Sailing in the Egadi Islands offers a delightful experience. Located off the western coast of Sicily, these enchanting islands, including Favignana, Levanzo, and Marettimo, feature crystal-clear waters and rugged coastlines dotted with secluded bays, pristine beaches, and impressive sea caves.
The islands are known for their tranquility and natural beauty, providing a peaceful escape from the bustling mainland. You can enjoy snorkeling in vibrant marine reserves, indulge in fresh seafood, soak up the Mediterranean sun and explore the charming villages scattered across the islands. Sailing in the Egadi Islands offers a serene and idyllic adventure in the heart of the Mediterranean.
Without further ado, let’s start by embarking on a journey to Favignana to explore its best anchorages !
Be careful! Protected marine zone
The Egadi Islands are a Marine Protected Area, as well as the biggest marine reserve of the Mediterranean. They are a place of high biodiversity, numerous endemic species and important habitats such as the reef-building. In particular, you can see the prairies of Posidonia oceanica, a seagrass species that is endemic to the Mediterranean Sea. Furthermore, the Egadi islands hosts submerged caves favorable for the development of corals. The texture of the limestone also increases the settlement of larvae and the creation of hidden places that host rich cryptic fauna.
In this regard, it is necessary to have a cruising permit for the Egadi Islands. Permits can be obtained online at Area Marina Protetta and it costs around 18 €/day. Although the people from permit control do not pass by everyday, it is important to be vigilant, otherwise you are risking a fine.
As always, it’s essential to consult local sailing resources for the most up-to-date and specific anchorage conditions during your planned time of visit. Check out this useful link to learn more: Monterey Bay Italia.
The best anchorages in the Egadi Islands
Cala Rossa
For your first stop on your sailing trip, The Octopus brings you to Cala Rossa in Favignana. An anchorage that promises an unforgettable experience amidst its natural wonders. The shallow depths and white sandy bottoms create a dazzling turquoise color that adds to the bay’s enchantment. Crystal-clear water, rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and the panoramic view of the surrounding area make it a true paradise.
Already amazed by the landscapes, then there is nothing left to do than to drop your anchor or secure your vessel to the mooring buoys. The bay’s orientation provides natural wind protection from west to east by the south. Securing your boat with ease and convenience, you’ll be able to appreciate the beauty of this anchorage peacefully.
According to the Navily community this Cala is one of the most beautiful bays on the entire island of Favignana. It holds a special allure as it resides within the largest marine reserve in the Mediterranean. Dive into the underwater paradise to uncover the vibrant orange coral reefs and swim alongside rare species like monk seals, bottlenose dolphins and the sea turtles Caretta. After an exciting dive, take a moment for yourself while relaxing on Scogliera di Cala Rossa beach, ready to provide you with unforgettable moments in the midst of the extraordinary beauty of Favignana.
Prèveto
Next, we can escape to Prèveto, a vast anchorage between the main island of Favignana and Prèveto Island. Upon arriving, you will unveil an upland landscape of the mountain Sante Caterina on Favignana. Alongside, it is impossible not to notice the crystalline teal-colored waters and sparse vegetation on the shore. No matter where you will anchor your boat you will find a serene retreat in a breathtaking setting.
Prèveto anchorage offers you the possibility to drop anchor on two coasts and be protected from winds from almost all directions. The anchorage on the side of Favignana ensures secure mooring conditions during the summer season when the Mistral wind prevails from the north. Additionally, the anchorage closer to Prèveto provides natural protection from the southern winds. It is important to highlight that this area is marine protected, thus be sure to anchor on a sand spot. You can also secure your boat to mooring buoys. Once well anchored, now you can explore the area’s hidden treasures at your leisure.
After this long day of sailing, the calm and secluded Beach de Cala per Prèveto invites you to relax and unwind in its peaceful atmosphere. For a memorable excursion, embark on a hike to Agriturismo L’Alencio. Located in the mountains, this renowned restaurant offers breathtaking views that have earned the appreciation from the Navily community. Indulge in a delectable meal while taking in the panoramic scenery. Prèveto anchorage is a true haven, offering a harmonious blend of natural splendor, cultural exploration, and serenity.
Marina on the island
Near the anchorage you’ll also have the option to dock at one marina partner on the Island – DI.GI. Mooring Favignana Francesco. You can take advantage of the electricity, fuel, wi-fi and water on the marina. Moreover, DI. GI Mooring offers you 40 places for boats up to 40m length. The marina is 5 – star rated by the Navily community, well – equipped and most importantly close to the city center.
