Boat tour Cinque Terre and Gulf of Poets from La Spezia

If you’re considering a boat trip to explore the breathtaking coastline of La Spezia, Cinque Terre, and the Gulf of Poets, this review offers a detailed look at what you can expect. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, I’ve sifted through reviews, itineraries, and features to give you a well-rounded picture. This tour is designed for those who want to see the area from a different perspective—on the water, away from the crowds, and with the breeze in your hair.

What immediately catches your eye is how travelers appreciate the lovely views of the five villages from the water and the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters at various stops. Plus, the guide and captain, Simone, seems to be a real highlight, with many reviews praising his knowledge and friendly attitude. On the flip side, a couple of reviews point out that last-minute cancellations due to engine troubles can happen, so flexibility might be needed.

This experience suits travelers who love a relaxed, scenic day on the water—whether you’re a first-timer in the area, a couple seeking a romantic outing, or even a family with older kids who can handle a full-day boat adventure. If you’re looking for a peaceful way to avoid the busy land-based crowds while soaking in the natural beauty, this tour might just be what you’re after.

Key Points

• Scenic water views of Cinque Terre’s villages make this a memorable way to see the area.
• Swimming at multiple stops offers chances to cool off in waters known for clarity and marine life.
• Knowledgeable guides and a friendly captain enhance the experience with stories and local insights.
• Flexible options for visiting villages like Vernazza or Monterosso allow for some exploration on foot.
• The boat’s comfort and amenities seem to be well-rated, making the long day more enjoyable.
• Weather and technical issues can impact plans, so be prepared for potential changes.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Early Morning

The tour kicks off at Angel’s Beach in La Spezia at 10:00 am. From the get-go, you’re in for a day on the water that promises a good mix of sightseeing, swimming, and some leisure time. Expect to be on a boat that can comfortably hold up to 11 guests, which is perfect for a more intimate experience that’s not overly crowded.

Sailing Along the Villages

The real joy begins with cruising very close to the five villages of Cinque Terre: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso. You’ll love the way these colorful towns appear from the sea—an entirely different perspective from the usual on-foot views. Many reviews mention that seeing the villages from the water really helps appreciate the resilience and charm of the local community.

You’ll have the chance to get off at either Monterosso or Vernazza if you want to explore on foot. This flexibility means you can enjoy some time wandering through narrow streets, tasting local food, or just soaking up the atmosphere. The guide provides interesting stories along the way, making the scenery even richer.

Visiting Portovenere

After the Cinque Terre segment, the tour pivots to Portovenere, a UNESCO-listed spot known for its historic charm. Here, you can explore the church of San Pietro or simply enjoy the views from the boat. Many travelers love this part because it feels a little more relaxed and less crowded than the villages. Plus, the boat stops allow you to swim in turquoise waters right in front of the Byron Cave.

Highlights of the Stops

• Byron Cave: Named after Lord Byron, who frequented the area, it’s a fascinating spot made famous by local legend. Approaching it by boat feels quite special, and many reviews mention the pleasure of seeing this iconic site.

• Swimming in Hidden Coves: There are multiple opportunities to swim around Palmaria and Tino Islands, or near the Canneto waterfall. The waters are praised for their clarity and marine life, with one reviewer noting “scores of fish” they saw while swimming.

• Exploring Uncontaminated Islands: Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto remain untouched natural spots, perfect for those who appreciate less commercialized environments.

Timing and Leisure

The tour affords ample time at each stop—roughly four hours for the villages and about an hour for Portovenere—plus various swimming breaks. The remaining time is used for travel and relaxation. Some travelers appreciate the pace, saying it’s fast enough to see everything without feeling rushed, while others mention that weather or mechanical issues can cause delays.

The Experience of the Guides and Crew

One of the most lauded aspects of this tour is the captain, Simone. Multiple reviews rave about how attentive and knowledgeable he is, with some even calling him an excellent guide and DJ, thanks to his playlist. People feel safe and well-looked-after, which is crucial when spending a full day on the water.

A reviewer mentioned that Simone went out of his way to ensure everyone’s comfort, providing more than just the basics. His local knowledge adds a layer of richness to the experience, making the journey more engaging. Many reviews note that Simone’s friendliness and storytelling turn a simple boat ride into an immersive experience.

Pricing and Value

At $157.72 per person for an approximately 8-hour trip, this tour is priced in line with what you might expect for a private or semi-private experience of this quality. Considering the included stops, the swimming opportunities, and the personal attention from the captain, many travelers find it offers good value.

The tour includes admission to Portovenere and some stops for swimming, which are usually paid separately if you were to visit independently. The possibility to go ashore and explore villages adds flexibility that can be worth the price for many.

While some reviews mention the high quality of the boat and amenities, a few point out that unexpected engine problems can cause last-minute cancellations—so a little patience and flexibility are key. The tour offers free cancellation if needed, which adds some peace of mind.

Practical Considerations

• Group Size: Limited to 11 travelers, making for a more personal experience.
• Duration: About 8 hours, so bring sunscreen, water, and snacks.
• Start Time: 10:00 am, so plan accordingly.
• Weather Dependency: Tour is weather-dependent; poor weather might lead to rescheduling or cancellation.
• Accessibility: Near public transportation, which makes it convenient to reach the meeting point.
• Booking: Confirmed upon booking, with a flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This boat trip is particularly well-suited for travelers who want to see Cinque Terre from a peaceful, water-level perspective. It’s ideal for those who enjoy swimming and relaxing in beautiful surroundings but don’t necessarily want a strenuous hike or long walks. If you value local stories and a friendly guide, Simone’s personal touch will likely make it all the more special.

It also appeals to small groups seeking a more intimate experience—no crowded tour buses here. Families with older children, couples, or friends looking for a scenic day out should find this tour a delightful way to experience Italy’s coastline.

The Sum Up

In the end, this boat tour from La Spezia offers a relaxed, scenic, and engaging way to explore the stunning coastlines of Cinque Terre and the Gulf of Poets. The highlights include excellent views of the villages from the water, opportunities to swim in clear waters, and a personable captain who enriches the trip with stories and local insights.

While last-minute cancellations due to technical issues are a risk, overall, it appears to be a well-regarded experience that balances comfort, scenery, and cultural interest. It’s especially good for those looking to avoid the hustle of land-based tours and enjoy a more personal, leisurely day on Italy’s beautiful waters.

If you’re after a scenic, flexible, and memorable way to experience Cinque Terre and Portovenere by boat, this tour could very well be worth the price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for kids? While the reviews focus on older travelers and families with adult children, the itinerary’s relaxed pace and swimming stops could be enjoyable for teenagers comfortable with being on a boat all day.

Can I visit the villages on foot? Yes, you have the option to disembark at Monterosso or Vernazza for some exploration on foot, giving you a taste of local life and scenery.

What happens if the weather isn’t good? The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. It’s wise to check the forecast beforehand.

How many people are on this tour? The boat accommodates up to 11 travelers, making for a more intimate experience compared to larger group tours.

What is included in the price? The ticket includes visits to Portovenere, swim stops, and some amenities on the boat. You may want to bring extra snacks or drinks if you prefer more variety.

What if the boat has engine trouble? As some reviews mentioned, engine issues can cause cancellations. The captain tries to notify guests in advance and looks for alternatives, but flexibility is key.

This boat tour from La Spezia offers a lovely way to enjoy the coast’s natural beauty and charming villages while avoiding the crowds. If you value scenic views, swimming, and personal attention, it’s worth considering for your trip.