This small string of islands, the seven pearls of the Mediterranean, has two active volcanoes and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll sail immaculate seas and discover contrasting natural landscapes. There are Bronze age sites on the small rocky Filicudi and at Vulcano you can bathe in the sulphurous volcanic pools or dive the Mermaid Wall in crystal clear waters. There’s dining in chic restaurants, while on board your chef will be inspired by the area’s Messina cuisine, serving caponata, arancini and the homemade local bread, pane cunzato. Sail from the largest island, Lipari to the smallest, Panarea. Climb to the top of the Salina volcano for a spectacular panorama and take time to taste the local Malvasia wines. At Stromboli you might see lava flows and stroll the island’s distinctive black beaches.