Highlights & Activities

SV Florette

On Florette, every day is an adventure shaped by nature—whether it's an exciting sail in the wind, a fresh catch for an evening BBQ, or a hidden bay that captures our hearts. Our flexible itinerary lets us savor each island's unique charm. We sail off the beaten path, carefully choosing our cruising grounds to explore local highlights. This approach embodies sustainable travel, aiming to reduce tourism's negative impact while offering unique experiences.

A core value of sustainable travel is respect for the environment. As a sail-powered vessel, Tallship Florette relies on wind, making it an eco-friendly option with a minimal carbon footprint. Its slow pace allows for immersion in the surroundings, appreciating nature's beauty and the vast sea.Supporting local communities is another key value.

What we like to offer
  • Engage in active sailing aboard a majestic 100-year-old wooden windjammer
  • Become part of the Florette crew, joining a family with over 40 years of seafaring heritage
  • Savor Florette's excellent food, drinks, and warm company
  • Experience blue water sailing under a canopy of stars, embracing the elements.
  • Enjoy a thoughtfully paced route, allowing time to explore islands, connect with locals, and immerse in rich cultural highlights
  • Embrace a digital detox and leave everyday life behind
  • Discover varied sailing legs with no two trips alike
  • Dive into activities directly from the ship, including swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding

sailing

Join the Brigantine Florette for an extraordinary sailing adventure! Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a newcomer, immerse yourself in hands-on sailing, teamwork, and the thrill of steering a tall ship. No prior experience needed—just bring your enthusiasm and team spirit for unforgettable memories at sea. Embrace the spirit of seafaring and channel your inner explorer on this unique voyage! What to Expect on Your Sailing Adventure

Learn the Ropes: Our experienced crew will teach you the basics of sailing, from hoisting sails and steering to tying knots and navigating.

Work as a Team:
Sailing a tall ship requires teamwork, so get ready to work together with your fellow sailors to make the Brigantine Florette move through the water.
Unplug and Reconnect: Leave technology behind and disconnect from everyday distractions. Use this opportunity to connect with nature and those around you.

Speed was and is a matter of weather
Florette's fastest journey was returning from Barcelona: Talaro (a previous owner) said that she was half loaded with assorted freight, and a strong North West wind emerged on the way to Viareggio in Tuscany allowing them to reach the destination in only (approximately) 36 hours, and therefore her speed must have been an average of around 12 -13 knots. The slowest non-stop journey was from Viareggio to Palermo which took 4 and a half months. This shows just how big a part the wind played in when cargo would arrive.

Active participation of guests (Voagecrew)
Whoever books a trip on the Florette should be ready to participate actively. Our guests must help in setting sail since we still sail in the traditional way. A minimum of 12 people are required for setting the 130 square metre gaff mainsail. Therefore, you must be surefooted, and good fitness is an absolute prerequisite, especially for older people. Sailing on Florette cannot be compared with yacht sailing! Please contact us, in case of any queries or uncertainties, at.
Volcanoes
Active volcanoes with varying temperament

 Night-time hike on the Stromboli
Experience the fiery Stromboli, the most active volcano in Europe on an adventurous night-time hike. If the activities of the Stromboli allow, visitors can take part in a guided night-time hike up to the peak together with a guide from Magma-Trek.

Two more viewpoints (Pizzeria at the bottom of the volcano) and an old helicopter landing platform about half way up can be visited without guidance. The view from all three points is good. You can start the hike late afternoon with a guided group up to the higher crater. If twilight has already fallen by then, you can experience and photograph from close proximity the rumbling and lava fountains during good activity of the volcano. This hike is recommended for people who exercise. You can also admire the natural spectacle from the pizzeria at the foot of the Stromboli with a glass of red wine.

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From our base, the “Florette”, we undertake day tours with sea kayaks to virgin bays with white sandy beaches or black lava beaches, pretty villages, rustic restaurants - new surprises wait for you every day on the tours: Sometimes dreamily cruising on the peaceful, turquoise-colored sea and then sometimes wildly rocking with the wind in the waves. Seven attractive volcanic islands form the beautiful archipelago in front of the north coast of Sicily. Sea kayakers, bathing enthusiasts and people interested in cultural history with a soft spot for prehistory as well as antiquity are in for a treat and so are explorers fond of travel and connoisseurs of the sophisticated Mediterranean cuisine. The Lipari island is thus impressive with wonderful landscapes and a bustling small town life in the “Island-Metropolis” of Lipari-city.

Sea-kayak tours:
Guided sea-kayak tours with Prijon sea kayaks

Since 2008, Florette is one of the best addresses for sea kayak in the Mediterranean. Usually 8 days guided sea kayak tours with Prijon sea kayaks. We can offer a complete package with rental boats, support or course for Exclusive charter or small groups which are led with a guide. Please contact us for an offer.

