The Ligurian Sea's darkest open-water spot is celebrated for some of the least light-polluted skies in the western Mediterranean. Sail out at dusk aboard a private yacht, watch the Milky Way arc over the ink-black sea, and understand why Costa Cruises built an entire itinerary around this moment.
What to expect
Depart the marina at sunset aboard a private sailing yacht, heading offshore into the Ligurian dark zone as the sky transitions from tangerine to deep violet to an explosion of stars. Your skipper anchors in calm open water and kills all deck lights — the bioluminescent plankton may even light the hull with ghostly blue fire. A chilled bottle of local Pigato is poured as your guide points out constellations and recounts the mariners' traditions of navigating these waters by starlight alone.
Good to know
Evening departures typically require returning to port before or around the ship's all-aboard time — confirm your exact departure and return schedule with the operator. New moon nights offer the most dramatic skies; check the lunar calendar when booking. Bring a warm layer — open-water nights can be significantly cooler than the shore. Private bookings recommended; available from Lavagna, Santa Margherita Ligure, or La Spezia marinas.