La Spezia: tour of the islands and Portovenere stops bath and aperitif

Exploring La Spezia’s Islands and Portovenere: An Honest Look at the Experience

If you’re dreaming of escaping the busy streets of La Spezia for a few hours of sun, sea, and scenic charm, this boat tour offers just that. It’s a thoughtfully curated trip that promises a mix of beautiful stops, relaxing swims, and delicious local flavors—all wrapped up in a cozy group experience.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances sightseeing with genuine moments of relaxation. The stops at Isola Palmaria and Muzzerone bring the kind of crystal-clear waters and pink beaches that make you forget about your phone for a bit. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling with an instructor turns the experience into something memorable. The aperitif—think local products paired with a sunset—feels like the perfect way to wind down.

However, a small consideration is the limited capacity of just 8 guests—while that’s great for intimacy, it’s worth being aware if you’re part of a larger group or traveling with kids. Also, the timing and stops can shift based on the season and weather, so flexibility is a good idea.

In general, this tour suits those craving a relaxed, scenic, and authentic escape—whether you’re into discovering hidden spots, enjoying the sea, or simply unwinding with good company. If these elements speak to you, you’re likely to come away with some wonderful memories.

• Intimate Experience: Small group size keeps things cozy and personal.
• Diverse Stops: From islands to the pink beaches of Muzzerone, each destination has its own charm.
• Activities for Everyone: Swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing aperitifs make the trip enjoyable for a variety of travelers.
• Flexible & Weather-Dependent: Stops and departure times may vary, so stay flexible.
• All-Inclusive: Snorkeling gear, water, and alcoholic drinks are covered.
• Limited Capacity: Max of 8 guests, ideal for a more private outing, but plan ahead if you’re with a larger group.

What the Tour Includes and How It Feels

Starting from La Spezia’s Porto Mirabello, this tour is about escaping the mainland’s hustle and finding serenity at sea. The mobile ticket makes it easy to organize, and with most travelers booking around 31 days in advance, it seems popular among those planning ahead.

The boat itself is well-equipped with comfortable seats, sunshades, and a stereo system—it’s designed for comfort and ambiance. Plus, you get the use of snorkeling gear, SUP boards, and inflatables, making it easy to enjoy the water in multiple ways. Water bottles and alcoholic beverages are also included, which adds to the relaxed vibe.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First stop: Isola Palmaria
This is where you’ll spend about 45 minutes swimming in waters renowned for their clarity. It’s a classic highlight, especially if you love a good refreshing dip. The inclusion of admission tickets hints at well-organized access, so no fuss there.

Second stop: Isola del Tino
A quick 15-minute visit to see the lighthouse and learn about the island’s patron saint. It’s more of a quick sightseeing moment, but it adds a touch of local culture and history to your trip.

Third stop: Muzzerone and Parete delle Meraviglie
The pink beach is an eye-catching spot—perfect for another swim or just soaking up the scenery. And here, you’ll also enjoy the famous aperitif featuring local specialties, making this stop both refreshing and flavorful.

Final stop: Portovenere
After the laid-back drinks and the last swim, you’ll arrive at Portovenere for about 15 minutes. It’s a compact visit, but enough to take in the colorful town and snap a few photos before heading back.

Authentic Moments and Authentic Flavors

As one reviewer mentioned, being with Polpara Boat Tour felt genuine and passionate, with stories and anecdotes that brought each location to life. The laughter, music, and shared experiences create a relaxed atmosphere that many travelers appreciate.

What to Know Before Booking

• Departure times and stops may shift based on the weather and season, so don’t get too fixated on a rigid schedule.
• No alcohol for under 18, but adults can enjoy a good selection of drinks during the aperitif.
• No towels or sun cream included, so bring your essentials if you want to stay protected and dry off comfortably.
• The tour is private for your group, which is a nice touch if you prefer a more tailored experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers wanting an intimate, scenic boat trip with a mix of swimming, light sightseeing, and good eats. It’s well-suited for small groups, couples, or friends who enjoy water activities and picturesque views in a relaxed setting. If you’re hoping for a quiet escape from busy tourist spots and love the idea of sipping local drinks while watching the sunset, this tour checks those boxes.

It might not be ideal if you’re traveling with very young children, given the water activities and the small group setting, but older kids with a sense of adventure might enjoy it.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts about 3 hours, which is enough time to enjoy several stops without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
Use of snorkeling equipment, SUP boards, inflatables, bottled water, alcoholic beverages, a multilingual guide, stereo system, and comfortable seating with sunshade.

Are there any additional costs?
Towels and sun cream are not included, so you should bring your own if desired.

Where do we meet?
The meeting point is Polpara Boat Tour at Porto Mirabello, Viale Italia, La Spezia. Arrive about 15 minutes early for a smooth start.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. The tour operates only in good weather.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this experience suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but the small group size and water activities may be less ideal for very young children or those with limited mobility.

Will I see the sunset?
The experience promises a sunset view from the sea, which is one of the most memorable parts, especially with a snack and music in the background.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience, so only your group will be onboard.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a peaceful escape with beautiful scenery, a touch of local flavor, and a chance to cool off in pristine waters, this boat tour offers a well-balanced experience. The small group size ensures an intimate vibe, and the focus on relaxation and natural beauty makes it ideal for those looking to recharge.

While it might not be the most budget-friendly option, many travelers find the value in the personalized experience, stunning views, and the chance to enjoy the sea with a knowledgeable guide. It’s a perfect choice for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a bit of a break from more crowded tourist spots.

This tour seems to deliver on its promises of scenic stops, authentic flavors, and memorable moments—just keep in mind the weather dependence and the limited group size for the best experience.

Hope this helps you decide if this La Spezia boat tour fits your travel plans. Happy sailing!