Dreaming of the Big Blue

It’s long been a dream of mine to sail the Med. If you are on the Caribbean circuit in the spring there is usually the chance to crew on a delivery across the pond right after Antigua Race Week. Unfortunately I didn’t take that opportunity when I had it, but it’s on my short list of sailing destinations to hit before they plant me. Meanwhile I’m armchair cruising – tremendous two page article on Italy’s “big blue” here. According to the article the Ligurian coast in the north of Italy is one of the most beautiful stretches of the Mediterranean Sea…the view from the water of the cliffs and craggy coves with the immense outline of the Alps is “breathtaking.” Top ports-of-call from the many coastal towns and fishing villages include Ventimiglia, San Remo, Bordighera, Santo Stefano al Mare, Imperia, Diano Marina, San Bartolomeo al Mare and Genoa. One of my favorite things about our sailing culture is that so many cruising sailors are happy to share their insight on destinations like the Ligurian coast. We're lucky to have literate voyagers relaying their experiences for the benefit of both dreamers and doers. I’m planning to move back from the former camp to the latter one day - but in the meanwhile I’ve also posted on Dalmatia and, on a less idyllic note, the Red Sea. Anyone out there have favorite armchair cruising grounds (or stories) to share?