La Spezia: Cinque Terre Tour by Boat

If you’re considering a boat tour along the Cinque Terre, you’re in for some seriously beautiful scenery and a fun way to see these iconic villages. This experience, offered from La Spezia, promises a full day of cruising past colorful cliffside towns, stopping at some of the most loved spots, and even giving you a chance to swim in the Mediterranean.

What really attracts travelers to this tour are the breathtaking panoramic views from the water and the convenience of visiting multiple villages without the hassle of trains or hiking. Plus, the inclusion of an informative guide makes it more than just a scenic ride—it’s a chance to learn a bit about the region’s history and culture.

That said, it’s worth noting that seating can sometimes be a challenge, especially during peak times or if the boat gets crowded. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, which may be a consideration if you’re traveling with someone with mobility restrictions.

This boat tour suits those who want a relaxed, scenic day, appreciate good value, and enjoy seeing the coast from a different angle. It’s especially ideal for travelers short on time who want to tick off several villages in one go.

Key Points

• Scenic Coastal Views: The boat offers stunning perspectives of colorful villages, vineyards, and rugged cliffs.
• Flexible Itinerary: You can choose to visit Riomaggiore or Portovenere as the first stop, depending on the tour option.
• Ample Free Time: Each stop provides enough time to explore, shop, dine, or swim.
• Expert Guides: Guides provide helpful information in English, French, and Italian, enhancing your experience.
• Comfort and Value: The boat is praised for being clean, spacious, and reasonably priced considering the number of stops.
• Weather Flexibility: In case of bad weather, there are options for alternative dates or tours, with full refunds available if necessary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the La Spezia: Cinque Terre Boat Tour

Starting Out: A Relaxing Day on the Water

Your day begins at around 10 a.m. in La Spezia’s harbor, with the Lord Byron ferry-boat waiting at Molo Italia, very close to landmarks like I Gabbiani restaurant. The ride sets a leisurely tone, and you’re immediately struck by how different the villages look from the sea—vivid and inviting, perched precariously on cliffs, with terraced vineyards hugging the slopes.

The crew is friendly and professional, making check-in smooth whether you’re early or running slightly behind. The boat itself is described as clean and comfortable, with options to sit inside or outside, depending on your preference.

The First Stop: Riomaggiore or Portovenere

Depending on the tour you book, your first stop will be either Riomaggiore or Portovenere. Both are stunning, but each offers a different vibe. Riomaggiore, the southernmost of the five villages, is known for its narrow streets and pastel-colored houses. Portovenere, slightly less crowded, boasts an impressive fortress, charming alleyways, and a quieter atmosphere.

Travelers find that the brief stop here is enough to get a taste—whether it’s wandering the streets, grabbing a coffee, or snapping photos of the waterfront. Some reviews mention that early arrivals can snag the best seats, especially on the right side of the boat, for optimal views during the cruise out.

Exploring Monterosso al Mare

Next up is Monterosso, the largest of the villages, famous for its long beaches and medieval old town. Here, you’ll have plenty of time to explore on your own. Reviewers rave about the historic center, the parish church dedicated to St. John, and the opportunity to walk along the promenade.

One reviewer shared, “We saw many other boats which looked overcrowded, but ours was comfy and spacious.” This highlights the advantage of this tour—the capacity and planning seem to prioritize passenger comfort.

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The Pearl of Vernazza

The third destination is Vernazza, often called the “pearl” of the Cinque Terre. The village is built on a small promontory, ending in an imposing fortification. This spot is a favorite among travelers because of its picturesque harbor, narrow streets, and lively atmosphere.

Many reviewers mention that Vernazza is a perfect place to enjoy a quick lunch, do some shopping, or relax by the water. One wrote, “Vernazza presents itself as the prow of a ship: most of the village is built on a small promontory that ends at the sea with an imposing fortification system,” illustrating how impressive the scenery truly is.

