For those who are fond of sports Salerno is just the right place to drop anchor. The only way to enjoy the incomparable view of the entire gulf is to climb up the top of Monte Bonadies. Having arrived at the top, however, one immediately forgets all the trouble.
General Info Positioned in a region of Italy known as Campania which lays on the western shore of the peninsula, Salerno is renowned worldwide for the Schola Medica Salernitana, the first University of Medicine in the world but to explorers it’s mostly known for the sailing opportunities, since this part of the coast is famous for its touristic potential, including other famous towns such as Positano and Amalfi.
An important stop point on the way to Paestum, Pompeii or Positano, Salerno is fast regaining its Mediterranean charm, especially the old part of town and claiming its rightful place on Italy’s famous Amalfi coast, an important destination.
Travel & Arrival There are several major airports that provide links to Salerno. The Naples Airport (58km) is the largest, but there is also one in Amalfi (32km). The ways of getting into Salerno from the airport vary depending on your budget and include shuttle buses, regular buses and taxi rides.
In Salerno you’ll find the Piazza Garibaldi train station which has trains running from cities all along the coast, including Naples and Pompeii but also Rome. However, visitors should be extra careful with their belongings in the area around the trains station, as it has a bad reputation.
If trains are not your particular cup of tea, you could arrive by bus from Naples which is cheaper and takes a couple of hours. That way you can fit your group and get them quickly to the water.
And speaking of water, there are ferries that arrive in Salerno from all along the Amalfi coast, every year beginning with the Easter weekend This is probably one of the most ways of arriving into town and that’s why most of the crowds actually prefer to arrive by water.
Avant & Apres Sail An old town, the central and surrounding areas of Salerno are full of historical sights, like the Duomo of Salerno, the romantic Lungomare boulevard, the Villa Communale which is a green oasis in the center of the city. visitors are also attracted to the Castello di arechi, Forte La Carnale, the Teatro Verdi and the Palazzo Genovese.
For the culture aficionados, there are lots of museums which can be visited, such as the Museo Acheologicao Provinciale, the Museo Didattica della Scuola Medica Salernitana, the Museo Diocesano di Salerno and the Pinacoteca Provinciale. Most of these provide an insight into the local history and culture while also providing a welcome break for sailors.
Being part of the Campania region, Salerno’s cuisine is famous worldwide for a couple of products that today we consider to be part of what we think is the “Italian cuisine”. Recipes here are made with an abundance of vegetables, especially tomatoes and eggplants, garlic, onions and lots of herbs. Local recipes which gourmets will surely recognize are calzone, lasagna, mozzarella in Carrozza, parmigiana di Melanzane and different variations of pizza. But seafood and meat dishes aren’t forgotten either, so choose your next meal carefully, or you’ll end up putting on a few pounds.
Apart from the seemingly endless sunny day, Salerno is also a shopper’s paradise because prices here are lower than in northern Italy. Local crafts, souvenirs, but also fresh produce can be bought along the narrow streets of the old district which gives the holidaymaker a chance to explore a bit too.
Since there’s a university here in town and also a large harbor, you can expect the nightlife to be quite colorful, with lots of clubs, discos and cafes. There’s also the option of having a cultured evening at the Teatro Verdi which has classic and contemporary plays showing, as well as concerts and dance performances on occasion, a nice alternative to a loud sailor’s night out.
Events & Actions And to keep all those crews busy, the locals have an abundance of festivals and celebrations, concerts, religious, art, food and wine, scattered thourhgout the year, so that any time you drop anchor by these shores, there’s something bound to catch your eye.
One-week Sailing Itinerary from Salerno, Italy
Ahoy, yacht charter enthusiasts! Get ready for a fantastic 7-day sailing adventure starting from the vibrant port of Salerno in Italy. We'll be exploring the stunning Amalfi Coast and the captivating islands of Capri, Ischia, Procida, and more. So, hoist the sails and let's dive into this unforgettable journey!
Day 1: Salerno to Amalfi (12 NM)
Set sail from Salerno on Saturday evening and head towards the picturesque town of Amalfi. Along the way, drop anchor at the lovely Baia della Conca for a refreshing swim and enjoy the breathtaking coastal views. Once in Amalfi, explore the charming town and admire its famous cathedral.
Day 2: Amalfi to Positano (10 NM)
Leave Amalfi behind and sail towards the chic town of Positano. En route, stop at the enchanting Grotta dello Smeraldo for a unique and luminous experience. Continue sailing along the beautiful Amalfi Coast before anchoring at the stunning Fornillo Beach in Positano, where you can relax and soak up the sun.
