Join me for my cooking and art retreat on a yacht in Italy!

If you know me, you know I love an Italian holiday. Apart from my Italian roots, the thing that keeps me coming back is everything. The food, the drink, the scenery, the beaches, the coffee, the way of life. You know, la dolce vita and all that. In my line of work (cooking and drawing), the country is a feast for the senses. A bite of al dente rigatoni or a sip of a perfectly chilled Aperol Spritz is all it takes to get my creative juices flowing.

Those who follow me on Instagram will have seen my travel food journal adventures, where I document my favorite Italian meals through sketches in my notebook. Drawing what I eat helps me express what words can’t - it’s how I capture the feeling of a meal long after the last bite.

So when Nautica Collective reached out asking, “Thoughts on hosting a Mediterranean art retreat on a yacht?” I couldn’t believe what I was reading. What they pitched was literally my dream holiday: but the best part? I could invite fellow food and art lovers along.

My favourite thing about eating and drinking is sharing the experience with others. Food doesn’t taste as good when I’m eating alone, and the same goes for my cooking and art process. I love sharing what I create, how I create it, and connecting with people who are just as passionate about it. My goal across Substack, Instagram, and TikTok has always been to build a community of like-minded people who love to learn, share, and create together. Whether it’s swapping art techniques or discussing the secret to perfect tagliatelle, I want my online spaces to feel like we’re all at the same table.

This yacht retreat is exactly that: a chance for a small group of like-minded people to come together, create, and share unforgettable experiences, set in one of the most beautiful regions of the world, aboard a moving vessel that can reach places cars can’t.

We’ll be hosting two identical four-day retreats, departing Naples on June 13 and June 17, 2026 aboard a 54-ft catamaran. Choose the dates that suit you best and join us as we explore coastal towns, enjoy incredible food and wine, and document the experience in illustrated travel journals.

The days will be a balance of food-focused experiences (and drinks, for those who partake) and time to relax or explore at your own pace. Expect communal dinners (some aboard the yacht, others at local osterie), cooking classes, art lessons, sketching sessions, winery visits, thermal pool soaks, beach club breaks, market tours, and even one of my famous Spaghetti Disco parties.

If this sounds like your kind of dream, keep reading for all the details below. You can also find all this information, plus more, here. I’ve included some FAQs at the end, but feel free to drop me a comment or DM if there’s anything else you’d like to know!

I hope you’ll set sail with me in June - I can’t wait to share this experience with you.

BOOK HERE

South of Italy with Bianca Bosso - Food & Art Yacht Retreat

13-16 June 2026 | 17-20 June 2026

A delicious fusion of art and food - sail, sketch, and savor Italy through Bianca’s eyes.

Itinerary

From volcanic islands to lemon-slicked cliffs, this eight-day sail is pure Italian indulgence.

Day 1 (June 13 & June 17): Naples → Procida

Step aboard in Naples and sail toward pastel-hued Procida. A light welcome spread sets the tone for a week of flavour. As the sun sets, gather for a shared feast on deck and a creative icebreaker: sketch your dream menu for the days ahead. Over local wine, Bianca leads a tasting - your first sip of Italy’s coastal soul.

Day 2 (June 14 & June 18): Procida → Ischia

A short sail delivers you to Ischia and a day devoted to dolce far niente. Anchor at Eden Gardens, a hidden beach club where thermal pools spill into the sea and loungers curve around volcanic cliffs. Swim, soak, sip spritzes, and savour long, lazy conversations. As daylight fades, dine onboard - a sunset spread of seafood, citrus, and crisp Biancolella wine, waves lapping softly below.

Day 3 (June 15 & June 19): Ischia (no sail)

Ease into the day with coffee on deck before slipping into the restorative thermal pools of Ischia. Later, wander the vine-lined terraces of Casa D’Ambra, where volcanic soil births mineral-rich whites. We sample a light tasting lunch of garden vegetables, breads, and cheeses. The evening unfolds back onboard with a vineyard-inspired supper, laughter flowing as freely as the wine.

