Patrizia, born in Firenze, Tuscany, has spent years exploring Italy’s waters and trails, kayaking through hidden coves and crystal bays, and hiking across iconic landscapes like Elba Island, Portofino, and Cinque Terre. Her deep connection to the sea shapes the small-group kayak tours she now leads, where every paddle stroke reveals a new perspective of Italy’s coastline, intimate, adventurous, and unforgettable.

Her journeys go beyond the water. Patrizia delights in sharing the flavors of regional food and wine, and as an Italian language teacher, she brings guests closer to the poetry of her native tongue. With her, travelers do not just visit Italy. They taste it, feel it, and speak it, experiencing the country in a way that lingers long after the journey ends.

Leigh will be joining us, my long-time friend and paddling partner, who will act as a very helpful guest. He is a fully qualified BCU Sea Kayak Guide with more than 30 years of experience paddling in some of the most beautiful places around the world. Throughout his career he has shared countless journeys with fellow adventurers, each one an opportunity to connect with nature, exchange stories, and celebrate the joy of being on the water.

He lives and works in the Lake District in the United Kingdom, but his heart is often in Italy where kayaking is paired with breathtaking scenery, delicious food, and unforgettable moments. For Leigh it is never just about the sport. It is about savoring the culture, the landscapes, and the beauty that make every paddle truly special.

Nello, living and working in Firenze, finds his greatest joy whenever he can escape to Elba Island. For him, Elba is a place of endless discovery, with each season revealing new colors, flavors, and moods. Over the years he has circumnavigated the island many times, often as a solo kayaker, immersing himself in the beauty of every cove, bay, and horizon.

His deep connection to Elba reflects his love of adventure and the sea. Whether paddling quietly along its rugged coastline or savoring the island’s changing character throughout the year, Nello embraces each journey as a chance to experience Italy’s natural poetry in motion.