Sicily & Aeolian Islands Yacht Charters

Fact File for Sicily & Aeolian Islands

Famous for its beautiful coastline, active volcanoes, delicious cuisine, wine and fascinating history, Sicily, together with the Aeolian Islands, is an unbeatable charter destination.

COORDINATES: 47º30N, 14º00E (Sicily)

LANGUAGE: Italian

REGION'S CAPITAL: Palermo

WEATHER: The climate is Mediterranean with hot dry summers and mild wet winters. Summer temperatures range from 25-32C (77-90F). Normal summer winds are from the NW, occasionally going around the W. There may also be winds from the NE.

BEST TIME TO CHARTER: June-September

AIRPORTS: Palermo International Airport (PMO)

TIME: UTC+1 (winter), UTC+2 (summer)

CURRENCY: EUR; Visa and MasterCard are accepted in large establishments but smaller shops and restaurants may prefer cash. ATMs are available in all cities and towns.

ELECTRICITY: 220 V, 50 Hz

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS:

1 Jan - New Years Day
2 Jan - Epiphany
Mar/Apr - Easter Monday
25 Apr - Liberation Day
1 May - Labor Day
2 Jun - Republic Day
15 Aug - Assumption
1 Nov - All Saints' Day
8 Dec - Immaculate Conception
25 Dec - Christmas Day
26 Dec - St Stephen's Day

MAIN PORTS AND MARINAS: Palermo, Messina, Milazzo, Riposto, Giardini Naxos, Lipari, Marina di Portorosa

RECOMMENDED BEACHES: The volcanic Aeolian Islands are not best known for their beaches. The most popular Aeolian beach is in Lipari- Spiaggia Bianca near Canneto.

CULTURAL: The social structure in Italy is heavily influenced by the Roman Catholic Church, and family ties are in general stronger than in most Western European countries. Dress is casual but beachwear is confined to the beach. Smoking is prohibited in public buildings, transport and cinemas. Although English, French and German are spoken in bigger cities and tourist areas, it is appreciated to speak a few words of Italian (buon giorno=hello, grazie=thank you, arrivederci=goodbye).