Florence: Cinque Terre Private Boat Tour with Lunch

Thinking about splashing out on a day trip that combines the charm of Cinque Terre with a luxurious boat experience? This private boat tour from Florence might just be what you’re after. Offered by Enotropea Wine Tours and earning a high rating of 4.8, it promises a full 12 hours of scenic beauty, tasty food, and relaxing waters. But, as with anything, it’s good to know what you’re really signing up for before you book.

Two things that immediately caught our attention are the stunning views from the water and the delicious, local-focused lunch and aperitivo served onboard. There’s something special about seeing these colorful villages from the sea — it’s a perspective you just can’t get from land or crowded ferries. The curated experience, complete with a private guide and comfort-oriented boat, is designed to make the day feel seamless and special.

However, it’s worth mentioning that the tour is a full day (around 12 hours), so it’s not suited for those looking for a quick escape or with limited mobility. It also involves quite a bit of time on the road, with around 2 hours each way from Florence, which might feel long if you’re not used to that kind of travel. Still, if you’re a lover of coastal scenery, private boat experiences, and authentic Ligurian flavors, this tour could be well worth it.

This experience suits travelers who want a personalized, less crowded way to explore Cinque Terre, especially those who appreciate comfort, scenic views, and good food. It’s particularly appealing if you’re traveling with a group or prefer the flexibility of a private guide and boat.

Key Points

• Exclusive experience: A private boat with a personalized guide offers a more intimate view of Cinque Terre than crowded ferries or buses.
• Beautiful vistas: Expect breathtaking water-level views of colorful villages and rugged coastline.
• Swim stops: You’ll have the opportunity to take a dip in the Ligurian Sea, which is perfect for cooling off and enjoying the scenery.
• Local food and wine: The onboard lunch and aperitivo showcase regional flavors, including local wines.
• Comfort onboard: The boat is equipped with a water shower and a bathroom with a changing space, making it easy to enjoy the day without stress.
• Travel logistics: The tour departs from Florence and involves about 2 hours each way by van, so be prepared for a full day of travel.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Departure and Journey to Cinque Terre

The day begins with pickup from your Florence hotel or a nearby location, arranged during booking. From there, it’s about a 110-minute drive to Levanto, a charming coastal town that acts as your launching point. The drive itself isn’t the highlight, but it sets the stage for the scenic water adventures to come.

The Private Boat: A Comfortable Way to Explore

Once aboard the boat, you’ll quickly notice how well-equipped it is for comfort and convenience — a key factor for a full-day outing. The boat features a water shower at the back, perfect for rinsing off after swimming, and a bathroom with a space for changing, which is handy when you’re in and out of your swimsuit. This private vessel offers a more relaxed alternative to public ferries, with the added benefit of a guide who will share insights as you glide along the coast.

Visiting Vernazza and Monterosso

Your guide will take you to two of the most photographed villages—Vernazza and Monterosso—perched above the sea with their colorful facades and narrow streets. These villages are the highlights for many visitors, and for good reason. You’ll have time to wander, snap photos, or indulge in local treats if you wish.

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Water Activities and Scenic Stops

Between villages, you’ll enjoy dramatic coastal views, with the opportunity for a swim in the clear Ligurian waters. Many reviews mention the experience of jumping into the sea from the boat — a refreshing break amidst sightseeing. The waters are described as turquoise and inviting, making swimming a highlight for many.

Lunch and Aperitivo

Midday, the boat becomes a floating restaurant, with a thoughtfully prepared lunch featuring regional specialties. The focus is on local flavors, with wines from Cinque Terre paired with the meal. As the day winds down, you’ll enjoy an aperitivo, served over the Ligurian Sea, which is a lovely way to relax and soak in the scenery. The inclusion of regional wines enhances the experience, and many travelers appreciate the quality of the food and drinks.

Returning to Florence

After a full day of exploration, you’ll head back by van, retracing your route to Florence. The return journey also takes around 2 hours, giving you some time to reflect on the day’s highlights.

Practical Details: What to Keep in Mind

• Duration: 12 hours total, including travel time.
• Group Size: Private, so you’ll have a tailored experience with your guide and boat.
• Price and Value: While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the full-day private experience with lunch, drinks, and comfort features suggests a premium but worthwhile expense for those seeking exclusivity.
• Accessibility: Not recommended for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues; not stroller-friendly.
• Children: Must be accompanied by an adult; infant seats are unavailable.
• Dietary Needs: If you have specific dietary restrictions, it’s best to inform the provider in advance.
• Travel Seasons: Ferries won’t operate from November 2nd to March 20th, so if you’re traveling in winter, check availability.

What the Reviews Say

Since the tour is newer, direct reviews are limited, but the high rating (4.8) speaks to overall satisfaction. Travelers mention stunning views from the water as a major plus — many describe it as “beautiful” and “breathtaking.” The private boat experience gets praise for being more relaxed and personalized compared to crowded ferries.

Some reviews highlight the comfort of the boat, noting features like the shower and changing space, which adds to the day’s ease. A few mention that the drive back is long, but most seem to think the experience justifies the travel time.

The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a unique, scenic, and cozy way to see Cinque Terre without the crowds, this private boat tour is a strong contender. The combination of a comfortable boat, stops in picturesque villages, swimming opportunities, and a delicious regional lunch makes it a memorable day out.

However, it’s not ideal if you’re on a tight schedule or have mobility restrictions. The long drive from Florence might also be a consideration if you prefer a shorter day or are limited in time.

This experience feels like a great choice for travelers who value personalized service, stunning views, and the chance to relax on the water with good food in hand.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children need to be accompanied by an adult, and since there are no infant seats, it’s best suited for slightly older kids who can manage the full day comfortably. It’s not specifically designed as a family tour, but families with older children may enjoy it.

What should I bring on this trip?
Bring swimwear, towels, sun protection, and perhaps a light jacket or cover-up for the boat. Comfortable shoes for walking in the villages are recommended. Don’t forget your camera!

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, many reviews mention the opportunity to swim in the Ligurian Sea, which is often a highlight. The boat is equipped with a water shower for rinsing off afterward.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes transportation from Florence to Cinque Terre, a private boat experience with guide, a regional lunch, aperitivo with wines, and access to onboard amenities like the shower and bathroom.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Ferries won’t operate in bad weather or outside the season from November 2nd to March 20th, so check the schedule and weather forecast beforehand.

How long is the drive from Florence?
About 110 minutes each way, totaling roughly 2 hours and 20 minutes of driving. It’s a full day, so prepare for a long but scenic journey.

Final Thoughts

For those craving a more intimate look at the Cinque Terre coastline, combined with comfort and excellent regional fare, this private boat trip from Florence delivers. It offers a chance to see Italy’s stunning coastal villages from a unique angle, enjoy some swimming, and indulge in local wines and cuisine without fighting crowds.

This tour is best suited for travelers who don’t mind a full day on the road, appreciate personalized service, and want to capture those picture-perfect views from the water. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, it’s likely to be a memorable highlight of your Italian trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: