3 Hours Sunset Boat Tour to Golfo dei Poeti Shared

If you’re dreaming of a relaxing evening on the water with spectacular views of Italy’s Ligurian coast, this 3 Hours Sunset Boat Tour to Golfo dei Poeti might just be the experience you’re after. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the details paint a picture of a memorable journey that combines natural beauty, history, and a touch of luxury.

What immediately catches the eye are the stunning vistas of charming towns like Lerici and Tellaro and the opportunity to circumnavigate some of Italy’s most picturesque islands. Plus, the fact that it’s a shared experience keeps it accessible and social. But, as with any tour, it’s worth considering some practical aspects before you book.

This tour is particularly well-suited for those who love scenic boat rides, enjoy relaxed afternoons by the sea, and want to indulge in a bit of local culture and cuisine with a sunset backdrop. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner and love a good blend of sightseeing, swimming, and good food, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Beautiful coastal scenery and charming Ligurian towns make this a visual treat.
• The historic vessel has been fully refitted, offering comfort and traditional elegance.
• A swimming break provides a nice refresh in clear, unpolluted waters.
• The Aperitivo on board adds a romantic, relaxing touch to the experience.
• The tour’s limited size (up to 6 people) ensures a more intimate atmosphere.
• Good weather is essential for the best experience, and cancellations are flexible if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

What’s Included and the Overall Experience

This shared boat tour is designed to give you a laid-back yet scenic experience, lasting about 3 hours. Priced at around $139.63 per person, it’s not the cheapest way to see the area but offers a lot for the price — especially considering the comfort, the beautiful vessel, and the personalized feel.

We love the fact that the boat is a 7.50m Gozzo Bani, a historic vessel given a modern upgrade in 2024. This means you get a boat that’s both a piece of maritime tradition and equipped with all the safety systems and comforts you’d want. The large sundeck and shaded areas make it perfect for relaxing, whether you’re soaking up the sun or seeking some shade.

The tour begins at Angel’s Beach in La Spezia, with the actual departure at 5:30 pm, so you’re witnessing the coast as the sun begins to dip, creating the ideal romantic atmosphere. The maximum speed of 10 knots means a smooth, gentle ride rather than a roaring speedboat, which fits the relaxed vibe perfectly.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Stop 1: The Gulf of Poets, La Spezia

The tour kicks off with a cruise through the Gulf of La Spezia, passing the quaint towns of San Terenzo, Lerici, Fiascherino, and Tellaro. These villages are known for their unique charm, colorful houses, and history. The name Gulf of Poets is no coincidence — many famous writers and artists, including Dante, Byron, Percy Shelley, and Mary Shelley, were drawn to this stunning landscape.

We loved the way the guide (or captain) passionately shares stories about the area, making the scenery even more meaningful. The highlight? Watching the coast from the water, where the castles, pretty harbors, and pastel buildings come alive, especially under the golden hues of sunset.

Stop 2: Islands and Natural Pools

Next, the boat circumnavigates the islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto, each offering different sights and experiences. Palmaria, in particular, is renowned for its unspoiled nature and clear waters, perfect for a swim. The trip includes a swimming break at the natural pools of Portovenere, giving you time to cool off and enjoy the pristine sea.

Portovenere itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and from the water, it’s even more picturesque — imagine seeing the colorful town, its fortress, and the iconic church from a different perspective.

The tour also loops around the islands, offering excellent views for photography and a chance to soak in the serenity of this protected natural space.

What It Feels Like to Be on Board

The boat itself is a highlight — a classic Gozzo that’s both elegant and functional. Fully refitted, it offers a large sundeck to stretch out on, plus a large awning for shade. The access to the sea via a swimming platform makes it easy to jump in and cool off — a simple but appreciated feature.

During the trip, you’ll enjoy a special Aperitivo, which adds a touch of romance and leisure. It’s the perfect way to unwind, sip some local drinks, and admire the sunset over the water.

The overall atmosphere seems relaxed, intimate, and scenic, with a small group size (up to six travelers) that ensures personalized attention.

Authentic Reviews and Feedback

While there’s only one review so far, it’s a glowing one: “Great Trip,” says Lyndsay_C. She describes the captain, Giacomo, as “very welcoming” and “expertly negotiating the choppy waves,” which highlights the importance of a skilled captain, especially in unpredictable weather.

She also mentions that Porto Venere looked “beautiful from the water,” which captures the essence of this tour — seeing iconic sights from a peaceful, scenic perspective.

The small group size and the attention to safety seem to be appreciated, and the captain’s professionalism makes even less-than-perfect weather manageable.

Practical Considerations

Pricing: At around $140 per person, this tour offers a luxurious experience, especially considering the exclusivity of a small group and a fully upgraded vessel. If you value intimacy, comfort, and beautiful scenery, it’s a worthwhile investment.

Timing: The 5:30 pm departure means you’ll be on the water during the sunset, when the lighting is most dramatic — perfect for photos and a romantic mood. Remember, the tour is weather-dependent, so if the forecast calls for poor weather, a cancellation or reschedule is possible with full refund.

Group size: Limited to 6 travelers, it’s ideal if you prefer an intimate experience without the crowd.

What to bring: A swimsuit for swimming, sunscreen, and perhaps a light jacket if it gets chilly after sunset. The boat has shade, but it’s good to be prepared.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience suits travelers who appreciate scenic beauty and relaxed time on the water. It’s perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or anyone wanting a peaceful, romantic outing with stunning views. If you’re seeking a lively party or a high-speed adventure, this might not be the best fit.

It’s also a good option for those interested in cultural sights from a different angle, as the tour offers a unique perspective on well-known spots like Porto Venere and the Gulf of La Spezia.

The Sum Up: Who Should Book This Experience

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic boat ride with opportunities to swim and enjoy local aperitivos, this tour offers a fantastic way to experience the beauty of the Ligurian coast. The fully refitted vessel, small group size, and stunning sunset views create an intimate, comfortable atmosphere that’s hard to beat.

It’s best suited for travelers who prioritize relaxed sightseeing, appreciate good safety standards, and want to see the coast from the water amid breathtaking scenery. The tour’s moderate price reflects its quality — a memorable, visually stunning outing that’s worth the cost if you’re looking for a special way to end an Italian day.

While weather-dependent, when conditions are good, the experience promises gentle waves, gorgeous vistas, and a genuine sense of connection to this historically poetic corner of Italy.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, from late afternoon to early evening, making it a perfect way to catch the sunset.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the boat ride, safety equipment, access to the sea via the swimming platform, and a relaxing aperitivo on board.

Is this a group tour?
Yes, it’s a shared experience with a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized atmosphere.

What vessel will I be on?
A 7.50m Gozzo Bani, a historic boat that’s been fully refitted in 2024 for comfort and safety.

Can I swim during the tour?
Absolutely, there’s a swimming break at the natural pools of Portovenere, with easy access to the water.

What should I bring?
Swimsuit, sunscreen, maybe a lightweight jacket, and any personal items you prefer for comfortable lounging.

What happens if the weather isn’t good?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are poor, it can be canceled with a full refund or rescheduling.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 22 days ahead, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.

Is there any age restriction?
Most travelers can participate, but specific age details aren’t provided. It’s generally suitable for adults and older children comfortable on a boat.

How do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is Angel’s Beach in La Spezia, and the tour starts at 5:30 pm.

This boat tour offers a charming way to experience Italy’s Ligurian coast as the sun sets, blending scenic beauty, cultural sights, and relaxing leisure. If that sounds like your ideal evening, it could be a highlight of your trip.