Capraia
From CruisersWiki
| Capraia
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 The small harbour of Porto Capraia |
The mountainous island of Capraia lies 19 miles east of Cap Corse on Corsica and 22 miles NW of Elba. It is a convenient stopping-off point en route between the two islands. Until 1986 the island was a penal colony and has only developed a modest tourism industry in recent years. The harbour of Porto Capraia on the NE side of the island is small and invariably overcrowded in summer and it may be necessary to anchor off in high season. It is therefore not a place to go with an unsettled weather forecast, especially if the winds are strong NE.
Charts
- British Admiralty
- 1999 - Livorno to Civitavecchia
- Italian
- 193
Weather
Prevailing winds are from W or NW, in which conditions shelter is good in the island’s harbour. Strong NE winds can send in an uncomfortable swell.
Sources for weather forecasts
- There is a continuous (computerised voice) weather forecast on VHF 68 - first in Italian and then followed with an English translation
- The same forecast is given in Italian and English on VHF coastal stations following a notification on channel 16
- Navtex weather forecasts are broadcast from stations at Roma, Cagliari (Sardinia) and Augusta (Sicily)
Passages
Popular passages/routes, timing, etc.
Islands
None.
Communication
Also see World Cruiser's Nets.
In the approach from the north, give the headland of Punta della Teglia at least half a mile clearance to avoid the dangerous reefs of Le Chiapparelle. From either direction, the harbour of Porto Capraia will not be seen until into the bay, when the breakwaters and the light tower on the northern one will be conspicuous.
Entrance
Port police and customs in the harbour.
Berthing
Ports
The only harbour on the island, Porto Capraia, has seen considerably investment in recent years to reflect the growing touristic ambitions of the islanders. Pontoons have been installed and yachts moor either on these or back to the quays. The harbour can accommodate up to 60 yachts (maximum length 30 metres) but it is advisable to call ahead before entering (telephone: +39 0338 3744102) to check availability of berths. Depths in the harbour range from 1.0 inshore up to 4.0 metres at the end of the breakwater.
Anchorages
It is possible if the harbour is full to anchor outside in the bight to the east, staying well clear of the turning circle of the ferries using the jetty NE of the harbour. Depths here are between 4.0 and 10.0 metres. The bottom is sand and weed and reasonable holding. The anchorage is uncomfortable in unsettled weather and probably untenable in a strong NE.
Marinas & Yacht Clubs
None.
Yacht Services and Repairs
None.
Marine Stores
None.
Yacht Services/Repairs/Yards
None.
Fuel, Water, & Electricity
Water on the quay, but only available 0800 - 1100 and 1700 - 2000 in summer (all drinking water is transported to the island by ship). Limited electricity points. Fuel available on the quay (summer only) from 0800 - 1300 and 1500 - 1900.
Things to do Ashore
Tourism
Capraia is a great place for walking and has organized trails covering most of the island. A lake, Il Laghetto, fills the crater of the former volcano that gave rise to the island. The buildings of the former penal colony can also be visited.
Grocery & Supply Stores
Rather limited. Best to stock up before arriving.
Eateries
A few restaurants around the harbour.
Internet/WiFi
None.
Laundry
None.
Motorbike & Car Rentals
None.
Garbage Disposal
Bins around the harbour, but best to take it with you.
Transportation
Ferry service to Livorno and Elba.
Friends
Contact details of "Cruiser's Friends" that can be contacted for local information or assistance.
Forums
List links to discussion threads on partnering forums. (see link for requirements)
Links
Links to relevant websites.
References & Publications
See Italy.
Comments
We welcome users' contributions to the Wiki. Please click on Comments to view other users' comments, add your own personal experiences or recommend any changes to this page following your visit.
Verified by
Date of member's last visit to Capraia and this page's details validated:
- Data compiled from web research (please update if possible) --Athene of Lymington 14:46, 5 August 2010 (UTC)
| This page has an outline in place but needs completing. Please contribute if you can to help it grow further. Click on Comments to suggest further content or alternatively, if you feel confident to edit this page, click on the edit tab at the top and enter your changes directly. |
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Names: Lighthouse,Athene of Lymington |
