The picturesque coastal towns of the Italian Riviera beckon with their timeless allure, and a full-day boat tour from Genoa’s Old Port promises to unveil their captivating charms. Explore centuries-old abbeys, admire vibrant harbors, and savor fresh seafood as you learn about the natural beauty and rich culture of this enchanting region. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a glimpse into the Mediterranean’s enchanting lifestyle, this excursion offers an experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
• This full-day boat tour from Genoa’s Old Port explores the picturesque coastal towns of San Fruttuoso, Portofino, Paraggi, and Camogli over 8 hours.
• Highlights include visiting an ancient abbey, the Christ of the Abyss statue, and enjoying activities like swimming, snorkeling, and trekking.
• Lunch is provided in the charming fishing village of Camogli, where visitors can savor local seafood and admire the harbor views.
• Snorkeling and hiking opportunities are offered at Punta Chiappa, allowing for exploration of the underwater world and rugged coastal trails.
• The tour includes boat transportation, snorkeling/water polo equipment, and trekking guidance, but excludes meals, drinks, and entrance fees.
Tour Details
This full-day boat tour departs from Genoa’s Old Port, lasting a total of 8 hours.
The tour takes visitors to explore the picturesque coastal towns of San Fruttuoso, Portofino, Paraggi, and Camogli.
Along the way, guests can swim, snorkel, and trek through the stunning landscapes.
In San Fruttuoso, they’ll have the opportunity to discover the ancient abbey and the famous Christ of the Abyss statue.
In Portofino, they’ll admire the charming, colorful buildings and the beautiful Paraggi beach.
The tour includes a stop in Camogli for lunch and town exploration.
Snorkeling equipment, trekking guidance, and skipper services are all provided, allowing guests to fully enjoy the crystal-clear waters and natural beauty of the region.
Destinations Explored
The full-day boat tour takes visitors on an exploration of several picturesque coastal towns along the Italian Riviera. Starting with the ancient abbey and famous Christ of the Abyss statue in San Fruttuoso, the journey then continues to the charming, colorful buildings and stunning Paraggi beach in Portofino. Guests can also visit the quaint fishing village of Camogli, where they can enjoy a delightful lunch and explore the town. The tour also includes a stop at Punta Chiappa, where travelers can indulge in snorkeling, hiking, and relaxing on the pristine beaches.
| Destination | Highlights |
|---|---|
| San Fruttuoso | Ancient abbey, Christ of the Abyss statue |
| Portofino | Colorful buildings, Paraggi beach |
| Camogli | Quaint fishing village, lunch |
| Punta Chiappa | Snorkeling, hiking, beach relaxation |
| Paraggi | Stunning beach |
Exploring San Fruttuoso
Nestled along the rugged coastline of the Italian Riviera, San Fruttuoso offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich historical and cultural heritage.
At the heart of this picturesque seaside hamlet stands an ancient abbey, its weathered façade a testament to centuries of devotion and resilience. Venturing into the abbey’s serene interior, guests can explore its well-preserved frescoes and intricate architectural details, marveling at the ingenuity of its medieval builders.
Beyond the abbey’s walls, the iconic Christ of the Abyss statue stands guard in the crystal-clear waters, a poignant symbol of the deep connection between the land and the sea. With opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and trekking, San Fruttuoso promises an immersive and unforgettable experience for adventurous travelers.
Admiring Portofino
After exploring the tranquil abbey and iconic underwater statue in San Fruttuoso, the boat tour continues its journey along the picturesque Ligurian coastline, arriving at the charming town of Portofino.
Visitors can’t help but be captivated by the brightly colored buildings that line the harbor, creating a postcard-worthy scene against the backdrop of the azure waters and verdant hillsides.
Guests can wander the quaint streets, admiring the upscale boutiques and cafes that exude an air of Italian elegance.
The highlight is undoubtedly Paraggi beach, a secluded cove with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
With its stunning natural beauty and relaxed ambiance, Portofino offers a delightful respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Lunch in Camogli
From Portofino, the boat tour continues its journey along the picturesque Ligurian coastline, eventually arriving at the charming fishing village of Camogli. Here, visitors can indulge in a delightful lunch, savoring the local seafood specialties and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this seaside town.
