La Spezia: Portovenere and islands boat trip with lunch

Discovering the Coast of Liguria: La Spezia’s Portovenere & Islands Boat Trip

Taking a boat trip along Liguria’s stunning coastline offers an ideal way to see some of Italy’s best-kept secrets — without the hassle of driving or crowded buses. The La Spezia: Portovenere and Islands boat tour with lunch is a five-hour journey packed with breathtaking views, delicious food, and fun water activities. From the moment I read about it, I was intrigued by how the experience combines natural beauty, local flavors, and a touch of relaxed luxury.

What immediately caught my attention was the promise of lunch cooked fresh on board, featuring locally caught fish, paired with excellent wine and lively music. The second detail that makes this trip stand out is the chance to stop at hidden coves for swimming and snorkeling — perfect for travelers who love a mix of sightseeing and water-based fun.

One thing to keep in mind is that the itinerary can change depending on weather conditions, which is common for outdoor boat trips. While that flexibility can sometimes mean shifts in exact stops or timing, it also assures safety and a more personalized experience. This trip appears well-suited for those seeking a balance of scenic exploration, authentic regional cuisine, and playful water activities.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Freshly Prepared Fish Lunch: The highlight is a meal prepared on the boat, using the catch of the day, with vegetarian options available upon request.
• Stunning Coastal Views: Expect memorable vistas of Portovenere, Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto Islands, with stories and legends from knowledgeable guides.
• Water Fun and Snorkeling: Includes equipment and the chance to swim in secluded coves, perfect for cooling off and enjoying the clear waters.
• All-Inclusive Drinks and Aperitif: One glass of prosecco or non-alcoholic beverage, plus wine for adults, water, and non-alcoholic drinks for children, are included.
• Music and Atmosphere: The boat’s lively vibe, with music and even water-based aperitifs, makes it a fun, relaxed outing.
• Family-Friendly and Wheelchair Accessible: Suitable for children and travelers with mobility needs, making it a versatile choice.

Setting Sail from La Spezia: What to Expect

The adventure begins at the Mitili e Mitili Restaurant, where you’ll meet your guides Maurizio and Daniela at around 10:30 a.m. The early start is worth it; the coast looks particularly spectacular in the morning light and offers a peaceful contrast to the busy afternoons. The boat itself is comfortable, with enough space for everyone, and the crew is friendly and eager to share stories about the local legends and the area’s history.

Once underway, you’ll quickly see why the Ligurian coast has long captivated visitors. The views of Portovenere’s colorful houses, the rugged cliffs, and the shimmering blue waters set a postcard scene that’s hard to beat. The guides are knowledgeable, sharing stories about the local legends tied to Tino and Tinetto Islands, adding a layer of storytelling that elevates the experience beyond just a sightseeing cruise.

Visiting the Islands: Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto

Your boat will stop at the most beautiful coves around Portovenere and on the islands. Palmaria, the largest of the islands, offers excellent spots for swimming and snorkeling. The smaller Tino and Tinetto islands are steeped in history and serve as a lovely backdrop to your water activities. The water games, including snorkeling gear and the 3-seat banana boat, make this tour especially fun if you’re traveling with kids or just enjoy splashing around.

From reviews, it’s clear that many guests appreciate the relaxed pace and intimate setting — a chance to dip into the water whenever you fancy, without feeling rushed. One guest, Roig, called it an “incredible day” and appreciated the warm, welcoming guides and the delicious meal, which they described as “wonderful landscapes” and a highlight of the trip.

Lunch: Fresh, Local, and Delicious

The lunch cooked on the boat is a standout feature. The fish is freshly caught, grilled right on deck, and served with simple, authentic flavors. Vegetarian options are available if requested in advance, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied. Pairing the meal with a bottle of wine or prosecco (included for every two people), the lunch elevates the experience from a simple boat ride to a true gastronomic treat.

Afternoon Relaxation and Return

Post-lunch, you can kick back with a drink, enjoy the music playing on the boat, and relax as you take in the stunning coastline. The tour wraps up around 4 p.m., and you’ll return to the starting point, feeling refreshed and filled with great memories.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the price covers most essentials — a boat ride, lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, towels, and water fun — what you gain is a well-rounded, authentic experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see Liguria’s coastline without the hassle of multiple bookings or self-organized trips. The all-inclusive nature means you won’t have to worry about extra costs for water activities or food.

The guides, Maurizio and Daniela, are praised for their hospitality and storytelling skills. Their warmth enhances the trip, making it feel more like a day with friends than a commercial tour. The flexible cancellation policy (up to 24 hours in advance) also adds confidence in planning this outing.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This boat trip is ideal for couples, families, and groups who enjoy scenic views, light water activities, and good regional food. It’s particularly suited for those looking for a relaxed day out that combines sightseeing, leisure, and culinary delights. If you’re a water lover or want to cool off in beautiful coves, this tour offers plenty of swimming and snorkeling opportunities.

Travelers with mobility challenges can also participate, as the activity is wheelchair accessible. However, it’s always wise to clarify specific needs with the provider beforehand. The tour’s flexible nature makes it adaptable to weather conditions, which is comforting for those worried about unpredictable Ligurian weather.

Price and Practicalities

While the exact cost isn’t listed here, considering the inclusions — drinks, lunch, water activities, towels, and entertainment — the value proposition is quite good. It’s a package that offers a fair balance between affordability and memorable experiences. The tour is five hours long, leaving ample time to soak in the scenery, enjoy the water, and indulge in fresh seafood.

You’ll want to arrive in beachwear, ready for a day on the water, and bring sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a change of clothes if you plan to swim. Remember, the itinerary is weather-dependent, so your plans might shift slightly on a windy or rainy day.

The Sum Up: Who Will Get the Most Out of This Trip?

This boat tour from La Spezia to Portovenere and the surrounding islands delivers a compelling mix of natural beauty, local flavor, and fun. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate authentic, well-paced experiences rather than fast-paced sightseeing. If you enjoy a good meal, lively atmosphere, and the chance to swim in stunning coves, this trip will leave you with plenty of stories and stunning photos.

Families with children will find the water activities a hit, while couples looking for a romantic day will appreciate the scenic views and intimate setting. The knowledgeable guides make it easy to learn about the area’s legends and history, adding depth to your day.

This trip offers a charming slice of Ligurian life — vibrant, picturesque, and full of genuine hospitality. It’s a memorable way to enjoy the coast without the crowds and to savor the region’s simple pleasures.

FAQ: Practical Questions About the Tour

What is the meeting point? The tour starts in front of the Mitili e Mitili Restaurant, a convenient and recognizable location in La Spezia.

How long does the trip last? The trip lasts approximately 5 hours, but check current availability for exact starting times.

Is lunch included? Yes, a fish lunch cooked fresh on the boat is included, with vegetarian options available on request.

Can I bring children? Absolutely, children are welcome, and snorkeling gear, towels, and water fun make it suitable for families.

What drinks are included? You get one glass of prosecco or non-alcoholic beverage, plus wine for every two guests, water, and non-alcoholic drinks for children.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchairs? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring? Bring beachwear, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a change of clothes if you plan to swim.

How does weather affect the tour? The itinerary can change depending on weather conditions to ensure safety and comfort.

This La Spezia boat trip combines scenic beauty, delicious local cuisine, and relaxing water activities, making it a fantastic choice for a memorable day in Liguria.