Tour of Apericena at Sunset and Dinner on Boat

A comprehensive review of the Sunset Apericena and Dinner Boat Tour in La Spezia

The Tour of Apericena at Sunset and Dinner on Boat in La Spezia promises a charming blend of scenic views, local flavors, and a relaxed evening on the water. With a solid 4.5-star rating from 20 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this experience worth the price—around $106.81 per person. The tour lasts roughly 3.5 hours, starting at sunset, and is designed for those wanting to soak in the beauty of the Gulf of Poets while enjoying good food and drinks.

One of the standout features is the itinerary—visiting iconic spots like Portovenere, the Byron Cave, and the Doria Castle, all with plenty of photo opportunities. We love that this experience combines sightseeing with the pleasure of a leisurely meal in a spectacular setting. However, given that it’s a small-group tour (max 12 participants), it’s best suited for travelers who appreciate intimacy and a personal touch.

On the flip side, some reviewers mentioned minor logistical hiccups, such as the need for clearer directions to the meeting point. Still, the overall experience seems to outweigh these small concerns. This tour is ideal for those who want a relaxed, scenic evening with excellent food, unlimited drinks, and a genuine sense of enjoying Italy’s coastal charm.

Key Points

• Scenic Sunset Views: The highlight of this tour is enjoying apericena with a backdrop of Portovenere’s illuminated skyline.
• Cultural and Natural Highlights: Visiting the Gulf of Poets, historic military fortresses, and islands adds depth to the experience.
• Delicious Ligurian Food & Unlimited Drinks: The menu features classic dishes like Troffie al Pesto, Caprese, and focaccia, paired with Prosecco, wine, and more.
• Intimate Group Size: With a maximum of 12 travelers, expect a personalized experience with plenty of photo opportunities and relaxed pacing.
• Relaxing and Fun Atmosphere: Post-dinner, enjoy music, limoncino, and the chance to dance while drifting back to La Spezia.

A Deep Dive into the Sunset Boat Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure kicks off from Porto Mirabello in La Spezia at 6:30 pm, a convenient starting point near public transportation options. The journey begins with a crossing of the Gulf of Poets, giving guests their first glimpses of the natural beauty and historic sites. The small group size ensures that everyone can enjoy the views without feeling crowded, and the boat’s mobile ticketing makes check-in straightforward—though some reviews suggest clearer directions could help travelers find the meeting spot more easily.

Visiting the Gulf of Poets and Porto Venere

The first stop is at the Parco Naturale Regionale di Porto Venere, where the boat glides past natural pools and the Torre Scuola, a WWII-era military tower. Here, guests can snap photos of rugged coastline and historical ruins—a must for those who love mixing nature with history. The 50-minute stop is enough to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed, giving travelers time to marvel at the dramatic landscape and take some memorable shots.

Next, the boat moves towards Isola Palmaria, where guests can swim in the Cala dell’Ammiraglio. The waters here are often described as inviting, perfect for a quick dip with views of WWII buildings still visible on the island. The 30-minute stop is a favorite among reviewers, many of whom appreciated the freedom to relax and enjoy the water in this picturesque spot.

Exploring the Islands of Tino and Tinetto

The tour continues with visits to Isola del Tino, featuring its commanding lighthouse, and Tinetto, known for the small Madonna statue emerging from the water. The 15-minute stop is brief but packed with visual interest. It’s a chance to appreciate the island’s solitude and historical significance—something true history buffs or lovers of quiet natural beauty will enjoy.

Passing Byron’s Cave and Historic Sites

As the boat passes behind Palmaria Island, the Byron Cave comes into view. The cave’s association with Lord Byron adds a romantic touch, and many guests appreciate the chance to see it from the water, which offers a different perspective than land-based visits. The Church of San Pietro and the Doria Castle, both overlooking the coast, make for stunning photo backgrounds, especially during sunset. The 25-minute stop is ideal for photos and soaking in the majestic scenery.

