Following on from the success of the last two years' charters in the Croatia, this year we are staying in the Mediterranean but head to the West and the beautiful islands of Sardinia & Corsica. Sardinia is the largest island in the Mediterranean and Sardinians consider themselves Sards first and Italian second. It is a mysterious island, an undiscovered place, that is a part of Italy yet apart from it.
There is still much evidence of the culture from the Nuraghese period. With many Nuraghs still standing, large truncated cones of stone built without mortar, resembling the Toreen towers of Corsica. For the yachtsman it provides a cruising ground difficult to better in the Western Mediterranean. On the north coast there are many anchorages around the coast and off-lying islands, offering good shelter. It is 112 miles from the Italian Mainland but only 7 miles separate it from Corsica.
Corsica separated from Sardinia by the Bonifacio Straits is the smaller of the two Islands being around one third the size of Sardinia. We will be heading up to the Southern Coastline to Bonifaico. An impressive city high on the cliffs reminiscent of a set from Game of Thrones, with great views this buzzing city bursts with heritage and many bars and restaurants.
ITINERARY
The Charter will be setting off from Marina di Portisco (http://www.marinadiportisco.it/en) which is 25 minute taxi transfer from the airport (€10 per person ) there are shops, a supermarket and restaurants at the marina. Nearest town is Olbia, a short taxi ride away.
From there we will be heading north to Corsica taking the delights of the many islands on route. Rock formation on Isola Spargi, the Pink beach on Isola Budelli, the busy town La Maddalena. Calling at Cavallo Island, Santa Manza and on to Bonifacio. Return passing Porto Vecchio, Isola Lavezzi and Isola Carreras.
SKIPPERS
Come along with your own crew and join in the fun, sailing with other club members in this beautiful sailing area. Contact the suggested boat provider (see below) who I find offer very competitive rates for boats, or chose your own. Please drop me a line at charters@gaysailing.org.uk
CREW looking for berths
I may have some berths available with experienced skippers who will invite you on board to join in the amazing experience. If you have not sailed in the Mediterranean before now is your time to join in and enjoy a truly perfect sailing experience. If you attend the London Socials, you may already have made contact with some skippers who may have spaces. Otherwise please contact me at charters@gaysailing.org.ukwith brief details of your experience and any club sailing you have done. I will look at placing you in contact with a skipper to join the Charter.
SUGGESTED BOAT PROVIDER www.latesail.com 01227 479900
They do not offer discounts, but their website is very good and already has large discounts on most boats. Be cheeky and ask to get discounts on the extras - outboards etc.
Happy sailing
Chris Watts, Rear Commodore Charters
