La Spezia : Private Sailboat tour of cinque terre with lunch

Discovering the Cinque Terre from La Spezia: A Private Sailboat Experience

Thinking of exploring the Cinque Terre but want to skip the crowded land-based tours? This private sailboat trip from La Spezia offers a fresh perspective—gliding along the coast, enjoying exclusive access to secluded coves, and savoring delicious Ligurian cuisine onboard. It’s perfect if you’re after a more intimate, flexible way to see this iconic stretch of Italy’s coastline.

We really appreciate the privacy and personalized attention that come with a private tour — no noisy groups, just your crew and the stunning scenery. Plus, the chance to learn some sailing basics and maybe even take the helm adds a bit of adventure. On the flip side, if the weather turns choppy or the wind is light, some parts of the itinerary might change, which could be disappointing if you’re set on visiting specific villages.

This experience is well-suited for travelers who enjoy a relaxed day on the water, love good food, and prefer avoiding large crowds. It’s a great choice whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or solo, provided you’re comfortable with a full day at sea.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private and intimate experience with all the exclusivity you could want
• Includes a delicious Ligurian lunch with regional specialties and drinks
• Swim in hidden coves inaccessible from land, perfect for cooling off
• Optional sailing lessons for those interested in learning navigation skills
• Flexible itinerary that adapts to weather and sea conditions
• Ideal for travelers seeking tranquility and personalized service

Why Choose a Private Sailboat Tour of Cinque Terre?

If you’re tired of the busy land-based tours and want to see the Cinque Terre from a different angle, this sailboat trip offers a peaceful, scenic alternative. You’ll get to enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the marine park and the breathtaking cliffs of Palmaria Island up close. The focus is on comfort, quiet, and enjoying the coast in a way most land-bound travelers never do.

One of the standout features is the customizable nature of the trip. From the sailing course to the swim stops, it’s tailored to your interests. This flexibility can make all the difference, especially if weather conditions aren’t ideal for land-based sightseeing. You’ll appreciate the expert guidance, especially if you’re curious about sailing or want to learn some navigation tricks.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and First Sailing Leg

Your day begins at the designated meeting point in La Spezia — easy to find with provided coordinates. After a quick safety briefing, the crew sets sail, and if the wind cooperates, you’ll enjoy the pleasure of setting the sails yourself. Many guests love the hands-on experience of steering or learning basic maneuvers, which adds a memorable touch to the day.

More Great Tours Nearby

Porto Venere and the Gulf of Poets

Your first stop is Porto Venere, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a charming harbor and a striking church perched on a promontory. It’s a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the historic atmosphere. If the weather’s right, you’ll sail past, enjoying the views from the water and perhaps stopping for a quick photo or a refreshing dip.

Cinque Terre Villages: Riomaggiore and Manarola

Next, the boat will glide between the colorful villages of Riomaggiore and Manarola. While you’ll mostly pass by, the views are so distinctive you’ll feel like you’re right there. If possible, the crew might stop for a short visit or a photo session. Guests consistently mention how stunning these villages look from the sea, with their vibrant facades and terraced vineyards.

Corniglia and Guvano Beach

Depending on weather conditions, the boat might head towards Corniglia — the only village not directly on the water — and stop at Guvano Beach, a hidden cove that’s tricky to access from land. Guests love these secluded spots for their exclusivity and clear waters. One reviewer even described Guvano as “perfect for taking a break and enjoying a dip.”

Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare

The tour continues along the coast, giving you a chance to admire Vernazza’s picturesque bay with its Doria Castle tower. Afterward, the boat heads to Monterosso, the most populous village, where a relaxed lunch featuring regional specialties, like Genoese focaccia and local wines, is served onboard. The food quality and presentation are highly praised, with many guests calling it a highlight.

Ending the Day

After a satisfying meal and some time for swimming and relaxing, the boat makes its way back to La Spezia. Throughout the journey, you’ll enjoy drinks—both alcoholic and non-alcoholic—making the day feel leisurely and indulgent.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Privacy and Flexibility

Unlike typical group tours, this experience is entirely private. You decide the pace, stops, and focus, which means a more personal and relaxed day. This is especially valuable if you’re traveling with a small group or family who appreciates exclusivity.

