A boat trip from Castel dell'Ovo to Nisida offers a captivating journey through history, legends, and natural beauty. Along the way, you'll see the following landmarks:
1. Castel dell'Ovo, the oldest castle in Naples. It is located on the islet of Megaride, where the Greeks founded the original nucleus of the city of Partenope. The castle's name stems from a legend according to which the Latin poet Virgil, who was considered a magician in the Middle Ages, is said to have hidden a magic egg in its underground chambers. It was believed that if the egg were to break, the city of Naples would fall into ruin.
2. Caracciolo Waterfront
As you sail, you will enjoy one of the most stunning views of the Mediterranean, overlooking Mount Vesuvius and the Gulf of Naples.
3. Posillipo, famous for its historic villas and natural caves, where we will stop for a swim. “Posillipo” comes from the Greek “pausilypon,” meaning “that which makes pain cease,” a testament to the serenity that this place has offered since ancient times.
4. Palazzo Donn'Anna, a grand, unfinished building overlooking the sea. Its history is linked to legends of ghosts and tormented love affairs. It is said that the noblewoman Anna Carafa, who had the palace built in the 17th century, was an enigmatic figure and that the palace was the scene of mysterious disappearances and intrigue. According to legend, the spirit of one of Anna's ladies-in-waiting, who mysteriously disappeared, still haunts the ruins.
5. Gaiola and the Submerged Archaeological Park: You will see a small island connected to the mainland by a narrow bridge. It is famous for the Gaiola Submerged Archaeological Park, where the remains of ancient Roman villas can be seen below sea level. However, the site is also known for the Curse of Gaiola: the villa on the island has been occupied by several famous people, many of whom have suffered tragedies or misfortunes, fueling the belief that the place is cursed.
6. Capo Posillipo and Marechiaro, famous for its “little window” overlooking Mount Vesuvius and for its historic seafood trattorias. Marechiaro has been featured in many Neapolitan songs and is a place brimming with romantic charm.
7. Baia di Trentaremi, a beautiful natural cove. The bay is part of the Pausilypon Archaeological Park. The name “Trentaremi” may derive from “thirty oars,” referring to an old legend about pirate ships that used to hide in this bay. We will also stop here for a swim.
8. Nisida Island, a volcanic island connected to the mainland by a man-made causeway. Nisida was inhabited in Roman times, and a castle was built there in the Middle Ages. Today, it houses a juvenile detention center. It is said to be the island of Calypso, the nymph who, according to Greek mythology, held Odysseus captive for years. (Here, we will make our last stop for a swim before heading back.)
A journey that combines myth, history, and the breathtaking, evocative, and mysterious landscapes of the Gulf of Naples.
