16 days - The Odysseus route Malta, Sicily - Calabria & the Aeolian Islands

This active sailing adventure in Italy is packed with phenomenal experiences. From sailing with a historic tall ship and hiking volcanos to immersing yourself in 6000-year-old culture and exploring the beautiful archipelago, which is under the protection of UNESCO World Heritage. From Vibo Marina, there will be a 10-12 hour crossing over to the archipelago and once there, Florette will spend plenty of time exploring the islands ashore.

The jewel in the Mediterranean has seven inhabited islands, each different. From lovely green hills to seething craters, you will find a wide variety of unique natural landscapes in a very small space. In 2000 the archipelago of the Aeolian Islands was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Regular volcanic eruptions of the Stromboli offer a true natural spectacle, and the volcanic mountains and Mediterranean landscapes are a true hiking paradise.

Although Lipari has approx. 5000 residents, you will find yourself in a typical Sicilian village, with one of the most beautiful archaeological museums in Italy and a picturesque old town with many small shops that are perfect for an afternoon stroll. Obsidian and pumice stones can be found around Monte Pilato, and it is well worth taking a detour on the Vespa, which offers hiking opportunities for different demands. 

Known as the Green Islands, Salina was “rebuilt’ in the 1970s as an agricultural mainstay. There are numerous vineyards, the dessert wine – Malvasia delle Lipari and, of course, the capers, considered some of the best in the world. Hikers can walk to the archipelago’s highest peak through beautiful pine and chestnut forests. 

Vulcano: The smell of Sulphur greets us as soon as we dock here. Until the 19th century, Sulphur and alum were mined only a few meters from the quay. Today, souvenir shops, spas, hotels, and bars line the harbour, and those who want to do so can wallow in the Sulphur mud. The highlight of this island is certainly the two-hour crater hike through the yellow sulfur fumaroles. 

Since ancient times, the Stromboli volcano has been an orientation point for seafarers at night. The Stromboli erupts every 15-20 minutes. Depending on the magma levels in the chimney, the lava fountains are thrown several hundred meters above the crater rim. 

From solo travellers to couples to families or friends, there is something for everyone on this sailing adventure. It is an unforgettable and versatile sailing holiday with daily trips ashore, offering a pleasant contrast to the social life on board. Go for a roundtrip with a Vespa on the Lipari island or perhaps a shopping tour on the elegant and chic Panarea luxury island. Or go hiking on Salina Island, known for its capers and sweet wine.

Swim, snorkel and kayak in secluded bays with crystal-clear water and dark beaches made of fine, black lava sand. Experience the fiery Stromboli, the most active volcano in Europe on an adventurous night-time hike. Climb Vulcano slumbering in sulphur fumes and enjoy a healing bath in the sulphur mud afterwards before dipping into the bubbling sea.