Discovering the Magic of La Spezia’s Cinque Terre Boat Trip
This full-day boat tour from La Spezia offers a chance to see Italy’s famed Cinque Terre and nearby Portovenere from a different angle — the sea. With an expertly skipper-led cruise aboard a charming gozzo boat, travelers get a taste of Italy’s rugged coastline, vibrant villages, and crystal-clear waters. The experience is tailored to those who love scenic boat rides, swimming, and authentic Ligurian scenery in a relaxed setting.
Two things I particularly like about this trip are the opportunity for multiple swimming stops at some of the most stunning spots along the coast — perfect for cooling off and snapping photos — and the insider knowledge of your captain and guide, who will share stories, quotes, and local insights as you pass by villages and islands. It feels like having a friendly local showing you around rather than just a generic tour.
A potential consideration is the small size of the boat, which some reviews mention as a bit tight and uncomfortable, especially if you’re expecting more legroom or space to stretch out. If you’re prone to seasickness or prefer more plush comfort, this might be a minor drawback. Still, most travelers find the intimate atmosphere and personalized attention well worth it.
Key points / Takeaways
- Small Group and Personal Attention: Limited to 7 participants, which means more personalized service and a cozy atmosphere.
- Expert Captain and Guide: Friendly, knowledgeable hosts who offer storytelling and insights along the route, making the trip educational as well as scenic.
- Multiple Swim Stops: Four opportunities to jump into the water at breathtaking spots, with crystal-clear waters perfect for a quick refresh.
- Visit Vernazza: Optional disembarkation in the picturesque village, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and explore briefly.
- Authentic Experience: Travel in a classic Ligurian gozzo boat, equipped with a sunshade, soft drinks, and a relaxed vibe that captures the essence of the coast.
- Good Value for Money: At approximately $147 per person, considering the inclusion of multiple swim stops, expert guiding, and a scenic cruise, it offers nice bang for your buck.
The Itinerary: From La Spezia to Cinque Terre and Beyond
Starting at Mirabello port in La Spezia, the tour sets off across the Gulf of Poets — a name that hints at the area’s artistic allure — towards Portovenere. Here, you’ll get your first tastes of Liguria’s rugged coastline and vivid towns. Your captain might share stories about the region’s famed writers and artists, making the journey both scenic and engaging.
Cruising along, you’ll see the iconic Portovenere with its colorful houses and historic churches, as well as the three islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto. These islands, dotted in the Gulf of Poets, add a sense of wild beauty to the voyage. The captain will point out notable sights and share stories, making the ride more than just a boat trip — it’s like traveling with a friendly local historian.
Once you arrive at the Cinque Terre, the boat glides past all five villages: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. This perspective reveals the colorful houses perched on steep cliffs, a view you can’t get from just walking the trails. This is the real highlight for many guests.
The four swim stops occur along the coast in locations chosen for their beauty and calm waters. Each stop is short but sweet, giving you a chance to cool off and enjoy the marine scenery. The waters are known for their clarity, making them ideal for quick dips. Some guests have remarked that these stops are the best way to experience the coast’s natural beauty directly.
In Vernazza, you have the option to disembark for about an hour — enough time to stretch, take photos, or grab a gelato. Many find this a nice break from the boat, and the village itself is charming enough to warrant a brief visit.
The return journey offers more spectacular views, stories from your captain, and soft drinks to keep you refreshed under the boat’s sunshade. The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, making it a full but comfortable way to see the coast without feeling rushed.
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Who This Trip Is Perfect For
This tour suits travelers who are looking for a relaxed, scenic experience that balances sightseeing with swimming. If you love being on the water and want a small group setting, this is a great choice. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate local stories and expert guides who can add context to the stunning vistas.
Keep in mind, the boat is a traditional Ligurian gozzo, so the experience is intimate and cozy. It’s suitable for those who don’t mind a smaller, more casual vessel. Also, people who want to explore Vernazza briefly might find this a perfect addition to their itinerary.
However, it’s not ideal for pregnant women, babies under one year, or those seeking a more luxurious or spacious cruise. The price reflects the personalized approach, swim stops, and expert guiding, so for many, it offers good value.
Price and Logistics: Is It Worth It?
At $147.27 per person, the tour is on the higher end for a half-day activity, but considering it includes multiple swim stops, soft drinks, and a guided commentary, it delivers a solid value. You won’t have to worry about planning each stop or navigating the coastline — everything is handled by your captain and guide, making it a stress-free way to enjoy one of Italy’s most photogenic regions.
The tour lasts about 7 hours, and starting times depend on availability, so you’ll want to check your preferred date. The small group size adds to the intimacy and flexibility, which many travelers appreciate.
One thing to note: this tour does not include food or hotel transfers, so plan to eat beforehand or explore local eateries in Vernazza if you disembark. Also, bring essentials like sunscreen, a towel, your camera, and swimwear.
Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip
- Book early, especially in peak season, to secure your spot and preferred time.
- Bring a waterproof camera or phone case for capturing underwater moments during swim stops.
- Dress in lightweight, comfortable clothes and pack a hat and sun protection — the deck can get sunny and warm.
- If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions, as the boat is a traditional gozzo and can be a bit lively in windy weather.
- Arrive at the meeting point a little early — near the boat gas station — and look for Dennis’ boat to find your captain.
- Don’t forget your ID or passport; you might need it if you decide to disembark in Vernazza.
FAQs
How many people are on this boat?
The tour is limited to a small group of 7 participants, ensuring more personal attention from your guide and captain.
Can I disembark in Vernazza?
Yes, the trip includes an optional disembarkation in Vernazza, giving you about an hour to explore the village.
What’s included in the price?
The price covers the boat cruise, soft drinks, a sunshade on the boat, and the guided commentary. Food and hotel transfers are not included.
Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for babies under 1 year or pregnant women, possibly due to the boat’s small size and the nature of the trip.
What should I bring?
Bring your ID, swimwear, towel, camera, beachwear, sunscreen, and hat. Be prepared for good weather — the tour runs in suitable conditions.
How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts about 7 hours, from departure in La Spezia to return, including stops and optional disembarkation.
In the end, this boat trip offers an engaging, scenic, and fun way to experience the Cinque Terre coast. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a relaxed pace, beautiful water views, and the chance to swim in pristine waters. The knowledgeable guides, intimate setting, and authentic Ligurian boat make it more than just a sightseeing cruise — it’s a memorable coastal adventure. Perfect for small groups, families, and travelers seeking an active yet laid-back way to enjoy Italy’s stunning seaside.