La Spezia is a fantastic hub for exploring the Ligurian coast, especially if you’re short on time but eager to experience its stunning scenery. The 3-Hour Tours highlighted here offer a mix of boat excursions that showcase the region’s beauty from the water—an unbeatable perspective—and give you a taste of everything from colorful villages to serene islands. We’re particularly fond of the 3 Hour One-Way Boat Tour from La Spezia to Monterosso because it combines easy access to the famous Cinque Terre with a memorable boat ride that covers multiple villages in a single trip. Plus, the chance to see Byron’s Grotto and Portovenere from the water adds a special touch.
These tours are perfect for travelers wanting a quick, scenic experience rather than a full-day commitment. Whether you’re drawn to a daytime cruise of Cinque Terre or a romantic sunset sail in the Gulf of Poets—each offers a distinctive way to see the coast. Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each tour, helping you decide which fits your travel style best.
1. 3 Hour One-Way Boat Tour from La Spezia to Monterosso
Starting with a shared one-way boat trip from La Spezia to Monterosso, this tour stands out for its efficiency and stunning views. It’s designed for travelers who want to skip the crowds and experience the Cinque Terre from the water, offering a practical way to reach one of Italy’s most iconic villages in just about three hours. The boat departs from La Spezia and offers a route that hits key sights like the Gulf of the Poets and Portovenere, which is seen as the “sixth village” of Cinque Terre for its beauty. Along the way, you’ll pass Byron’s Grotto, a favorite of literature and history lovers alike.
What makes this tour unique is the combination of scenic cruising and cultural highlights, all at a reasonable price of around $114 per person. The itinerary includes passing by Riomaggiore, Manarola, and Corniglia, giving you a chance to appreciate these villages from a different perspective—without the long hikes or ferry waits. The small group setting ensures a personal experience, and the boat’s relaxed pace allows for plenty of photo opportunities.
This trip suits travelers with limited time who want a quick, scenic overview of the Cinque Terre’s highlights, especially if you’re planning to explore the villages on foot later. The only caveat is that it’s a one-way trip, so you’ll need to plan your transportation back.
Bottom Line: An affordable, scenic way to see Cinque Terre from the water and visit Portovenere, ideal for travelers short on time but eager for coastal views.
2. 3 Hours Sunset Boat Tour to Golfo dei Poeti Shared
For a more relaxed and romantic experience, the Sunset Boat Tour in the Gulf of Poets offers a memorable three-hour cruise through one of Italy’s most beautiful coastal areas. Starting from La Spezia, this tour takes you around towns like San Terenzo, Lerici, Fiascherino, and Tellaro, all with a backdrop of stunning coastline and historic castles. The highlight is the circumnavigation of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto, which are some of the most picturesque islands in the Gulf.
The highlight of this trip is the Aperitivo on board, which you can enjoy as the sun dips below the horizon. The boat, a historic 7.50m Gozzo Bani, has been fully refitted and provides a comfortable, authentic sailing experience. The reviews are glowing, with one noting, “Giacomo was very welcoming and a fantastic captain” despite choppy waters, emphasizing the personal touch and expert handling.
At a price of roughly $140, this tour is a good value, especially for couples or small groups seeking a romantic outing. It also includes a swimming break, giving you a chance to cool off in the clear waters near Porto Venere. The timing of this tour makes it perfect for travelers who want a sunset view or to combine sightseeing with a relaxing boat ride.
Bottom Line: An elegant, romantic way to explore the Gulf of Poets, with a focus on scenic beauty and memorable moments at sunset.
How to Choose Your Perfect La Spezia Boat Trip
Selecting between these options depends on your interests and schedule. If quick access to Cinque Terre villages sounds appealing and you want to see multiple villages from the water, the One-Way Boat Tour to Monterosso might be your best bet. It’s especially suitable if you plan to explore the villages on land and just want a scenic transfer.
On the other hand, if you’re after a relaxed, romantic experience with a focus on coastal scenery and sunset views, the Gulf of Poets Sunset Boat Tour offers a more leisurely pace and a memorable atmosphere—ideal for couples or anyone wanting to unwind.
Consider your budget, time constraints, and what kind of scenery excites you most. Both trips are highly rated, so booking early is wise, especially during peak season. If you’re visiting during the warmer months, evening tours tend to be more comfortable and visually spectacular.
Final Thoughts
La Spezia offers a versatile selection of 3-hour boat experiences that showcase its stunning coastline. For a quick, scenic glimpse of Cinque Terre villages, the one-way boat trip to Monterosso stands out with its efficiency and highlights. If you prefer a more relaxed, romantic outing, the sunset cruise through the Gulf of Poets provides a peaceful and picturesque escape.
Both tours cater well to different tastes—active sightseeing or tranquil relaxation—and are excellent choices for making the most of your limited time along this beautiful coast. Be sure to book early, especially if visiting during the busy summer months, to secure your preferred slot and enjoy a memorable trip.