Day 4 (June 16 & June 20): Ischia → Naples

A gentle sail returns you to Naples, morning light warming the deck. Over breakfast, reflect on recipes learned, pages sketched, and friendships formed. Disembark, apron tucked away, journal filled with flavor, and a little more Italy in your heart.

What’s included

• Premium Catamaran

• Private En-Suite Cabin

• Skipper

• Private Chef

• Host

• Onboard Food & Drink (inc. Alcohol)

• Fuel & Mooring Fees

• Curated Itinerary

• Concierge Service

• Themed Goodie Bag

• Travel Food Journal

Onboard, you’ll find:

• Spacious double cabins with ensuite bathrooms & storage

• Onboard air conditioning & generator

• Large deck for sunbathing, lounging nets, and shaded cockpit dining

• Indoor lounge & galley kitchen

• Snorkel gear

• Towels (bath & beach)

• Power sockets to charge your essentials

• Speakers for your playlists

• Fully crewed & safety-equipped

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost?

Pricing starts from $2,675 USD per person, based on two guests sharing a double cabin.
If you prefer a cabin to yourself, the rate is $5,349 USD for single occupancy.

All prices include accommodation on the yacht, onboard meals, drinks (including alcohol), creative workshops, and local excursions.

What are the payment options?

We offer full payment, low deposits (from just £100 per person) and flexible monthly payment plans - full details are shown on the next step when booking, and we’re always here if you need to discuss options.

Are there any additional costs?

You’ll just need to book your own flights and airport transfers, and arrange personal travel insurance, plus cover the cost of any on-land meals and drinks.

What’s the cancellation and refund policy?

All deposits are non-refundable.

Cancellations made 60 days or more before your sail will receive a refund minus the deposit and any transaction fees. Cancellations made within 60 days of departure are non-refundable.

Refunds will be processed within 10 days of receiving your cancellation request.

If full payment isn’t made by the specified due date, any amount paid to date will be forfeited.

Where do we check in and set sail?

Your Nautica experience begins at the marina in Naples, Italy. Check-in is from 3pm on the first day of your trip.

You’ll need to make your own way to the marina - the nearest airport is Naples-Capodichino International Airport (NAP), just 25-30 minutes away by taxi.

Ahead of your sail, we’ll send you a handy travel guide with all you need to know - best flights, transfer tips, and nearby hotels if you want to stay a night pre or post-sail. And we’re always here if you need a little extra advice.

I can’t draw - can I still come?

Absolutely! You’ll learn to capture moments in your own style — no experience needed. I’ll be there to guide you along the way. It’s all about observation and joy, not perfection.

What’s included?

Accommodation aboard the yacht, all meals, local wine, art materials, guided sketch sessions, cooking classes, and excursions. Flights to Naples and personal travel insurance are not included.

I’m vegetarian - will there be options?

Absolutely! Any dietary preferences- whether vegetarian, pescatarian, gluten-free, or allergen-related - can be easily accommodated. Just let us know when you book, and we’ll make sure every meal is delicious and tailored to you.

How many people will be on board?

The group is intimate - around 8–10 guests - so it feels like friends traveling together rather than a tour group.

Who is this retreat for?

Anyone who loves food, art, Italy, and slowing down. Whether you’re a creative, a traveler, or just someone who appreciates a good pasta under the sun.

Do I need to know how to sail?

No sailing experience required. A professional crew will handle all navigation and logistics, so you can relax and enjoy the trip.

What type of accommodation is onboard?

Private or shared cabins depending on your booking. All cabins include fresh linens, towels, and air-conditioning.

Can I come alone?

Absolutely! Many guests join solo - it’s a friendly, welcoming group, and everyone bonds over food and art right away. Please note: Solo travelers will have a private double cabin (priced accordingly).

About the host

Artist and recipe developer Bianca Bosso brings Italian food to life through art and experience. From illustrated cookbooks to playful dining events, she celebrates culture, creativity, and connection through drawing, storytelling, and shared meals inspired by her travels.