Vulcano, Lipari and Stromboli from Tropea: the Sciara del Fuoco by Day

Three Aeolian islands in a day, out of Tropea rather than Sicily, on a Savadori Navigazione fast boat. The speed is the point: less time crossing means longer stops on the islands. Vulcano comes first, an active volcano with fumaroles still working. The crater steams above the thermal waters, and there is a swim in the island's water and the black beach to sit on. Lipari is the town stop: the archaeological museum, a boat ride round the parts of the coast that can only be reached from the water, and a typical Aeolian lunch. Stromboli is worked from the sea, along the Sciara del Fuoco, where the explosions are watched in daylight rather than at dusk. On board, the commentary runs in Italian, German and English at no extra charge. The Lipari landing fee, €5.00 per person for the municipality, is paid at the port before boarding and is not part of the ticket. Boarding is at the Savadori Eolie stand inside the port of Tropea. Cancel at least 24 hours before departure for a full refund.