La Spezia is a fantastic base for exploring the Ligurian coast by boat. Its natural harbor, proximity to Cinque Terre, and scenic coastline make it a perfect launching point for memorable boat tours and cruises. Whether you’re after a relaxing sunset sail, a full-day exploration of the colorful villages, or a private charter to discover hidden coves, La Spezia has something to offer. We particularly love the full-day Cinque Terre and Portovenere boat tour because it combines scenic cruising with swimming in protected marine areas, plus on-board regional food and wine. For those seeking a shorter but equally picturesque experience, the sunset boat tour with aperitif offers a magical way to unwind at the end of the day with stunning views and local drinks.
Many tours here are designed to showcase the best of Liguria’s coast, with options for small groups, private charters, and themed excursions like sunset or island trips. If you’re interested in combining a scenic cruise with a cultural experience, some tours even include stops at Pisa or explore the Gulf of Poets. Whether your goal is a family-friendly trip, a romantic sunset cruise, or an active swim and snorkel adventure, La Spezia’s boat tours deliver.
Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best options. Each offers a distinctive way to see this stunning stretch of Italy from the water — from half-day trips to full-day voyages, private charters, and themed sunset excursions. Keep reading to find your perfect match.
1. La Spezia: Cinque Terre and Portovenere Full-Day Boat Tour
This full-day adventure is a favorite for its sweeping views of Cinque Terre National Park, sailing around the Gulf of Poets, and visiting the UNESCO-listed Portovenere. The tour uses a traditional Ligurian boat, giving you an authentic experience. What stands out is the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters and enjoy Ligurian focaccia, local white wine, and drinks onboard. You’ll stop at several iconic spots like Riomaggiore, Manarola, and Vernazza, with plenty of time for photos, exploring, or relaxing on deck.
The itinerary is packed, including photo stops at Byron Grotto and Le Rosse, along with swim stops at protected marine areas. Reviewers praise the tour’s beautiful scenery and the flexibility to choose where and when to swim. At around 8 hours, it’s ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive, all-day experience with regional food and wine onboard.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want to see Cinque Terre’s villages from the water, enjoy local flavors, and swim in pristine waters all while soaking up the scenery. It’s a great value for a full-day immersive experience.
2. Cinque Terre Morning or Sunset Boat Tour with Aperitif
This tour offers a more relaxed and intimate way to admire Cinque Terre — with options for a 5.5-hour sunset cruise or a morning outing. You’ll sail from La Spezia or Portovenere and pass Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto islands, with excellent photo opportunities of the colorful villages from the sea. The highlight is the chance to explore Vernazza and Manarola from the water, with stops for photos and leisurely exploration.
Guests rave about this tour’s friendly skipper and the chance to capture stunning sunset views, especially as the sun dips behind the villages. It’s perfect for couples or small groups who want a more cozy, less crowded experience, combined with an aperitif onboard. The tour includes stops at several villages, with free time for exploring or relaxing in scenic settings.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for travelers seeking a romantic sunset cruise or a scenic morning sail, with plenty of photo ops and a casual, friendly vibe. The inclusion of aperitifs makes it a memorable way to toast Italy’s coast.
3. From La Spezia: Round-Trip to Pisa Cruise Shore Excursion
For around $49, this half-day shore excursion to Pisa offers a no-stress way to see the Leaning Tower and Piazza dei Miracoli. The trip includes shuttle transport from La Spezia and ample free time to explore the city’s captivating landmarks. It’s a great option if you’re on a cruise and want a straightforward, guided visit without the hassle of public transportation.
Reviews highlight its smooth operation and the knowledgeable guide who makes the city’s highlights come alive. While it’s a short trip, it hits the main sights and guarantees your return to the ship on time. It’s best suited for travelers short on time, or those wanting to combine a quick cultural experience with their Ligurian coast stay.
Bottom Line: Ideal for cruise passengers or those wanting a quick dip into Tuscany’s architectural marvels without a complicated plan. It’s a practical, reliable option.
4. Boat Tours 5 Terre
This tour offers a luxurious, private boat experience aboard a spacious 34-foot vessel built in 2025. It’s run by a family business that organizes the tour personally, without third-party involvement. The trip usually lasts about 3 to 4 hours, with stops at Vernazza, Manarola, Riomaggiore, and other villages, plus a swim or snorkel stop in the marine protected waters.
Reviewers love the comfort and personalized service, noting the small groups (around 6 people) and the chance to swim and snorkel in clear waters. The boat is modern, and the experience is tailored to your preferences, making it ideal for couples or small groups wanting an exclusive experience. The tour also features scenic views and the opportunity to avoid crowded land-based tours.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a private, intimate experience with expert guidance, comfort, and the chance to swim in less crowded spots. It’s good value if you’re after exclusivity.
5. La Spezia: Sunset Boat Tour with Aperitivo and Snacks
Enjoy La Spezia at night on this 2-hour guided sunset cruise. You’ll sail past landmarks like Torre Scola and the Tino lighthouse, with stunning views of Portovenere and the three islands. The tour includes a drink and light snacks while you watch the sun dip below the horizon — a perfect way to unwind.
Guests mention the spectacular sunset views and the chance to see famous landmarks like the church of San Pietro. The tour’s short duration makes it a great evening activity, especially for couples or small groups wanting a romantic experience. It’s also accessible for travelers with limited time but who still want to enjoy Liguria’s evening beauty.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you’re looking for a romantic, scenic cruise to cap off a day exploring La Spezia, with stunning sunset vistas.
6. From La Spezia: Portovenere and 3 Islands Boat Trip
This 2.5-hour small-group tour takes you exploring the unspoiled Portovenere and its three islands, emphasizing a personal experience. You’ll marvel at dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and historic ruins, including sites featured in movies. The tour cruises through “Le Bocche” strait and offers free time in Portovenere for exploration or relaxation.
Reviewers highlight Alfredo’s friendly, knowledgeable guiding style and the opportunity to swim in scenic coves. The tour is perfect for travelers who want a more intimate, less crowded way to see the coast’s natural beauty and historic sites.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who prefer small-group intimacy and want to explore Portovenere’s hidden corners and sea caves.
7. Sunset Boat Tour to Cinque Terre with Aperitif on Board
This 3- to 4-hour sunset cruise along the Cinque Terre is a highlight for lovers of golden hour. Departing from Levanto, you cruise past all five villages, stopping for swims and snorkels in the clear waters. The tour culminates with an onboard aperitif, wine or soft drinks, as the sun sets behind the picturesque coastline.
Guests rave about the small group size (max 12 people), the quality of the snacks, and the opportunity to see Cinque Terre from the water in a relaxed setting. The combination of scenic views, swimming stops, and local drinks makes this a popular, intimate experience — perfect for couples or anyone wanting to enjoy Italy’s coast at its most beautiful.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a romantic sunset, with plenty of time to photograph the villages and enjoy a leisurely swim and drinks.
8. La Spezia: Dream Boat Tour to Cinque Terre
This 7.5-hour luxury day trip aboard the elegant gozzo Illusione offers a blend of comfort, style, and scenic beauty. The vessel is designed for relaxed cruising, with opportunities to swim, snorkel, and enjoy local food and drinks onboard. The itinerary includes stops at Porto Venere, Byron Cave, and the famous villages of Cinque Terre from the sea, offering stunning photo opportunities.
Reviewers love the size and comfort of the boat and the personalized service. The tour’s focus on luxury and authentic Ligurian flavors makes it perfect for travelers seeking a more refined experience. It’s a full-day adventure that balances sightseeing with relaxation.
Bottom Line: Designed for those wanting a special, upscale experience with plenty of time for swimming and photography.
9. Morning Boat Tour to Cinque Terre with Breakfast and Brunch
Starting from Levanto, this private tour is perfect for a relaxed morning exploration. It includes a breakfast or brunch onboard, with views of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. The itinerary is customizable, with stops for swimming and snorkeling in coves along the coast.
Reviewers appreciate the flexibility and the chance to see all five villages from the water while enjoying local specialties like focaccia and wine. It’s suitable for couples or small groups wanting a personalized, scenic start to the day.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a customizable, intimate morning cruise with good food and scenic stops.
10. La Spezia: Gulf of Poets Boat Trip with Swim Stops
This 3-hour trip offers a lively, sea-focused experience through the Gulf of Poets. With swim and snorkel stops, you’ll explore the marine life and rugged coastline, with highlights including Porto Venere and Lerici. The trip features a menu of regional snacks and drinks, and the inflatable platforms are perfect for relaxing or splashing around.
Guests mention how fun and lively the atmosphere is, with a good mix of sightseeing and swimming. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a shorter, active, yet scenic outing.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a fun, energetic trip with plenty of swimming in the Ligurian waters.
11. Day Boat Tour Cinque Terre & Porto Venere
This comprehensive 5.5-hour tour combines the Cinque Terre villages with a scenic visit to Porto Venere. It’s perfect for travelers wanting an in-depth water-based overview. The boat has onboard restrooms and a freshwater shower, which enhances comfort after swimming. You’ll have time for sightseeing, swimming, and sampling Ligurian specialties like pesto and focaccia.
Reviews emphasize the seamless experience and the ability to see villages from the water without the crowds. It suits travelers who want a blend of activity and relaxation in a well-organized outing.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those seeking a balanced, full experience of coast and villages, with good amenities onboard.
12. Cinque Terre Boat Tours Experience
This 3-hour small-group tour is a hit for an authentic, less crowded view of Cinque Terre from the water. Starting from Monterosso or Levanto, it includes stops for swimming and strolling in Vernazza, plus an onboard aperitif with prosecco and local snacks. Its smaller size and personalized style make it ideal for couples or friends.
Reviewers love the guide’s local knowledge and the chance to avoid land crowds while capturing stunning photos. It’s a shorter, relaxing option for those short on time but wanting a memorable experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a short, intimate trip that combines sightseeing, swimming, and local flavors.
13. Guided Day Tour on Private Boat to Cinque Terre
For those seeking ultimate privacy and personalized service, this private boat tour is unbeatable. It’s a 3- to 4-hour cruise with a focus on comfort, exclusivity, and flexibility. You’ll cross the Gulf of Poets, explore Portovenere, and visit Byron’s cave along with other coves and marine spots. You can customize stops, enjoy Ligurian food and drinks, and relax in style.
The guide’s extensive experience shines through, with reviews praising the careful, friendly service and the unforgettable views. This tour is perfect for small groups or couples wanting a luxury, bespoke experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking privacy, customization, and a truly luxurious coastal adventure.
14. La Spezia: Framura Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Drinks
This 2.5-hour tour explores the hidden caves and colorful fish of Framura’s coast. It’s an energetic, adventure-packed trip with opportunities for rock diving, snorkeling, and exploring secret caves. The tour focuses on enjoying nature’s untouched beauty with plenty of time for swimming and relaxing.
Reviewers highlight how easy it is to find the meeting point and the engaging experience of diving off rocks and exploring caves. It’s a fantastic choice for active travelers who want a more rugged, hands-on experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for adventurous spirits eager for snorkeling and exploring lesser-known coastal caves.
15. From La Spezia: Portovenere Islands Golden Hour Boat Tour
This 1.5-hour sunset cruise is a romantic way to see the three islands and Portovenere. You’ll relax with a glass of prosecco or local wine while marveling at the sunset over San Pietro church and the colorful coastline. The tour includes stops at Tinetto and Tino islands, with opportunities for photos of the statue of Madonna Stella Maris emerging from the water.
Guests enjoy the calm ambiance and the chance to witness Liguria’s coast at its most magical hour. It’s perfect for couples wanting a scenic, intimate experience during the golden hour.
Bottom Line: A short, scenic, and relaxing option for a romantic, sunset experience with excellent photo opportunities.
How to Choose the Perfect Boat Tour in La Spezia
When deciding between these options, think about your time availability, interest level, and group size. If you want a full-day exploration with swimming and regional food, the Cinque Terre and Portovenere Full-Day Boat Tour is hard to beat. For a romantic sunset or a quick afternoon, the Sunset Boat Tour with Aperitif and the Golden Hour Islands Tour are excellent choices.
Those seeking exclusivity should consider the Private Boat Tour, while active travelers will love the Framura Cave Adventure. Budget-conscious visitors might prefer the Pisa Shore Excursion, which combines cultural sightseeing with minimal hassle.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak summer months, as these tours are popular and fill quickly. Consider your preferred pace, whether a full day of relaxing or a quick scenic escape, to find the ideal boat experience for your trip.
In summary, La Spezia’s boat tours offer an impressive range of experiences, from full-day exploration of Cinque Terre’s villages to intimate sunset cruises. Whether you’re after a luxury private charter, a family-friendly swim stop, or a romantic sunset with drinks, this coast delivers. We encourage you to choose based on your interests and travel style, and to book early to secure your spot on these unforgettable voyages.
