Tour of Apericena at Sunset and Dinner on Boat

Exploring the Apericena and Dinner Boat Tour in La Spezia

If you’re dreaming of an evening that combines breathtaking scenery, delicious food, and a touch of local charm, this Apericena at Sunset and Dinner on Boat tour in La Spezia might just fit the bill. While we haven’t personally taken this particular trip, it’s gaining popularity, with plenty of reviews praising its stunning vistas and relaxed vibe. It’s a great option if you’re into scenic boat rides, picturesque villages, and enjoying a leisurely meal with a view.

What we really like about this experience is how it blends the beauty of the Gulf of Poets with a laid-back experience of local flavors—think Ligurian crostini, Trofie al Pesto, and unlimited drinks, all while watching the sunset. Plus, the boat’s itinerary covers some of the area’s most iconic sights, from Portovenere to the Byron Cave, making it a well-rounded adventure.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour is somewhat dependent on weather—bad weather could lead to cancellations or a less enjoyable experience. Other considerations include the size of the group, which is limited to 12 travelers, helping ensure a more intimate atmosphere but also requiring early booking if you want a spot.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love scenic views, relaxed dining, and a touch of history. It’s ideal for romantics, small groups of friends, or anyone looking to soak in La Spezia’s charming coastline without rushing around.

Key Points

• Stunning Sunset Views: The highlight is enjoying an aperitif at sea just as the sun dips, offering incredible photo opportunities.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: From the Gulf of Poets to Portovenere, the tour covers essential sights and hidden gems.
• Delicious Ligurian Flavors: Food and drinks are plentiful, with a focus on local specialties and unlimited beverages.
• Relaxed, Intimate Atmosphere: Limited group size (max 12) means personal attention and a cozy vibe.
• Weather-Dependent Experience: Clear skies are crucial for the best views; bad weather might lead to cancellations.
• Good Value: At around $106 per person, the combination of sightseeing, food, and drinks makes for a satisfying evening out.

Detailed Review of the Experience

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off from Porto Mirabello in La Spezia, a familiar starting point for many exploring this part of Italy. The boat departs around 6:30 pm, catching you right at the perfect time to witness the gradual setting of the sun. The small group size—just 12 travelers max—means you’ll likely find yourself chatting comfortably with fellow travelers or simply soaking in the scenery in peaceful silence.

The experience is designed to be relaxed, giving you plenty of time to observe the sights without feeling rushed. The boat’s route takes you across the Gulf of Poets, an area famous for its stunning coastline and historical significance, and offers one of the best vantage points to appreciate La Spezia’s natural beauty.

The Gulf of Poets and Porto Venere

One of the most loved parts of this tour is the journey across the Gulf of Poets, where you get to see the natural pools and the historic Torre Scuola, a World War II military tower. The reviews highlight how easy it is to snap photos of these iconic sites. As Nicole_Z mentioned, “you can take some beautiful photos,” and the views don’t disappoint. The boat glides smoothly, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Visiting Palmaria Island and Cala dell’Ammiraglio

Next up is Palmaria Island, with a stop at Cala dell’Ammiraglio. Here, travelers can enjoy a swim in the clear waters and sip on a drink—whether it’s prosecco, wine, or soft drinks. The fact that you can see buildings from WWII still visible on the island adds a historical layer to the experience. The 30-minute stop is enough for a refreshing dip, but don’t expect a long beach day; this is more about the moment and the views.

Exploring the Islands of Tino and Tinetto

The tour then takes you to Isola del Tino, home to a historic lighthouse, and to Tinetto, with its small, iconic Madonna statue emerging from the sea. The 15-minute visit is brief but meaningful, especially for those interested in the area’s history and legends.

Visiting Byron’s Cave and San Pietro Church

Passing behind Palmaria, you’ll come to Byron Cave, named after Lord Byron, who famously visited the site. The boat offers a vantage point to see the cave from the water, adding a romantic, poetic touch to the evening. The Church of San Pietro stands majestically over the sea, a perfect photo stop, and a reminder of the area’s deep roots in history and spirituality.

Sunset and Dinner in Portovenere

As the boat arrives in front of Portovenere, the true highlight begins—the apericena at sunset. You’ll enjoy local bites like Pesto Trofie, Caprese salad, and focaccia, paired with unlimited drinks. The setting is magical, with the illuminated village providing a stunning backdrop as the sun dips below the horizon.

Post-aperitif, the tour offers a traditional dinner with an emphasis on Ligurian cuisine. The menu is straightforward but satisfying: pasta with pesto, a buffet of cured meats and cheeses, and more focaccia and pesto. Plus, limoncello and coffee round out the meal. You might find the food simple but flavorful, with many reviews appreciating the quality and authenticity of the local dishes.

Return and Relaxation

The return trip is more about unwinding. There’s music, dancing, and plenty of limoncello—an easy way to end a memorable evening. The 30-minute ride back to La Spezia is a relaxing way to process the day’s sights and experiences.

The Experience in Context

This tour’s value hinges on its combination of sightseeing, food, and atmosphere. At around $106.81 per person, it’s a reasonable price considering the included stops, the sunset aperitif, and dinner. The actual experience of being out on the water in the evening, with stunning views over Portovenere illuminated in the night, is truly special.

However, the reliance on good weather is a factor. If storms or heavy rain roll in, the activity could be canceled or less enjoyable. It’s worth booking on a clear evening, and knowing that the tour can be canceled with a full refund if weather conditions aren’t favorable.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer pointed out that once they found the meeting point, the experience was excellent, highlighting the importance of clear directions and communication. It’s worth noting that the tour provider, Blue Breeze, offers a small, intimate group setting, which many travelers appreciate for its personalized feel.

The reviews also mention the good value of the experience—combining sightseeing with food and drinks—making it a solid choice for an evening activity in La Spezia. The opportunity to witness the sunset from the boat, paired with real local flavors, makes this a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend an evening.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic outing that combines the beauty of La Spezia’s coast with good food and drinks. It’s ideal for small groups or couples wanting a romantic evening, or anyone who appreciates being on the water, enjoying local cuisine, and catching a sunset.
It’s not suited for travelers seeking a fast-paced, extensive sightseeing tour or those with limited mobility, given the boat-based nature and some short stops. Also, keep weather in mind—if rain or wind are forecasted, it might be worth waiting or choosing a different activity.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the experience is primarily relaxing and scenic, it’s generally suitable for most travelers. However, it’s best suited for older children or teenagers comfortable on boats, given the boat ride and outdoor setting.

What is the duration of the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 6:30 pm and ending back at La Spezia.

Are drinks included in the tour?
Yes, there are unlimited drinks available during the aperitif and dinner, including Prosecco, wine, beer, and soft drinks.

What is the menu like?
The dinner features Ligurian specialties such as Trofie al Pesto, Caprese, and focaccia with pesto. It’s simple but flavorful, with limoncello and coffee to finish.

How do I find the meeting point?
The tour departs from D-Marin Porto Mirabello Marina in La Spezia. While the description mentions the location, some reviews suggest arriving early or confirming directions ahead of time—it’s always good to have a clear map or contact the operator if possible.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. It’s best to check the forecast before booking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a peaceful evening filled with stunning views, good food, and a taste of local Ligurian charm, this Apericena and Dinner on Boat tour offers a well-rounded experience without feeling rushed. Its intimate size and scenic itinerary make it a lovely choice for travelers wanting a genuine, laid-back way to enjoy La Spezia’s coast. Keep an eye on the weather forecast, book early, and prepare for an evening of beautiful sights, delicious bites, and memorable moments on the water.