Italy Kayaking Trips

Mirror-smooth water surrounded by soaring, snow capped peaks provide a setting reminiscent of the Norwegian Fjords, yet with a distinctly Mediterranean culture. The Lakes have enchanted visitors since the days of the Roman Empire. Stunning scenery, a mild climate, and rich history contribute to the locale’s reputation as one of the world’s most romantic destinations. Kayaking the pristine, protected waters of the Italian Lakes district is an unforgettable experience. The paddler enjoys a unique perspective on the Lakes’ distinctive blend of dramatic scenery, fairy tale villages, and opulent lakeside villas.

La Riviera di Levante is one of the most magically beautiful stretches of coastline in the world. Steeped in history and set against a rough mountain background, the Riviera towns seem like a series of pastel-colored jewels set against the vivid blue of the Mediterranean and backed by rugged mountains. Kayaking the Riviera lets us observe both the subtle details and the grand vistas of this unique place and at a pace that allows us to immerse ourselves in the culture. With a focus on locally sourced Mediterranean cuisine, this trip is a feast for the senses.

Sardinia is a world apart, and our kayaking trip is a unique new way to explore this ruggedly pastoral island with a pristine landscape ringed by an exquisitely clear turquoise blue sea. An ancient land with a language and culture all its own, Sardinia has a history that goes back to before the Phoenicians. Our nine-day exploration features the best kayaking in the Mediterranean, a hike in the rugged Supramonte range, and no fewer than three UNESCO World Heritage sites. Sardinia is renowned for its food and wine, so on this trip, we enjoy primo locavore dining at Agriturismos and sample wine from the distinctive terroirs of Sardinia’s ancient Vermentino and Cannonau grape varietals. 

National Geographic Traveler, Dec. 2019 - Jan 2020

Join us for a trip across the heart of Italy that links two seas, the Adriatic and the Tyrrhenian. Journey through the cradle of the Renaissance, Umbria, and Tuscany. Glide through clear Adriatic waters that were once plied by Roman galleons, kayak a grand lake backed by a splendidly pastoral countryside and medieval fortresses, and explore sea caves on the Tuscan coast that rival the best adventure paddling in the world. Staying at a series of delightful agriturismos, you’ll experience a culture that is quintessentially Italian and sample a cuisine defined by spectacular local produce and wines. This trip is a journey through one of the culturally and historically rich regions in the world and is a deep dive into the sensuous pleasures of Central Italy. 

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, holds the ancient ruins of at least 12 civilizations and the tallest active volcano in Europe. We’ll paddle in the Ionian waters of Odysseus, Homer’s epic hero, kayak into picture-perfect villages, along fortress walls of ancient cities, and land in sandy coves as we explore Sicily’s legendary eastern coast. Ashore, we’ll immerse ourselves in the natural beauty as well as the cultural and historical highlights of Sicily, exploring ancient cities and volcanic heights. As in all our Italian trips, we’ve handpicked accommodations, dining experiences, and wine tastings that hit just the right note. Sicily is a feast for the senses, and we’ll do it in the style that we’ve brought to all of our Italian trips, one that combines memorable kayaking routes with an insider’s view of culture, cuisine, and “La Dolce Vita.”

Beautiful Tuscany is the backdrop for our newest Italian paddling trip. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, Tuscany is made all the more remarkable when explored from the sea. Join us as we kayak our way into the past and rediscover its ancient charms. Crystalline waters, spectacular cliffs, enticing beaches, and charming villages await. Our nine-day kayaking adventure promises to capture the essence of Italy while offering a one-of-a-kind perspective of what is arguably the country’s most iconic and beautiful region. As always, we’ve handpicked accommodations, dining experiences, and wine tastings that embody the richness of the Tuscan experience. Join us in the latest chapter of our love affair with the natural and cultural splendors of Italy.