Private Boat Tour from La Spezia to Portovenere and Palmaria Islands Tino Tinetto

This private boat tour from La Spezia to Portovenere and the Palmaria Islands is an inviting way to explore Italy’s Gulf of Poets. With a maximum of eight travelers, the experience is tailored for a small group, making it intimate and flexible. Over roughly 3 to 8 hours, you’ll see stunning coastlines, visit charming villages, snorkel in pristine waters, and enjoy local food and drinks—all aboard a sleek, well-equipped vessel. Guided by Marco and Paola, this tour promises authentic moments away from crowded tourist spots, with many reviewers praising the attentiveness of the hosts and the unforgettable scenery.

I really appreciate the way this tour balances structured stops with spontaneous moments of discovery. Two things that stand out for me are the chance to snorkel in seabeds full of octopuses and colorful fish, and the opportunity to relax while enjoying cold local dishes, wine, and lively conversation on deck. The boat’s onboard amenities—WiFi, inflatables, and a restroom—add a level of comfort that makes the whole day feel like a luxury retreat. One consideration, though, is the price—at around $1,720 per group, this is definitely a premium experience, but the personalized service and the exclusivity could easily justify the cost for those seeking a tailored aquatic adventure.

Key Points

Custom private experience with a maximum of 8 people offers flexibility and personal attention.
Snorkeling in unspoiled waters lets you see octopuses, fish, and marine flora up close—an experience many reviews highlight as a highlight.
Diverse itinerary includes scenic sailing, exploration of Portovenere’s medieval charm, and visits to Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto islands, balancing beauty with adventure.
Excellent hosts like Marco and Paola are praised for their attentiveness and knowledge, making travelers feel cared for and engaged.
Delicious local cuisine served onboard, with cold dishes, snacks, wine, and beer, transforms the trip into a coastal feast.
Ideal for lovers of nature and small-group travel seeking an authentic, relaxed day on the water.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The journey begins in La Spezia’s Mirabello marina, where parking for two cars is included—an appreciated convenience. Once aboard, you’re greeted by a sleek, comfortable boat equipped with WiFi, inflatables, mattresses, and a restroom, setting the tone for a leisurely day. The tour operates from late morning to late afternoon, with flexible timing depending on the season, which means you can enjoy a cozy morning or a more relaxed afternoon sunset cruise.

Exploring Portovenere

Your first stop is Portovenere, a picturesque village often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors but deserving of attention. With about 15 minutes to wander, you can admire its cobbled carrugi (narrow alleys) and the medieval church perched on the cliff. Several reviews mention the charm of Portovenere as a quiet, authentic Italian fishing village, perfect for snapping photos or grabbing a quick gelato before heading back to the boat.

Sail Inside Porto Venere Natural Park

Next, you’ll cruise into the Parco Naturale Regionale di Porto Venere, a protected area teeming with Mediterranean vegetation and dramatic coastlines. This hour-long sail offers stunning views and photo opportunities while giving you a sense of the untouched beauty of the region. The new boat ensures comfort and stability during the short passage, and there’s plenty of space to relax or chat with your companions.

Visiting the Grotta di Byron

The boat stop at Byron’s Cave, or Grotta di Byron, is a highlight for many. The fortress of Portovenere, windmills, and the scenic setting inspired Lord Byron, and you can almost feel the poetic atmosphere. Just ten minutes here, but enough to appreciate the natural wonder and take photos. Many reviews mention this as a “source of inspiration” and a magical spot.

Palmaria Island: Nature and Hidden Gems

The real magic begins when you reach Palmaria Island, a haven of Mediterranean flora. The tour offers a brief visit to the island, allowing time to stroll and soak up unspoiled nature. Some guests enjoy a quick visit to the Blue Grotto, a wild and gorgeous sea cave, and explore the Pozzale beach, a perfect spot for a refreshing swim or just soaking up the sun. One reviewer praised the chance to “enter a unique symbiosis with nature,” highlighting the island’s pristine environment.

