BELLA ITALIA
The rough plan was to cruise to the toe of Italy, explore the Aeolian Islands, then hop across to the north coast of Sicily
Regular readers may remember the last article I wrote about our voyage from the South of France to Gaeta, just north of Naples (MBY January 2018). We were searching for new boating horizons and we certainly found what we were looking for. With no disrespect to the French (we had some fabulous times there), we have come to love the Italian culture – the food, the family atmosphere and the warm welcomes. In every harbour we visit, the port crew immediately jump aboard, to help with the lines. And always with a jolly smile. What a pleasure!
Thus far we have enjoyed two seasons cruising the Pontine Islands, Ischia, Capri and the Amalfi Coast. Our Princess 54, L’amitiŽ, has given us everything we wanted – reliable and relaxed cruising with ample space and comfort for our three grown-up children and any visiting friends. This is now our sixth season together and she seems able to cope with all sea conditions effortlessly. We have always believed in preventative maintenance and we follow Volvo Penta’s service guidelines to the letter.
Gaeta hasn’t proved as much of a bargain as we had hoped. The mooring fees are cheaper than the French
