Shared Boat Tour in the Gulf of Poets in La Spezia

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring Italy’s stunning Ligurian coast, this shared boat tour in the Gulf of Poets might just be a perfect fit. Though I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve read through numerous reviews and detailed descriptions to give you a thorough sense of what to expect. It’s a well-loved experience, with a perfect rating of 5 out of 5 from 29 travelers, and a lot of praise for its scenic stops, friendly guides, and relaxed vibe.

What really catches our eye about this tour are the breathtaking views of small seaside villages and islands, and the personalized, friendly atmosphere created by the guides. Plus, the opportunity to swim in clear waters and enjoy some local gelato makes it appealing for anyone craving a mix of adventure and leisure.

One aspect to consider is the duration—at around four hours, it’s a fairly relaxed but still packed-out trip. If you’re someone who prefers a super-structured day with lots of activities, this might feel laid-back; if you’re after a more comprehensive exploration, it’s worth noting that this tour hits highlights rather than spending long hours at each stop. Still, for most travelers, it seems to hit the sweet spot of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing.

This tour suits a variety of travelers—from first-time visitors wanting a quick overview of the area, to seasoned explorers seeking a scenic boat ride with genuine local insights. It’s especially ideal if you’re traveling with friends or family who appreciate good company, scenic views, and a touch of adventure.

Key Points

• Beautiful Coastal Scenery: Expect stunning views of the Ligurian coast, small villages, and islands.
• Flexible Stops: You get about an hour in Portovenere, 45 minutes in Lerici, and the chance to swim and snorkel.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Andres and Alessandro are praised for their friendliness and local insights.
• Relaxed Pace: The tour balances sightseeing and downtime, making it suitable for most travelers.
• Great Value: At roughly $118 per person, the price includes equipment, drinks, and a fun, informative experience.
• Good for All: The tour is designed to be accessible, with most travelers able to participate, and service animals are allowed.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting Point and Departure

You’ll gather at Porto Mirabello, in La Spezia, a lively port area easy to reach by public transportation or walkable from cruise ships if you’re docked nearby. The crew, including Alessandro and Andres, coordinate the departure, and once on the boat, you’re greeted with music and friendly faces. The boat itself comfortably fits up to eight travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible.

Stop 1: Portovenere and the Islands

The first leg of the trip takes about an hour to cruise past the islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto, offering jaw-dropping views from the water. Travelers consistently mention how magical these sights are—standing on the boat, you get a sense of the area’s natural beauty, with rugged cliffs, lush green islands, and historic towers.

After the boat ride, you get around an hour to explore Portovenere on land. This picturesque town has cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and the iconic San Pietro church perched above the sea. It’s a perfect spot for photos, wandering, and soaking in a bit of local charm.

Stop 2: Portovenere to Lerici

Next, the boat heads toward Lerici, with a scenic stop along the way at Tellaro, a tiny fishing village with its own legend and quiet charm. Travelers have raved about this stretch of coast, with one reviewer sharing how they loved the view of Tellaro from the water before reaching Lerici, which they found to be even more beautiful in person.

Once in Lerici, you’ll have around 45 minutes to walk around the town, browse shops, taste artisanal gelato, or simply relax on the waterfront. It’s a peaceful spot that feels disconnected from the busy tourist crowds, perfect for a leisurely exploration.

Swimming and Water Time

A highlight for many is the opportunity to swim in the crystalline waters around Palmaria Island. Snorkeling gear is provided, and the tour includes about 20 minutes for swimming, giving you a chance to cool off and enjoy the marine life. Reviewers mention the water clarity and the fun of diving off the boat or exploring caves nearby—an experience that elevates the trip beyond just sightseeing.

Final Stops: Fiascherino, Tellaro, and Lerici

The tour then continues along the coast, heading toward Fiascherino and the charming village of Tellaro again. There’s a story or legend shared about Tellaro, adding a touch of local storytelling to the experience, and then onto Lerici, where you can indulge in some ice cream or relax before heading back.

Return to La Spezia

After a full, relaxed day of sightseeing, swimming, and exploring, you’ll return to Porto Mirabello, with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights. The whole experience wraps up comfortably within four hours.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The guides really make a difference. Several reviews praise Andres and Alessandro for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to create a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Andres, in particular, is noted for his storytelling, making the experience more engaging.

The scenery—both on the water and on land—is genuinely stunning. From the bright seaside villages to the islands’ rugged beauty, you’ll find yourself constantly capturing photos or simply marveling at the views.

The swimming stops are a big hit. Clear, inviting waters with snorkeling gear included mean you don’t have to just look at the scenery—you can enjoy it up close.

Music and atmosphere add to the laid-back vibe, making the trip feel like a day out with friends, rather than a formal tour.

The Practicalities: What to Keep in Mind

The price of about $118.58 per person reflects not just the boat ride but also the experience of exploring several beautiful locations, swimming, and enjoying drinks and music aboard. Given the reviews, many find the value quite good, especially considering the included snorkeling gear and the small group size.

The tour lasts around four hours, which is enough time to relax and see the highlights without feeling rushed. It’s ideal for those who want a taste of the coast without a full-day commitment.

The experience is suitable for most travelers—most can participate, and service animals are allowed, making it a flexible choice for different needs.

The booking process and cancellations

Booking is straightforward, with confirmation received immediately. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, which offers peace of mind if plans change. The tour depends on good weather, so keep an eye on the forecast.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic boat trip with knowledgeable guides and plenty of opportunities to swim and explore, this tour is a strong contender. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or small groups who want a personalized experience in a stunning location. It’s also highly recommended if you’re visiting La Spezia and looking for a way to see the coast without the hassle of organizing your own boat.

Travelers who appreciate good music, friendly guides, and fine views will find this trip a highlight. If you’re traveling with children, they’ll likely enjoy the swimming and caves, but check with the provider regarding age restrictions or specific needs.

FAQs

• How long is the tour?
  Around four hours, including stops for sightseeing, swimming, and exploring.

• Is it suitable for children?
  Most travelers can participate; swimming and exploring caves could be fun for kids. Check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

• What’s included in the price?
  Use of snorkeling equipment, drinks (soda/pop), restroom access on board, music, a hand shower, and a boat with a skipper. Fuel is covered too.

• Are food and alcohol included?
  No, food and alcoholic beverages are not included, but you can bring your own snacks or drinks.

• Where do we meet for the tour?
  At Porto Mirabello in La Spezia, near public transportation options. Just wait next to the fuel stop on the pier if directions are unclear.

• Can I cancel if my plans change?
  Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Full refund if canceled within that window.

• Is the boat comfortable?
  Yes, reviews mention the boat is clean and spacious enough for small groups, creating an intimate experience.

• What if the weather is poor?
  The tour depends on good weather; if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

• How many people are on the boat?
  A maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized and comfortable experience.

• Is the tour bilingual?
  Most reviews mention guides speaking English and French, making communication straightforward for international travelers.

Final Thoughts

This shared boat tour in the Gulf of Poets offers a gentle yet rich experience of Italy’s Ligurian coast. With scenic stops, swimming opportunities, and friendly guides, it’s a good way to enjoy the area without a lot of fuss. The small group size and personalized service translate into a more genuine, memorable day on the water.

If you’re craving a relaxed way to see the coast, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, exploring charming villages, and soaking up the views, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a mix of sightseeing and leisure, all wrapped in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Ready for a memorable day exploring Italy’s coast? This boat tour might just be your next favorite adventure.