Few destinations in the Mediterranean combine glamour, natural beauty and exceptional sailing conditions quite like Costa Smeralda in northern Sardinia. With emerald waters, spectacular granite coastline, secluded beaches and prestigious marinas, this corner of Italy is one of the Mediterranean’s most desirable yacht charter destinations.
Located at the heart of Costa Smeralda, Porto Cervo is an ideal starting point for a private yacht charter. From here, discover the islands of the La Maddalena Archipelago, the spectacular coastline of southern Corsica and some of the region’s most beautiful anchorages.
Booking a luxury yacht charter in Porto Cervo gives you the freedom to explore these exceptional destinations at your own pace, with a professional captain and crew taking care of the journey.
For travellers considering a wider Mediterranean escape, discover our Sardinia yacht charter opportunities and explore the island’s most beautiful coastal destinations.
Here is our suggested seven-day itinerary, combining exclusive marinas, spectacular island landscapes, crystal-clear swimming waters and memorable experiences at sea. The route is a guide and should always be adapted by the captain to weather, sea conditions, yacht range and local navigation or anchoring regulations.
The 7-Day Sardinia & Corsica Itinerary
Day 1: Embarkation in Porto Cervo & Pevero Bay
Your journey begins at Marina di Porto Cervo, one of the Mediterranean’s best-known yacht harbours. Meet your captain and crew, settle into your private yacht and enjoy a welcome briefing before setting sail along the Costa Smeralda coastline.
Your first destination is Golfo del Pevero, known for its turquoise waters, sandy beaches and beautiful natural surroundings. Spend the afternoon swimming, paddleboarding or relaxing on deck while enjoying the Mediterranean sunshine.
Evening highlight
Return to Porto Cervo for an aperitivo in the famous Piazzetta, followed by dinner at one of the area’s restaurants. Your crew can help arrange a reservation according to availability and your preferences.
Day 2: Mortorio Island & Cala di Volpe
Wake up to the Mediterranean before cruising towards Mortorio Island, a protected natural area known for its granite formations and marine environment. The surrounding coastline offers beautiful scenery and opportunities for swimming in permitted areas.
A relaxed day along Costa Smeralda
- Morning: Enjoy a leisurely cruise and a refreshing swim where local rules allow.
- Afternoon: Continue towards the coastline around Cala di Volpe and enjoy the scenery from the water.
- Evening: Arrange a private dinner prepared onboard or a dining experience ashore.
This is the perfect day to enjoy the relaxed rhythm of a luxury yacht charter, with time to swim, explore and unwind.
Day 3: La Maddalena Archipelago – Spargi & Budelli
Leave the mainland behind and cruise north towards the magnificent La Maddalena Archipelago National Park. This protected group of islands is one of Sardinia’s most spectacular cruising areas, with turquoise lagoons, granite formations and beautiful coves.
Cala Corsara – Spargi Island
Cala Corsara is famous for its sculpted pink granite rocks, pale sand and exceptionally clear water. Enjoy the scenery from the yacht and swim only in areas where access and anchoring are permitted.
Budelli Island – Spiaggia Rosa
Discover the coastline around the famous Pink Beach, one of the archipelago’s best-known natural landmarks. Landing and access to the beach are restricted to protect this fragile environment, so admire it from designated viewing areas and follow park instructions.
Manto della Madonna
Explore the waters between Budelli, Razzoli and Santa Maria, where shallow turquoise passages create an extraordinary natural setting. Navigation and anchoring must follow the National Park’s current regulations.
A memorable night at anchor
Depending on the yacht, weather and authorised anchoring areas, spend the evening in the archipelago and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere after a day among the islands.
Day 4: Crossing to Corsica – Lavezzi & Cavallo Islands
Today, your yacht crosses the Strait of Bonifacio towards southern Corsica. The journey brings you to the spectacular Lavezzi Islands, an archipelago characterised by smooth granite boulders, transparent waters and striking natural landscapes.
Lavezzi Islands
Discover the area’s distinctive rock formations and underwater scenery. The captain will select suitable swimming and stopping locations according to conditions and local restrictions.
Cavallo Island
Known for its exclusive atmosphere, beautiful villas and clear waters, Cavallo is one of the most distinctive island destinations in the Strait of Bonifacio. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon swimming or exploring the coastline by tender where permitted.
