Corigliano, in the heart of the bay
You'll set off from Crotone, a Greek colony and veritable treasure chest of history, ensconced in its bay between Cape Lacinio and Point Alice. The port in itself makes a splendid mooring point, close to the promontory and the city dominated by the Castle of Charles V and surrounded by some remarkable archaeological sites. Set your course eastwards and head towards Alice Point at about 45°, leaving the Melissa Tower behind you on your left.
After about 22 miles, nestling amid a sea of vineyards you'll see Cirò Marina, home to one of the most famous wines in Italy. Things to see include the Saracen markets, archaeological remains and watchtowers ... it's also a great place to stock up on the local produce!
Once round Point Alice with Cape Triento in your sights, you'll set your course towards Corigliano with the Castle of St Maurice at the top, before you enter the Bay. You'll be mooring your boat in one of the main fishing ports on the Ionian coast. What better opportunity to sample the fresh local fish?
Marina di Policoro, the garden of Italy
Back onboard, you'll be aiming almost directly north. After 20 miles, you come to Trebisacce, surrounded by lush countryside. As you go around Cape Spulico with its coastal fortifications, watch out for the shallow water in the Amendolara Bank. Diving enthusiasts might take this opportunity to explore the depths, otherwise sail straight on towards Marina di Policoro, "the garden of Italy", just 20 miles further on.
Taranto and its ancient history
By now, you're almost at your final destination. From Basilicata to the Gulf of Taranto it's just a short hop. After just 26 miles, here you are in the 'Mar Grande' (the Great Sea), a huge port countered by the 'Mar Piccolo', reserved for military ships only.
Taranto is enchanting. The Aragonese Castle overlooks the sea, then there's the Fort de Laclos on the islet of San Paolo, the majestic Cathedral of St Catald, various archaeological sites, the columns of the Doric temple as well as contemporary architecture of the twentieth century. With so many beautiful sights, you won't want to leave, especially after savouring the famous Taranto mussels.
Information provided by Viaggio Italiano
