Boat Tour of the 3 Islands & Portovenere

This boat tour from La Spezia offers a balanced mix of scenic cruising, historical sights, and free time in the picturesque village of Portovenere. Spanning approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, it’s a solid option for travelers wanting a taste of Liguria’s stunning coastline without a full-day commitment. With a maximum group size of 12, the tour feels intimate and personal, giving you plenty of opportunities to ask questions and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to see Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto Islands from the water—each one with its own character, from rugged cliffs to ancient ruins. The knowledgeable guides, like Federico and Flavio, not only share interesting tidbits but make sure everyone feels comfortable and engaged. The calm, modern speedboats are a welcome respite from large, crowded tours, allowing you to enjoy the scenery in comfort.

One potential drawback is the limited time at each stop—if you’re eager to explore every detail of Portovenere or the islands, you’ll need to be mindful of the schedule. Also, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or enjoy the local culinary delights later in Portovenere itself. This tour is perfect for those who appreciate a relaxed, authentic experience with knowledgeable guides and stunning views, making it ideal for couples, small groups, or families seeking a memorable Ligurian coastal adventure.

Key Points

• Intimate Group Size: Max 12 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Beautiful Scenery: Views of Islands, historic towers, and cliffs that will leave you breathless.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Federico and Flavio share interesting stories and historical insights.
• Flexible Free Time: Plenty of opportunity to explore Portovenere, swim, or relax.
• Value-Driven: At around $81.76 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience with a mix of sightseeing and free time.
• Comfortable Speedboats: Modern, leather seats, stereo system, and a T-top awning keep you comfortable.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Off in La Spezia

The tour begins at the Bateau Passeggiata Costantino Morin, where you’ll hop aboard a sleek, modern speedboat operated by HOPHOP BOAT. The boat, equipped with leather seats, a stereo system, and a T-top awning, sets the tone for a comfortable ride. Most reviews highlight how easy it is to find the meeting point and how friendly the staff is, with many noting how close the meeting location is to public transportation—making logistics straightforward.

Once underway, you’ll start to relax on the “floating lounge,” as some reviewers describe it, already soaking in the panoramic views. The ride itself is approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, which allows plenty of time for sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Exploring the Islands from the Water

The first stops take you around the Gulf of Poets, where you’ll see colorful fishing villages that have kept much of their original charm. One highlight is the ancient Roman villa and the Italian Navy base, which hints at the area’s long-standing strategic importance.

As you cruise further, you’ll encounter remnants of medieval towers built to defend the coast—some dating back to the Maritime Republics—offering a glimpse into the area’s military past. The guides often point out these structures’ historical significance, making the experience both scenic and educational.

Nature lovers will particularly enjoy the wild landscapes of Palmaria Island, with its dramatic cliffs, rocky beaches, and hidden caves. The guide will share stories about the island’s flora and fauna, adding depth to the moment. Reviewers like Ana_G mention how the boat ride is “very refreshing and fun,” with some guests even swimming off the boat in designated spots, which the guides carefully select based on conditions.

The tour also features stops near the Tino lighthouse and WWII-era tunnels, which many travelers find fascinating. The remains of a medieval abbey and an ancient Etruscan temple on Tinetto add layers of history that you can glimpse from the boat, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

Free Time in Portovenere

The highlight for many is the stop in Portovenere, often called “the most incredible town in Liguria.” The boat drops you in the middle of the Morin Promenade, giving you about an hour to explore.

You’re encouraged to walk the narrow, Ligurian alleys (Caruggio), browse local shops, or simply enjoy a leisurely coffee or gelato by the sea. The Church of San Pietro is a must-see, perched atop a promontory with spectacular views and charming Gothic architecture. Some guests choose to relax on the beaches or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, an option some reviewers appreciate, especially in warm weather.