Sunset Apericena in the Open Sea and Dinner in Portovenere

The highlight of the tour is the apericena at sunset. Guests gather on the deck as the sun dips into the horizon, casting golden hues over the water. The selection includes Ligurian crostini, Troffie al Pesto, Caprese, and focaccia—authentic flavors that give a true taste of the region. Drinks are unlimited, with options including Prosecco, wine, beer, and soft drinks. Limoncino and coffee follow the meal, completing a delightful culinary experience.

Following the aperitif, guests are treated to a dinner in front of Portovenere’s illuminated skyline. The atmosphere is relaxed, with many reviews noting the combination of stunning scenery and delicious food makes for an unforgettable evening. One reviewer mentioned, “the menu was simple but authentic, and the views just made everything special,” which captures the essence of this part of the tour.

Return to La Spezia with Music and Limoncino

As the boat heads back to La Spezia, the mood is lively. Music plays, guests sip limoncino, and some take the opportunity to dance or simply relax and enjoy the last views of the coast. The return journey lasts around 30 minutes, providing a perfect wind-down after a busy day of sightseeing.

The Value of the Experience

At just over $100, this tour offers a carefully curated mix of sightseeing, cultural insight, and culinary delights. The inclusion of multiple stops—natural pools, islands, historic sites—adds depth, while the sunset apericena and dinner transform a sightseeing cruise into a memorable event. Many travelers appreciate the unlimited drinks, which let them toast the sunset without worry, and the quality of the food—from the Ligurian crostini to the homemade pesto dishes—keeps it authentic.

While a few reviews pointed out minor issues like the need for better directions to the meeting point, these do not seem to detract significantly from the overall experience. The small group size and intimate setting give this tour a personal feel, often highlighted as a positive aspect by guests.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a romantic and scenic evening with excellent food and drinks—ideal for couples or small groups of friends. It also appeals to those who want to combine sightseeing with a relaxed dinner in a spectacular setting. If you’re looking for a quick, memorable way to see some of La Spezia’s coastal highlights while enjoying a delicious meal, this tour could be a great fit.

Final thoughts

This sunset boat tour in La Spezia offers a well-rounded experience that balances natural beauty, historic sites, and culinary pleasures. The stops are meaningful without feeling rushed, and the food and drinks keep the atmosphere vibrant and enjoyable. While logistical improvements could make the experience smoother, the overall package remains a fantastic way to end a day of exploring Liguria’s coastline.

Whether you’re a lover of scenic views, Italian cuisine, or simply want to unwind on the water with a glass of Prosecco, this tour provides good value and authentic moments. It’s best suited for those who appreciate intimate, relaxed experiences with a touch of romance and history sprinkled in.

FAQ

• What time does the tour start? The tour begins at 6:30 pm, aligning perfectly with sunset times in La Spezia.
• How long does the whole experience last? Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including sightseeing, apericena, and dinner.
• Is the tour suitable for children? Most travelers can participate, and the small-group setting makes it flexible, but it’s best for those who enjoy a relaxed evening.
• Are drinks included? Yes, unlimited Prosecco, wine, beer, and soft drinks are available during the apericena and dinner.
• What food is served? Ligurian crostini, Troffie al Pesto, Caprese, focaccia with pesto, cured meats, and cheeses.
• Are there any walking or swimming stops? Yes, guests can swim at Cala dell’Ammiraglio, and stops at islands include walking around to enjoy views and historical sites.
• What should I wear? Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for the boat and possibly cooler evening temperatures.
• Is this a private or group experience? It’s a small-group tour with a maximum of 12 travelers, fostering a more intimate atmosphere.
• Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.
• What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In summary, this La Spezia sunset boat tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural sites, and delicious Ligurian cuisine. It’s perfect for those wanting an elegant yet relaxed evening, with enough flexibility and intimacy to feel special.