Yachting along the Costa Smeralda, Sardinia

From the best things to do in Hong Kong to discovering where the local’s eat in Delhi, our team of writers are constantly sharing delightful ways to discover more about this enchanting world of ours. And for a slice of complete indulgence, Aude Camus recently escaped to Sardinia. Here, she shares her top tips for an unforgettable experience yachting along Italy’s captivating Costa Smeralda.

A guide to yachting along the Costa Smeralda

Day 1: Unveiling Costa Smeralda’s enchanting charms

Conveniently located a six-minute drive from Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport, MOYS (Marina di Olbia Yachting Services) is the spot of choice to embark on your Sardinian adventures. Though small in size, Olbia’s exquisite historic centre beckons for a leisurely stroll. Alternatively, embark on your seafaring journey from Marina di Cannigione, an idyllic escape nestled within the picturesque village of Cannigione, renowned for its pristine coves and crystalline waters.

Our next destination promises an immersive experience in captivating charm. Relaxation is our programme for the next few hours, as we glide along the sun-kissed coastline, dotted with picturesque coves, en route to Yacht Club Punta Sardegna also known as the Marina Di Porto Rafael.

It’s only a short scenic walk to the charming village where azure waters glisten against villas embraced by verdant foliage and weathered cliffs, perfumed with the scent of bright lilac flowers.

Be sure to visit the gorgeous Santa Rita Church

Founded in the 1960s by Spanish aristocrat, and socialite, Count Rafael Neville de Berlanga y del Duero, Porto Rafael was built to host the rich and celebs of the time. The village’s seaside Piazzetta witnessed epic summer parties, including Count Rafael’s annual white birthday celebration on August 21st. Photos of these are on display alongside the ‘Discesa del Conte’, the granite pathway heading from Santa Rita – the miniature 4-seat church honouring the patron saint of artists, down to the sea.

Near Santa Rita, a revered local institution, Harry’s Bar, awaits us for breakfast, In the meantime, we enjoy handmade fregula – Sardinian pasta, local olive oil, and other gourmet delights from the local alimentary (supermarket).

Down on the Piazzeta, a few boutiques await where you can shop jewels, resort wear, and small decoration items. The golden hour light is our call for apperitivo, best enjoyed in the form of a Bellini at the terrace of wine and cocktail bar Solaz.

But the evening holds more enchantment as we embark on a short drive to Tenuta Petra Bianca, an ‘agriturismo’ cradled amid Gallura’s lush vineyards and nature’s bounty. Here, a toast to the sunset unfurls with a glass of Vermentino di Gallura, Sardinia’s prestigious DOCG (denominazione di origine controllata e garantita) wine produced on the estate. Prepare to indulge in a lavish dinner showcasing Sardinia’s culinary treasures, thoughtfully presented in a tantalising tasting menu.

Day 2: Embracing glitz and glamour in Porto Cervo

Awaken to the gentle rhythm of lapping water. Refresh your senses with a morning swim in the crystal-clear waters of Yacht Club Punta Sardegna.

It’s now time for a quintessential ‘cornetto e cappucino’ breakfast at Harry’s Bar, accompanied by the delightful art of people-watching. There’s a newspaper vending machine on the small square, if you want to blend in with the locals or practise your Italian reading the Corriere della Serra or L’Unione Sarda. Embrace the unhurried pace of life, where moments are cherished piano piano.

After a long leisurely morning, embark on your yacht towards Porto Cervo, where marine parks and tranquil coves offer idyllic stops along the way. Bask in the sun’s warmth and plunge into the azure waters, experiencing true relaxation amidst nature’s beauty.

As the afternoon mellows into early evening, the glitz and glamour of Porto Cervo unfold before you. This picturesque village, masterfully created by Prince Karim Aga Khan in the 1960s, boasts a superyacht-filled marina, Moorish architectural gems, and an array of luxury boutiques. Despite the summer buzz, Porto Cervo retains an undeniable charm.

Get lost in the enchanting alleyways, indulging in window shopping before reaching La Piazza, where alfresco drinks at Nuna Al Sole offer sweeping views of Marina Di Porto Cervo and the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Alternatively, head down to the waterfront’s Nikki Beach pop-up bar and lounge for creatively crafted cocktails.

Zuma interior — Get your Japanese fix at Zuma

Having opened its doors in July 2022, Zuma is one of the city’s most sought-after dining destinations. Here you can enjoy spending dinner with unrivalled sea views. Savour their signature Japanese-infused dishes, such as marinated black cod and roasted lobster with green chilli and garlic shiso butter, as you bask in the golden hour light.

Should you wish to explore local flavours, Frades-La Terrazza beckons with jaw-dropping vistas and a refined menu of Sardinian specialties. Opt for a tasting menu, focusing on the bounties of the sea or the land, each tantalising in its own.

If the night calls for celebration, revel in Porto Cervo’s vibrant nightlife at Toy Room, where an exclusive ambiance, captivating atmosphere, and impeccable music promise an unforgettable evening.

Day 3: Serenity on the shore and a seafood feast

After a night of revelry, a leisurely morning aboard the yacht is just the remedy we seek. If you’re not up for a stroll to Harry’s Bar, fear not, as the marina’s quaint bar offers breakfast as well. This unassuming dining spot, without a trace on the web or social media, unveils its charm at night through fresh local seafood. As you savour your espresso, remember to secure a table for tonight. You’re going to love it.

Phi Beach club — Phi Beach sets the scene for plenty of R&R

As the sun climbs high, our sails set towards today’s destination: Phi Beach. By day, a captivating beach club, and as night descends, it transforms into an open-air nightclub. Accessible by land or sea, Phi Beach lies at the base of the Napoleonic fortress of Forte Cappellini, inviting us to unwind amidst turquoise waters and weathered rocks. The idyllic setting creates a picturesque backdrop for unforgettable sunsets, making Phi Beach an ideal choice for aperitivo.

Yet, let us not forget our dinner reservation at Yacht Club Punta Sardegna, drawing us back to Porto Rafael and our waterfront. At this hidden culinary haven, menus remain unheard of, as sharing-style dining steals the spotlight. A five-course seafood feast, fresh from the day’s catch, awaits you. Revel in delicacies like Sardinian tuna carpaccio, scampi crudi, and pasta alla granceola, also known as spider crab linguine.

For libations, simplicity reigns with a choice of only one red and one white wine—both hailing from the local vineyards. As twilight deepens into night, you may opt for a nightcap—a chance to savour the locals’ favourite liqueur, Mirto, crafted from myrtle.

In the embrace of Sardinia’s coastal wonders, a yachting escapade becomes a symphony of charm and indulgence, leaving unforgettable imprints on our souls.

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