Portofino San Fruttuoso and Camogli One Day Boat Tour

If you’re dreaming of sailing along Italy’s stunning Ligurian coast, this Portofino, San Fruttuoso, and Camogli boat tour might catch your eye. It promises a five-hour adventure filled with breathtaking scenery, charming villages, and even some underwater surprises. As someone who loves sharing honest travel experiences, I’ll give you the details that matter most—what’s fantastic, what’s just okay, and whether it’s worth your time and money.

One thing we really like about this tour is how it combines spectacular views with cultural stops, giving you a taste of both the coast’s natural beauty and its quaint villages. The inclusion of snorkeling gear means you can dip into those crystal waters and see a bit of the underwater world—always a highlight for us. Plus, the small group size (max 12 travelers) tends to make it more relaxed and personal.

That said, a couple of issues might raise eyebrows. For some, the size of the boat and the limited sunbathing space could be a downside—reviews mention feeling a bit cramped and not having a full sun lounge. Also, the lack of transfer options and the need to get to the starting point might pose a challenge if you’re not familiar with the area.

All things considered, this tour seems best suited for travelers who love scenic boat rides, picturesque villages, and snorkeling. It’s a nice choice for those looking to enjoy multiple stops in one day without a lot of hassle, but be prepared for a potentially crowded boat and the need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

Key Points

• Beautiful coastal scenery with stops in iconic villages
• Snorkeling opportunities in clear waters, including viewing the Christ of the Abyss
• Small group experience for more personal attention
• Limited sunbathing space and possible crowding on the boat
• Includes bottled water, snorkeling gear, and artisanal Focaccia for a tasty touch
• Time in each village is around one hour, giving just enough time to explore

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Rotonda Marconi, Rapallo

Your adventure begins at 1:00 pm from this central meeting spot. While the tour doesn’t include transportation to the meeting point, the location is near public transit, making it accessible if you’re already in the area. Keep in mind that if you’re not familiar with Rapallo, arranging a taxi or ride-share might be necessary, especially since at least one reviewer shared some frustration about finding transport.

First Stop: Santa Margherita Ligure

The tour kicks off with a short cruise along the coast to Santa Margherita Ligure, a picturesque village known for its colorful harbor and elegant buildings. Here, you’ll have a chance to snap photos and soak in the views from the water. It’s a great way to see the town from a different perspective before heading to your first land stop.

Stop 1: Portofino

Next, the boat glides along the coast to Portofino, the star of the Ligurian coast. Once there, you’ll have about an hour of free time to wander the tiny streets, visit sights like the Brown Castle, and perhaps enjoy some local food. The village’s fame for luxury and charm means it can get busy, but there’s plenty to see—brightly colored houses, boutique shops, and scenic views from the waterfront.

One reviewer calls Portofino “the most famous village in the world,” which is a fair nod to its allure. Just remember, the time here is limited, so plan your exploration accordingly. If you’re keen on tasting local delicacies, ask for recommendations—there’s a good chance you might find some tasty Ligurian treats to try.

Stop 2: Baia di San Fruttuoso

The journey continues along the coast to San Fruttuoso Bay, a tranquil spot famous for its Christ of the Abyss, a bronze statue submerged in the bay. Here, you’ll get a chance to snorkel and see the statue underwater, which many find a highlight of the trip. Snorkeling equipment is included, so all you need is your swimming gear and a sense of adventure.

The reviews note how wonderful the waters are for swimming and relaxing. You might even lay out inflatables and enjoy some sunbathing, but expect the boat to be crowded—one review mentions a lack of dedicated sunbathing space. Still, the chance to swim in clear, protected waters makes this stop memorable.

Stop 3: Camogli

After San Fruttuoso, the boat takes you to Camogli, a charming fishing village with a famous natural harbor and colorful buildings. You’ll have around an hour here to walk through the streets, take photos, and sample some local dishes. Camogli’s lively atmosphere and photogenic waterfront make it a favorite among travelers looking for a relaxed, authentic Italian village experience.

