The journey begins from Otranto, the Cape Horn of Italy, teeming in summer with sailboats that have just arrived and vessels departing for the east. Sailing along this sea route makes for a long and particularly pleasurable voyage. Just past the south dock, after an hour's sailing, is the majestic column of Capo d’Otranto allowing for smooth, fast sailing. Port Badisco is the legendary landing site of Aeneas, located about an hour and half from Otranto. It is a deep, natural port with a rocky bottom that gives way to sand and mud near the shore. Pass the cliffside village of Santa Cesarea Terme, with its cluster of whitewashed Arabian style houses. The dominant winds move the vessel swiftly to reach port Miggiano. Because of its shallow seabed boats cannot be anchored in the small hidden port carved out of the sheer rock and recognisable by a guard tower that stands at its peak. Turn the prow towards the village and marina of Tricase, where - especially in summer - good-sized tuna can be caught by dropping shallow nets into the water.
Type
Sailing boat
Period:
April - May - June - July - August - September
Not to be missed:
The towns of Otranto, Santa Cesarea Terme and the lively Tricase marina are definitely worth a visit.
Useful informations
Before reaching Otranto the two Alimini lakes connected by a sea channel are a sign of the dangerous surprises that may be lie in wait along this stretch of sea. Keeping one's distance is an imperative for safe sailing. When arriving near the entrance to the Tricase port it is best to furl sails and enter by motor. Given the narrowness of the inlet it is ill-advised to arrive at night or in Sirocco winds. Mooring for passing seacraft is located at the beginning of the south dock; here the seabed is stable but only water is available at the quay. Owing to its depth and wealth of cold-water springs, the port dock is small and perfectly clean. This area is organised with cranes and nautical work sites and frequented by accomplished amateur fisherman who may offer excellent advice.
Sources: Claudio Santoliquido Updated on: 09/08/2011
Project created in collaboration with InnovaPuglia.
Regione Puglia
Regione Puglia