In the Gulf of Naples there is an alternative to Capri, more intimate and just as beautiful: the islands of Procida and Ischia. Fishing villages, castles on the sea, thermal springs bubbling up among the rocks. Here is how to discover them by boat.
Procida, the island of colours
Procida is the smallest of the gulf’s islands and one of the most authentic. In 2022 it was Italy’s Capital of Culture. Arriving from the sea, the first thing you see is Marina Corricella, with its pastel-coloured houses running down to the water and the fishing boats along the quay.
- Terra Murata, the fortified village on the highest point, with a view over the whole gulf.
- Vivara, a small island linked by a bridge and now a nature reserve.
- La Chiaiolella, with its beach and a small harbour in the south of the island.
Ischia, the green island
Ischia is larger, greener and more varied. You can sail around it in a day, stopping in the most beautiful bays.
- The Aragonese Castle, on the islet linked to Ischia Ponte: spectacular from the sea.
- The bay of Cartaromana, right in front of the castle.
- Sant’Angelo, a car-free village on the south coast, with its isthmus and white houses.
- The bay of Sorgeto, where hot thermal water mixes with the sea among the rocks.
- The bay of San Montano, near Lacco Ameno, with clear water and a sandy seabed.
A marine area to respect
The waters around Ischia, Procida and Vivara are part of a marine protected area, with zones that have different rules for navigation and anchoring. The captain chooses where to stop; you will find some advice in the article on sustainable chartering.
A three-day itinerary
- Day 1: departure from Naples or Pozzuoli, Procida and the Corricella, dinner on the island.
- Day 2: Vivara in the morning, then Ischia: the Aragonese Castle and Cartaromana.
- Day 3: around Ischia with Sant’Angelo and Sorgeto, back at sunset.
With more days you can continue towards Capri and the Amalfi Coast.
The gulf in 2027
In 2027 the Gulf of Naples hosts the America’s Cup, with races to follow from the sea: a chance to combine the islands with a historic event.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time?
From May to October. June and September combine warm water and fewer crowds.
Can it be done in a day?
Yes, one day is enough for Procida or a tour of Ischia. To see both at a relaxed pace, two or three days are better.
Want to discover the islands of the gulf? Take a look at our destinations or send us your dates.
