charming island known for its colorful marina, and the glamorous island of Capri. The Bay of Naples itself provides plenty of safe and scenic anchorage spots, and the Amalfi Coast offers stunning anchorages like Positano and Amalfi.

What are the top cultural attractions in Naples?

Naples is bursting with cultural attractions. The historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit, as is the Royal Palace. Don't miss the archaeological treasures in the Naples National Archaeological Museum or the stunning frescoes in the Cappella Sansevero. Finally, explore the catacombs of San Gennaro, a fascinating network of early Christian burial sites.

What water activities can be enjoyed around Naples?

Apart from sailing, the clear, warm waters around Naples are ideal for snorkeling, diving, fishing, and swimming. Waterskiing, jet skiing, and paddleboarding are also popular activities.

What are some local dishes that sailors must try while in Naples?

Naples is the birthplace of pizza, so trying a traditional Neapolitan pizza is a must. Other local dishes include 'Spaghetti alle Vongole' (spaghetti with clams), 'Ragù Napoletano' (a slow-cooked meat sauce), and the sweet, creamy 'Baba al Rum'. Pair these dishes with a local wine like Lacryma Christi.

Are there any local events or festivals in Naples that might be of interest to sailors?

Naples hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year. The feast of San Gennaro, the city's patron saint, in September is a major event featuring processions and celebrations. Summer months often see various music and film festivals held in the city's squares and beaches.

Are there any specific customs or rules that sailors should be aware of when sailing around Naples?

Sailors should always respect marine and local laws, including speed limits close to the coast and not anchoring in prohibited or environmentally protected areas. When visiting marinas or anchoring near the shore, maintain respect for other sailors and local inhabitants by minimizing noise, particularly during the evening and night.