Boat Tours 5 Terre

If you’re considering a boat tour of the Cinque Terre, you’re probably after those postcard-perfect views and a relaxing way to see the five charming villages. From what we’ve gathered, the Costa di Faraggiana Boat Tour offers a compelling experience—one that many travelers rave about. With a recent 5-star rating and glowing reviews, it seems to check most boxes for a quality day on the water.

What really appeals to us about this tour is its focus on comfort and personalized service. The boat’s modern design and spacious setup promise a smooth, enjoyable ride, while the dedicated family-run operation means you’re more likely to get attentive, friendly attention. Plus, the chance to skip the crowds and parking hassles makes it even more attractive.

That said, there’s a note of caution—weather can always throw a wrench in plans, so flexibility is key. Also, while the tour is intimate (max 12 people), larger groups can be accommodated if you request it. This would suit travelers who value comfort, good company, and a mix of scenery, swimming, and local bites.

Key Points

• Luxurious Comfort: The boat is brand new (built 2025), spacious, and designed for a smooth experience.
• Personalized Service: Operated by a family business, so expect attentive, knowledgeable guides.
• Flexible Stops: Includes swims, scenic village visits, and a delicious onboard lunch.
• Ideal Duration: About 3 to 4 hours—perfect for a relaxed half-day trip.
• Small Group Feel: Max 12 travelers, but can be expanded if booked in advance.
• Great Reviews: Consistently high ratings and rave reviews for views, food, and guides.

The Experience: What to Expect from the Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

Your journey begins at La Pietra, Levanto, giving you easy access whether you’re staying nearby or arriving by train or car. All tours finish back in Levanto, which is perfect if you’re exploring the region afterward or heading to another destination. The tour uses a mobile ticket, making check-in smooth and hassle-free.

The Boat: Comfort and Safety

The boat itself is a highlight—a spacious 34-foot vessel built in 2025. It’s designed for comfort, safety, and a touch of luxury, with excellent furnishings and plenty of space to relax. The open-air design lets you soak in the sunshine and sea breeze, while an overhead cover offers shade when needed during those hot summer days. Reviews consistently mention how comfortable and well-maintained the boats are, which is a huge plus when spending several hours on the water.

The Itinerary: Highlights and Stops

The tour primarily focuses on the five villages of Cinque Terre—Vernazza, Manarola, Riomaggiore, Corniglia, and Monterosso—with each stop lasting about five minutes. While brief, these stops are well-paced, giving you enough time to snap photos, admire the scenery, or even dip your toes in the sea.

• Vernazza: Often the first stop, this picture-perfect village is famous for its colorful harbor and lively atmosphere. It’s a quick stop, but enough to get a sense of its charm.
• Manarola: Known for its steep terraced vineyards and vibrant houses, this stop is great for photos. Many reviews mention enjoying a swim here; the waters tend to be calm and inviting.
• Riomaggiore: The last village of the five, it offers a stunning backdrop of pastel buildings and a rugged coastline. It’s also a favorite for a quick walk or a swim.
• Swimming and Snorkeling: One of the tour’s standout features is the opportunity to stop for a swim in the clear waters—many reviews highlight this as a favorite part, noting the vibrant fish and beautiful sea life.
• Lunch and Drinks: Onboard, you’ll enjoy regional bites like pesto focaccia, rice and egg Parmesan cakes, spinach and potato torte, plus regional wines and Prosecco. The reviews rave about the food, calling it delicious and plentiful, with many describing it as a highlight.

The Guides and Service

The crew, notably Alessandro and Pietro, receive praise for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to create a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere. Several reviewers mention how they shared interesting stories and made everyone feel at home. Because it’s a family-run operation, you tend to get a more personal touch compared to larger, impersonal tour groups.

Sunset and Special Tours

The Sunset Tour is a popular option, with timing adjusted to match the sunset schedule. Guests have remarked on how spectacular the views are, especially with the changing light casting a golden glow over the villages and sea. The sunset timing varies depending on the season, so it’s good to check in advance.

Group Size and Booking

Although the maximum is 12, the tour can be expanded on request to accommodate up to 20 people, often with another boat. This flexibility makes it suitable for both intimate trips and small groups or families. Booking about two months in advance is recommended, especially for peak season, ensuring you secure your spot.

Analyzing the Value

Price Point

At $151.17 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option but is certainly competitive when you consider the level of comfort, the quality of the boat, and the inclusive food and drinks. Many reviews emphasize the value, especially compared to crowded, less personalized tours. The all-in-one experience—scenery, swimming, regional bites, and drinks—means you’re getting a lot for your money.

What You’re Paying For

• Comfort and safety of a brand-new vessel
• Personalized, family-run service
• Expert guides who provide interesting insights about the region
• Small group intimacy for a relaxed atmosphere
• Delicious regional food and drinks
• Access to exclusive swimming spots and scenic views only possible from the water

Potential Downsides

The main consideration is the weather—like most outdoor trips, poor conditions can lead to cancellations or schedule changes. Also, the stops are brief, so if you’re looking for in-depth exploration, this might not be the right tour. For those who prefer more time on land or multiple long stops, a different experience might suit better.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic way to see the Cinque Terre without the hassle of crowded buses or trains. It’s perfect for those who value comfort, good food, and a small-group atmosphere. Families, couples, or groups of friends will enjoy the personalized service and the chance to swim in secluded spots. It’s especially well-suited for anyone wanting to combine sightseeing with a touch of luxury and delicious regional bites.

If you love learning about the area from friendly guides, appreciate a good meal, or simply want to soak up the sea views in style, this tour ticks a lot of boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the small and relaxed environment makes it manageable for older children, especially those comfortable with water activities and boat rides. The focus on comfort and safety means it’s generally suitable for most travelers.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, swim, and have some regional snacks without feeling rushed.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Most travelers book about 68 days in advance, so last-minute bookings might be tricky, especially during peak season. Planning ahead ensures you get your preferred date.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the boat ride, regional lunch, drinks (including Prosecco and beer), and guided commentary. You’ll also have access to stunning views and swimming stops.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and perhaps a light jacket or blanket for the return trip if it’s chilly or during sunset. The boat is open-air, so dress appropriately for the weather.

Are there any hidden costs?
Reviews don’t mention extra charges, but it’s always good to confirm what’s included when you book, especially if you plan to buy additional drinks or souvenirs.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If the weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. This policy ensures you’re not stuck with a disappointing experience.

How many people can join?
The standard maximum is 12 travelers, but groups of up to 20 can be arranged with prior request, often involving additional boats.

Is parking available?
Since the start point is at La Pietra, Levanto, which is near public transportation, parking might be available nearby. Check with the operator for specifics.

Final Thoughts

Opting for the Costa di Faraggiana Boat Tour offers a refined and intimate way to experience the Cinque Terre. The focus on comfort, personalized service, and quality regional bites makes it stand out from more generic options. The consistent glowing reviews confirm that travelers find value in the well-organized, scenic, and enjoyable journey. Whether you’re after a romantic sunset cruise or a fun day with friends or family, this tour might be just what you need to see Cinque Terre from a fresh perspective—on the water, in style, and with plenty of opportunities to relax and soak it all in.

If you’re someone who appreciates knowledgeable guides, picturesque views, and a more boutique experience, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember to book early and check the weather forecast to ensure a smooth, memorable day at sea.