A Fun Day on the Water: 530 Dinghy Rental in Liguria
Imagine gliding over the calm waters of Liguria in a small, easy-to-handle boat, with the sun warming your back and the breeze in your hair. That’s what you get with the 530 Dinghy Rental offered by BLACKWAVE SSDARL. This experience provides a relaxed, hands-on approach to exploring Italy’s stunning coastline — no license required, just a sense of adventure and a love of the sea.
What I find especially appealing about this experience is how accessible it is — suitable for families and groups of friends alike — and the thoughtful inclusion of snorkeling gear and hot showers after your time on the water. Plus, the small group size (limited to 5 people) ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, making it easier to get personalized tips and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
That said, one aspect to keep in mind is that gas isn’t included in the price. If you’re mindful of your budget, you’ll want to factor in that additional cost. But overall, the value for what you get — a well-equipped, half-day adventure — makes it a noteworthy choice for a memorable day at sea.
Key Points / Takeaways
- No boat license needed: Perfect for beginners and those who want to try boating without hassle.
- All-inclusive amenities: Snorkeling gear, hot showers, and a cooler bag make your outing comfortable and fun.
- Limited to small groups: Ensures a more personal experience and better chances to learn the basics.
- Flexible timing: Available in two slots — morning or afternoon — fitting various schedules.
- Additional costs: Gas is not included, so plan accordingly.
- Start point: Located conveniently at Lungomare Bettolo 1, Recco, with a straightforward check-in process.
Exploring Liguria in a Small Dinghy
If you’ve ever wanted to see the Ligurian coast from a different perspective, this dinghy rental is a great way to do it. Unlike crowded boat tours, this experience puts you in control of your vessel, with the option to relax or explore at your own pace.
The BAT 530 dinghy itself is 5.3 meters long, equipped with a 40 cc 4-stroke engine that’s user-friendly and no license required. The boat is approved for up to five people, making it ideal for families or small groups of friends. You’ll also appreciate the sun awning, which provides shade during those peak sun hours, and the cooler bag to keep your drinks cold during your trip (note: drinks are not included).
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Camogli.
What Makes This Experience Stand Out?
What I’ve heard from travelers and seen in reviews is that the hot showers and changing rooms are a real plus — especially after a morning spent snorkeling or just relaxing out at sea. The snorkeling kit provides a chance to explore the seabed, which is often teeming with colorful fish and interesting rocks. Plus, the cell phone holder and waterproof bag make it easy to keep your essentials safe and accessible.
The check-in process is straightforward, with a 200 euro cash deposit required at the office when signing the contract. Remember to bring your ID and sunscreen, because this is Italy — sun protection is a must. The activity offers full flexibility with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later, making last-minute planning easier.
Who Would Enjoy This Most?
This experience is best suited for those who want a relaxed, hands-on adventure on the water without the need for prior boating experience. Families will enjoy the safe and controlled environment, while friends can appreciate the camaraderie of skimming along the coast. It’s also a good fit if you’re seeking a short, worthwhile break from land-based sightseeing, combining marine exploration with comfort and convenience.
Breaking Down the Day: From Meeting to Departure
Starting at the Lungomare Bettolo 1 in Recco, you’ll be greeted by the friendly staff who will brief you on how to operate the dinghy. The timing options — morning from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and afternoon from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. — allow for flexibility, whether you’re an early riser or prefer a lazy start.
Once aboard, you’ll have approximately 4 hours to relax, explore, and enjoy the sea. You can sunbathe on the boat, snorkel around the coast, or simply cruise along the beautiful Ligurian shoreline, taking in views of charming villages, rocky coves, and perhaps even the distant silhouette of Portofino.
The Route and Highlights
While the rental is self-guided, most participants enjoy drifting near the coast, stopping in tranquil spots for a swim or snorkel. The hot showers at the end of your trip are a thoughtful touch, allowing you to rinse off salt and sand comfortably before heading back.
The small group size guarantees that you’ll receive personalized attention, and if you’re lucky, the staff or guides — who speak Italian and English — might share tips about local spots only locals know.
Price and Logistics: Is It Good Value?
At a glance, the cost of the rental includes the boat, snorkeling gear, access to changing rooms, hot showers, and safety equipment. Since gas is extra, you’ll want to budget a few extra euros for fuel, which can vary based on your usage. Compared to larger boat tours, this is a more affordable way to enjoy the water with similar flexibility.
The deposit of 200 euros acts as a security measure, but it’s fully refundable if the boat is returned in good condition. The reserving process is simple — just book online, keep your plans flexible with the “pay later” option, and confirm your spot easily.
Who Will Love This Experience?
If you’re seeking a casual, self-guided adventure with the family or friends, this is a perfect pick. It’s especially suitable for those who want to experience the Ligurian coast at their own pace without the crowds or rigid schedules. Active travelers, snorkelers, or anyone curious about boating will find it a worthwhile addition to a Liguria trip.
Final Thoughts
The 530 Dinghy Rental offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to explore Liguria’s coast from the water. Its value lies in the combination of a well-equipped boat, relaxed atmosphere, and flexible scheduling. The small-group size and inclusive amenities make it especially appealing for families and groups of friends who want an authentic, hands-on marine experience.
While it might not suit travelers looking for a guided tour with detailed commentary, it excels as a self-directed adventure that emphasizes freedom and fun. Plus, with the added bonus of hot showers and snorkeling gear, you’ll leave feeling refreshed and with plenty of stories to tell.
In short, if you’re eager to enjoy Italy’s seaside in a relaxed yet engaging way, this dinghy rental is a solid choice for a memorable day on the water.
FAQ
Do I need a boat license?
No, this dinghy is approved for 5 people and does not require a license, making it accessible even for beginners.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, sunscreen, shower essentials, and your own drinks if you wish — though a cooler bag is provided.
How much does gas cost?
Gas is not included in the price, so you’ll need to budget extra for fuel, which depends on your usage during the rental.
Where do I meet for the rental?
You meet at the BLACKWAVE SSDARL office at Lungomare Bettolo 1 in Recco, where the staff will brief you and handle the deposit.
What is the duration of the activity?
The rental lasts 4 hours, with two available time slots — morning or afternoon — to fit your schedule.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible planning.
Is snorkeling equipment included?
Yes, a snorkeling kit is included, allowing you to explore below the water’s surface easily.
Who is this experience best for?
It’s ideal for families, friends, or small groups looking for a relaxed, hands-on sea adventure without the need for prior experience.
In choosing this dinghy rental, you’re opting for a flexible, fun, and authentic way to enjoy Liguria’s coast — perfect for creating your own seaside story.