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Calabria sailing itinerary
Map of the best ports and anchorages
Read the notes and warnings from sailors who have stopped in Calabria and always choose the best port or anchorage for the night. If you found this map useful you can also leave a review, share your best photos of Italy, or add a new spot you discovered.
Best anchorages in Calabria
(Add an anchorage)Always choose the safest spot with a live ranking of your favorite anchorages in Calabria. Try zooming in to avoid seaweed fields, then tick to start your list of favourites.
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The water here is calm and clear, perfect for a refreshing swim. I anchored for a couple of nights, … Read more about this listing
Best ports and marinas in Calabria
(Add a port)Find a berth for the night with a live ranking of your favorite harbors in Calabria, keeping an eye on the tide and weather forecast. You can also participate by sharing a missing phone number or VHF channel when possible.
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At Porto di Vibo Marina, I had a really good experience. The staff were friendly and made checking i… Read more about this listing
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As soon as I arrived, I was struck by the stunning views of the iconic Tropea cliffs. The marina its… Read more about this listing
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The marina itself is well-equipped, featuring solid berthing options and ample services, including w… Read more about this listing
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The location is beautiful, with long beaches on all the coastline. A couple of great restaurants and… Read more about this listing
The coast of Calabria
The ancient Greeks were among the first to establish settlements here, naming it “Enotria,” which translates to “land of wine.” The historic town of Locri, once a Greek colony, was a center of trade and culture.
The strait of Messina
Further south along the coast, in the strait of Messina, you will find the imposing ruins of the Aragonese castle. Originally constructed in the 10th century, it has witnessed numerous sieges and transformations, reflecting the turbulent history of this strategic location. The panoramic views of the Strait of Messina serve as a reminder of the geographic significance that has attracted countless civilizations.
Between Scylla and Charybdis
The phrase “between Scylla and Charybdis” originates from ancient Greek mythology, referring to the perilous navigation between two sea monsters that posed grave dangers to sailors. Scylla was a fearsome creature with multiple dog-like heads, waiting to snatch unsuspecting mariners. Charybdis, on the other hand, was a monstrous whirlpool that would engulf ships whole, creating a terrifying vortex in the sea.
Today, the phrase continues to evoke the idea of navigating life’s difficult choices, a timeless reminder of the complexities faced in pursuit of safety and success. Whether in literature or daily life, the tale of Scylla and Charybdis serves as a compelling allegory for the dilemmas we encounter.
Whirlpools
The whirlpools in the Strait of Messina are primarily caused by the unique hydrodynamics of the area. The strait connects the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Ionian Sea, creating a natural funnel. As the tides and currents flow in and out, they interact with the narrow channel, generating strong water movements. The significant difference in sea levels between the two bodies of water, along with the gravitational pull of the moon, creates powerful tidal currents. When these currents collide, especially during changes in tide, they can create turbulent water patterns, resulting in whirlpools. This phenomenon can be quite dramatic, especially during certain tidal phases, creating swirling currents that can pose challenges for navigation.
Tornadoes
Tornadoes in the Strait of Messina are typically the result of the interaction of warm, moist air from the Mediterranean Sea with cooler, dry air from the land. This combination create instability in the atmosphere, and tornadoes are common during the transition seasons of spring and autumn.