Many reviewers, like Clodagh_C and Jake_L, loved the free time, describing it as “a charming and lovely village” with great photo opportunities and delicious food options. The opportunity to stroll, shop, and enjoy the slower pace of Portovenere complements the boat ride perfectly.

Return and Final Impressions

The tour concludes back where it started, with many guests commenting on how smoothly the experience runs. Federico and Flavio receive praise for their friendly, knowledgeable approach, making everyone feel comfortable and informed throughout.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Authentic Experience: Unlike large, crowded boat trips, this experience emphasizes quality over quantity. The small group feels exclusive, with guides sharing local insights that casual visitors might miss.

Stunning Scenery and History: The combination of rugged islands, historic ruins, and charming villages offers a well-rounded glimpse of Liguria’s coast. The insights from guides like Federico, who shares stories about the Roman villa, WWII tunnels, and medieval ruins, enrich the visual feast.

Flexibility in Free Time: The long stop in Portovenere allows for a relaxed exploration, whether you prefer wandering through shops, relaxing on beaches, or taking more photos.

Comfort and Convenience: Modern speedboats, life jackets, and a stereo system make the ride enjoyable. Many reviews highlight the comfort and the good music as additional perks.

Value for Money: At around $81.76, the tour delivers a lot for the price—short scenic cruising, historical sights, and plenty of free time in a stunning town.

Practical Details and Tips

Timing: The tour lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes, with roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes on the water and 1 hour in Portovenere. Be prepared for a relaxed pace, and consider bringing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, especially since part of the journey is outdoors.

Food & Drinks: Food and beverages are not included, so packing snacks or enjoying local cuisine after the tour is advisable. Many guests find Portovenere’s eateries charming and worth exploring for a meal.

Weather: The tour is weather-dependent. If poor weather leads to cancellation, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Group Size & Comfort: With a maximum of 12 travelers, you’ll have plenty of space and personalized service. This is ideal if you want a more intimate experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic outing with knowledgeable guides sharing interesting stories. It suits small groups, couples, or families wanting a mix of adventure and downtime. If you appreciate authentic local towns like Portovenere and enjoy seeing islands from the water, you’ll find plenty to love here.

While it doesn’t include lengthy hikes or extensive sightseeing on land, it offers a great overview of the coast’s natural beauty and historical highlights. It’s ideal for those short on time but eager for a memorable Ligurian experience.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers of all ages can participate, especially since the boat is small and comfortable. Just ensure kids are comfortable with boat rides.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride itself lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes, with the entire experience about 2 hours and 30 minutes including the stop in Portovenere.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You may want to bring snacks or plan to dine in Portovenere afterward.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, some reviewers mention swimming off the boat at designated spots, which are carefully chosen by guides based on conditions.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 12 travelers ensures a small, intimate group for personalized attention.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
The provided information doesn’t specify accessibility details, so it’s best to contact the provider directly for specific needs.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a towel, swimming gear if you plan to swim, and possibly a camera or phone for photos.

What if the weather is bad?
If the weather causes cancellations, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far is the meeting point from public transport?
The pickup point is near public transport options in La Spezia, making access straightforward.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group size makes it easy to meet others and enjoy the experience comfortably.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour of the 3 Islands and Portovenere presents a well-rounded experience of Liguria’s scenic coast and historic towns. The combination of comfortable, small-group cruising, fascinating sights, and ample free time makes it a versatile choice for many travelers. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just seeking a relaxing day by the sea, this tour offers solid value and authentic charm.

The guides’ local knowledge and friendly approach enhance the journey, while the stunning views and charming Portovenere ensure you leave with memorable moments—and plenty of photos. For those wanting a blend of scenic adventure and cultural exploration without the hassle of large crowds, this tour hits the right notes. Just remember to pack some snacks and enjoy leisurely wandering through one of Italy’s most beautiful villages.

This tour is best suited for travelers craving an authentic, intimate look at Liguria’s coastal treasures, with plenty of opportunities for relaxation, exploration, and storytelling.