La Spezia: Cinque Terre Tour with Lunch on Board 8 hours

Discovering Cinque Terre from La Spezia: A Detailed Look at the 8-Hour Boat Tour

If you’re dreaming of floating along Italy’s stunning coastlines and ticking off the iconic Cinque Terre villages in one smooth day, this La Spezia: Cinque Terre Tour with Lunch on Board might be worth considering. While we haven’t personally done this trip, the reviews and details paint a picture of an experience that’s both scenic and relaxed — perfect for those seeking a taste of Italy’s colorful villages without the hassle of navigating buses or trains.

What we really like about this tour? First, the chance to sail aboard a brand new luxury boat — floating comfort makes the journey much more enjoyable. Second, the combination of sightseeing and beach stops means you get to see the villages from a unique perspective and still enjoy some time in the water. That said, a potential downside is that the itinerary depends heavily on weather and traffic conditions, which might affect the stops’ timing or access.

This experience seems best suited for travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace, some onboard comfort, and want to see the Cinque Terre without intensive walking or public transportation. It’s also great for those wanting a bit of everything—picturesque villages, beaches, and a delicious meal—without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Luxury boat experience: Comfort on a brand new vessel with plenty of space and amenities
• All-inclusive lunch & drinks: Enjoy focaccia, pesto, seafood, buffalo mozzarella, Prosecco, wine, beer, and soft drinks
• Multiple stops: Visits to Cinque Terre villages, beaches, and a scenic port of Porto Venere
• Flexible itinerary: Stops may vary depending on traffic and weather, especially in Vernazza or Monterosso
• Snorkeling equipment: Simple gear provided for some underwater fun
• Small group size: Up to 9 travelers ensures personalized attention and a less crowded experience

The Experience in Detail: What to Expect from Start to Finish

This tour kicks off at the D-Marin Porto Mirabello Marina in La Spezia at 10:00 am. From there, you’ll set sail on a luxurious boat, leaving the busy port behind and heading toward some of the most photogenic spots along the coast. The quiet confidence of a modern vessel means you can relax from the moment you step aboard, enjoying views that are best appreciated sitting back or lounging on deck.

First Stop: Porto Venere

Your first stop is Porto Venere, an ancient village teeming with history and postcard-worthy views. Here, you’ll get about 30 minutes to wander and snap photos of the church of San Pietro and the castle from the 1400s. This spot’s charm is undeniable, and many reviews highlight how picturesque and timeless Porto Venere feels. After exploring, you’ll hop into the water at Le Rosse beach — a great place for a swim, especially if you want a quick cool-off before more sightseeing.

Beaches and Water Fun

The beach of Monesteroli comes next, offering a chance to enjoy a 45-minute swim in waters renowned for their seabed and clear fish. It’s a favorite among travelers, who find the small fish accustomed to travelers make for fun snorkeling opportunities. Simple gear is provided, so you don’t need to bring your own. We loved the way this stop balances relaxing in the water with sightseeing, making the experience more memorable than just visiting villages.

The Cinque Terre Villages

The tour hits the five villages in a logical, scenic order, with stops in Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso. Each offers a glimpse into the colorful, charming world of this famous coastline.

• Riomaggiore: Your first village stop, with about 40 minutes to walk around and take photos. It’s the starting point for many travelers’ stories and a great place to get your first taste of Cinque Terre’s vibrancy.
• Manarola: Slightly smaller but packed with history and charm, you’ll have about 15 minutes to capture the essence of this iconic village.
• Corniglia: Less accessible than the others (it’s perched atop a cliff), but worth spending a few minutes to admire the views and snap some pictures.

Gaining Ground and Relaxing in Nature

The tour then takes you to Guvano Beach, where you’ll stop for about an hour. This is where most travelers enjoy a lunch based on focaccia, pesto, seafood pasta, and a Caprese, with fresh buffalo mozzarella and tomatoes on a bed of rocket. The onboard meal gets high praise in reviews for its generous servings and tasty flavors, complemented by free Prosecco, wine, beer, and soft drinks.

More Villages & Final Highlights

Next, your boat will take you to Vernazza, often considered one of the most picturesque spots in the Cinque Terre, with about 20 minutes for photos and strolling. The last village stop is Monterosso al Mare, the biggest of the five, where you’ll disembark for approximately 1.5 hours. This gives ample time to explore, grab a gelato, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere.

Scenic Return & Porto Venere

As the day winds down, you’ll head back toward La Spezia, with a final stop at Porto Venere for about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Here you’ll have the chance to revisit the village, take a last swim or walk along the coast, and reflect on your day. The journey concludes with a 40-minute relaxing cruise back to the port.

The Real Value: What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers consistently highlight how well-organized and enjoyable this trip is. One notes that “the boat is very comfortable,” and the “natural sights are amazing,” making the long day feel relaxed rather than rushed. The friendly crew, especially Massimo, frequently earns praise for their hospitality and attention to detail, from snacks to drinks.

Despite some mentions of choppy seas, the operator adjusts course smoothly, ensuring comfort most of the time. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and the variety of beaches add a playful, interactive element to what might otherwise be just a sightseeing tour.

Many travelers also appreciate the value for money—at about $139 per person, the price covers transportation, multiple stops, a full meal, drinks, and the boat itself. The small group size (up to 9 people) ensures a more intimate experience, which is often more enjoyable than overcrowded tours.

Practical Details and Tips

• Timing: The tour starts at 10:00 am and lasts approximately 8 hours, so plan your day accordingly.
• Meeting Point: D-Marin Porto Mirabello Marina in La Spezia, easy to reach by local transport.
• Weather considerations: The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to bad conditions, a full refund or alternative date is offered.
• Reservation: It’s wise to book about 55 days in advance, especially during peak season.
• Group size: Limited to 9 travelers, which is perfect if you prefer more personalized attention.
• What to bring: Pack sunscreen, a hat, towel, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone for photos.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, comfortable way to see Cinque Terre and Porto Venere without the hassle of trains or buses. It’s especially suited to those who enjoy scenery, beaches, and good food and drinks onboard. If you prefer a busy, fast-paced tour, this might feel a bit slow, but for those looking to savor the day, it’s quite a treat.

It’s also suitable for those traveling with a small group of friends or a partner, given the intimate size, and anyone who enjoys a good meal with their sightseeing.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly geared toward families, the tour includes stops for swimming and snorkeling, which children can enjoy. Keep in mind the boat’s size and the fact that some villages involve walking or photos, so consider your kids’ comfort levels.

What’s included in the lunch?
The onboard meal features focaccia and pesto, spelt with mussels, a Caprese with buffalo mozzarella and tomatoes, and a variety of sauces and snacks. Drinks like Prosecco, wine, beer, and soft drinks are free.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Most entrance tickets for beaches and villages are included or free. You might find optional souvenirs or extra drinks, but the main costs are covered in the tour price.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’re offered a different date or a full refund.

How long do I get at each stop?
Time varies, with some stops like Monterosso allowing up to 1.5 hours, while others are around 15-40 minutes. The schedule is flexible depending on traffic and weather.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Yes, simple snorkeling equipment is provided, and you can use it at beaches like Monesteroli.

Is it easy to get to the meeting point?
Yes, the departure is near public transportation at the Porto Mirabello Marina in La Spezia.

How many people will be in the group?
A maximum of 9 travelers ensures a small, intimate experience.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 55 days ahead, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot.

In the end, this 8-hour boat tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Cinque Terre’s beauty, combining scenic views, charming villages, beaches, and a delicious onboard meal. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed but comprehensive day out on the water, especially if you enjoy a bit of comfort and good company along the way.