La Spezia. Sunset Aperitif and Dinner on the Boat

If you’re considering a sunset cruise in Liguria, this tour offers a blend of scenic views, relaxed vibes, and tasty local bites. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the reviews and detailed descriptions paint a pretty appealing picture for those wanting to enjoy the Gulf of Poets from the water.

What we really like about this experience is its combination of natural beauty and cultural highlights—from the gorgeous village of Portovenere to the secret coves of Palmaria Island. Plus, the onboard Ligurian cuisine and unlimited drinks make it feel like a true indulgence.

One thing to keep in mind is that, like many boat tours, it can get a bit choppy, especially if the weather isn’t perfect. If you’re prone to seasickness, it’s worth considering. This tour suits couples, friends, or small groups who appreciate scenic settings paired with good food and a laid-back vibe, especially if you’re into wine and stunning sunsets.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: Cruise past Portovenere, islands, and historic sites with breathtaking sunset views.
• Comfort & Luxury: Small group size (max 9) offers a more intimate, relaxed experience.
• Food & Drink: Enjoy authentic Ligurian snacks, unlimited drinks, and a thoughtfully prepared onboard dinner.
• Swim & Explore: Access to hidden coves on Palmaria Island for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit Byron Cave, Tino and Tinetto islands, and explore Portovenere’s iconic landmarks.
• Flexible & Easy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours and a pay-later option make planning straightforward.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Out on the La Spezia Sunset Cruise

The tour kicks off at Porto Mirabello, a scenic spot near the water with a recognizable white bridge. From there, the journey begins aboard a luxury boat, specifically the Mimi White, with a small group for a more personal feeling.

This kind of setup is ideal if you prefer a cozy, friendly atmosphere rather than a crowded cruise. The departure times vary, so you’ll want to check availability and see what works best for your schedule.

The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, making it a perfect evening activity—long enough to soak in the views without feeling rushed.

A Close Look at the Itinerary

Portovenere & Scola Tower

The cruise starts with a quick stop at Portovenere, a UNESCO-listed village famous for its colorful houses and historic Church of San Pietro. The photo stop at Scola Tower offers a fantastic vantage point. It’s a brief, 5-minute stop, but well worth it for the views and Instagram shots.

Palmaria Island & Hidden Coves

Next, you’ll cruise to Palmaria Island, where the real fun begins. This part of the tour highlights a photo stop and free time to swim, snorkel, and relax at Cala dell’Ammiraglio beach. The reviews mention that the waters are clear and inviting, perfect for a quick dip if you want to cool off.

Here, you’ll also get a taste of historic WWII ruins—a nice bonus for history buffs. The opportunity to swim in secluded coves makes this segment stand out, especially since you’re not just sightseeing but actively engaging with the environment.

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Tino & Tinetto Islands

The tour then takes you to Tino Island, with its striking lighthouse, and Tinetto, where a small Madonna statue appears to bless fishermen. Both islands are brief stops—around 5 minutes each—but they add to the sense of being on a true exploration of this precious corner of Liguria.

Portovenere & Byron Cave

Back towards Portovenere, you’ll enjoy an aperitif and dinner on board as the sun begins to set. The views of the Byron Cave are particularly special, historically inspiring Lord Byron himself. Many reviews mention how the sunset here is a highlight, casting warm hues over the village and islands.

Byron Grotto & Final Moments

A quick stop at Byron Grotto makes for a perfect photo opportunity. After that, the boat heads back to Porto Mirabello, ending a memorable evening of beauty, good food, and relaxing company.

What’s Included — The Food & Drinks

The onboard dinner is a major feature, offering authentic Ligurian cuisine. Think focaccia with pesto, Trofie pasta with pesto, and Caprese salad—all dishes that showcase regional flavors. The reviews mention that the food is lovingly prepared, which adds to the experience.

The drinks are unlimited, including prosecco, wine, beer, soft drinks, and spirits. This makes it easy to unwind and toast the sunset without worry over additional costs. The reviewer from Switzerland appreciated the delicious food and a relaxing atmosphere, though some noted that the drinks were served in plastic cups, which slightly detracts from the ambiance.

The Experience of Dining on a Boat

Dining on a boat at sunset feels quite special. The gentle rocking of the vessel combined with the stunning scenery creates a truly memorable setting. While some reviews mention that the plasticware isn’t ideal, it’s a small drawback compared to the overall charm.

Swimming & Exploring: The Hidden Coves

One of the most praised aspects is the opportunity to swim in secluded coves. The waters around Palmaria Island are clear, and the chance to snorkel or just relax on the beach is popular among travelers.

The 20-minute swim stop gives enough time to bob in the water or stroll along the beach, making this a highlight for those who love a bit of aquatic fun. The reviewers note the peaceful environment and beautiful scenery, which makes it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

Visiting Tino & Tinetto Islands

These small islands are quick stops but packed with visual interest. The lighthouse on Tino Island lights up at sunset, adding to the magic. Tinetto’s Madonna statue emerging from the water is a captivating sight, often described as breathtaking and a reminder of Liguria’s quiet spiritual charm.

Sunset & Cultural Highlights

The sunset views are consistently described as spectacular. The orange glow reflecting off the water, the silhouette of Portovenere, and the islands create an unforgettable scene. Multiple reviews mention how the relaxed atmosphere and beautiful vistas make this tour worth the price.

Practical Considerations

The tour is suitable for small groups, which means you’ll likely enjoy more personalized attention. The capacity is limited to 9 participants, fostering a cozy environment.

It’s a pay-later booking, giving flexibility in case your plans change, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours beforehand.

The tour’s price includes dinner, drinks, and visits to several islands and sites, so you’re getting quite a bit for what is a moderate cost compared to private charters.

However, keep in mind that the seas can be rough, and if you’re sensitive to motion sickness, you might want to take precautions.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This cruise is ideal for couples seeking a romantic sunset experience, friends wanting a relaxed evening on the water, or small groups interested in a blend of scenic beauty and Ligurian cuisine. It’s not necessarily tailored to families with young children or those looking for a high-energy adventure, but it’s perfect if you’re after a peaceful, beautiful, and tasty evening.

Final Thoughts

The La Spezia Sunset Aperitif and Dinner on the Boat offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural interest, and culinary delight. The intimate group setting, combined with the chance to explore islands, swim, and enjoy local food and drinks, makes for a memorable outing.

While the plasticware and occasional rough seas are small caveats, they don’t overshadow the experience’s overall charm. If you’re someone who enjoys quiet sunsets, good wine, and a taste of Liguria’s coastal magic, this cruise is likely to tick quite a few boxes.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, making it a perfect evening activity.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Porto Mirabello, near the white bridge, with the meeting point at Blue Breeze, on the Mimi White boat.

Is the tour suitable for non-Italian speakers?
Yes, the live guide speaks both Italian and English, ensuring most travelers can comfortably follow along.

What’s included in the price?
You get the cruise, visits to islands, a dinner featuring Ligurian dishes, and unlimited drinks including prosecco, wine, beer, and soft drinks.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is swimming allowed?
Yes, you can swim and snorkel in the designated coves at Palmaria Island during the stop.

How many people are in each group?
The group is limited to 9 participants, offering a more intimate experience.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a light jacket for the evening, especially if seas can get breezy.

Are children allowed?
While not explicitly stated, the small, relaxed nature of the tour suggests it could suit families with older children, but check with the provider for specific age recommendations.

If you’re after a scenic, relaxed way to enjoy Liguria’s coast with great food, drinks, and a sunset view, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to dress comfortably, bring your camera, and prepare for an evening of beauty and good company.

You can check availability for your dates here: