Procida is the smallest and oldest island in the Bay of Naples, less well known than its glamorous neighbours Ischia and Capri, but with just as much seductive charm. Sunsail’s base at Marina Corricella is the starting point for a Procida charter exploring the lovely Pontine islands and the gorgeous Amalfi Coast. 

Painters have long been drawn to Procida, and particularly to Corricella, which tumbles scenically down the hill towards the sea. Its lemon groves and pastel-painted houses are beautiful. Procida is still very much an island that makes much of its living from fishing.

The tiny island covers only 2 ½ sq miles (4 sq km), and is best explored by foot or bike. The sights not to be missed include the 16th century Castello d’Avalos, a Bourbon hunting lodge, and the Abbazia di San Michele Arcangelo, a Benedictine abbey with a maze of catacombs. Piazza dei Martiti is the place to head for a panoramic view out over the Tyrrhenian Sea and Chiaia beach, south of the town, is one of the island’s best beaches. Marina Corricella is delightfully unpretentious, with old fishing boats, piles of nets and plenty of cats lying around in the sunshine. The restaurants tend to be old-school with no fancy tricks - as you would expect, the seafood here is excellent.