According to a review, the village is “known for its colorful buildings,” and it’s easy to see why—these vibrant facades make every photo pop and give the place a cheerful vibe.

Final Stop: Baia di Paraggi

The last leg of the tour is a quick visit to Paraggi Bay, a beautiful spot perfect for a short swim or just relaxing by the water. The bay is protected from pollution, so the waters are generally clear and inviting. You also get a chance to snap some final photos of this less crowded, more secluded part of the coast.

Back to the Starting Point

After this, the boat heads back to Rapallo, and your five-hour journey ends. It’s a scenic, relaxing way to wrap up your day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes snorkeling gear, bottled water, and artisanal Focaccia Liguria, which is a sweet touch for a day on the water. The equipment makes snorkeling accessible even for beginners, and the food helps keep everyone energized.

However, towels are not included, so remember to bring your own if you plan to swim. Also, the boat’s size and layout—while cozy and manageable—might not be ideal if you’re looking for extensive sunbathing space or a very spacious vessel. One reviewer pointed out that the boat was smaller than expected and lacked a dedicated sun lounge area, meaning you might feel a bit cramped.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is priced at around $157 per person, it offers a good mix of sightseeing and activity for that cost. The small group size (max 12 travelers) generally means a more intimate experience, but it also limits the space during busy times.

Timing is crucial—since each stop is around an hour, you’ll want to plan your personal exploration time accordingly. The meeting point in Rapallo is near public transit, but if you aren’t familiar with the area, arranging transport might be an extra step.

Seasickness could be a concern for some; the tour notes that it’s not recommended for those who suffer from seasickness, so pack accordingly if you’re sensitive.

What Travelers Are Saying

While many reviews praise the stunning views and friendly hosts, there are some honest critiques. One review mentions that finding transportation to the meeting point was stressful, “We couldn’t find a taxi to take us to our meeting point or back to our starting point.” So, plan your arrival carefully.

Another reviewer pointed out that the boat was small for twelve people, which made sunbathing difficult and created a crowded feeling. But the same person loved the beautiful waters for swimming and the overall experience.

The highest praise goes to the knowledgable host and the amazing scenery, with one reviewer calling it the “best experience ever”. These parts of the tour seem to make a lasting impression.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This Portofino, San Fruttuoso, and Camogli boat tour offers a well-rounded day of scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and underwater adventures. It’s a good pick if you’re after picture-perfect villages, a taste of local culture, and some snorkeling.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy small group tours, want to avoid overly commercialized experiences, and are prepared for a crowded boat with limited sunbathing options. If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic day with a bit of exploration, this one’s worth considering.

However, if you’re sensitive to crowded spaces or prefer larger boats with more lounging room, you might want to explore other options. Also, planning your transportation to the meeting point is key to avoiding stress.

FAQ

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, transportation isn’t included. The meeting point is near public transit, so plan ahead to get there on time.

What’s the best way to get to Rapallo from other parts of Italy?
While not specified, most travelers arrive via train or car. Make sure to arrive by 1:00 pm, as the tour starts then.

Can I snorkel with the equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, and you can use it to see the bronze Christ of the Abyss underwater.

How long is each stop?
Each village or bay stop is approximately one hour, giving you enough time to explore and enjoy without feeling rushed.

Is the boat comfortable for sunbathers?
The boat is small, and some reviews mention limited space for sunbathing. Expect to share space with others.

Are kids allowed on this tour?
The tour description doesn’t specify age restrictions, but the boat’s size and the water activities suggest it’s suited for older children comfortable with boat rides and snorkeling.

What should I bring?
Bring towels, sun protection, and perhaps some extra snacks. The tour provides water and food, but personal items are up to you.

What happens in case of bad weather?
If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In the end, this boat tour offers a charming glimpse of Liguria’s coast. It’s best for those who crave scenic views, a touch of adventure, and the charm of small Italian villages—just come prepared for a cozy boat ride and plan your logistics accordingly.