🇮🇹 Italy

Italy’s Adriatic runs from Trieste to the Strait of Otranto: shallow northern lagoons (Venice/Po), open day-sailing stretches through Romagna/Marche, the Gargano headland and the more sheltered Salento; tides are small, but bora/sirocco and IIM/Coast Guard notices matter.

About Italy

Italy’s Adriatic arc spans the Gulf of Trieste and the Venetian Lagoon down to the Otranto Strait. The north features lagoons and shoals (the Venetian Lagoon connects to the sea via the Lido, Malamocco and Chioggia inlets), where wind-driven set-up and seiches dominate water-level swings; autumn–winter acqua alta can flood low-lying areas.

Farther south, Veneto/Emilia-Romagna/Marche offer open coastal legs ideal for short day hops. In Apulia, the Gargano promontory stands out, and the Salento coast provides more sheltered options; the Strait of Otranto is the southern gateway to the Ionian.

Tides are generally micro-tidal compared with ocean coasts, but storm surges and seiches can be significant in the north.

Key winds to plan for are the bora (NE, strongest in the north) and sirocco (SE), with reliable summer sea breezes. Check Istituto Idrografico della Marina Notices to Mariners and MRCC Rome (Italian Coast Guard) for safety and warnings.

Let's Discover Italy

Italy 🇮🇹 is a fantastic sailing destination in the Adriatic, offering 1 coastal cities and 2 marinas. Whether you're looking for modern full-service marinas or charming historic harbors, you'll find plenty of options along the coastline. Explore vibrant coastal towns, discover well-equipped marinas, and enjoy breathtaking views as you sail through this beautiful region.