Optional Activities: Swimming, Tasting, or Hiking

After exploring, you’ll have the chance to swim in the clear Mediterranean Sea, which many travelers find a highlight. A few reviews mention paying extra for umbrellas and loungers, but there’s also the option to swim for free at public beaches.

Food and wine are also integral parts of the experience. Many take the chance to sample local wines and food during their free time, which adds a delicious touch to the day. The tour’s timing allows for a relaxed pace, so you’re not rushed.

The Return Journey and End of the Day

The boat departs Vernazza around 4 p.m. and heads back to La Spezia by 6 p.m. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy the villages, take photos, and relax. The crew continues to provide commentary, and if you’re lucky with the weather, you’ll have spectacular views during the return trip.

The Value of This Experience

Many travelers comment that the combination of scenic views, flexible stops, and helpful guides makes this tour a good value. At about 8 hours, it covers significant ground, with enough free time at each stop for a quick explore, a meal, or a swim.

While some mention seating can be a little tricky during busy times, overall, the boat’s size and layout seem to help keep things comfortable. The fact that you can choose your preferred starting point (Riomaggiore or Portovenere) also adds a layer of customization.

Pricing is seen as quite reasonable considering the duration and inclusions. Many reviews highlight that the boat is clean, spacious, and well-maintained, with a crew that’s friendly and knowledgeable—making the entire day feel well-organized.

Weather Considerations

Weather can impact the tour. If seas are rough or if bad weather is forecast, the company offers alternative dates or tours with stops at Porto Venere instead of Vernazza. This flexibility is appreciated by travelers and helps ensure you’re not left disappointed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat tour genuinely suits those looking for a relaxed way to see Cinque Terre without the hassle of train hops or long hikes. It’s perfect if you want to capture the villages’ beauty from the water, enjoy some free time in each place, and prefer a comfortable, scenic experience.

It’s especially good for travelers who value good value for money and don’t mind a somewhat crowded boat at peak times. If you’re traveling with mobility restrictions, be aware it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

If your priority is to explore on foot or hike between villages, this might not be your best choice. However, if your goal is to see the villages from a different perspective and enjoy a peaceful day out, this is a solid way to do it.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 8 hours, starting at 10 a.m. and returning around 6 p.m., giving plenty of time to explore the villages.

Which villages are included?
Depending on the tour option, you’ll visit Riomaggiore or Portovenere, then Monterosso al Mare, and Vernazza. Some tours also include stops at Porto Venere if the weather isn’t ideal.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, many travelers swim in the Mediterranean after stops, and some mention paying extra for umbrellas and loungers. There are also free public beaches for a quick dip.

Is the boat comfortable?
Most reviews describe the boat as clean and spacious, with options for inside or outside seating. There is also a canopy for shade, which makes cruising comfortable.

What if the weather is bad?
In case of bad weather or rough seas, the tour may be rescheduled or an alternative tour will be offered. Full refunds are available if rescheduling isn’t possible.

Is this tour suitable for families?
The reviews don’t specify family suitability explicitly, but since it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, those with mobility challenges should consider this. It’s generally a relaxing experience ideal for most travelers.

How do I find the meeting point?
The ferry-boat is docked at Molo Italia, about 200 meters from the coast guard, near I Gabbiani restaurant. Coordinates are provided to help locate it easily.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a scenic, leisurely day exploring Cinque Terre from the water, this boat tour offers a fantastic perspective on the region’s famous villages. The guided narration, combined with enough free time to soak in the atmosphere, makes it a well-rounded experience. The comfortable boat, beautiful scenery, and good value more than justify the price for many travelers.

However, be prepared for the possibility of crowded seats and consider the weather forecast before booking. This trip is best suited for those who want a calm, relaxed day with plenty of time to enjoy each village without a rush. It’s a great option for travelers seeking an authentic yet convenient way to see the coast without strenuous hiking or complicated transport arrangements.

This tour provides a memorable way to enjoy Cinque Terre’s colorful charms, especially if you’re short on time but still want to see the highlights from a different angle. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, it’s worth considering for a peaceful, scenic day on Italy’s Ligurian coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: