Ligurian Sea Day Sailing Trip by Set Sail Tours/ Lavagna, Italy

Imagine setting sail along Italy’s stunning Ligurian coast, away from crowded tourist boats, on a private vessel tailored just for your group. That’s exactly what the Ligurian Sea Day Sailing Trip by Set Sail Tours offers—a personalized, intimate adventure that combines scenic beauty, relaxation, and a touch of adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just looking to enjoy a day on the water, this tour promises a memorable experience with plenty of flexibility.

One of the standout features we love is how customizable this trip is. You can leave the itinerary in the hands of your skipper or craft your own route along the coast. Plus, the inclusion of lunch, swimming, and snorkeling makes it a hassle-free day—no need to worry about planning meals or finding a good spot to dip your toes in the water. But, a word to the wise: towels and sunscreen are not provided, so packing those is a must. This tour is perfect for those craving a private, relaxed day at sea with plenty of personal touches.

What might be a consideration? Since the trip is around six hours and booked an average of 75 days in advance, it’s best to plan ahead, especially if you’re traveling in peak season. Also, those looking for a fully guided, structured itinerary might find the flexible approach more suitable, but it’s worth noting that the skipper will share insights about Tiguillo Bay and the Ligurian coast.

This experience truly suits travelers who prioritize authenticity, personalized service, and scenic beauty. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, a romantic getaway, or simply want to escape into nature, this sailing adventure can adapt to your desires.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Unlike crowded tour boats, this trip offers an exclusive, private journey tailored to your preferences.
• All-Inclusive Lunch & Drinks: Enjoy a cold lunch, fresh fruit, and drinks including beer, wine, coke, and water—no extra hassle.
• Flexible Itinerary: Create your route or leave it to the skipper, with stops for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing.
• Wildlife & Scenic Views: Keep an eye out for dolphins, turtles, and pilot whales while cruising past iconic Ligurian spots.
• Convenient Meeting Point: Starting from Lavagna, just a short trip from Genoa, with easy access via public transportation.
• High Satisfaction: With a perfect 5-star rating from 109 reviews, the trip consistently delights travelers.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Setting Out from Lavagna

The tour begins promptly at 10:00 am from Via Porto Turistico in Lavagna—an easily accessible starting point near public transportation. The small group size and private nature of the tour mean you’ll be greeted personally, often with a friendly meet-up at the train station or dock, making the start feel less like a tour and more like a day out with friends.

Captain Michael, or “Mike,” receives high praise for his attentiveness and flexibility. Reviewers mention how he is incredibly responsive and eager to customize the experience, whether that’s adjusting the route based on wind conditions or catering to specific interests like snorkeling or relaxing on deck.

The Itinerary and Stops

While the ultimate route is flexible, the tour typically includes stops at Punta Pedale Beach and Moneglia—two highlights for those keen on swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sun.

Punta Pedale Beach is a designated anchorage for lunch and water-based fun. Reviewers like Laura_F rave about the delicious food and wonderful spritzes, noting that the lunch provided was “thoughtfully prepared” and “delicious.” The 2-hour stop offers enough time for swimming, snorkeling, and lounging, with gear optional if you bring your own.

Moneglia is another favorite anchorage, praised for its clear waters and scenic backdrop. As LIN_K mentions, the trip is “100% personalized,” and the swim here was “fantastic,” adding to the sense of freedom and adventure.

Onboard Experience

Expect to spend significant deck time basking in the sun, helping with sails if you’re inclined, or simply relaxing with a drink in hand. Several reviewers highlight how Captain Mike makes the experience engaging—sharing interesting facts about Tiguillo Bay and Ligurian coastal features, which adds a layer of educational fun to the day.

The inclusion of drinks such as beer, wine, coke, and water keeps everyone refreshed, while the fruit snack offers a light, healthy energy boost. The onboard atmosphere is described as laid-back, with plenty of opportunities to chat with the skipper and crew, Andrew, who is also noted for being “super tentative and helpful.”

Wildlife and Scenic Highlights

The voyage is not just about sailing; it’s about spotting marine life and soaking in the views. Travelers frequently mention dolphin sightings, and some even caught glimpses of turtles and pilot whales—a true highlight for nature lovers. The sail along the Ligurian coast provides panoramic views of colorful seaside villages, rugged cliffs, and lush landscapes, making every moment picturesque.

Practicalities and Value

At roughly $320 per person, the trip offers good value considering its private nature, the inclusion of a full lunch, drinks, and the personalized service. Since it’s booked around 75 days in advance on average, it’s advisable to plan early, especially if traveling during high season.

The 6-hour duration strikes a balance—enough time to relax, swim, and explore without feeling rushed. Plus, the flexible itinerary allows you to focus on what you enjoy most.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

Set Sail Tours emphasizes good weather conditions for safety and enjoyment. In case of poor weather, they offer the option to reschedule or receive a full refund, providing peace of mind for travelers worried about unpredictable conditions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This sailing trip is suited for those who appreciate customization and comfort—families, couples, or friends looking for a private escape. It’s ideal if you want a laid-back experience with plenty of chances for swimming and wildlife viewing. The inclusion of lunch and drinks makes it particularly appealing for travelers who prefer a stress-free day without worrying about additional costs.

If you enjoy sailing or are curious about the Ligurian coast, Captain Mike’s friendly approach and insightful commentary will enhance your day. It’s also a great choice for photographers eager to capture stunning coastal vistas and marine life.

Final Thoughts

The Ligurian Sea Day Sailing Trip by Set Sail Tours offers a rare chance to explore Italy’s coast with a high level of personalization, comfort, and authentic charm. From the moment you set out, the focus is on creating a memorable, stress-free experience that balances scenic beauty with leisure and fun.

The inclusion of delicious food, drinks, and the possibility of dolphin sightings, combined with the attentive service of a knowledgeable skipper, makes this tour stand out. It’s perfect for those who want a more intimate alternative to crowded group tours, or anyone craving a day of sun, sea, and spectacular views.

Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a peaceful escape on the water, this experience delivers genuine value and unforgettable moments.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and the experience is flexible enough to accommodate various interests and activity levels. Just remember to bring your own towels and sunscreen, as they aren’t provided.

What is included in the tour?
A full cold lunch, drinks (beer, wine, coke, water), and a fruit snack are included. You’ll also get the chance to swim and snorkel at designated stops.

Can I customize the route or stops?
Yes, you can leave the itinerary in the skipper’s hands or plan your own route, focusing on swimming, sightseeing, or relaxing.

How early should I book?
On average, travelers book about 75 days in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure their preferred date and ensure availability.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at Via Porto Turistico in Lavagna and ends back at the same point. The meeting is conveniently near public transportation.

What should I bring?
Bring towels, sunscreen, and perhaps some personal snorkeling gear if you have it. The boat provides a relaxed, social environment, so pack your sense of adventure.

What happens if the weather turns bad?
Set Sail Tours has a flexible policy—if the weather prevents sailing, you’ll be offered rescheduling or a full refund.

To sum it up, this private Ligurian coast sailing trip is an excellent choice for travelers who want an authentic, flexible, and scenic day on the water. With its friendly skipper, beautiful scenery, and inclusive amenities, it promises a peaceful yet adventurous escape—perfect for creating lasting memories along Italy’s stunning shoreline.