Italy yacht charters cost €20,000–€400,000 ($22,000–$432,000) per week. Season runs May–October. Best destinations: Amalfi Coast, Sardinia, Sicily, Portofino. Budget 30% of base rate for APA.
Italy Yacht Charter Guide 2025
Prices shown in EUR and USD. USD figures are approximate at €1 ≈ $1.08.
Italy offers the Mediterranean's most diverse charter experience — from the glamour of Capri and Portofino to the volcanic drama of the Aeolian Islands, the ancient temples of Sicily, and the world's finest cuisine at every anchorage. This guide covers rates, regions, and what Italian waters deliver that no other destination can.
May–Oct
Season
€20k–€400k/wk
Base rate
30–35%
APA
7 nights
Min. charter
Italian charter regions
Amalfi Coast & Campania
Capri · Positano · Ravello · Ischia · Procida
Italy's most iconic coast. Capri's Faraglioni rocks and Blue Grotto are unmissable. Positano for overnight anchoring with a view. Ischia for thermal spas. Extremely busy in July–August — book 6–12 months ahead.
Peak: June–August. Best value: May, September
Sardinia
Costa Smeralda · La Maddalena · Tavolara · Cagliari
The finest beaches in the Mediterranean. Porto Cervo is the superyacht capital of Italy — August is a procession of the world's largest vessels. La Maddalena archipelago has extraordinary water clarity. Quieter southern Sardinia suits nature-focused itineraries.
Peak: July–August. Best: June, September
Sicily & Aeolian Islands
Palermo · Taormina · Stromboli · Vulcano · Panarea
Sicily combines Greek temples, Arab-Norman architecture, and the world's finest street food. The Aeolian Islands are volcanic — watch Stromboli erupt from the water at night. Panarea is ultra-exclusive. An increasingly sought-after alternative to the Amalfi Coast.
Peak: July–August. Accessible May–October
Ligurian Coast & Portofino
Portofino · Cinque Terre · Camogli · Santa Margherita
Portofino is Europe's most elegant fishing village. The harbour fits perhaps 6 large superyachts — a berth here requires serious connections. Cinque Terre is best viewed from the water — the villages are inaccessible by road. Natural gateway to French Riviera combination itineraries.
Best: May–June, September
Italy charter rates by vessel size
EUR is contract currency. USD shown at €1 ≈ $1.08 for reference.
| Vessel size | Type | Rate/week (EUR / USD) | Total inc. 30% APA |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35–45m | Motor | €20k–€60k / $22k–$65k | €26k–€78k / $28k–$84k |
| 45–55m | Motor | €60k–€120k / $65k–$130k | €78k–€156k / $84k–$168k |
| 55–65m | Motor | €110k–€200k / $119k–$216k | €143k–€260k / $154k–$281k |
| 65–75m | Motor | €180k–€310k / $194k–$335k | €234k–€403k / $253k–$435k |
| 75m+ | Motor | €280k–€400k+ / $302k–$432k+ | €364k–€520k+ / $393k–$562k+ |
Italy charter — FAQ
What is the best time to charter a yacht in Italy?
The Italian charter season runs May through October. June and September are optimal — warm weather, uncrowded anchorages, and full marina facilities without the peak-August intensity. July and August are peak months: Portofino, Capri, and Positano are extremely busy. Sardinia and Sicily remain popular through October.
How much does a yacht charter in Italy cost?
Italian yacht charter rates range from €20,000 (~$22,000) per week for a 35m motor yacht to €400,000 (~$432,000) per week for a 75m+ flagship. A mid-range 45–55m motor yacht typically runs €80,000–€160,000 (~$86,000–$173,000) per week plus APA of 30–35%.
Which Italian destinations are best for a superyacht charter?
The Amalfi Coast (Positano, Ravello, Capri) is the most iconic and most congested. Sardinia's Costa Smeralda offers the finest beaches and Porto Cervo superyacht scene. Sicily combines history with excellent anchorages. The Aeolian Islands (Stromboli, Vulcano) are otherworldly. Portofino and the Ligurian coast are best for French Riviera–Italy combinations.
Is VAT charged on Italy yacht charters?
Italian VAT (22% standard, but charter boats may qualify for reduced rate) is complex. Charters in Italian waters are subject to Italian VAT regulations. Yachts that spend more than 50% of their time outside Italian territorial waters may qualify for a reduced rate. Always confirm VAT treatment with your broker at enquiry stage.
Can I combine Italy with Croatia or the French Riviera?
Yes — combination itineraries are popular and often excellent value. A Dubrovnik–Kotor–Montenegro–Puglia–Sicily itinerary is increasingly requested. French Riviera–Portofino–Cinque Terre–Aeolian Islands works well in 2–3 weeks. The key constraint is delivery/repositioning fees if the charter starts and ends in different countries.
What are the best anchorages in Italy for superyachts?
Capri's Marina Grande and Faraglioni anchorage; Positano for overnight (mooring ball); Porto Cervo (Sardinia) for the superyacht scene; Panarea (Aeolian) for exclusivity; Taormina bay (Sicily); San Fruttuoso (Liguria) for its underwater Christ statue. Many Italian anchorages require local knowledge — your captain handles all permits.