Day 3: Positano to Capri (24 NM)
Sail from Positano to the glamorous island of Capri. Take a break at the magical Li Galli Islands for a swim in crystal-clear waters. Once in Capri, visit the famous Blue Grotto and treat yourself to a delicious gelato while strolling around the charming Piazzetta.
Day 4: Capri to Ischia (20 NM)
Set course for the lush island of Ischia, famous for its thermal springs and beautiful gardens. Stop for a dip at the peaceful Sant'Angelo bay before heading to the island's main harbor. In Ischia, explore the Aragonese Castle and indulge in some rejuvenating spa treatments.
Day 5: Ischia to Procida (6 NM)
Leave Ischia and sail to the colorful island of Procida, known for its picturesque fishing village and vibrant houses. Anchor at the beautiful Chiaiolella Beach for a swim before exploring the charming streets of Marina di Corricella.
Day 6: Procida to Naples (15 NM)
Head to Naples, the bustling city famous for its rich history and mouthwatering pizza. On your way, stop at the serene Gaiola Bay for a swim and a glimpse of the underwater archaeological park. In Naples, visit the historic city center, discover the impressive Castel dell'Ovo, and savor a slice of authentic Neapolitan pizza.
Day 7: Naples to Salerno (30 NM)
Sail the final stretch of your yacht charter adventure, returning to Salerno on Friday evening. Before reaching your final destination, make a stop at the picturesque Cetara village to savor some fresh local seafood. Reflect on your unforgettable Italian sailing experience as you prepare to disembark.
Summary of Locations and Distances
| Day | From | To | Distance (Nautical Miles) |
|---|
| 1 | Salerno | Amalfi | 12 |
| 2 | Amalfi | Positano | 10 |
| 3 | Positano | Capri | 24 |
| 4 | Capri | Ischia | 20 |
| 5 | Ischia | Procida | 6 |
| 6 | Procida | Naples | 15 |
| 7 | Naples | Salerno | 30 |
What makes Salerno a good sailing destination in Italy?
Salerno is an enchanting coastal town located in the Campania region, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and picturesque views. It acts as a great starting point to explore the renowned Amalfi Coast, Capri, and Cilento Coast. Its marina, proximity to top tourist spots, and typically Mediterranean climate make it an ideal sailing destination.
What facilities does Salerno Marina offer?
Salerno Marina, also known as "Marina d'Arechi", is a modern marina that can accommodate over 1000 boats. It offers a wide range of facilities, including 24/7 security, Wi-Fi, water and electricity on the docks, a fuel station, and waste collection. Plus, there are several repair and maintenance services available onsite.
Can you suggest some anchorages around Salerno?
While Salerno Marina provides excellent berthing facilities, sailors might also consider anchoring near the beautiful beaches of the Amalfi Coast. Anchorages in Positano or Amalfi offer amazing views. For more adventurous sailors, the islands of Capri and Ischia also have great anchorage spots.
What attractions can be visited when sailing in Salerno?
Salerno offers a wealth of attractions. The historic city center is adorned with medieval buildings like the Salerno Cathedral. The Arechi Castle offers panoramic views of the city and the sea. Don't miss out on the Minerva's Garden and the fascinating archaeological museum. Beyond the city, the UNESCO-listed Amalfi Coast and the island of Capri are within reach.
What water activities can I enjoy in Salerno?
Besides sailing, the clear waters around Salerno are great for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Water skiing and wind surfing are also popular activities. Boating tours are available for those interested in fishing or dolphin and whale watching.
Are there any local dishes I should try in Salerno?
Salerno offers an array of mouth-watering local dishes. Try the 'scialatielli', a type of pasta often served with seafood. The 'parmigiana di melanzane', a layered eggplant dish, is another local favorite. And for dessert, 'delizia al limone', a lemon flavored sponge cake, is a must. Pair these with some local wine for a true culinary treat.
Are there any interesting local events or festivals in Salerno?
Salerno hosts numerous events throughout the year. The 'Luci d'Artista', an annual light show during the winter, is a spectacular event that transforms the city into a light-filled wonderland. The St. Matthew's Day procession in September is another major event worth experiencing.
Any tips for a smooth sailing experience in Salorno?
The best time for sailing in Salerno is from April to October. Keep an eye on the weather, particularly for 'Sirocco' winds from the southeast. Also, some areas of the Amalfi Coast are protected marine areas, so make sure you're aware of the local sailing regulations.