The bustling Piazza Colombo is the heart of Camogli, where quaint cafes, lively restaurants, and colorful buildings line the promenade. Visitors can:
- Savor freshly-caught anchovies, pesto-tossed pasta, and locally-sourced seafood
- Sip on crisp white wine or a refreshing spritz while admiring the stunning harbor views
Visitors can also:
- Explore the historic Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta with its stunning Romanesque architecture
- Wander through the narrow, winding streets, popping into charming local shops
- Relax on the pebbly beach, dipping their toes in the crystal-clear Ligurian waters.
Snorkeling and Hiking
Departing from Camogli, the boat tour then sails towards the picturesque Punta Chiappa, where guests can don their snorkeling gear and explore the crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life.
Once anchored, the group is free to jump into the inviting Ligurian Sea, discovering an underwater world of colorful fish, rocky coves, and swaying seagrass beds.
For those seeking a more active adventure, the tour also offers guided hiking opportunities along the rugged coastal trails. Navigating through fragrant Mediterranean scrubland, the hikes provide breathtaking vistas of the sparkling sea and the charming villages that dot the shoreline.
With the freedom to choose their own pace, guests can enjoy the natural beauty of this picturesque region.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The boat tour includes the boat excursion, snorkeling and water polo equipment, trekking guidance, and the services of a skilled skipper.
However, the tour excludes meals, drinks, entrance fees to attractions, and personal expenses, making it unsuitable for non-swimmers and those prone to seasickness.
Passengers can look forward to:
- Exploring the crystal-clear waters of the Ligurian coast
- Discovering ancient abbeys and iconic statues
- Admiring the colorful buildings and picturesque beaches
- Enjoying a leisurely lunch and town exploration in Camogli
- Indulging in hiking and beach relaxation at Punta Chiappa
With these inclusions and exclusions, the tour promises an unforgettable day of adventure, sightseeing, and natural beauty along the stunning Ligurian coastline.
Who Should Avoid
Despite the boat tour’s many allures, it may not be the best fit for certain travelers. Non-swimmers and individuals prone to seasickness should likely reconsider this excursion, as the inclusions don’t cater to their needs.
The tour involves extensive time on the water, with opportunities to swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear Mediterranean. Passengers who lack confidence in the water or struggle with motion sickness may find the experience unpleasant or even unsafe.
The tour operator emphasizes the importance of being a capable swimmer to fully enjoy the activities. For those hesitant about their aquatic abilities or susceptibility to seasickness, an alternative land-based exploration of the charming Ligurian coast may be a wiser choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Boat Tour?
The tour’s cancellation policy is not specified in the provided information. However, it’s common for boat tours to have flexible policies, allowing participants to reschedule or receive refunds in case of unexpected circumstances, subject to certain terms and conditions.
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?
You can bring your own snorkeling equipment for the tour. However, the tour also provides snorkeling and water polo equipment, so you don’t necessarily need to bring your own if you don’t want to.
Is There an Option to Book a Private Tour?
The tour offers a private option for those who’d like a more exclusive experience. Guests can book a private boat to explore San Fruttuoso, Portofino, and Camogli without sharing the vessel with other travelers.
Do I Need a Specific Level of Fitness for the Hiking?
The hikes on this tour are moderate in difficulty, but guests should have a basic level of fitness. Trekking guidance is provided, allowing participants to explore at their own pace and comfort level. However, the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?
Travelers can customize the itinerary to suit their preferences. The tour operator offers flexibility, allowing guests to spend more time in destinations they find most appealing or skip activities that don’t interest them.
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Recap
This full-day boat tour from Genoa’s Old Port offers a chance to discover the stunning Italian Riviera.
Visitors can explore historic sites, marvel at picturesque coastal towns, and enjoy outdoor activities like swimming and hiking.
With knowledgeable guides and included equipment, this excursion promises an unforgettable immersion in the natural beauty and rich culture of this captivating region.