Tino and Tinetto Islands: Snorkeling and Marine Life

The trip continues around the Tino Island, famous for its lighthouse, before moving on to Tinetto Island for snorkeling and diving. Spending about an hour here, you’ll likely encounter colorful fish, octopuses, and vibrant seabeds. Reviewers like “A Tripadvisor Reviewer” found snorkeling to be a “fantastic” aspect, emphasizing the opportunity to see marine life in crystal-clear waters.

Lérici and Ancient Castles

The final stops bring you to Lerici, with its castle and colorful houses reminiscent of scenes from “Luca,” the Disney film inspired by this coastline. A one-hour visit here allows you to admire the fortified town and enjoy excellent views. Many guests consider this a calming, picturesque end to a busy day, sharing stories of the stunning scenery and peaceful atmosphere.

Practical Details & What It Means for You

The tour costs about $1,720 for up to 8 guests, which breaks down to roughly $215 per person—a fair value for a private, all-day outing in Italy’s beautiful Gulf of Poets. The all-inclusive package covers snacks, cold dishes, wine, beer, WiFi, snorkeling gear, and onboard amenities, reducing the need for additional expenses. The flexible timing ensures you can opt for a shorter or longer experience depending on your preferences, from a relaxed 3-hour ride to a full day of adventure.

One of the biggest advantages is the personal attention from guides like Marco and Paola, who are frequently praised for their kindness, attentiveness, and local knowledge. They ask about dietary restrictions and preferences, which adds a considerate touch that many travelers value highly. With the boat being new, clean, and well-equipped, this feels more like a private yacht experience than a typical group tour.

What travelers love most is the mix of scenic sailing, natural exploration, and relaxed social time onboard. The snorkeling stands out as a highlight, with many reviews mentioning the chance to see octopuses and local fish—an experience that brings a sense of discovery and connection with nature. Plus, the delicious local food, wine, and casual atmosphere turn what could be a simple boat ride into a genuine Italian coastal feast.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape, small groups of friends looking for a unique day out, or families that appreciate a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities to swim and explore. It’s also a great choice for anyone wanting a more personalized and intimate alternative to larger, crowded tours.

Possible Drawbacks

The main consideration is the price—this is a premium, private experience, so it might not suit travelers on a tight budget. Also, because the tour depends on good weather, it could get canceled or shortened if conditions are poor. But the tour provider offers flexible cancellation options and full refunds if canceled due to weather, which provides some peace of mind.

The Sum Up

This private boat tour from La Spezia combines scenic beauty, marine adventure, and authentic local flavor into one compelling package. It’s ideal for travelers who want a relaxed yet engaging way to experience the coast, with the chance to snorkel, enjoy superb food, and discover hidden gems like Byron’s Cave and Pozzale beach. The expert hosts, Marco and Paola, make the experience truly special, tending to every detail so you can focus on soaking up the views and enjoying the company.

If you’re craving a day on the water that balances adventure with comfort, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate small-group intimacy, personalized service, and a genuine taste of Italy’s coastal charm. Expect beautiful scenery, friendly hosts, and stories you’ll be telling long after the boat has docked.

FAQ

How many people can participate in this tour?
Up to 8 guests can join, making it intimate and ideal for small groups or couples.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the boat, private guide, snorkeling equipment, WiFi, onboard restroom, snacks, cold dishes, local wine and beer, inflatables, and parking for two cars.

Can I customize the timing?
Yes, the tour duration is flexible, from approximately 3 to 8 hours, depending on your preferences and weather conditions.

What kind of meals are provided?
You’ll enjoy cold dishes featuring local specialties, along with snacks, soda, and alcoholic beverages—making it a relaxed, picnic-style experience.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Absolutely. You can snorkel in the seabed teeming with fish and octopuses, which many guests find to be a highlight.

What if the weather is bad?
Cancellation due to poor weather is possible, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, ensuring peace of mind.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour begins in Mirabello marina in La Spezia, near public transportation options and with parking available for two cars.

Who should avoid this experience?
While most travelers can participate, those with mobility issues might find some stops challenging, and those on a very tight budget might consider the experience a splurge.

This comprehensive review should help you decide whether a private boat trip along the Ligurian coast matches your travel style. It offers a blend of scenic sailing, natural discovery, and local charm, wrapped in the comfort of a personalized tour that’s highly praised by those lucky enough to try it.