Expert Offshore

An image mosaic of highlights for The Three Volcanoes sailing course

This is not a leisure cruise. The Three Volcanoes Expedition is a serious, expert-level offshore passage from Pula, Croatia to Naples, Italy — approximately 750 NM through the open Adriatic and the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Designed as a non-stop, immersive offshore masterclass, this passage will build your confidence and sea miles for the ORC World Championship or any serious ocean sailing ambition. You will sail past three active volcanoes — Vesuvius, Etna, and Stromboli — experiencing some of the most dramatic seascapes in the Mediterranean.

The Route

Departure from Marina Veruda, heading south through the Adriatic Departure from Pula: We depart Marina Veruda and head south through the Adriatic, leaving the Croatian coast behind. The passage takes us past the heel of Italy, through the Strait of Messina — one of the most challenging and historically significant passages in the Mediterranean — and into the Tyrrhenian Sea.

The volcanic spine of Southern Italy — Stromboli, Etna, Vesuvius Three Volcanoes: The volcanic spine of Southern Italy becomes our waypoint system. On clear nights, the glow of Stromboli is visible from 30 miles out. As we round the toe of Italy, Mount Etna dominates the eastern horizon. And our final approach into the Bay of Naples brings us face-to-face with Vesuvius — the volcano that gives this expedition its name.

Open Adriatic offshore passage south The Adriatic Push (Pula → Leuca): The first 350 NM are pure offshore. We push south through the open Adriatic, maintaining watch rotations through two nights at sea. The Strait of Otranto — where the Adriatic meets the Ionian — marks the halfway point.

Approaching the Strait of Messina Scylla & Charybdis (Leuca → Messina): Rounding the heel of Italy at Cape Santa Maria di Leuca, we enter waters thick with mythological history. The Strait of Messina demands precise timing — currents can reach 4 knots, and the ancient monsters Scylla and Charybdis that Homer described were very real tidal phenomena.

Stromboli erupting at night from offshore The Aeolian Approach (Messina → Stromboli): Emerging from the Strait, we sail north past the Aeolian Islands. Stromboli erupts every 15-20 minutes — watching its red glow from offshore at night is an experience no sailor forgets.

Arrival in Naples with Vesuvius in the background Arrival in Naples: The Bay of Naples opens before us, framed by Vesuvius. We enter the harbor that has welcomed mariners for three millennia — from Ulysses to the modern racing fleet gathering for the ORC World Championship.

Build the miles that matter

Limited to 4 crew places. This is hands-on offshore sailing, not a passenger trip.

What You'll Gain:

  • Serious Mile-Building: ~750 NM of logged offshore passage — ideal preparation for your practical logbook records.
  • Night Sailing: Multiple nights at sea with full watchkeeping rotations. This is where real offshore competence is built.
  • Passage Planning: Hands-on experience with weather routing, tidal gates (Strait of Messina), and long-range passage planning.
  • Sail Handling & Trim: Extended offshore conditions mean constant sail management — reefing, unreefing, headsail changes, spinnaker work when conditions allow.
  • Mileage & Passage Confirmation: Official documentation of your passage for license applications and logbook records.

Prerequisites:

  • Sailing Experience: Completion of our Advanced Sailing Course (or equivalent verifiable experience). Prior offshore or overnight passage experience is beneficial but not mandatory.
  • Physical Fitness: You must be able to handle watch duties (4 hours on / 4 hours off) for multiple consecutive days, including physical deck work in potentially challenging conditions.
  • Dependability: Be prepared to perform roles and assignments as designated by the skipper, demonstrating flexibility and a proactive approach to teamwork.
  • Team Spirit: A positive attitude, sense of humor, and willingness to share tasks (including cooking, cleaning, and maintenance) are essential. This is a shared adventure.
  • Resilience: A genuine love for sailing that endures even when conditions get wet, cold, or challenging. The sea does not always cooperate.

Expedition Summary

  • Departure: Pula, ...
  • Arrival: Naples, ...
  • Duration: ... days *
  • Distance: ~750 NM
  • Places Total: ...
  • Places Available: ...
Cost Per Person
... € **
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What's Included
  • Accommodation on board
  • Skipper & expert instruction
  • Fuel
  • All standard expenses
  • Mileage & passage confirmation
What You Bring
  • Life vest with harness
  • Personal sailing gear
  • Travel to Pula / from Naples
  • Travel insurance (rec.)
  • Commitment & team spirit
* The duration depends on weather conditions and port availability, and does not influence the course cost.
** No hidden costs! Covers all standard expenses described under Terms and Conditions. Does not cover required personal equipment (life vest with harness, etc.).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this passage non-stop?

The expedition is designed as an offshore passage with emphasis on open-water sailing. Depending on weather conditions and crew needs, tactical stops may be made for rest, provisioning, or weather windows. The skipper makes the final call based on safety and conditions.

What does the price cover?

Everything you need for the passage: accommodation on board, skipper services, fuel, and all standard expenses. The only extras are personal safety equipment, your travel to Pula and from Naples, your food and drinks, and any potential marina fees if we make tactical stops.

Can I combine this with the ORC Worlds?

Absolutely — that is exactly why this expedition exists. Sail to Naples with us, then stay on board for the ORC World Championship in Sorrento. The ultimate pre-regatta preparation.

What about the return journey?

We offer The Siren's Wake — a return passage from Naples to Pula after the championship, blending offshore passages with stops along the historic coast of Magna Graecia.

What if I need to cancel?

Cancellation terms are in our Terms and Conditions. We recommend travel insurance that covers event cancellation.

Part of the ORC Worlds Campaign

This expedition is one leg of a complete offshore campaign centered on the 2026 ORC World Championship