In the sheltered bay of Porto Pozzo, surrounded by the spectacular tourist attractions of Valle dell’Erica and Isola dei Gabbiani, is a sailing club run by sailing enthusiasts and FIV (Italian Sailing Federation) instructors. Going sailing and learning how to sail in spring and autumn are an experience to complete a pleasant, long weekend in Santa Teresa Gallura. We met with Valerio Melis, product manager, for an informal chat about his passion for sailing.
- Learning to sail means a close encounter with the sea. How did your passion start?
My passion has been there for ever, my father passed on a love for the sea in all of its forms: from sailing, to swimming to diving.
- Santa Teresa Gallura is the perfect place to learn this sport. Is it hard or can anyone try their hand?
That is the case, Santa Teresa Gallura is the perfect place for sailing. The constant wind and numerous shelters mean you can practice this sport throughout the tear in complete safety. Anyone can sail: from the competitive level for those looking for a more sporting activity, to the amateur all the way to the tourist. Anyone can find the level that best suits and pleases them, suitable for all ages and abilities.
- Where can you find the main sailing schools in Santa Teresa Gallura?
Our school is located in Porto Pozzo and is just a few kilometres from the legendary places of the Italian culture of this sport: from the National Sailing School of Caprera in the La Maddalena Archipelago to the grand sailing race routes of sea-going yachts in the Emerald Coast.
- When is the best time to practise this sport?
As I said before, throughout the year. I wold invite tourists to choose a time when the climate is milder, such as spring or autumn, so they can also participate in other activities that, together with sailing, make a stay in Santa Teresa Gallura unforgettable.
- What equipment do you need to go sailing?
You don’t need certain technical clothing of a certain brand – equipment depends on the season: in the summer all you need is a T-shirt, hat, sunglasses, a rain jacket and rubber-soled shoes while the winter requires heavier clothing especially a waterproof jacket.
- Does Santa Teresa Gallura offer accommodation or ports specially equipped for those arriving with their own craft?
Of course. Santa Teresa Gallura has a marine that is equipped with everything you need: water, electricity, bathrooms with showers, repair shop, fuel, towage and leave ports for hull-cleaning. Porto Pozzo has a smaller port that is however well-equipped with all necessary services.
- Do you organise courses for all levels or for people looking to obtain a sailing licence?
With the Porto Pozzo school we are able to satisfy all kinds of requests adapting our activities to all levels: from optimists for children to sea-going yachts. We also organise lessons for the sailing licence exam.
Emotion, passion and educational strength: in Santa Teresa Gallura the sea is your ally. Imagine your dream holiday, inebriating the senses leaving a pleasant, unforgettable taste in your mouth. The Gallura Highlands pleasant holidays will never let you down but rather guarantee you will want to return and further discover a culture that nourishes both body and soul.
