One of those rare but must-do experiences in life is to discover Italy. There are few places on earth that succeed in intermingling la dolce vita so effortlessly with a heady mix of art, history, architecture, opera, fashion and food, not to mention the stunning coastlines to visit. Italy is a destination for the bucket listThe Italian coasts attract many charter visitors each year, not least because of the electric blue waters and vistas of picturesque coastlines but primarily because once on land, one is never far from the architectural treasures to be found in any of the major cities or rolling vineyards in the countryside.

The Italian Riviera offers a relaxed and enchanting experience, perhaps because of its history inspiring some of Italy’s most famous artists. The rugged coastline dotted with villages, cliffs and multi-coloured architecture is a sight to behold from a yacht. The village of Portofino offers a mix of designer boutiques and superb restaurants and the five unspoilt villages of Cinque Terre make up a UNESCO protected national park. From Genoa, down the Riviera di Ponente, San Remo to Alassio, this beautiful region is not to be missed.