Depending on weather conditions and your preferences, spend the evening near Cavallo or continue towards the spectacular harbour of Bonifacio.
Day 5: Discover Bonifacio – Corsica’s Dramatic Coastal Gem
One of the highlights of this itinerary is Bonifacio, a historic town dramatically positioned above towering white limestone cliffs. Approaching by yacht offers an unforgettable perspective of its medieval citadel, narrow harbour and impressive coastline.
Explore Bonifacio ashore
- Explore the historic Upper Town and its cobbled streets.
- Discover the famous King’s Aragon Staircase.
- Enjoy lunch overlooking the harbour.
- Admire the dramatic limestone coastline and sea caves from the water where access permits.
In the afternoon, begin your return towards Sardinia, enjoying the spectacular views across the Strait of Bonifacio. The exact crossing and overnight stop will depend on the yacht and sea conditions.
Day 6: Caprera Island, Poltu Quatu & Sunset at Phi Beach
Return to the Italian side of the archipelago and discover Caprera Island, part of the La Maddalena National Park. Its rugged coastline, secluded coves and emerald waters make it an exceptional destination for a private yacht charter.
Subject to local access and anchoring restrictions, explore the coastline around Cala Coticcio, often nicknamed Tahiti for its extraordinary colours. This is a particularly sensitive protected area, so follow the park’s rules and your captain’s guidance.
Poltu Quatu and Baja Sardinia
Continue towards Poltu Quatu, a beautiful marina village nestled between impressive granite formations. Later, cruise towards Baja Sardinia for a sunset experience at Phi Beach, a well-known waterfront venue overlooking the Mediterranean.
An evening to remember
Enjoy a cocktail at sunset before returning to your yacht for dinner or an evening ashore, depending on your plans and the venue’s availability.
Day 7: Liscia Ruja, Costa Smeralda & Return to Porto Cervo
Enjoy your final morning cruising along the beautiful coastline of Costa Smeralda. Depending on your preferred route and disembarkation schedule, stop near Liscia Ruja or enjoy a final swim in the clear waters around Pevero Bay, subject to local rules and conditions.
Relax on deck, enjoy breakfast and take in the spectacular scenery one last time. In the afternoon, return to Marina di Porto Cervo, where your crew will assist with disembarkation.
Your seven-day journey through northern Sardinia and southern Corsica comes to an end, leaving you with unforgettable memories of the Mediterranean.
Choosing the Perfect Yacht for Your Porto Cervo Charter
The right yacht makes all the difference when exploring Sardinia and Corsica. Whether you prefer the stability and generous living spaces of a sailing catamaran or the speed and comfort of a motor yacht, the choice should reflect your group size, itinerary and preferred onboard experience.
Sailing catamaran
Catamarans offer generous deck areas, comfortable social spaces and good stability. They are a popular choice for families and groups who value space and a relaxed pace at sea.
Motor yacht
Motor yachts are well suited to guests who want to cover more distance during a charter and enjoy flexible island-hopping, subject to the vessel’s range and cruising speed.
Superyacht
A superyacht offers an elevated onboard experience, with spacious accommodation, professional crew services and premium facilities. It is an excellent option for guests seeking privacy and a high level of service.
What should you consider before choosing?
- Number of guests and required cabin configuration.
- Preferred cruising speed and daily distances.
- Onboard facilities, water toys and crew requirements.
- Charter budget, including applicable fuel, provisioning, taxes and marina expenses.
- Whether you want to spend more time sailing, swimming, dining ashore or exploring islands.
Plan Your Sardinia & Corsica Yacht Charter with Riviera Boat
At Riviera Boat, we help clients discover exceptional yacht charter experiences in the Mediterranean and worldwide. Whether you are planning a week aboard a private sailing catamaran, a luxury motor yacht or a fully crewed superyacht, our team can assist with yacht selection, itinerary planning and personalised charter arrangements.
From Porto Cervo and Costa Smeralda to La Maddalena and the beautiful islands of southern Corsica, we help you create a journey tailored to your expectations.
Request your Porto Cervo yacht charter proposal
Tell us your preferred travel dates, number of guests and yacht preferences. Our team will help you explore suitable yachts and prepare a personalised charter proposal.
Discover our Porto Cervo yacht charter options and contact Riviera Boat to start planning your Mediterranean escape.