About Ustica Island

The tiny volcanic island of Ustica measures just 9 kilometres wide and is the oldest of the Sicilian outer archipelago in Italy, approximately 60 kilometres north of Palermo. The island’s origin and its black, lava-covered exterior determined its name, which is derived from the Latin ‘ustum’, meaning 'burnt'. It has a jagged coastline which shelters a series of wonderful caves and bays, too, as well as some magnificent, sparkling grottoes. Also, the surrounding waters are a protected marine area, which makes Ustica a popular spot for scuba divers and snorkelers who flock here for the deep dives, colourful fish, coral reef and excellent visibility. Ustica Island is a popular holiday destination for Italians, so there are numerous crossings back to Sicily, operated by a popular local ferry company. You to sail to either Palermo on the Sicilian north coast or Tapani which is further west.

About Italy

Italy is a boot-shaped peninsula situated in the Mediterranean Sea at the bottom of Western Europe, with the Tyrrhenian Sea to the West, Ionian Sea to the South and Adriatic Sea to the East. Italy is the fifth most visited country in the world and contains more World Heritage Sites than any other country. Although Rome, Milan, Venice and Florence are the top tourist destinations in Italy, the country’s rich collections of art, culture and literature from many different periods and regions make it impossible to judge on where the most interesting location is. With around four thousand miles of coastline, with countless gulfs, inlets, and long sandy beaches, Italy is truly adapted to the holiday lovers every need. Coastal cities with their sea resorts and awesome beaches are easily reachable by car with a variety of ferries and vessels large and small ready to sail you there.