La Spezia:Portovenere & Islands private boat trip with meal

A Day on the Ligurian Waters: La Spezia’s Private Boat Trip to Portovenere and Islands

If you’re dreaming of a relaxing yet immersive way to experience the beauty of Italy’s Ligurian coast, this private boat trip from La Spezia offers a compelling blend of scenic vistas, authentic cuisine, and fun water activities. The tour, run by Maragià Boat Tour, promises about five hours of cruising along the coast, exploring charming villages, islands, and hidden caves, all topped off with a freshly cooked seafood meal on board. It’s perfect for lovers of good food, stunning scenery, and a touch of adventure.

What I particularly like about this experience is the personalized touch — it’s a private group, which means less rushing and more space to enjoy the day at your pace. The guides, Maurizio and Daniela, are noted for their local knowledge and friendly attitude, making the journey as engaging as it is scenic. The fresh, cooked-on-the-spot fish, paired with local wines, offers a genuine taste of the region that’s hard to beat. Plus, the stops for swimming and water games keep the atmosphere lively and fun, whether you’re traveling with kids or just young at heart.

A small caveat to keep in mind is the weather dependency — the itinerary is flexible and may shift based on conditions, so it’s best to be prepared for the possibility of change. Also, if you’re sensitive to seasickness, consider bringing your own medication, as this wasn’t included. Overall, I think this trip offers excellent value for those seeking an authentic, scenic, and leisurely day on the Ligurian Sea.

Key points / Takeaways

• Personalized Experience: Private group tours mean more flexibility and comfort.
• Fresh Seafood Lunch: Fish is cooked on the boat from freshly caught catches, offering a true taste of Liguria.
• Scenic Stops: Multiple swimming spots, caves, and coves around Portovenere and the islands.
• Water Fun: Snorkeling gear, water games, and a banana boat add an active element to the trip.
• Local Guides: Maurizio and Daniela are praised for their knowledge and friendly manner.
• Flexible Itinerary: Weather can influence stops and routes, so be adaptable.

Exploring Liguria’s Coast from La Spezia: What to Expect

This tour begins in front of the Mitili e Mitili Restaurant in La Spezia, where you’ll meet your guides and hop aboard a comfortable boat. Starting around 10:30 a.m., you’ll set out across the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Poets, an area famed for its poetic inspiration — and now, your scenic backdrop.

The First Highlights: Scenic Views and Legends
As the boat gently glides past the charming villages along the coast, you’ll get your first glance at the colorful houses of Portovenere, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Guides often share romantic local legends that add a touch of storytelling to the stunning scenery. Keep your camera handy for photos of the rugged coastline, pastel-colored buildings, and the looming presence of the nearby islands.

Island Hopping: Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto
A key part of the trip is visiting these three iconic islands. Palmaria is the largest, with rugged cliffs and hidden coves perfect for swimming. Tino and Tinetto are smaller, with interesting historical and natural features, adding a quiet charm to the journey. You’ll have chances to get into the water, snorkel, or simply relax on the boat, taking in the views or soaking up the sun.

Swimming and Water Play
One of the tour’s real perks is the variety of water activities. The guides are friendly about encouraging swimming, and snorkeling equipment is provided. For families or groups who enjoy water games, a 3-seat banana boat is included — a fun way to cool off and share some laughs. Many reviews mention the joy of diving into crystal-clear waters and exploring nearby caves, which are accessible from the boat’s stops.

Gourmet Lunch on Board
The highlight for many is the freshly prepared fish lunch. Maurizio and Daniela cook the catch of the day right on the boat, offering dishes that celebrate Ligurian seafood flavors. Vegetarian options are available on request, ensuring everyone’s dietary needs are met. The meal is complemented by a bottle of wine or prosecco per every two guests, plus water and non-alcoholic options for children. Think of it as a floating feast — simple, fresh, and delicious.

Afternoon Relaxation and Aperitif in the Sea
After lunch, you can unwind with a drink and enjoy the relaxing scenery. There’s nothing quite like sipping a glass of prosecco while floating in the sea, with the coast drifting by. The tour concludes back at the starting point around 4 p.m., leaving you with memories of a day well spent.

The Guides and Atmosphere: Knowledge Meets Hospitality

Maurizio and Daniela are often mentioned for their warm, engaging personalities. They’re passionate about sharing the stories and secrets of the coast, making the experience more than just a boat ride. Their expertise helps you appreciate the history, legends, and natural beauty of the area. Plus, the music onboard adds to the lively, joyful atmosphere, making it feel like a day among friends.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

While many boat trips offer scenic views, this experience’s focus on authentic food and water activities elevates it. The freshly cooked seafood paired with local wines is a genuine highlight, offering tremendous value for the price. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, water games, and towels means you’re well-equipped for a full day of seaside fun without extra costs.

On top of that, the private setting allows for a more relaxed pace and personalized service. You’re not crammed into a large group, and the guides can tailor some of the stops based on weather or your interests.

Price and Logistics: What You Need to Know

The tour costs include the aperitif, fish lunch, drinks, snorkeling equipment, water games, and towels — it’s quite comprehensive. Of course, it’s a good idea to bring your own medications if you’re prone to seasickness, as these aren’t provided. The tour operates for about five hours, with starting times depending on availability, so it’s worth checking in advance.

The meeting point, in front of the Mitili e Mitili Restaurant, is convenient, and returning to the same spot ensures a hassle-free experience. Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, and you can reserve now and pay later, which makes planning easier.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This trip is ideal for couples, families, and small groups seeking a relaxed, scenic day with authentic local flavors. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate good food, water activities, and personalized service. Since the tour is private, it’s also a great choice for special occasions or a more intimate celebration of Liguria’s beauty.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a blend of breathtaking scenery, authentic cuisine, and fun water activities, this boat trip from La Spezia hits the spot. The guides’ friendliness and local knowledge make it more engaging, and the fresh seafood meal is a standout feature. While weather can influence some stops, the flexible nature of the tour helps keep the experience enjoyable.

For travelers who want to see the coast from a different perspective — with the added bonus of swimming, snorkeling, and a tasty meal — this trip offers excellent value. It’s a relaxed yet active way to soak in Liguria’s charms far from the crowds and tourist traps.

FAQ

How long is the boat trip?
The tour lasts around 5 hours, with the exact starting time depending on availability.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins in front of the Mitili e Mitili Restaurant in La Spezia and returns to the same point.

What’s included in the price?
Your fare covers an aperitif (prosecco or non-alcoholic drink), a seafood lunch cooked on the boat, drinks (wine, prosecco, water, non-alcoholic beverages), snorkeling equipment, a banana boat, towels, and water games.

Can I request a vegetarian meal?
Yes, vegetarian options are available upon request when booking.

Are there any age restrictions or suitability concerns?
The tour is family-friendly, including activities suitable for children, but always consider the weather and sea conditions. It’s also wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?
Bring beachwear, sun protection, a hat, and possibly sea sickness medication if needed.

Is the itinerary fixed?
No, the route and stops may change depending on weather conditions, but guides will ensure you see the best sights.

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

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the experience is tailored for private groups, ensuring a more intimate and flexible experience.

In the end, this boat trip offers a fantastic way to combine scenic beauty, cultural insights, and culinary delights on Liguria’s coast. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, seeking family fun, or simply want to escape into nature, it’s a memorable adventure worth considering.