Cinque Terre and Portovenere Private Boat Tour from La Spezia

A private boat tour from La Spezia offers a unique way to explore the jewel-like villages of Cinque Terre and the charming seaside town of Portovenere. This 7-hour journey, led by a skilled captain on a modern vessel, promises to bypass the crowds on land, giving travelers a more relaxed and personalized experience. Whether you’re after scenic photos, swimming breaks, or simply soaking in the sights without the hustle and bustle, this tour’s combination of comfort and exclusivity makes it an appealing choice.

One of the standout features we appreciate about this experience is the onboard lunch — a cold, local product feast paired with regional wines, served right on the boat. Plus, the well-equipped vessel, with shade, restrooms, wifi, and snorkeling gear, ensures comfort and fun throughout the trip. On the flip side, some travelers might find the price tag steep at nearly $1,900 for a group of eight, but considering the exclusivity, private guide, and all inclusions, it can be seen as a worthwhile investment in a memorable day out.

This tour suits travelers who value customization, comfort, and authentic seaside views over crowded sightseeing. It’s particularly perfect for families, groups of friends, or romantic couples looking for a special way to experience the Ligurian coast. If you prefer a self-guided or more budget-friendly approach, this might not be the best fit — but for those seeking a luxurious, tailored adventure, it ticks many boxes.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience with a dedicated captain and flexible itinerary.
• Comfort and convenience are prioritized with a modern vessel, restroom, wifi, and snorkeling gear.
• Onboard lunch paired with local wines offers a stress-free way to enjoy regional flavors.
• Multiple stops include Portovenere, Monterosso, Riomaggiore, Vernazza, and optional swimming in the sea.
• Authentic insights from previous travelers highlight the exceptional wine tasting and friendly hosts.
• Cost reflects the private, all-inclusive nature but may be considered high compared to group tours.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Portovenere

The tour kicks off with a scenic cruise to Portovenere, a picturesque town with a history that dates back centuries. The highlight here is the Grotta Byron, a sea cave that inspired Lord Byron, which you can view from the boat — a great photo opportunity. For those who wish to step ashore, a 30-minute visit is included, allowing for a quick stroll through the colorful streets and a chance to soak in the town’s charm.

Reviewers like Anna particularly appreciated how the guide, Marco, and the crew made the experience special, even amid rough seas. She noted, “Lunch was wonderful! We had to adjust because of rough seas, but it was still great,” indicating a flexible, accommodating approach from the team.

Monterosso al Mare and the First Swim Spot

Next, the boat heads towards Monterosso — the largest of the villages and famous for its beaches. You have around 30 minutes here, which can be used either to explore the village or simply relax and dip into the water. Many guests, like Ellen, loved the freedom to choose: “We were able to get off the boat at Monterosso and still had time for 2 swim stops.” The provision of towels and snorkeling gear makes this a real highlight for water lovers.

The Cinque Terre Villages from the Sea

Traveling along the coast, you’ll pass Riomaggiore, Varnazza, and the second village, each with stunning views and excellent photo opportunities. The boat provides the chance to capture the colorful facades and dramatic cliffside settings without the crowds. One reviewer emphasized how the boat’s shade and space allowed for relaxed sightseeing, with “the best pictures taken from the comfort of the boat, enjoying the sea breeze.”

Swim and Relax in the Natural Park

A key perk is the ability to stop for a swim in ‘il Canneto’, part of the Cinque Terre National Park. The clear waters here are perfect for snorkelling and cooling off after a morning of sightseeing. The tour also includes a visit to Vernazza, where guests can choose to swim or explore briefly before moving on.

Final Stop: Monterosso or Leisure Time

The last leg takes you to Monterosso again, with options to either explore the village or stay aboard for more swimming and relaxation. The flexibility here seems to be a hit among reviewers, with many appreciating the freedom to tailor their experience.

The Value of This Private Boat Tour

At nearly $1,900 for a group of up to eight, the price might seem steep, but when you consider the inclusions — private guide, boat, lunch, wine, snorkeling gear, and the ability to customize your stops — it offers a level of exclusivity and comfort that many other tours can’t match.

The onboard lunch, especially, is a significant advantage. Instead of fighting for space at crowded restaurants, you enjoy local cheeses, cold cuts, and regional wines in a relaxed environment. Guests like Conor found the experience “truly the highlight of their holiday,” emphasizing how the personalized service and scenic stops created lifelong memories.

The boat itself is described as modern, with solar panels, shade, and a restroom, ensuring a smooth, eco-conscious journey. The availability of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth music adds a modern touch, keeping everyone entertained and connected.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who:

• Value privacy and personalized experiences over large group tours.
• Desire a relaxing, flexible itinerary with plenty of swimming and photo opportunities.
• Appreciate good food and wine, preferring on-board dining over busy restaurants.
• Have a moderate to high budget for a special day out.
• Want to avoid the crowds that typically flock to Cinque Terre villages.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a couple looking for a unique, intimate way to see the Ligurian coast, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour offers a beautifully curated experience combining luxury, flexibility, and authentic coastal scenery. The ability to skip the crowds, enjoy local wine and food, and swim in crystal-clear waters makes it a compelling choice for those who want to indulge in the best of Cinque Terre and Portovenere without sacrificing comfort.

While the price might be a barrier for budget travelers, those seeking a more exclusive, tailored adventure will likely find this tour well worth the cost. The positive reviews, especially praising the hosts’ attentiveness and the wine selection, reinforce its reputation as a memorable and high-quality experience.

In essence, this trip is best suited for travelers craving a blend of relaxation, stunning views, and personalized service — a true taste of the Ligurian coast with all the comforts you could wish for.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the experience is family-friendly, especially with the inclusion of snorkeling gear and the relaxed pace.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a private boat, lunch with local products and wine, snorkeling equipment, towels, restroom access, and fuel surcharge. Parking at Porto Mirabello is also provided.

Can I visit the villages on foot?
Yes, stops like Portovenere and Monterosso allow for brief land visits if you wish to explore ashore. The boat provides the flexibility to relax on board or step out.

How long is the time spent in each location?
Stops vary from approximately 30 minutes to an hour, giving you ample time for photos, brief explorations, or swimming.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Yes, the tour is designed for groups up to 8 people, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 62 days ahead, highlighting the tour’s popularity and the value placed on planning ahead.

Overall, if a private, relaxed, and scenic adventure on Italy’s Ligurian coast sounds appealing, this boat tour is definitely worth considering.