The Straits of Bonifacio and the waters of Sardinia and Corsica are justifiably renowned by holiday makers familiar with the area. Within a short sail are deep blue offshore waters, island-dotted channels and unspoiled beaches.

September is the perfect time to visit this area. The holiday makers from Northern Europe who know and love this area have left - and the waters are warm, crystal clear and inviting. This is the timing for the Bonifacio Yacht Rally run by Mariner Boating Holidays.

Skip between Italian and French language and culture. The straits serve as the border between France and Italy, but it is more a border between two island cultures. Both are distinctly different from their respective mother countries. The laconic Sardinians are Italian only when it suits them and some of the proud Corsicans would rather be completely independent from France. The natives of both islands are fiercely nationalistic.

On both sides of the Straits of Bonifacio, family, food, wine and siestas are cultural priorities. English is not as widely spoken as in some Mediterranean tourist areas so a little Italian or French is an advantage if only for ordering lunch.

Nature abounds. Most of the islands in the Bonifacio Straits are within the Maddelena National Park while in Corsica a backdrop of high mountains with tiny ancient villages tumbling down steep cloud swept gorges offer world famous walks.

After boarding in Portisco on Sardinia the two week sailing rally visits a cross section of the area with a “lay day, race day” programme allowing time to explore and enjoy. We visit the ancient medieval fortress city of Bonifacio clinging to the top of chalky cliffs and approached from the sea through a spectacular keyhole opening. Super yachts, local farmers markets, lively marinas, history and sea side boutiques – whatever your interest there is something here to stimulate the senses.

On the north-east coast of Sardinia, is Porto Cervo and the Costa Smeralda Yacht Cub. Located in a natural harbour, Porto Cervo was established as a tourist resort in the 1960s by the Aga Khan who was captivated by the beauty of the Costa Smeralda. Here pastel coloured villas nestle into the landscape, under clouds of tumbling bougainvillea. From the sea, the rugged weather-sculpted granite coastline and the mountains beyond appears untouched by man.

The Bonifacio Yacht rally has many extras including post race dinners, all transfers, accommodation and local guides to insure a carefree holiday on board your yacht.

For further information contact Mariner Boating Tel: +61 (0) 2 9966 1244 or visit www.marinerboating.com.au