La Spezia: Full-Day Cinque Terre Sailing Tour

Exploring the Ligurian coast by boat offers a different perspective—one where you get close enough to touch the colorful villages and rugged cliffs that make the Cinque Terre so iconic. The La Spezia: Full-Day Cinque Terre Sailing Tour is designed for travelers who want more than just a photo from afar; it’s about feeling the wind, tasting local flavors, and having a memorable day on the water. This tour, operated by Arbaspaa Tour Organizer, lasts about seven hours, and it’s limited to small groups of no more than ten, promising personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.

What I especially appreciate about this experience is how it combines natural beauty with hands-on involvement—learning to steer a sailboat and taking a dip in protected waters. The inclusion of fresh Ligurian treats like focaccia and anchovies paired with local wine makes the day even more special. But, a word of caution: since this is a sailing adventure, unpredictable weather could lead to rerouting or schedule adjustments. That’s something to keep in mind if your plans hinge on perfect conditions.

One standout detail from reviews is how knowledgeable guides, like the friendly skipper, elevate the experience, making everyone feel comfortable whether it’s their first time at sea or a seasoned sailor. Plus, the chance to swim in pristine marine protected areas adds a genuine touch of adventure. This tour offers a unique blend of scenic beauty, cultural flavor, and active fun—perfect for those craving an authentic Ligurian sea day.

Key points / Takeaways

• Small Group, Personal Touch: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a relaxed, intimate experience with a focus on individual attention.
• Authentic Local Flavors: Enjoy Ligurian specialties like focaccia beard and anchovies, paired with wine and water—delicious and genuine.
• Stunning Water Views: From the colorful villages of Portovenere and Lerici to the rocky islands of Palmaria and Tino, you’ll see Italy’s coast from a fresh angle.
• Interactive Sailing: Feel the thrill of steering a sailboat along the coast, an exciting experience for maritime enthusiasts or curious first-timers.
• Swimming in Pristine Waters: Take a refreshing dip in the protected marine area, a rare chance to swim in crystal-clear waters away from crowds.
• Expert Guidance: The guides, like the friendly skipper, are praised for their knowledge and making the journey smooth and enjoyable.

Discovering La Spezia’s Cinque Terre by Sailboat

When I think of the Cinque Terre, I picture those five vivid villages perched on cliffs, their pastel facades spilling into the sea. Seeing them from the shore is beautiful, but sailing past them feels like stepping into a painting. From La Spezia, this tour offers an up-close experience that goes beyond the typical sightseeing trip.

You’ll meet your skipper at the dock in La Spezia—at a spot called “Assonautica”—and board a modern sailboat designed for comfort and ease. The boat holds just a small group, which means no noisy crowds or feeling like just another face in a large tour. The crew is friendly and speaks English, Italian, and French, so communication is straightforward. Once underway, the breeze fills the sails, and you’ll cruise across the Gulf of Poets, past the colorful houses clinging to the hills of Portovenere and Lerici.

One of the first things I love about this tour is how it balances sightseeing with participation. You’re not just sitting back and staring; you get the chance to learn how to steer the boat. This hands-on aspect keeps the experience lively and engaging, especially if you enjoy a bit of adventure. Plus, the scenic route is packed with photo opportunities—think vibrant villages, rocky outcroppings, and lush green islands like Palmaria and Tino.

A highlight for many is stopping in front of Vernazza, one of the most photogenic of the five villages, where you can see Santa Margherita di Antiochia Church from the water. It’s a perspective few visitors get—standing on a boat, with panoramic views of the colorful houses and rugged coastlines.

The Joy of Swimming and Tasting Ligurian Specialties

Midway through the tour, you’ll anchor in a marine protected area for a refreshing swim. If you’re a water lover, this is a real treat. The waters are crystal clear, and the protected status means fewer boats and more tranquility. It’s a great chance to cool off and enjoy the pristine environment—something many reviews rave about, especially the freedom to relax in such untouched waters.

Back on board, a light lunch awaits. It’s simple but memorable: fresh Ligurian focaccia, savory anchovies, and a variety of local cheeses or snacks. Accompanying this is a generous pour of local wine or water, turning the sailing experience into a true taste of Liguria. The reviews highlight how delicious and authentic the food is, with Anna noting that “lunch was delicious with fresh, local specialties and wine and beer was included as well.”

The mix of good food, good company, and beautiful scenery makes this a leisurely yet lively day. Plus, the guides are known for their friendliness and expertise, making everyone feel comfortable whether they’re seasoned sailors or first-timers.

Price, Value, and Practical Considerations

At roughly $201.65 per person for a seven-hour experience, it’s a fair price considering what’s included: a private sailboat, a knowledgeable skipper, lunch, drinks, and insurance. Compared to other tours that might charge extra for food or activities, this package offers good value. Plus, the small-group format ensures a more personal experience—something that larger boat trips often lack.

One thing to note is that the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to meet at the dock in La Spezia, which is quite straightforward if you’re already staying nearby. Also, the tour’s schedule can shift if the weather turns rough; if the sea isn’t calm enough to reach Cinque Terre, the route might be rerouted to the Gulf of La Spezia, with no refund or discount.

For travelers concerned about weather, it’s worth booking with some flexibility—there’s a good chance another date or a slightly modified service will be offered if conditions aren’t ideal.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those interested in a relaxed, authentic adventure on the water. If you enjoy a bit of hands-on activity—like steering a sailboat—or want to combine scenic beauty with local flavors, this tour hits the mark. It’s also ideal for couples, small groups, or families with older children who are comfortable in the water.

If you’re looking for a quick glance at the Cinque Terre from a boat with a crowded atmosphere, this might not be your best option. But if you want an intimate, scenic, and engaging day, it’s hard to beat. The inclusion of local delicacies and the chance to swim in protected waters adds a special touch that many travelers find memorable.

The Bottom Line: Authentic and Enjoyable Coastal Adventure

For anyone keen on experiencing Liguria beyond the usual sightseeing, this sailing tour offers a genuine and enjoyable way to see the Cinque Terre. The combination of scenic views, local food, and the thrill of sailing makes it stand out as a unique day trip. The small group size and friendly guides add to the personal touch, making you feel more like a guest than a tourist.

While weather can influence the route, the overall experience is flexible and well-organized—providing genuine value for the price. It’s particularly suited for those who love water, want to learn something new, or simply enjoy the serenity of a day on the sea.

If you want to see Italy’s stunning coastline from a different perspective and enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation, this tour delivers. Just bring your sunhat, swimwear, and sense of adventure, and you’re set for a memorable day.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, from meet-up to return, with various start times available depending on the day.

What’s included in the price?
You get a sailboat tour with an English-speaking skipper, a light lunch featuring Ligurian specialties, water and wine, and insurance.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour begins at the dock called “Assonautica” in La Spezia. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, a key highlight is swimming in the protected marine waters of Cinque Terre, allowing for a refreshing break from sailing.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen are recommended to enjoy the day comfortably.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If seas are too rough to reach Cinque Terre, the route will be rerouted to the Gulf of La Spezia. No refunds are provided, but alternative dates or adjustments may be offered if weather conditions are poor.

This full-day sailing tour from La Spezia offers a blend of scenic beauty, local flavors, and hands-on activity, making it perfect for travelers craving an authentic Ligurian adventure on the sea.