Tuscan Archipelago
Seven islands overlooking crystal clear waters, to be discovered on a gulet cruise surrounded by nature and tradition.
Why choose the Tuscan Archipelago?
The Tuscan Archipelago is one of the best-kept secrets in the Mediterranean. Comprising seven major islands: Elba, Giglio, Capraia, Montecristo, Pianosa, Giannutri and Gorgona. This archipelago offers an extraordinary variety of landscapes, biodiversity and local culture.
Sailing among these islands on a gulet means experiencing the sea in a slow and profound way, discovering hidden beaches, crystal clear waters, seabeds rich in marine life, paths through the Mediterranean scrub and small villages with ancient charm.
Many of these islands are little known to mass tourism and retain a rare authenticity: rural traditions, maritime culture, simple but rich cuisine and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a boat holiday away from the hustle and bustle.
Each island has its own soul: some are wilder, others more welcoming, but all are immersed in a marine and terrestrial national park that protects the extraordinary natural wealth of the archipelago.
With a gulet cruise, you can explore them one by one, stop in the most beautiful coves, swim in crystal-clear waters and discover corners of Tuscany suspended between land and sea.
Discovering Elba Island and the wonders of Tuscany
Seven unique islands, nestled between the Ligurian Sea and the Tyrrhenian Sea, form the Tuscan Archipelago: the perfect destination for a gulet cruise filled with beauty, exploration and relaxation.
Elba Island, the largest of the islands, is a true Mediterranean microcosm: golden sandy beaches and white pebbles, turquoise waters, scenic trails, historical sites and lively villages.
Here you can dive into the clear waters, visit Napoleon’s former residence, explore the Capoliveri promontory or savour local dishes in the restaurants on the harbour.
Each island has something to offer:
Capraia, wild and rocky, ideal for snorkelling;
Giglio, with dream beaches and a medieval village overlooking the sea;
Montecristo, protected and mysterious, a nature reserve accessible with a permit;
Pianosa, flat and bright, with a history of prisons and unspoilt nature;
Giannutri, intimate and romantic, perfect for diving and walks by the sea;
Gorgona, the smallest, still home to an agricultural penal colony and not very accessible, but extremely charming.
A boat cruise in the Tuscan Archipelago is a journey through nature, history and the sea that will surprise you with its authenticity and beauty.
Sailing areas
With Plaghia Charter, you can explore:
Elba Island, with its enchanting beaches and varied landscapes;
Giglio Island, with its crystal-clear coves and historical sights;
Capraia, for adventures in pristine waters;
Montecristo, the island of mystery and legend;
Pianosa, with its crystal-clear sea and atmosphere suspended in time;
Giannutri, where you can snorkel among Roman ruins;
Gorgona, rare and fascinating, for true explorers.
Each itinerary can be customised according to your wishes. Our staff will help you create a tailor-made gulet cruise so you can experience the best of the Tuscan Archipelago in complete freedom.
Book your multi-day cruise in the Tuscan Archipelago
History talks
History tells us that the notoriety of the Island of Elba, besides its natural beauty, is linked to a famous name in history, that of Napoleon Bonaparte. For Napoleon, Elba represented a short, but extremely important, period of exile. He lived and reigned there for ten months at the start of the 19th century.
He arrived on Elba after the disastrous Russian Campaign. The Napoleonic period, even if short-lived, left Elba with two important Museums of Napoleonic Residences in Portoferraio. He had two residences: Villa dei Mulini, the town mansion located in the old town of Portoferraio and Villa San Martino, the larger mansion, immersed in the countryside a few kilometres from the capital of the island towards Procchio - Marina di Campo.
Napoleon left the island a legacy of important paintings and books, besides the splendid
Vigilanti Theatre.
At the end, Napoleon fled Elba to reconquer the throne of France.
