The Centro Velico Elbano (C.V.E.), based in Rio Marina, is one of the oldest sailing clubs on Elba Island. Founded in 1956 by a group of sea enthusiasts, the club was established through the commitment and passion of local residents and miners who built their first sailing boats by hand, laying the foundations for a tradition that continues to this day.

Today, the Centro Velico Elbano is an important centre for sailing education and maritime culture, organising sailing courses, regattas and sporting events of national and international significance.

A long sailing tradition

Since 1961, the club has organised sailing courses for children, teenagers and adults, introducing generations of sailors to the world of sailing. Affiliated with the Italian Sailing Federation (FIV), the club has trained athletes who have gone on to achieve success in national and international competitions.

Its mission remains unchanged: to share a passion for the sea, promote respect for the marine environment and pass on the values of sailing through education and sport.

Sailing School

The Sailing School offers beginner courses for anyone wishing to learn the fundamentals of sailing in a safe and progressive way.

Courses run from Monday to Friday and provide practical instruction in sailing techniques, wind awareness, boat handling and navigation under the guidance of qualified instructors.

The school welcomes both local residents and visitors looking to enjoy an authentic sporting experience during their stay on Elba Island.

Events and competitions

Throughout its history, the Centro Velico Elbano has organised numerous sailing events, helping to establish Rio Marina as one of the leading sailing destinations in the Tuscan Archipelago.

Among its most important events is the Flying Junior (FJ) World Championship, hosted in Rio Marina in July 2026, alongside several regattas and sailing competitions throughout the year.

Experience the sea through sailing

Joining the Sailing School offers the opportunity to experience the sea from a unique perspective while learning to sail along one of Elba Island’s most scenic coastlines.

Combining sport, nature and tradition, the Centro Velico Elbano continues to celebrate Rio’s deep-rooted maritime heritage.

Useful information

Location: Calata dei Voltoni, 38
57038 Rio Marina (LI), Italy

Opening hours

• Monday: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm | 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm 
• Tuesday: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm | 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm 
• Wednesday: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm | 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm 
• Thursday: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm | 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm 
• Friday: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm | 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm 
• Saturday: Closed 
• Sunday: Closed 

Beginner sailing course

The beginner course includes five lessons, from Monday to Friday.

Residents

• Standard course: €140 
• Two siblings: €100 each 
• Monthly attendance (subject to boat availability or with a privately owned boat): €80 

Non-residents

• Standard course: €300 
• Two siblings: €180 each 

Registration

Course enrolment requires membership of the Italian Sailing Federation (FIV), which is not included in the course fee.

• FIV Cadet membership (up to 11 years old): €10 
• FIV Junior membership (over 11 years old): €10 

Participants must provide a medical certificate confirming their fitness for sporting activities.