Sunset private boat tour of Cinque Terre with traditional ligurian gozzo

A Unique Sunset Adventure in Cinque Terre

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Cinque Terre from a different angle, this private boat tour offers the chance to see the colorful villages from the sea at sunset. The tour is set on a traditional Ligurian gozzo called Giulin, crafted by a renowned shipwright, Dino Schiaffino. For about two and a half hours, your small group (up to 12 people) will glide along the coastline, enjoying the fading light and sweeping vistas.

What I really like about this experience is how it combines authenticity and comfort—sailing on a real Ligurian vessel adds an intimate, traditional touch. Plus, the stops for swimming and snorkeling let you cool off in the clear waters while capturing plenty of photos against the backdrop of vibrant villages. Another highlight is the relaxed aperitivo featuring prosecco and local snacks—perfect for unwinding as the sky turns gold.

One thing to keep in mind is that the boat is a classic gozzo, which can sometimes be a bit choppy, especially if the seas are rough. This can lead to more oscillation than modern boats, so if you’re sensitive to movement, it’s something to consider. Overall, if you love stunning seaside scenery and a cozy, personalized experience, this tour is a real winner.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic Ligurian Gozzo: Sailing on a traditional vessel adds a genuine touch to your Cinque Terre experience.
• Stunning Coastal Views: You’ll see all five villages from the sea, with especially memorable moments at Corniglia, Manarola, Vernazza, Riomaggiore, and Monterosso.
• Swimming and Snorkeling: Multiple stops provide opportunities to cool off in crystal-clear waters, with snorkeling gear included.
• Sunset Spectacle: The timing around sunset offers incredible photo opportunities and a peaceful, reflective mood.
• Tasty Aperitivo: Enjoy local snacks, floating noodles, soft drinks, beer, and bottomless prosecco—an ideal way to toast the view.
• Private and Intimate: Only your group shares the boat, making it ideal for families, friends, or special celebrations.

Exploring the Experience: A Deep Dive

Starting from Monterosso’s Pier

The tour begins at Monterosso’s pier, a convenient spot if you’re staying in the village or arriving by train. The boat, Giulin, is a beautifully maintained Ligurian gozzo—think of it as a floating slice of local maritime culture. The crew, led by guide Alessandro (according to one glowing review), welcomes you aboard with a friendly vibe that sets the tone for a relaxed, memorable outing.

Cruising Along the Coast

The journey along the coast is where the magic happens. As you set sail, you’ll immediately notice how different the villages look from the water. The view of Vernazza, with its colorful houses perched on the cliffs, is breathtaking from the sea—something photos from the land rarely capture fully.

Alessandro shares tidbits and stories about each village, helping you appreciate their unique charm. You’ll love the way the boat glides smoothly, and if you’re lucky, the sea is calm enough for a gentle rocking—making for a surprisingly cozy ride.

The Corniglia Stop: A Perched Village

The highlight here is a stop in front of Corniglia, the most perched of the five villages. The view from the water makes it clear why it’s called the “cliff village.” You’ll want to have your camera ready—its terraced vineyards and colorful houses look almost surreal at sunset. After swimming in the clear waters, the onboard aperitivo with prosecco and local snacks is the perfect reward.

Riomsaggiore and Manarola: The Colors of Cinque Terre

Next, the boat moves to Riomaggiore, allowing ample time for photo captures of its pastel-colored buildings. The guide’s commentary adds context to this enchanting setting, making the photos even more meaningful.

Later, the boat approaches Manarola, where the vibrant hues of the houses and the shimmering sea converge into a picture-perfect scene. From this vantage point, you’ll understand why so many travelers fall in love with this coast.

Sunset at Riomaggiore

As the sun begins to dip, the boat moves out a bit further for the ultimate view of Riomaggiore at sunset—colors bloom across the sky and reflect on the water. This is often the most memorable part of the tour, with plenty of time for photos and just soaking in the peaceful beauty.

Final Leg and Return to Monterosso

After sunset, the boat heads back toward Monterosso, with the last light fading over the sea. The gentle motion, the company of your small group, and the stunning scenery make for a calming finish. The entire experience captures the essence of Cinque Terre—beautiful, authentic, and a little different from the usual land-based sightseeing.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are snacks, an Italian aperitivo with local products, bottomless prosecco, soft drinks, beer, and water, snorkeling equipment, beach towels, and floating noodles. These small touches elevate the experience, making it more than just a boat ride.

Not included is a toilet on board, which isn’t unusual for boats of this size. It’s worth noting if you have special needs or prefer more facilities.

Logistics and Practical Tips

The tour runs from 5:30PM to 6:30PM between March and October. The duration is approximately 2.5 hours, giving plenty of time to relax, swim, and enjoy the views without feeling rushed.

You’ll meet at the Monterosso pier, with options available for departure from Levanto upon request. The tour is private, so only your group will be on board, which makes for a much more personalized experience.

Weather considerations are important—this classic gozzo can oscillate quite a bit in choppy seas (waves of 40-50cm or more), so if you’re sensitive to motion, it’s worth preparing accordingly. The boat does not have toilet facilities, so plan your bathroom needs beforehand.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who appreciate authentic maritime traditions and want a peaceful, scenic way to see Cinque Terre. It suits those celebrating a special occasion, families, or small groups seeking a more intimate view of the coast. If you’re an adventurous swimmer or snorkeler, you’ll appreciate the stops in the clear waters. However, if you prefer a smoother ride or have mobility concerns, the boat’s movement might be a consideration.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For the price of around $1,512 for up to 12 people, you get a private, authentic experience with stunning views, local snacks, and a relaxed atmosphere at sunset. It’s a good value considering the exclusivity and personalized nature of the tour, especially for those eager to avoid crowded land-based tours and enjoy the coast from a more authentic perspective.

The reviews reinforce this—one traveler described it as an “esperienza emozionante” (emotional experience), and another called it “unica” (unique). The chance to see Cinque Terre from the water with a knowledgeable guide like Alessandro makes this a memorable option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind the boat can be bumpy in choppy seas. Children who enjoy swimming and are comfortable on boats should have a good time.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including stops for swimming, photos, and enjoying the sunset.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, waterproof camera, and perhaps a light jacket for the evening. Snorkeling gear is provided.

Can I request pickup from Levanto?
Yes, on request, the tour can depart from and return to Levanto, but confirm this when booking.

Is there a bathroom on board?
No, the boat does not have toilet facilities, so plan accordingly.

What happens if the sea is too rough?
The tour might be canceled due to choppy seas (waves of 40-50cm or more), with options for rescheduling or full refund.

Can I bring my own drinks or snacks?
The tour provides snacks and drinks, including prosecco, but bringing additional items is generally not necessary.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
From March to October, with sunset timings between 5:30PM and 6:30PM, when the weather tends to be more stable and warm.

Wrapping It Up

If you’re after a relaxed, authentic way to see Cinque Terre—away from crowded land viewpoints—and love the idea of sailing on a traditional Ligurian gozzo, this private sunset boat tour hits the spot. It’s ideal for those who value intimate experiences, gorgeous scenery, and a touch of local maritime charm. Whether celebrating or simply seeking a peaceful moment, this cruise offers a memorable and picture-perfect way to end your day in one of Italy’s most beautiful coastal areas.