The Costa Smeralda: 55 km of Paradise between Granite and Sea
The Costa Smeralda is a stretch of coastline approximately 55 kilometers long in northeastern Sardinia, an uninterrupted succession of coves, inlets, and beaches nestled between pink granite rocks sculpted by wind and salt. Its waters, ranging from intense turquoise to the emerald green that gave it its name, are among the clearest and most photographed in the entire Mediterranean.
Born as an exclusive tourist destination in the late 1950s thanks to the vision of Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, the Costa Smeralda has maintained over time a rare balance between luxury tourism development and respect for nature. Buildings follow a unique architectural style that integrates perfectly with the surrounding landscape, and large portions of the coast have remained untouched and wild, reachable only by sea.
A charter in the Costa Smeralda is much more than a simple boat vacation: it is a sensory journey through the scents of Mediterranean scrubland, flavors of Sardinian cuisine, colors of the sea that change with the daylight, and silences that only unspoiled nature can offer. With Nauticon, every charter becomes a bespoke experience, crafted around your desires.
The Secret Coves of the Costa Smeralda
One of the greatest privileges of sailing in the Costa Smeralda is the ability to reach hidden coves and beaches inaccessible from land. Our crew knows every corner of this extraordinary coastline and will take you to the most exclusive spots, far from the crowds even in peak season.
Cala di Volpe
The most famous bay of the Costa Smeralda, dominated by the iconic Hotel Cala di Volpe designed by Jacques Couelle. Its shallow turquoise waters, sheltered from the winds, are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Anchoring here at sunset is an experience you will never forget: the sun sets fire to the pink granite rocks, creating a color spectacle unique in the world.
Liscia Ruja - Long Beach
Known as Long Beach for its nearly one-kilometer extension, Liscia Ruja is the longest beach on the Costa Smeralda. Fine golden sand slopes gently into crystal-clear turquoise-hued water. Seen from the sea, with the Mediterranean scrubland hills behind it, it offers a postcard-perfect setting. Ideal for a stop with lunch at anchor.
Spiaggia del Principe
The Aga Khan's personal favorite beach, and perhaps the most beautiful on the entire coast. Pristine white sand, transparent water with shades ranging from turquoise to cobalt, and a sandy seabed perfect for snorkeling. Reachable by tender from the sea, it offers a paradisiacal stop during the charter.
Mortorio and the Islands
The islands of Mortorio and Bisce, facing the Costa Smeralda, offer spectacular seabeds and sheltered coves where you can anchor in total privacy. These small uninhabited islands are a snorkeling paradise, with abundant marine life including barracuda, grouper, and schools of colorful fish.
Onboard Experiences in Costa Smeralda
A charter in the Costa Smeralda with Nauticon is not just sailing: it is an immersive experience engaging all senses. Our team tends to every detail to transform each moment on board into an unforgettable memory.
Onboard Gastronomy
From informal lunches with Sardinian specialties like seafood fregola and porceddu, to gourmet dinners prepared by the onboard chef with the freshest catch of the day. Every meal is accompanied by selected Sardinian wines: Vermentino di Gallura DOCG, Cannonau di Sardegna, and local sparkling wines.
Sunset Aperitivo
An unmissable ritual: the captain anchors the yacht in the perfect position to watch the sunset over the coast, while the onboard service prepares an aperitif with artisanal cocktails, fresh oysters, and gourmet nibbles. A moment of pure magic suspended between sky and sea.
Sports & Adventure
The crystal-clear waters of the Costa Smeralda are the perfect playground for water sports enthusiasts. Snorkeling in the depths off Mortorio, wakeboarding off Romazzino, kayaking in the caves of Capo Ferro, and paddleboarding in the calm waters of sheltered inlets.
Relaxation & Wellness
For those seeking total relaxation, our yachts offer private sun deck areas, and upon request we can arrange onboard spa treatments with professional therapists. The sound of the sea, the marine breeze, and the coastal panorama create the perfect environment to rejuvenate body and mind.
Navigating the Costa Smeralda: Must-See Stretches and Stops
Sailing along the Costa Smeralda is like flipping through a book of natural wonders, where every page reveals a different and surprising landscape. Departing from Porto Cervo heading south, you encounter the bays of Romazzino and Cala di Volpe, with their sheltered turquoise waters and golden sand beaches. Continuing on, Petra Ruja and Grande Pevero offer wilder scenery, with spectacular granite formations emerging from sapphire-colored seas.
Heading north, from Porto Cervo to Baja Sardinia, the coast becomes more jagged and rich with hidden inlets. Here you find some of the most beautiful and lesser-known coves, where you can anchor in complete solitude surrounded only by the scent of myrtle and the song of cicadas. The Island of Mortorio, just offshore, is a must-visit for those seeking dream-like seabeds.
For those with more days available, the itinerary can extend toward the La Maddalena Archipelago to the north and the beaches of San Teodoro and Budoni to the south, creating a route that embraces the best of northeastern Sardinia. Our team will recommend the perfect itinerary based on charter duration, season, and your personal preferences.
Ashore: the Social Life of the Costa Smeralda
The Costa Smeralda is not just about the sea: it is an entire world of exclusive experiences extending onshore as well. Porto Cervo, the beating heart of the coast, offers an elegant promenade lined with high-fashion boutiques, art galleries, and jewelers. The old village, known as the Piazzetta, is the perfect spot for a morning coffee or an evening aperitif surrounded by the international jet set.
During summer, the Costa Smeralda comes alive with world-class events. The sailing regattas of the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda attract the finest crews in the world, while concerts, art exhibitions, and private parties at the most exclusive venues complete an unrivaled social calendar. Our concierge service can arrange reservations, VIP access, and transfers for every event.
