Charter Destination Sicily

General Info
Everyone knows Italy is shaped like a boot. Well, if any of you sailors out there is looking for Trapani on a map, all you have to do is look at the very tip of the boot, in Sicily, and you’ll find it on the coast, next to the city of Marsala.

Built as a fishing city, the town has become today very important, being the capital of the Province of Trapani, a big port and a direct link to the Egadi Islands. Apart from being a renowned city for its seafood and Sicilian cuisine, Trapani also makes the perfect location to start your exploration of the Sicilian coast.

Located on the western coast of Sicily, Trapani is a city of impressive historical and cultural interest, combined with natural beauty. Its position makes it an excellent base for sailing trips to the Egadi Islands, Pantelleria, and even Tunisia. Trapani's climate is typically Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild winters, making it a favorable location for sailing all year round.

The local marinas are well-equipped with modern facilities, including boat repair services, restaurants, and shops for provisioning. Beyond sailing, Trapani offers visitors plenty to explore, from its Baroque-style architecture and vibrant markets to the traditional cuisine of Sicily.

Travel & Arrival
For those of you tourists seeking transportation to Trapani, there is a small airport operating nearby, but it only operates internal flights from Rome, Bologna, Milan and Pantelleria. Another cheap option would be to fly to Malta and then catch a ferry to Trapani.

On land, most routes come from Palermo, the largest and most important city in Sicily. Train and bus rides which operate daily can be found going to Trapani, some continuing to Marsala. tourists which arrive in here in a car, should follow the A29 if coming from Palermo, and the SS115 or the SP21 when coming from down the coast.

Avant & Apres Sail
Though a city with a long history going back to its foundation by the Phoenicians, there are little historical sights left today, a few ancient and more medieval ones. But the town has suffered greatly from the bombings of the Second World War. visitors should see the numerous churches and cathedrals, the Chiesa del Purgatorio, the Santuario dell’Annunziata, the Museo Regionale Pepoli, the Palazzo Della Giudecca and the buildings along the Corso Vittorio Emanuele.

The many restaurants operating in the region await the hungry masses with tempting menus which outline the importance of the sea to the locals. Among the local delicacies you might be tempted to try the Cous Cous Trapanese, the Sarde a Beccafico Trapanese and the Pesto alla Trapanese. Of course, there are also establishments that serve the ubiquitous pizza for those that want to taste real Italian recipes, but the Sicilian cuisine shouldn’t be missed out on.

Shopping couldn’t have been left out, since this is Italy after all, and Trapani is the perfect place to make your wallet lose some weight. Starting with the clothes boutiques, the jewelries and the antique selling shops, the locals will be tempting your gang with a lot of stuff, including handicrafts and souvenirs.

The Italian in general and the Sicilians in particular are said to know how to enjoy life. For that, just head out to the many pubs, bars, restaurants and clubs after night fall and you’ll see what makes Trapani a popular destination. Good music, good food, pleasant atmosphere (even if sometimes loud) will lure you out of the hotel room night after night.

Events & Actions
As with other Italian cities, you’ll find that most of the local events have some religious significance, like the  Processione dei Misteri on Easter and the Feast of Sant’Alberto or Madonna of Trapani, but you’ll also find cultural events such as the Summer Opera Events.
 

What are some popular sailing routes from Trapani?

Trapani is an excellent starting point for visiting the Egadi Islands (Favignana, Levanzo, and Marettimo), Pantelleria, or even Tunisia. You can also explore the Sicilian coast, with stops at places like San Vito Lo Capo and Marsala.

What's the sailing season in Trapani?

The sailing season in Trapani typically runs from April to October, with the summer months (June to August) being the most popular due to the warm weather and calmer seas.

Can we go fishing while sailing from Trapani?

Yes, fishing is a popular activity in the waters around Trapani. The Egadi Islands in particular are renowned for their rich marine life. Please ensure you adhere to any local fishing regulations.

What are the must-try local foods in Trapani?

Trapani is known for its seafood. Be sure to try Couscous alla Trapanese (a local version of couscous with fish) and Busiate pasta with pesto Trapanese. Also, don't miss out on sampling the local Marsala wine.

What are some cultural highlights in Trapani?

Trapani's old town, with its narrow streets and Baroque architecture, is worth exploring. Don't miss the Cathedral of San Lorenzo and the Trapani Art and Popular Traditions Museum. The nearby medieval hill town of Erice is also worth a visit.

What facilities does the Trapani marina offer?

The Trapani marina is equipped with facilities such as fueling services, water and electricity supplies, boat maintenance and repair services, and waste collection. There are also several restaurants and shops nearby for provisioning.

Can I rent diving equipment in Trapani?

Yes, there are several dive shops in Trapani where you can rent equipment and arrange for diving excursions. The waters around the Egadi Islands offer excellent diving opportunities.

Are there any special events or festivals in Trapani that we should be aware of?

Trapani is famous for its Easter processions, particularly the "Misteri di Trapani". During summer, various music and food festivals take place. It's worth checking the local event calendar for your visit dates.