In 2025, 2 tours are planned with Holger Heuber as a guide https://www.holger-heuber-abenteuer.de

Our kayak guides have been working with us for more than 10 years and are real professionals in their field:
Holger Heuber https://www.holger-heuber-abenteuer.de

6000-year old culture and culinary delicacies

The Museo Archeologiico is located in Lipari, one of the most important archeological museums of Europe with 6000-year old culture. You can also visit the fortress in Lipari, in the direct vicinity of Cattedrale di San Bartolomeo (1654) and the archeological park with the amphitheater on the castle rock. The thermal springs of San Calogero, although not very impressive, are one of the oldest of the ancient world. Panarea invites you for a walk to the remnants of a Neolithic village on Capo di Milazzo.

Visit the Salina island, known for its capers and sweet wine. You also have the option of going on a shopping tour on the elegant and chic Panarea luxury-island. You can enjoy culinary delicacies on one of the many trattorias and restaurants in Lipari. The great number of shops invite you a shopping tour in the evening.

Island roundtrip with a E bike
Go for a roundtrip with a E bike on the Lipari island. Soon you will leave behind the lively city of Lipari and can enjoy the fabulous views from the panorama street. One of the highlights is Belvedere Quattrocchi: an overwhelming view on the bizarre cliff formations that tower up to 70m from the sea.

Delicacies
The Italian cuisine is a part of traditional culture on the Lipari island. Do not miss out on the fish specialties, capers, Limoncello, Malvasia and much more. A true paradise for gourmets.

The sulfuric bath...
... and the hot water springs in Vulcano

After visiting Vulcano enjoy a healing bath in the sulfuric mud. Then head to the bubbling sea to the natural hot springs (small active sulphur springs in the sea). The Vulcano island is noticeable from far away because of the strong sulfurous odor. The mud bath in the sulfuric pool should work like a rejuvenating cure.

As a matter of fact skin will become velvety soft. Some effort is still necessary. One is supposed to sit in the warm knee-deep pool and cover oneself with the sludge. The sulfuric mud should be washed away after a short time. A short walk ahead will take you to the natural sea springs for relaxation. Caution: Hot!

The love to nature
UNESCO Hertiage

The islands have volcanic origins and were declared as World Heritage Site in 1997 by the UNESCO with the reason “that the volcanic landscapes of the islands represent classical subjects of the ongoing examination of volcanology worldwide." Salina is especially recognized as a green island. Extended hikes on both peaks take you through fantastic flora and fauna. There is also the possibility to visit one of the small fishing villages Rinella or Ligua on foot or by bus. Salina is the only island in the archipelago with a natural fresh water spring. Whoever is interested in the delicacies of the Aeolian islands, should absolutely try the famous Malvasia (dessert wine). Capers are the largest exported product.

The Salina island
Salina is recognizable from far away by two old crater cones. You can go for a wonderful hike to the peak in Salina. Keep sufficient time for this purpose.

Hiking the best and most ecofriendly way to explore the island
We recommend you to take sturdy hiking gear, not only for the night-time hike. For hikes on Salina or Vulcano you should take along sturdy hiking shoes. A warm jacket is absolutely necessary for the cool evenings and the hike on the Stromboli.

Snorkeling gear
We recommend you to definitely take your snorkeling gear along. You will have several opportunities to discover the underwater flora and fauna on the fabulous rock formations and secluded bays. Often, you can also enjoy beautiful underwater views directly from the board.

Discover the Magic of the Aeolian Islands: Hike and Sail Adventure with Magmatrek

Join us aboard the Brigantine Florette for an unparalleled adventure that combines the thrill of sailing with the exploration of Europe's most active volcanoes. In partnership with the renowned local company, Magmatrek, our guided hikes and sailing experience promise memories that will last a lifetime. Highlights of the Voyage Hiking Across the Aeolian Islands: Journey through the diverse and stunning landscapes of the Aeolian Islands. From volcanic terrains to serene coastal paths, each island offers a unique hiking experience. Whether it's the fiery allure of Vulcano and Stromboli or the tranquil trails of Lipari and Salina, every hike reveals breathtaking views and hidden gems. Stromboli Volcano Hike: Experience the excitement of hiking up the active Stromboli volcano. Depending on the volcano's current activity, you can hike up to 400 meters. This 4-hour trek where you'll witness the spectacular sight of glowing lava against the night sky—a true bucket-list experience.

Enjoy a moderate hike up to Vulcano's Gran Cratere. The 2-hour journey rewards with panoramic views of the surrounding islands and an up-close look at fumaroles venting sulfurous gases, offering insights into the island's volcanic nature. Salina's Monte Fossa delle Felci: For nature lovers, the hike to Monte Fossa delle Felci on Salina is a must. This serene 6-hour trek through lush landscapes of ferns and wildflowers leads to the highest peak in the Aeolian Islands, boasting sweeping views of twin craters and beyond. Lipari's Coastal Trail: Perfect for a leisurely exploration, Lipari's coastal trail spans 3 hours of gentle hiking. Discover crystal-clear waters, charming coves, and historical sites, such as ancient pumice mines, as you meander along the stunning coastline.

Each hike is carefully curated to offer a distinct and enriching experience, catering to various levels of adventure and interest. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping climbs or peaceful nature walks, this voyage provides an unforgettable blend of exploration and relaxation on the enchanting Aeolian Islands. Embark on this unique journey and embrace the spirit of adventure!