Elite Traveler Fall 2019

FOR LA DOLCE VITA NORTH STAR IN ITALY

The South of Italy has been a source of inspiration for poets, authors and artists for centuries, and it’s easy to see why: It’s whimsical and utterly romantic with fascinating historical buildings, Unesco sites, flourishing gardens and pretty towns galore. And you can see the best of the coast with a voyage on board North Star . Designed by renowned architect Espen Oeino, she is 207 ft of magnificence: an enormous sun deck with a glass-fronted Jacuzzi, gym, beach club and swimming platform, two lounging areas and a bridge deck with a full bar and dining area. Beginning in Naples, history buffs will delight in the sheer number of ancient churches — there are close to 450 within the city walls. Be sure to visit the city’s cathedral, Duomo di San Gennaro; it is filled with captivating frescoes. Sail on to Ischia, a volcanic island in the Gulf of Naples, and marvel at the bountiful vineyards, crumbling castles and buried relics. The island is known for its mineral-rich thermal waters and hot springs, and the healing properties they possess. Back on board North Star , head to her expansive sundeck to spot whales and dolphins — the surrounding waters are home to approximately seven species, including spermwhales. Let the call of the Sirens seduce you in Capri, the next destination on the itinerary. The jaw-droppingly beautiful island is made for exploring; amble through the cobbled streets and dine like the locals in an off-the-beaten-path restaurant, or enjoy a romantic dinner back on board North Star with the enchanting scenery as your backdrop. Next, you’ll journey on to the impossibly pretty Positano, where pastel-hued houses appear to sit on top of one another on the tumbling cliffside. Visit charming boutiques for one-of-a-kind clothing, jewelry and shoes, and dine by the light of hundreds of candles at Michelin-starred La Sponda at the famous Le Sirenuse hotel. To paraphrase John Steinbeck, Positano certainly bites deep. Journey onward to Amalfi. Sitting beneath the mouth of a gorge, it is encircled by dramatic cliffs and is one of the most historic towns along the coast. Visit Saint Andrew’s Cathedral (Duomo) and take your time savoring all the details: Baroque interiors, Byzantine exteriors, bronze sculptures and gilded paintings. Spend the penultimate few days exploring the mythical Aeolian Islands. Named after the demigod of the winds, Aeolus, the volcanic archipelago consists of Vulcano, Lipari, Salina, Panarea, Stromboli, Filicudi and Alicudi. While here, sail around the islands: see Stromboli’s black beaches; hikeMonte Fossa delle Felci, the highest point on Salina island; walk the length of Panarea (it’s just 1.5 miles long and there are strictly no cars allowed); witness volcanic wonder at Vulcano and treat yourself to a sulphuric mud bath. The trip comes to an end in Sicily, where you’ll visit Taormina — it sits on top of a hill near Mount Etna, an active volcano. Check out Teatro Antico di Taormina, an ancient Greek theater that is still used today, or get the chef to pack a picnic from one of the many delicious delis and head down to a secluded cove on the beach. From$549,000 per week in high season. Contact Simon Goldsworthy, senior broker, sg@edmiston.com, +44 207 495 5151, edmiston.com

LOA 207 ft Number of guests 12 in 6 cabins Crew 16 Builder Sunrise Yachts Year of build 2019 Outstanding features 7,373-sq-ft exterior deck, cinema room/den

Photo Narong Rattanaya