Simply Abu Dhabi XXXVI

R enowned the world over for its pastel-coloured towns, rugged cliffs and seductive waters, the Italian Riviera is unsurprisingly a much-loved yachting haven. At times more accessible by sea than it is by land, an array of private anchorages amidst rocky coves, an amiable climate and a rich culture has made this crescent-shaped strip of coastline a hard-to-beat destination, popular since the time of Byron, Shelley and Hemingway, and favoured by 1950s stars, such as Orson Welles and Sophia Loren. Stretching from the French Tuscan border in the west of Italy down to the city of La Spezia, the Riviera of Flowers as it is often termed is synonymous with Italy's Liguria region. Owners and charter guests often opt to join their superyachts at the maritime city of Viareggio, home to a multitude of eminent shipyards, and birthplace of celebrated composer Puccini. During the summer season an abundance of superyachts are available for charter throughout the Italian region with the likes of Y.CO and Ocean Independence. Built in 2019, Mimi La Sardine is an award- winning tri-deck yacht with a spectacular ‘club space’ sun deck, while December Six’s extensive range of watersports, relaxation zones and talented chef seal the deal. Both vessels provide an unrivalled way to view stunning coastal sites. Romanceonthe ItalianRiviera b y J u l i a Z a l t z m a n