Favignagna is a place you should not miss, offering multiple activities and amenities in a warm Sicilian atmosphere. For instance, you can visit Palazzo Florio which is a beautiful ancient mansion or you can walk around the streets of Favignana full with small shops and charming restaurants.
Cala Fredda
We now follow The Octopus along the shores of Levanzo Island, stopping by the unique anchorage of Cala Fredda ! Here, the bay greets you with transparent aquamarine waters and Aleppo pine forests. Nestled amidst stunning rock formations and mediterranean vegetation, this beautiful bay provides a sheltered haven from the northern winds.
Furthermore, the seabed surrounding Levanzo Island features a distinctive combination of seagrass and sand patches. When anchoring in the area, it is crucial to be mindful of this unique marine flora and choose sandy spots. As you anchor or secure your ship to mooring buoys, take in the incredible landscapes that surround Cala Fredda.
Lavender, wildflowers, and orchids, these plants contribute to the island’s vibrant colors and fragrances, creating a picturesque setting for you to contemplate. To enjoy these surroundings embark on a hike to Palazzo Florio, a historic site to soak in the island’s past. Experience the captivating history and architectural beauty as you explore this magnificent palace. For the most adventurous, another exciting hike awaits at Torre Saracena, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.
Finally, you can take a tranquil stroll along the beach of Cala Fredda and immerse yourself in the breathtaking colors that paint the sky, cherishing the perfect ending to your day in this idyllic Mediterranean paradise.
Cala Manione
Our next stopover on Marettimo Island is located in the northwestern tip of the islands. There you’ll have the chance to anchor both sides of Castle Punta Troia at Cala Manione or Scalo Maestro. Both anchorages are well rated on Navily providing alternative wind protection for a safe stay and featuring sandbanks of good holding.
Once well anchored, you’ll have time to enjoy the splendid scenery that unfolds before you. Discover the untamed beauty of this bay, where extraordinary landscapes of towering cliffs and Mediterranean maquis forests meet lucid waters. This dramatic backdrop invites you to go on an exploration mission to the enchanting Grotta del Leone and Grotta del Pippa. Indeed, these fascinating sea caves showcase the island’s geological wonders. After an exciting excavation adventure, go on a historical hike to the Castle Punta Troia, located at the tip of the islands, offering splendid views over the anchorages.
Marettimo is truly captivating and the cherry on top is the different view of the amazing sunsets that illuminate the sky over the island on hot summer nights. On one side, choose Manione for burning spectacles against the rocky shoreline and or Scalo Maestro for beautiful fading lights behind the tip of the island. A beautiful sight that perfectly ends our itinerary in the Egadi Islands…
Cala Tramontana
However, The Octopus could not finish this sailing trip to the Egadi Islands without bringing you back to Levanzo. This is your opportunity to discover the hidden gem of Cala Tramontana. The pictures speak for themselves – the beauty of this place is unspeakable but we will try to do our best.
As you approach Cala Tramontana, towering cliffs stand as sentinels, forming a protective embrace around the cove.Their weathered textures and striking colors make for a visually stunning sight, especially when illuminated by the golden light of the sun. After you have been greeted by the natural beauty of the bay, you can use mooring buoys or anchor your boat. However, you should be careful as the seabed is mainly seagrass and rocks. Although the anchorage conditions are not perfect you are still well protected from the southern winds and the splendor of Cala Tramontana is something that should be witnessed.
Not only is the landscape of this anchorage out of this world but you can also offer exciting activities. For instance, visiting the Cave of Genoese, an exploration that takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Then, delve into the depths of this cave and uncover its hidden wonders, marveling at the fascinating rock formations and the secrets that lie within. For those seeking a scenic stroll, a walk to the Faro di Capo Grosso is a must. Within a manageable distance of just 30 minutes, passing through picturesques paths, you’ll be exposed to stunning views of the coastline, the sparkling sea, and the rugged cliffs.
This was the last anchorage of our tour for real this time (The Octopus is going to rest now)!
We hope you enjoyed it and that it will inspire you to embark on a sailing journey to the Egadi Islands. Check out other articles about anchorages in this geographic area: Aeolian Islands and Malta.
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