La Spezia: boat tour-discover Portovenere & islands

Exploring Liguria’s Coast with a La Spezia Boat Tour to Portovenere and Islands

Thinking about taking a boat trip along Italy’s stunning Ligurian coast? This La Spezia boat tour promises a chance to see Portovenere and its surrounding islands from a different perspective. It’s designed to be a private, customizable experience aboard a traditional boat, which means you can shape how your three-hour journey unfolds.

What I really appreciate about this tour? First, the personalized touch — you’re not stuck with a large group and can tell your skipper what you’d like to focus on. Second, the opportunity to swim and snorkel in clear waters makes this more than just sightseeing. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that, being a shorter trip, it’s ideal if you’re looking for a quick, scenic escape rather than a comprehensive exploration.

This experience is perfect for travelers who love beautiful views and relaxed pacing. It’s especially suitable if you want flexibility on your trip, enjoy being on the water, and prefer a more intimate tour rather than crowded group outings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private & customizable: You can choose how you spend your time, whether exploring the villages or swimming.
• Stunning scenery: Expect gorgeous views of Portovenere, the islands, and coastal caves like Grotta di Byron.
• Swim and snorkel: Extra time on the water means opportunities to cool off and see marine life.
• Concise but comprehensive: In just 3 hours, you’ll cover significant sights and enjoy personalized attention.
• Comfort & convenience: Towels, snorkel gear, and drinks are included, plus a traditional boat with shade.
• Suitable for relaxed day-trippers: Not a deep dive into history but a scenic, flexible experience for lovers of the sea.

Starting Point and Practicalities

Your adventure kicks off from Porto Mirabello in La Spezia. To make your arrival easier, there’s a nearby gasoline station, and the exact meeting point is at coordinates 44.0997, 9.82705. Once onboard, you’ll be greeted by an English and Italian-speaking skipper who will navigate the coast, sharing insights and adjusting the route based on your interests.

This is a small group experience—limited to 10 people—which makes it more intimate. You can reserve your spot with the flexible “reserve now, pay later” option, and cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

What Is Included and How the Tour Unfolds

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins from La Spezia’s harbor, heading towards the fishing villages of Cadimare and Fezzano. These spots are charming and less touristy, offering a glimpse into authentic Ligurian life. From there, you’ll sail to Portovenere, a village that looks like it belongs in a fairy tale—with colorful houses, medieval churches, and a dramatic coastline.

Portovenere is a major highlight. We loved the way our guide shared stories about its past, adding context to the picturesque scenes. One reviewer mentions, “We loved the way the skipper told stories and tailored the experience to our wishes,” highlighting how personalized the trip can be.

Next, you’ll explore Grotta di Byron, a dramatic cave famous for its connection to Lord Byron. It’s a stunning spot that’s worth a quick stop, and you’ll get to see it from the water, which enhances the experience.

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Islands and Coastal Features

The tour wraps around the three islands in front of Portovenere. While the specific names aren’t listed, the scenery includes rocky outcrops, small islands, and natural caves—each offering excellent photo opportunities. The boat is traditional, and there’s plenty of space to relax and soak in the views.

Swimming and Snorkeling

One of the best parts? The option to stop for swimming or snorkeling. You can decide exactly how to use the extra time on board—whether to jump into the water, explore marine life with provided gear, or stay dry and enjoy the views. Towels and snorkel gear are supplied, making it easy to dip in if conditions feel right.

What Travelers Say

A recent reviewer from Germany gave this tour a perfect 5 out of 5, praising the “great skipper” who was attentive and flexible, and appreciated the boat’s shade. They felt the tour was “100% recommended,” which speaks well for the overall experience.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• The personalized approach means you can tailor your experience to your interests.
• The stunning scenery of Portovenere, caves, and islands offers countless photo moments.
• The option to swim and snorkel adds a fun, active element.
• The small group size enhances the intimate feel and allows for more interaction with the skipper.

Cons:

• The 3-hour duration is ideal for a quick escape but doesn’t cover extensive sightseeing or in-depth history.
• If you’re looking for a full-day tour, this might feel a bit brief.
• The tour excludes large crowds, so if you prefer very popular spots with lots of visitors, this may not be for you.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you value personalized service and want a relaxing day on the water, this tour fits the bill. It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy scenic cruising with the flexibility to swim or explore at their own pace. It’s ideal for those wanting a short but memorable experience without the hassle of large groups or rigid schedules.

While not focused heavily on history or cultural details, it offers a beautiful, tranquil escape into Liguria’s coast. If your priority is stunning views combined with a relaxed, customizable outing, this tour will serve you well.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your schedule shifts.

Is the tour suitable for swimming?
Absolutely. There’s extra time to swim and snorkel if you wish, with gear and towels provided.

What language is spoken during the tour?
The skipper speaks English and Italian, so communication should be smooth for most travelers.

Where do we meet?
You’ll meet at Porto Mirabello in La Spezia, near a gasoline station with the coordinates 44.0997, 9.82705.

What should I bring?
While towels and snorkeling gear are provided, bringing your own swimwear, sun protection, and a camera will enhance your experience.

Final Thoughts

This La Spezia boat tour to Portovenere and its islands offers a great way to see some of Liguria’s most charming coastlines in a relaxed, private setting. The combination of easy cruising, personalized stops, and opportunities to swim make it ideal for travelers seeking a scenic escape without the fuss of large tour groups.

You’ll love the stunning views, the flexibility to customize your time, and the chance to enjoy Italy’s coast from the water. It’s a perfect choice for those who want a casual, intimate experience with nature, history, and incredible scenery all rolled into a concise trip.

If you’re after a memorable, relaxing day on the sea with a touch of adventure, this tour could be exactly what you need. Just be ready for a shorter trip that perfectly balances scenic beauty with comfort and flexibility.

You can check availability for your dates here: