Portofino isn’t just a postcard-perfect village; it’s one of Italy’s most photogenic and exclusive destinations, famous for its colorful buildings and the stunning Portofino Natural Park. What better way to see this jewel of the Ligurian coast than by boat? Whether you want a quick half-day adventure, a full-day exploration, or a romantic sunset cruise, the options are plentiful. We particularly like the Portofino Boat and Walking Tour with Pesto Cooking & Lunch, which combines a scenic boat ride with a walk through the village, topped with a Ligurian culinary experience. For a more personalized experience, the Private Boat Tours offer tailored routes and private guides, perfect for small groups or special occasions.
Many tours include stops at iconic spots like San Fruttuoso Abbey and Camogli, with opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and exploring quaint fishing villages. Plus, the combination of water views and on-land exploration makes these tours stand out. If you’re craving a luxurious experience, the Private Sunset Boat Tour with Aperitif offers a romantic way to end your day watching the sun set over the Ligurian Sea.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of the 15 best boat tours and cruises in Portofino, each with its own unique flavor—from short scenic trips to full-day private charters—helping you find the one that suits your style and budget.
What Types of Tours Made the List?
This list covers a wide range of experiences. For those wanting a quick taste of Portofino’s charm, the Boat Tour to Portofino and San Fruttuoso for Small Groups is perfect. If you prefer a fully private experience, check out the Private Boat Tour Portofino, Golfo Paradiso and Tigullio, which offers a 7-hour bespoke journey. For culinary enthusiasts, the Portofino Boat and Walking Tour with Pesto Cooking & Lunch provides a scenic ride, a walk, and a local Ligurian meal. Want to combine sightseeing with snorkeling? The Private Boat Tour in the Portofino Marine Reserve includes underwater exploration. And for a romantic touch, the Private Sunset Boat Tour with Aperitif makes for an unforgettable evening.
Now, let’s go through each of these top-rated tours in more detail.
1. Portofino Boat and Walking Tour with Pesto Cooking & Lunch
At number one, this combined 3-hour boat and walking tour offers an immersive Portofino experience. Starting with round-trip ferry tickets from Santa Margherita Ligure, the tour takes you up to the Church of Saint Giorgio for sweeping views of the village. Then, you’ll visit a traditional bakery for a focaccia tasting, before participating in a pesto making class — a Ligurian specialty. The tour concludes with a lunch overlooking the water, offering authentic regional flavors. Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore, whether that’s hiking in the Portofino Natural Park or sampling gelato.
Guests consistently praise the balance of sightseeing, learning, and eating. One reviewer called it “fabulous,” highlighting the “knowledgeable guide” and the “delicious lunch.” The combination of walking, boat rides, and cooking makes this an ideal choice for travelers looking to combine scenic views with local culture.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a compact, authentic taste of Portofino with a culinary twist. Price is about $261.65 per person, offering good value for the full experience.
2. Andrea Boat Charter Portofino
Number two on our list is the Andrea Boat Charter, which provides a flexible 3 to 7-hour private tour for up to five people. This experience is all about exploring Italy’s coastline by water with a captain at your service. Stops can include Santa Margherita, with its colorful houses, or the Abbazia di San Fruttuoso, where you can swim and snorkel among underwater statues. You can also visit Camogli, a charming fishing village, sampling the famed focaccia.
Guests love the personalized attention and the ability to customize the route. One reviewer said, “Guglielmo tailored our tour to include everything we wanted,” emphasizing the flexibility. Including snorkeling equipment and drinks, this trip is ideal for small groups seeking a private, relaxed day on the water.
Bottom line: A superb choice for privacy and customization, especially if your group enjoys snorkeling and exploring at your own pace. Cost is $872.15 per group, making it investment-worthy for a tailored experience.
3. Private Boat Tour Portofino, Golfo Paradiso and Tigullio
This 7-hour private tour offers a relaxed day exploring Portofino, San Fruttuoso, Camogli, and other scenic spots. The tour emphasizes luxury and local storytelling, with the boat stopping at the Abbazia di San Fruttuoso—a stunning monastery accessible only by sea. Guests can listen to the captain’s tales, enjoy local wines, and savor regional dishes.
Reviewers describe it as “an unforgettable experience,” especially appreciating the attention to detail and the ability to tailor stops. The tour is best suited for those wanting a more comprehensive, luxurious day on the Ligurian coast. The price of $2,751.34 per group reflects the exclusivity and length of this experience.
Bottom line: For a full-day, all-inclusive private cruise that combines sightseeing, culture, and luxury in one package, this tour is worth considering.
4. Boat Tour to Portofino and San Fruttuoso for Small Groups
This 4-hour tour is designed for small groups, with a focus on scenic coastlines and easy exploration. Starting with a boat ride touching Santa Margherita Ligure, the tour stops in Portofino for about an hour, giving you time to walk and take photos. Then, it heads to San Fruttuoso, where you can snorkel and visit the abbey.
Reviewers say it’s “great for a half-day,” with friendly guides and a good balance of free time and sightseeing. The $118.58 per person price makes it accessible without sacrificing quality.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a quick, well-organized overview of Portofino and its surroundings, especially if they want to include snorkeling.
5. Private charter tour boat exscursion from Genoa to Portofino
For those arriving via Genoa, this full-day private charter offers a personalized experience with a skipper. It’s perfect for exploring San Fruttuoso, Camogli, and the Portofino coast, with stops for snorkeling, lunch, and swimming. The 8-hour trip includes inflatable tow boards and snorkeling gear.
Guests describe this tour as “wonderful,” especially appreciating the personalized route and friendly skipper. The cost is around $528.39 per person, which is reasonable considering it’s a private all-day experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for visitors who want a flexible, full-day private adventure with plenty of water activities.
6. Portofino Riviera and Cinque Terre Private Boat Tour
This 7.5-hour private trip offers a luxurious way to explore both Portofino and Cinque Terre. It features customized itineraries, allowing you to choose stops like San Fruttuoso, Camogli, or even dolphin watching. The fleet is top-notch, and the experience is tailor-made to your preferences.
Reviews highlight its flexibility and personalized service, making it ideal for travelers wanting an exclusive day on the water. It’s a premium experience, with pricing upon request.
Bottom line: Perfect for groups seeking a bespoke, full-day adventure combining Portofino charm with the scenic wonders of Cinque Terre.
7. Private Sunset Boat Tour with Aperitif in Portofino Gulf
This 2-hour tour offers a romantic sunset experience with local wine and light snacks. You’ll sail along the coast, passing Paraggi, Portofino, and San Fruttuoso, with plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or just relax. The small group setting promises intimacy, and the sunset views are often described as “spectacular.”
Guests mention the peaceful atmosphere and friendly captain. The tour costs $213.63 per person, providing a quality experience at a reasonable price.
Bottom line: Ideal for couples or small groups looking for a romantic evening with beautiful scenery and a relaxed vibe.
8. One Day Private Boat Tour in the Cinque Terre
Number eight offers a 7-hour private trip to the Cinque Terre, with stops at villages like Monterosso and Vernazza. It’s led by a passionate skipper who knows the area deeply. Guests rave about the luxury boat and the ability to customize stops, including lunch reservations.
Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guide and the secluded beauty of the villages from the sea, describing it as “the best way to see Cinque Terre.” Expect to see colorful houses and cliff diving spots.
Bottom line: For travelers wanting a luxury, personalized view of Cinque Terre, this tour offers a memorable day.
9. Private Boat Tour in the Portofino Marine Reserve
This 2 to 9-hour tour takes you into the Portofino Marine Park, with options for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. It includes stops at San Fruttuoso, Camogli, and around Santa Margherita. The large cabin and bathroom make it comfortable for longer trips, and the underwater sights like the Christ of the Abyss are highlights.
Guests love the personalized itineraries and the chance to swim in crystal waters. The cost is $487.35 per group, making it a versatile private option.
Bottom line: Best for those seeking a flexible, water-focused excursion with plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling.
10. Private Boat Tour of the Portofino Riviera 8 hours
This 8-hour private experience allows you to customize your route, with options to explore beaches, snorkel, or sample local wines. The high-level boat and experienced captain mean comfort and flexibility are guaranteed. Stops include Paraggi, Portofino, and San Fruttuoso.
Guests note the personalized service and the ability to set your own pace. Starting at $601.93 per person, it’s a premium but flexible way to experience the coast.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for travelers wanting a full-day private adventure with tailored stops and activities.
11. Private Sunset Boat Tour with Aperitif in Portofino
This 1.5-hour tour offers intimate sunset views with local drinks and snacks, sailing along the coast and passing Paraggi and Portofino. It’s perfect for romantic evenings or celebrating a special occasion. The small group setting enhances the experience, with plenty of time for photos and relaxing.
Reviewers praise the peaceful ambiance and stunning scenery. Costing $282.91 per person, it’s a lovely, affordable option for an evening.
Bottom line: For a brief but memorable romantic cruise, this tour delivers with gorgeous sunset views.
12. Private daily tour and charter boat from Portofino
This 7-hour private tour includes a customizable itinerary around Portofino, San Fruttuoso, Camogli, and more, with stops for lunch, swimming, and snorkeling. It’s perfect for those who want a personalized day on the water.
One reviewer called their experience “highly recommended,” appreciating the flexibility and friendly guide. Cost is $623.88 per person, reflecting the private nature.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking a full, customizable day with water activities and scenic stops.
13. Portofino San Fruttuoso and Camogli One Day Boat Tour
This 5-hour tour takes you through Santa Margherita Ligure, Portofino, San Fruttuoso, and Camogli. It includes about an hour in Portofino and opportunities for snorkeling. The small group and cost of $157.08 per person make it a manageable, engaging experience.
Guests love the seafaring perspective of this tour, describing it as a good summary for those short on time but wanting a taste of the coast.
Bottom line: Great for travelers who want a cruise-focused way to see multiple villages quickly.
14. Sunset Boat Tour with Aperitif in Portofino
This 1.5-hour cruise combines beautiful sunset views with local wine and light snacks. Passengers enjoy sailing past Paraggi and Portofino while relaxing in a small group. It’s perfect for ending a day or celebrating a special occasion with a romantic atmosphere.
Rated 3.5/5, some reviews mention the smaller boats compared to expectations, but the scenery and experience still shine. The price is $86.82 per person.
Bottom line: An affordable, charming way to enjoy Portofino at dusk with a glass of wine and great company.
15. Milan-Portofino Private Boat Tour with Aperitif
Finally, for travelers starting from Milan, this 6.5-hour private transfer and boat tour offers seamless logistics. It includes a scenic boat cruise, guided tour of Portofino, and a local Aperitif. The service includes hotel pickup in Milan, making it ideal for day-trippers.
While reviews are limited, the all-in-one package is appealing for those wanting a luxury, hassle-free experience with a focus on comfort and convenience.
Bottom line: Perfect for those based in Milan who want a comprehensive, private day trip without the hassle of planning.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour in Portofino
When selecting your ideal boat experience, consider your budget, time available, and interests. For a short but sweet taste, the Boat Tour to Portofino and San Fruttuoso offers a balanced introduction. If you want a luxury, private day, then the Private Boat Tour Portofino, Golfo Paradiso and Tigullio might be your best bet. For culinary lovers, the Portofino Boat and Walking Tour with Pesto Cooking & Lunch combines sightseeing with Ligurian flavors.
Booking early is wise, especially in high season, as these tours fill quickly. Think about your preferred pace—full-day private charters provide maximum flexibility, while shorter group tours are perfect for a quick overview. Also, check the weather forecast—many tours include swimming and snorkeling, so a warm day makes all the difference.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re seeking a romantic sunset cruise, a family-friendly day exploring villages, or an authentic cooking experience, Portofino’s boat tours deliver unforgettable views and unique moments. For a budget-friendly taste, the Small-Group Tour hits the mark, while the private charters offer exclusivity and tailored routes.
If you’re planning ahead, booking your preferred tour early will ensure you don’t miss out on these spectacular experiences. Whichever you choose, prepare for a day on the water that combines spectacular scenery, regional flavors, and the unmistakable charm of the Italian Riviera.
