Cinque Terre and Portovenere Private Boat Tour from La Spezia

Exploring Cinque Terre and Portovenere by Private Boat: An Honest Look

If you’re dreaming of seeing Italy’s colorful coastal villages from a fresh perspective, a private boat tour from La Spezia could be just what you need. We haven’t personally taken this exact trip, but based on reviews and detailed itinerary info, it sounds like a fantastic way to bypass the crowds and truly savor the scenery. The best parts? You’ll love the personalized experience — with a stylish boat, great food, and the chance to swim in beautiful spots. That said, it’s not the cheapest option out there, so it’s worth weighing whether the price aligns with what you’re after. This tour is especially suited for those who prefer comfort, flexibility, and a touch of luxury, rather than big tour groups.

What we love about this experience? First, the fact that it’s completely private means you can tailor your day without feeling rushed or crowded. Second, the on-board lunch and wine are a real highlight, allowing you to relax and enjoy local flavors in style. The overall vibe seems laid-back and intimate, perfect for couples, friends, or small families who want a special day on the water. A potential consideration? The tour lasts around 7 hours, so it’s best for those who enjoy a full day out and are comfortable on a boat. If you’re looking for a quick glimpse or a budget-friendly way to see the coast, this might not be the best fit.

Key Points
– Private, customizable experience with up to 8 people
– Includes lunch, wine, snorkeling gear, towels, and WiFi
– Stops in Porto Venere, Monterosso, Vernazza, and Riomaggiore
– Opportunities to swim, snorkel, and take photos away from crowds
– Comfortable, modern boat with shade and restroom
– Free cancellation available, provided you cancel 24 hours in advance

Why Choose a Private Boat Tour?

Imagine cruising along Italy’s rugged coastline, with the salty breeze in your hair and none of the hassle of crowded streets. That’s exactly what you get with this private boat tour from La Spezia. The experience is designed for those who want to enjoy the sunshine, sip on local wine, and snap photos of those iconic pastel-colored villages from the water. It’s a chance to see Cinque Terre’s UNESCO-listed fishing villages with a calm, relaxed vibe—something that’s often hard to do when wandering on foot during busy seasons.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

This tour packs in a good mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and local flavor, making it feel both comprehensive and manageable within seven hours.

Portovenere kicks things off with a visit to its picturesque harbor, where you can explore the charming streets or simply enjoy the view from the boat. The highlight here is the Grotta Byron, a natural cave that’s said to have inspired Byron himself. Spending about 30 minutes here gives you time to soak in the scenery and perhaps snap a few photos.

Next, the boat heads to Monterosso al Mare, the first of the Cinque Terre villages. You’re given about 30 minutes to either explore the village or dip into the water for a swim. The reviews emphasize the value of these swim stops—many guests mention how refreshing it is to jump into the clear water away from the crowds.

The boat then makes its way along the coast to Riomaggiore, where you can take in the characteristic pastel houses from the water or grab some photos. The boat’s vantage point allows for stunning shots that are often missed when walking the villages. Your guide might also stop at Vernazza for swimming, giving everyone a chance to cool off and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Finally, the tour concludes at Monterosso, where you can either stay and explore or relax in the water. If you choose to remain on the boat, you’ll still get plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and the onboard amenities.

The Experience on Board

The boat is described as modern, stylish, and equipped with shade, a restroom, wifi, and bluetooth music — think of it as a floating lounge. The lunch is a laid-back affair: light, cold, local products served with wine and drinks. Guests often mention how this onboard meal saves the hassle of finding a restaurant in busy villages and makes for a more relaxed experience.

The snorkel gear and towels provided mean you can take advantage of the beautiful waters at your leisure. Many reviewers appreciated the chance to swim in “Il Canneto,” part of the Cinque Terre Natural Park, and the opportunity to snorkel in calm, scenic waters.

The Cost and Value

At just under $2,000 for a group of up to eight, this tour isn’t cheap. But when you consider that it includes a private boat, a dedicated captain, a personalized itinerary, fully stocked onboard lunch and wine, and all the gear, the value becomes more tangible. Plus, the reviews highlight the quality of the experience — from attentive hosts to the new boat with solar panels, guests seem to feel it’s well worth the price.

One thing to note is the optional taxi boat to Vernazza, which costs around 20 euros per person. If you want to explore that village more independently, that’s an additional cost, but it’s flexible if you prefer a relaxed, all-in-one experience.

Who is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who values privacy, comfort, and the flexibility to customize your day, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or families wanting a special journey without the crowds. It’s also a good choice if you love snorkeling, wine tasting, or just soaking in stunning views from the water.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer quick, on-foot sightseeing, this might not suit you. The full day’s pace and the price point make it more of a splurge — but one that many reviews suggest is a worthwhile treat.

The Bottom Line

This private boat tour offers an intimate, scenic way to experience Cinque Terre and Portovenere. With personalized service, a comfortable boat, and included food and drinks, it’s a memorable way to see Italy’s coast from a different angle. The opportunity for swimming, snorkeling, and taking photographs without the crush of crowds is a big plus.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a relaxed day on the water with some local flavor, and who don’t mind splurging a bit for that exclusivity. If you’re looking for a special and flexible way to enjoy Italy’s seaside villages, this could be just the experience you’re after.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
While the tour doesn’t specifically mention children, it’s a private experience with a modern boat that includes a restroom, shade, and towels. If your kids are comfortable on boats and enjoy swimming or snorkeling, it can be a fun day for families. Just keep in mind the duration and plan accordingly.

How many people can join this tour?
Up to 8 people can participate, making it perfect for small groups or families wanting a more intimate experience.

What’s included in the lunch?
A light, cold lunch featuring local products, drinks, and local wine is served onboard. It’s a relaxed, picnic-style meal designed to complement the scenic day.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, there are stops where you can swim and snorkel, especially in designated spots like Il Canneto and Vernazza.

What equipment do I need to bring?
You should pack light — the tour provides snorkel gear, towels, and even some essentials. Just bring your favorite camera, sun protection, and a sense of adventure.

Is WiFi available on the boat?
Yes, WiFi is provided, so you can share your photos or stay connected during the trip.

How flexible is the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, the captain and guide can often accommodate your preferences, like spending more time at specific stops or skipping certain areas.

What 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.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 62 days ahead, so plan early especially if you want a specific date during high season.

To sum it up, if splurging on a tailored, scenic day on Italy’s coast sounds appealing, this private boat tour promises a memorable outing filled with beautiful views, relaxing stops, and local flavors. It’s especially suited for those who want to avoid the crowds and experience Cinque Terre from a comfortable, exclusive vantage point.