Swimming and Hidden Coves

The opportunity to swim in coves that land visitors rarely see is a big plus. The water here is crystal clear, and many guests mention how special it is to dip in secluded spots away from crowds.

Food and Drink

The included lunch features regional flavors like Genoese focaccia and local wines, with options for non-drinkers too. Guests consistently praise the quality of the food and drinks onboard, which feel like a treat rather than just a simple meal.

Sailing Experience

If you’re curious about sailing, the crew offers mini courses and the chance to take the wheel. Even beginners can enjoy learning a few basic maneuvers, which adds an interactive element to what might otherwise be a passive tour.

Considerations and Possible Downsides

While the trip offers plenty of highlights, a few points are worth considering. The tour is weather-dependent—if the wind is too light or the sea rough, some stops or parts of the itinerary may be altered or canceled, as one reviewer noted when the trip bypassed Cinque Terre altogether due to choppier conditions. This flexibility is nice, but if you have your heart set on visiting all the villages, keep this in mind.

Another aspect is the duration — at 7 hours, it’s a full day. You’ll need to be comfortable with a day on the water, which might not suit everyone, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer land-based sightseeing.

Lastly, the English-speaking guide might have variable fluency, as one reviewer pointed out, but the captain’s friendliness and knowledge more than made up for any language barrier.

Pricing and Overall Value

Given that this is a private experience with an all-inclusive lunch and drinks plus optional sailing lessons, the cost can seem high at first glance. However, considering the exclusivity, personalized service, and unique access to hidden spots, many guests feel it’s a good value—especially compared to larger, less intimate group tours or cruise excursions. The reviews highlight how much guests appreciated the personalized attention and high-quality food and drinks, which can sometimes be overlooked in cheaper tours.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This sailboat trip is ideal if you’re after a relaxed, scenic day on the water that avoids the crowds and offers a touch of adventure with sailing and swimming. It’s suitable for travelers who value comfort, good regional cuisine, and a flexible itinerary. If you’re traveling with a group that appreciates personalized service and has an interest in sailing or exploring hidden coves, this experience will likely resonate.

While not specifically tailored for families with very young children, older kids or teenagers who enjoy being on the water and trying sailing might find it particularly engaging. It’s also great for couples or small groups celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a memorable day in Liguria.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically advertised as family-friendly, older children and teenagers who enjoy water activities and sailing may find it enjoyable. Always check with the provider if you have very young kids.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and snorkeling gear if you want to explore underwater. Don’t forget sun protection—hat, sunscreen—and a camera to capture the incredible views.

Is the lunch included in the price?
Yes, the tour provides a regional Ligurian lunch with local specialties, along with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks included.

Can I learn sailing during the trip?
Absolutely! The crew offers the possibility of a mini sailing course, and if sea conditions permit, you might get the chance to take the helm.

How long does the trip last?
The tour is approximately 7 hours, including stops for swimming, sightseeing, and lunch.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The weather can influence the itinerary. If conditions aren’t suitable for certain stops, the crew will adapt, and you might visit different spots or spend more time in port.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s a private group experience, designed exclusively for your party, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed day.

Where do I meet the boat?
The meeting point is in front of the blue gate of Assonautica della Spezia, with precise coordinates provided.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts

This private sailboat tour from La Spezia offers a beautifully tranquil way to explore the Cinque Terre’s stunning coastline. You’ll enjoy the exclusivity of a private boat, the chance to swim in secret coves, and the flavors of local Ligurian cuisine—all in a flexible, relaxed setting. It’s especially suited for those seeking a peaceful escape from crowded land-based tours, with the added bonus of optional sailing lessons and personalized service.

While weather can influence the full itinerary, many guests find that the experience itself—spectacular views, delicious food, and the gentle rhythm of sailing—makes it worthwhile. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, looking for a unique day on the water, or simply want to see some of Italy’s best coast from a different vantage point, this trip is worth considering.

If you value intimacy, comfort, and scenic beauty, this tour will likely leave you with lasting memories of Liguria’s coast and a new appreciation for sailing as a way to explore Italy’s breathtaking landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: