The Pontine on an Old Style sailboat are pure magic. The skipper was impeccable: professional, attentive and able to make us experience the sea to the fullest, including delicious dishes, postcard anchorages and tender rides in the most evocative caves of Palmarola, the weather conditions did not allow sailing, but the skipper managed the navigation with professionalism, making every move safe and pleasant. Too bad that the travel company described this fantastic week with unfounded claims and criticisms. But the experience, thanks to the skipper and the places, remains truly special.

It is certainly easier to write a positive review, anyone is sorry to speak badly. However, since these are the holidays of people who possibly do not have further free time or money to devote to another holiday, it is right that those who choose know what they cannot understand from the photos. The absence of the backrest in the cockpit seats that forces, not being able to rest the back, to constantly balance on the waves. Small sunbeds suitable for small people, The boat is very deep so inside you can feel a lot of the sea. We booked first and, according to the regulations, we would have had the right to choose the cabins. One had already been committed regardless, it would only have been transparent to communicate it to us beforehand. Sometimes even the shape makes the difference. A check was not made on the galley, the crew did not know each other so, although there was a basic list already determined, the galley was left to the taste of the first who went shopping. Perhaps we should have been put in touch in order to share the choices. However, boat holidays and holidays with strangers require a spirit of adaptation, this one requires a little more, but it is still a holiday and therefore fair winds to everyone, if you open the sails

The Pontine archipelago is confirmed as an extraordinary place: spectacular bays, crystal clear waters and landscapes that alone are worth the trip. To make the experience even more pleasant was the company, made up of people passionate about the sea and united by the desire to share experiences and stories. The weather also accompanied us for most of the week, allowing us to fully enjoy the beauty of the area. That said, some aspects could have been handled better. There was no initial briefing on emergency equipment, which would have been useful even in the absence of critical situations. On-board space was rather limited for nine people and the involvement of guests in seafaring activities was minimal, with few opportunities to sail, stay at the helm or use the tender. An aspect that was felt especially among those looking for a more participatory experience in navigation. In conclusion, it was a pleasant and overall satisfying week, ideal for those who want to experience the sea in relaxation and let themselves be guided. Those who are not beginners and are looking for a more direct involvement in nautical activities may find the setting a bit limiting.

Every experience leaves its mark for better or for worse, it is always an absolutely subjective evaluation. I am an owner and I know how difficult it is to share your boat with others but from here to be jealous so much that it almost puts anxiety in your guests at every step is there. Sailing? A bit of just jib on the way back, sailing with the engine and with the pilot car for about 10/15 minutes on a boat that in any case to move would have had to open jib, staysail and mainsail and have at least 15/20 knots of real wind to move given its weight of 13 tons on 13 meters of boat, bowsprit included. The weather conditions, except during the first transfer to Ponza, have always been favorable for a very quiet sailing because 5 of us were experienced sailors, we would not even have caused damage. Disappointment for those who expected to sail. The boat is uncomfortable for eight people + skipper, there are a few ants everywhere, the kitchen set-up (non-tilting hob) and only one small refrigerator absolutely unsuitable for the number of people, the cabins and the small, unventilated berths are basically uncomfortable except perhaps one that I did not get to see that had already been assigned by the skipper to two friends even before we had all arrived (absolutely incorrect and out of the picture). regulation), Antonio decided everything, from the accommodation in the cabin, to the sleep/wake rhythms, to the daily menu in a nicely dictatorial manner. I am sure that he does his best in sympathy and hospitality but the level is a bit low, (my children, who do not know how to cook, cook better than Antonio). For the rest, the pontine are fantastic, the weather favorable and the travel companions almost all fabulous, We had so much fun and enjoyed the beauty that surrounded us, we were all in the same boat, so! You probably won't publish this review, I understand it and I don't care much but it's right that you know in the end in 6 out of 8 participants we said never again this man and this boat. In short: Beautiful holiday, the islands are a wonder and the company really fabulous, fortunately almost all seafarers! The weather was perfect and we were able to enjoy so much beauty, too bad we didn't sail because the boat itself, in addition to being small and uncomfortable for 8 + 1 adults, is absolutely not suitable for the times of a holiday and then, you know, skippers often reluctantly open the sails. I think Antonio gave the best of himself: he cooked, but he is not a chef, he put up with our presence by filming us nicely every 3/5 minutes for everything, and heroically with a knee out of order he took us around fantastic caves and coves.