La Spezia: private tour, Portovenere, snorkeling, aperitivo

Exploring Liguria’s Hidden Gems: La Spezia’s Private Tour to Portovenere and Islands

Imagine bobbing gently on the water, surrounded by dramatic red rocks and tiny islands, while a local guide shares tales of pirates, poets, and lovers. That’s the essence of this private boat tour departing from La Spezia, designed for those craving an intimate look at some of Italy’s most enchanting coastal spots. With a cap of 12 guests, this tour balances personalized attention with the joy of shared discovery. It combines scenic cruising, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and sampling regional specialties—all wrapped in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Two things I particularly love about this experience are the carefully curated stops at secret beaches and caves, which offer a sense of discovery, and the thoughtful inclusion of local food and prosecco that makes the ride feel like a floating aperitivo. The guide’s knowledge about the area’s history and geology adds richness to the journey, making it more than just a boat ride. However, one thing to consider is that because it’s a shared, small-group tour, you’ll want to book early to secure your spot, especially in high season, and be prepared for a full day of water-based adventure.

A potential drawback? If you’re sensitive to motion, the boat’s small size and the sometimes choppy Ligurian waters might be a concern. Also, since it’s a boat adventure, bringing essentials like towels, sun protection, and swimsuits is necessary, as these are not provided. But overall, this tour offers a well-balanced blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and casual indulgence.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Small Group Intimacy: Max 12 guests for a personalized experience with plenty of space to relax.
• Expert Guide: A knowledgeable local guide enriches your understanding of the area’s history and geology.
• Multiple Swim & Snorkel Stops: Stops at secret coves and caves with crystal-clear waters stand out.
• Local Food & Prosecco: Onboard snacks, regional specialties, and bubbly make the journey festive.
• Scenic Landmarks: Highlights include Torre Scola, Byron Cave, Rocce Rosse, and the tiny islands Tino and Tinetto.
• Flexible & Private: Reserve with the option to pay later, and enjoy a tailored experience that suits your schedule.

The Itinerary: From La Spezia to the Secret Coast

Starting from La Spezia, your adventure kicks off with a welcome drink as the boat gently cruises toward Torre Scola. This fortified islet, positioned just off Palmaria, offers a wonderful first glimpse of the area’s strategic and scenic importance. It’s a spot that typically captivates visitors with its history and commanding views.

Next, you’ll witness Portovenere, often called the “Jewel of Liguria.” Its colorful houses, medieval church, and fortress perched atop the hill make for a postcard-perfect backdrop. The guide will share stories about this charming town’s past and its place in Italian poetry, especially Lord Byron’s love for the coast.

From there, the boat heads toward Palmaria Island—a lush, protected nature reserve. Here, you’ll see the tiny islands of Tino and Tinetto, both offering a peek into ancient religious and military history. The Seca del Tinetto features a white Madonna statue submerged just below the water’s surface—a surreal sight that adds a mystical element to your journey.

The Byron Cave is a favorite stop for many travelers. Its name hints at literary inspiration, and its sheltered waters are perfect for dips and snorkeling. The cave’s significance is both historical and scenic, and the area’s rugged red rocks—the Rocce Rosse—are truly a sight to behold, renowned for their dramatic shapes and fiery color.

Throughout the day, the boat makes several stops into small, secluded coves and caves. These secret beaches are ideal for swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, giving you a chance to see the vibrant marine life of the Ligurian Sea. The guide will point out good spots to jump in and explore, making the most of your time in this natural playground.

The Food and Drinks: A Floating Aperitivo

The onboard experience isn’t just about the scenery—it’s about savoring local flavors. A selection of regional specialties accompanies your cruise, including a variety of tapas-like snacks and prosecco. The music adds a lively, relaxed atmosphere, making it feel like a floating party with fantastic views. If you have food allergies or dietary restrictions, notifying in advance ensures your needs are met.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What to Bring

Your ticket covers the snorkel gear, noodles, and life jackets, so you can freely explore the waters without worry. The boat is equipped with a toilet and shower, adding comfort after swims. Be sure to bring towels, sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), and a swimsuit—these aren’t supplied but are essential for a day in and out of the water.

The tour begins at a designated pickup point near a gas station, which is easy to find. It lasts a full day, giving you plenty of time to relax and explore. The group size is limited to 12, ensuring a cozy, friendly atmosphere where your guide can give detailed explanations and answer questions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous couples, small groups of friends, or anyone wanting a tailored, scenic day on the Ligurian coast. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy snorkeling, scenic boat rides, and tasting regional foods in an authentic setting. If you’re looking for a structured, large-group tour with a tight schedule, this might not be the best fit. But for lovers of intimacy, nature, and local charm, it hits all the right notes.

Price and Value: A Deeper Look

At $767.88 per group, the cost might seem steep at first glance, but considering it’s a private experience for up to 12 people, the price per person is quite reasonable—especially given the inclusions of food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and a full day of exploration. The personalized nature means fewer crowds, more flexibility, and a relaxed vibe that larger tours can’t match.

Compared to other boat experiences in the region, this tour offers a good balance of comfort, intimacy, and adventure. The guide’s local knowledge and the curated stops really add value, making it a memorable way to see Liguria’s coastal beauty from the water.

Final Thoughts: Who This Tour Is Best For

If you love the idea of discovering Italy’s secret beaches, exploring picturesque islands, and enjoying good food with a small, friendly group, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s ideal for travelers who want a personalized, authentic experience rather than a generic group cruise. The inclusion of snorkeling and free time for swimming makes it perfect for those who love water-based activities.

However, if you prefer a more structured or longer tour, or if you’re prone to seasickness, you might want to consider other options. This experience shines brightest for those eager to combine scenic beauty, cultural insight, and a touch of luxury—all in one relaxed, fun-filled day.

FAQ

Is this a private tour? Yes, it is a fully private experience for your group, with a maximum of 12 participants.

What’s included in the price? The tour includes a local guide, snorkeling gear, noodles, life jackets, onboard toilet and shower, aperitivo with food and drinks (prosecco and soft drinks), and music.

What should I bring? Bring towels, biodegradable sunscreen, a swimsuit, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.

Is it suitable for children? The tour is designed for groups up to 12 people and involves water activities. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with boat rides and swimming.

Are there any dietary restrictions I should notify? Yes, if you have allergies or specific dietary needs, inform the provider in advance to accommodate your requirements.

What is the duration of the tour? It lasts for a full day, with flexible starting times based on availability.

Will I see popular landmarks? Yes, highlights include Torre Scola, Portovenere, Byron Cave, Rocce Rosse, and the tiny Tino and Tinetto islands.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any physical limitations? The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and participants should be comfortable on a boat and in the water.

How do I book? You can reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible, just check availability for your preferred date.

In essence, this private Ligurian boat tour offers an enriching and relaxed way to experience some of Italy’s most beautiful coastlines, with the right combination of scenic stops, cultural insights, and local flavors. It’s a great choice for travelers seeking intimacy, adventure, and genuine regional charm.