Morning or evening tour with aperitif, lunch or dinner and bathroom breaks

If you’re planning a trip to La Spezia and want to experience the coast from a different perspective, this boat tour along the Gulf of Poets could be just what you’re looking for. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the reviews and details paint a pretty enticing picture of a relaxed, scenic, and delicious day out on the water. The tour combines stunning views, good food, and fun water activities—all in a manageable half-day experience.

What we really appreciate about this trip is its balance of sightseeing and leisure. You get to glide past iconic spots like Portovenere and the Palmaria Islands, while also enjoying some quality time swimming, snorkeling, and munching on fresh seafood. The inclusion of wine and local products adds a nice touch of authenticity. However, it’s worth noting that this experience is quite dependent on good weather, so it’s not the best choice in stormy conditions or if you’re looking for a more active adventure.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love a laid-back, scenic outing with good food and drinks, and who appreciate a more intimate group setting. It’s not a high-energy activity, but rather a chance to relax, take in beautiful views, and enjoy some great company. Families, couples, or groups of friends who want a special day on the water will find it particularly appealing.

Key Points

• Scenic coastal views of Portovenere and the Palmaria Islands are a highlight.
• Includes a freshly cooked seafood lunch and local wines—great value for a half-day trip.
• Water activities like snorkeling and swimming stops are kid-friendly and fun.
• Small group size (max 12) makes for a more personalized experience.
• Flexible timing with options for morning or evening departures.
• Weather-dependent—good weather is essential for an enjoyable experience.

What the Tour Offers in Detail

This boat tour offers a wonderful way to see Liguria’s coastline from the water, a perspective that’s often more spectacular than land-based views. Starting in La Spezia, you’ll join a small group (up to 12 people), which ensures a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere compared to larger cruise ships. The tour lasts about five and a half hours, giving you enough time to soak in the scenery, enjoy water activities, and indulge in good food and wine.

The Route and Stops

The main draw here is the route itself. You’ll glide past Portovenere, renowned for its charming harbor and colorful houses, as well as the Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto islands—each boasting their own unique charm and legends. The boat cruise offers both sightseeing and storytelling, with guides sharing romantic tales and local legends that bring the coastline to life.

Several stops are planned in some of the most beautiful coves along the coast, where you and your fellow travelers can jump into the clear waters for a swim or snorkel. The reviews mention how stunning and inviting these spots are, with one guest noting, “we swam in the beautiful waters around the island,” which is definitely a highlight for water lovers.

Food and Drink

The culinary component is a major plus. Onboard, you’ll enjoy a freshly cooked fish-based lunch, with two main courses that vary depending on what’s fresh and available. Guests consistently rave about the quality, emphasizing the freshness of the seafood—sometimes caught just the day before. Alongside the meal, a bottle of local white wine or Prosecco is included for every two people, plus soft drinks for kids or non-drinkers.

The welcome aperitif with local products sets a relaxed tone at the start, and you’ll get plenty of drinks throughout the trip, making it a true tasting experience. One reviewer called the food “so good” and gave a perfect score, which makes this tour particularly appealing for foodies.

Water Activities and Relaxation

Beyond sightseeing, the tour offers activities like snorkeling and water toys, including inflatable towables. These are great for adults and kids alike, adding a playful element that can turn a simple boat ride into a fun day at the beach. The water toys and snorkel gear are included, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own equipment.

The Guides and Atmosphere

Guests repeatedly mention the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. Daniela, in particular, gets praise for her warmth and fun attitude, which helps create a welcoming atmosphere. With small group sizes, everyone has plenty of opportunities to ask questions and enjoy personalized attention.

Practical Details: What to Expect

The tour departs twice daily—once in the morning at 10:30 and once in the evening at 19:00. This flexibility makes it easy to fit into different travel plans. The meeting point is Via Calata Doria in Portovenere, which is accessible via public transportation, making logistics straightforward.

The price is approximately $177.87 per person, which includes most essentials: food, drinks, water toys, snorkeling gear, and bathroom access. It’s a fair price considering the quality of the experience and the inclusions, especially when you factor in the fresh seafood and local wines.

The tour is not suitable for people with seasickness medications or those who need to bring their own beach towels and sunscreen, as these aren’t included. Also, it requires a minimum of four participants, but most bookings are made about 22 days in advance, so planning ahead is wise.

Weather and Cancellation

Since the tour relies on good weather, it’s good to keep an eye on the forecast. If canceled due to weather, you’re offered a different date or a full refund. You can cancel free up to 24 hours before departure, which is helpful if your plans change.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

One guest summed it up with, “Consider yourself lucky to snag a spot on this boat,” reflecting the popularity and limited availability of the tour. Another mentioned how well-organized everything was, highlighting Daniela’s friendliness and the stunning sights. Everyone agrees that the seafood is top-notch, and the water activities are a wonderful addition to the trip.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat experience is ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic day infused with good food and conversation. It’s suited for couples, friends, or small groups who enjoy a little adventure and a lot of comfort in a small group setting. Families with older children who enjoy water activities will also find it appealing, especially given the snorkeling and swimming stops.

It’s less suitable for travelers seeking a high-energy, adrenaline-fueled activity or those with strict schedules—think of this more as a leisurely, tastefully curated day out. If you’re after a taste of authentic Ligurian culture, spectacular views, and a cozy atmosphere with excellent food and wine, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ – Practical Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, water activities like swimming and snorkeling are included, which children often enjoy. Soft drinks are provided, and the small group setting is family-friendly.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, giving enough time to see the sights, swim, and enjoy a full meal.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers a freshly cooked fish meal, local wine, soft drinks, snorkeling gear, water toys, a welcome aperitif, and bathroom access on board.

Can I bring my own beach towels or sunscreen?
These are not included, so it’s recommended to bring your own towels and sunscreen.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to weather conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are on each boat?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Where do I meet for the tour?
At Via Calata Doria in Portovenere, an area accessible by public transportation.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
While the tour menu varies based on fish availability, specific dietary requests aren’t mentioned, so it’s best to clarify with the provider beforehand.

Is this a private tour?
No, it’s a shared experience, but you can book the whole boat for private events or ceremonies.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 22 days ahead, which is recommended to secure a spot, especially in peak seasons.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour around La Spezia offers a balanced mix of stunning scenery, water fun, and good food in a cozy group setting. The inclusion of fresh seafood, local wines, and water activities makes it a very enjoyable outing that’s accessible and relaxing. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of Liguria’s coast without the hassle of planning multiple activities or dealing with large crowds.

If you’re someone who values good company, excellent local cuisine, and picturesque views, this experience is likely to leave you with lasting memories. Just remember to check the weather forecast before booking and plan in advance to secure your spot on this sought-after trip.

This tour is a delightful way to enjoy La Spezia’s coastline, especially for those who prioritize comfort, good food, and scenic beauty over adrenaline or long hours at sea.