Boat Tour La Spezia – Portovenere – Lerici – Tellaro – Islands

Exploring Italy’s Gulf of Poets and Cinque Terre by Boat: An Unforgettable Adventure

Imagine gliding across shimmering waters, surrounded by rugged cliffs and colorful seaside villages — that’s exactly what you get with this private boat tour in La Spezia. Spanning about three hours, it’s a personalized way to see some of Italy’s most iconic spots, from Portovenere to the tiny islands, all with expert guides and a comfortable vessel.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to move at your own pace, soaking in the scenery, snapping photos, and enjoying some light snacks and drinks onboard. It’s a perfect escape for those craving authentic coastal views without the crowds or the hassle of large tours.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that weather conditions can influence the experience — so a good forecast is worth checking before booking. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking an intimate, scenic adventure and who appreciate a touch of luxury combined with authentic local sights.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Only your group joins, making it intimate and flexible.
• Stunning Coastal Views: From cliffs to charming villages, the scenery is breathtaking.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Andrea and Dario are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Multiple Stops: From beaches to islands and historic sites, the itinerary is diverse.
• Value for Money: Considering the included stops, snacks, and private setting, it’s a worthwhile investment.
• Weather Dependence: The tour is weather-sensitive; a clear forecast enhances the experience.

A Deep Dive into the La Spezia Boat Tour

This private boat tour offers a well-curated itinerary that balances scenic beauty, cultural interest, and relaxing moments. It’s designed to showcase the best of La Spezia’s coast and nearby islands, all within about three hours — making it perfect for a half-day adventure.

Starting Point: La Spezia and the Charm of Lerici

The tour kicks off in La Spezia, where you’ll board your boat and head towards Lerici. One of the first sights is the marina filled with sailing boats and colorful houses, which create a picture-perfect landscape. The Lerici Castle looms over the town, offering a touch of historic flair from the water, with recent reviewers highlighting the boat’s comfortable setup and knowledgeable crew, like Andrea, who’s been praised for friendliness and professionalism.

Lerici is a highlight because it combines natural beauty with history, and from the boat, you get a fresh perspective that many land-based visits miss. Expect to spend around 15 minutes here, enough to take photos and marvel at the views. Reviews mention that the boat is well-stocked with drinks and snacks—a thoughtful touch that keeps everyone refreshed.

Hidden Beaches: Caletta Di Lerici

Leaving Lerici behind, the boat navigates toward hidden coves and small beaches tucked among rocky formations. These spots aren’t easily accessible by land, which makes this part of the tour especially special. The natural setting here is described as breathtaking, and the inclusion of this stop shows the tour’s focus on authentic, less-touristy sights.

Travelers often mention how peaceful and untouched these beaches feel, perfect for a quick swim or just soaking in the scenery. The inclusion of admission tickets to this part indicates it’s a protected or private area, preserving its untouched charm.

The Enchanting Village of Tellaro

Next is Tellaro, considered one of Italy’s most beautiful villages. From the boat, the village’s perched houses and narrow streets look stunning against the backdrop of the Gulf of Poets. Reviewers have noted that seeing Tellaro from the sea reveals a different, more dramatic view than on land, emphasizing its charm and exclusivity.

Spending about 15 minutes here, you can capture postcard-worthy photos of the village perched precariously on the cliff face, surrounded by clear waters. The reviews repeatedly mention the village’s beauty and how this stop feels like discovering a hidden gem.

The Pearl of Portovenere

The core of the tour is the visit to Portovenere, often described as a “romantic and picturesque” spot. The boat passes along the coast, giving you a panoramic view of the colorful town, with its church of San Pietro towering over the sea. The journey along the Gulf dam, where mussel and oyster farms are visible, introduces you to local livelihood traditions.

A highlight is the church of San Pietro, which offers a perfect photo op as it perches on the edge of the cliff. Around 30 minutes are allocated here, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, snap photos, or simply relax while soaking up the atmosphere. Many reviews appreciate the calm, unhurried pace, giving travelers time to appreciate the sights.

Byron’s Cave and the Islands

Just behind San Pietro, the Byron Cave adds a bit of literary mystique, linked to Lord Byron’s visits for inspiration. It’s a quick stop but one filled with stories, often mentioned as a “fascinating place” by visitors.

The Palmaria Island is another highlight, offering lovely coves and crystal-clear waters. It’s a favorite for a quick swim or photo session, and the calm waters make it a peaceful backdrop for reflection.

Finally, the Tinetto Island caps off the tour, regarded as a “local favorite,” especially at sunset. The smaller size and charming vibe make it a perfect spot for relaxing and soaking in the last moments of the trip, with the added bonus that access to this island is included in the tour.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The reviews clearly show that guides like Andrea and Dario elevate the experience. Guests have praised their friendliness, knowledge, and attentiveness. One reviewer mentioned that Andrea went out of his way to accommodate a gluten allergy, ensuring her experience was comfortable and enjoyable.

The scenery is, of course, the star of the show. Travelers repeatedly mention how breathtaking the views are, especially from the water, where the perspective is completely different from land-based sightseeing. The mix of coastal villages, hidden beaches, and islands makes for an incredibly varied experience.

The food and drinks onboard receive special mention. Many reviewers highlight how well-stocked the boat was with beer, wine, water, and snacks, including pastries and focaccia that Andrea brought along. It’s these little touches that turn a simple boat ride into a charming and indulgent outing.

Value for Money

At $117.40 per person, considering the private setting, multiple stops, and inclusion of snacks and drinks, this tour offers very good value. It appeals to those wanting a relaxed, personalized experience without the crowds often found in larger tours. Plus, the flexibility of a private tour means you can tailor it slightly to your preferences, which many travelers find appealing.

Practical Considerations

To get the most out of this experience, check the weather forecast — the tour is weather-dependent and might be canceled or rescheduled if conditions aren’t ideal. Cancellation policies allow for a full refund if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind.

The tour’s duration of around three hours strikes a perfect balance, offering enough time to see multiple sights without feeling rushed. It’s accessible for most travelers, with easy access from public transportation options nearby.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip is perfect for travelers who enjoy a personalized, scenic experience with a relaxed pace. It suits those who want to see the coast and islands without the hassle of large groups or crowded spots. Nature lovers and photography enthusiasts will appreciate the countless opportunities to capture stunning vistas.

It’s ideal for couples, families, or small groups looking for an authentic and romantic way to explore the Gulf of Poets. Food and drink lovers will also enjoy the onboard snacks and beverages, along with the chance to sample local seafood and wines.

The Sum Up

This private boat tour from La Spezia offers an intimate, scenic, and culturally rich journey along Italy’s dramatic coast. With knowledgeable guides, breathtaking views, and a carefully curated itinerary, it’s a fantastic way to experience the Gulf of Poets and Cinque Terre in style.

For those who value comfort, personalized service, and authentic natural beauty, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s especially suited for travelers wanting to avoid the crowds while enjoying a leisurely exploration of seaside villages, islands, and secret coves.

While it depends on good weather, the small group setting and thoughtful touches like onboard snacks and expert commentary make it well worth the price. If you’re visiting La Spezia and looking for a memorable, authentic experience on the water, this tour should definitely be on your list.

FAQ

How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you plenty of time to see key sights without feeling rushed.

Is it a private tour?
Yes, this is a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, making it more personalized.

What stops are included in the itinerary?
Stops include Lerici, Caletta Di Lerici, Tellaro, Portovenere, Byron’s Cave, Palmaria Island, and Tinetto Island.

Are tickets included for the stops?
Yes, some stops like the beaches and islands include admission tickets, while others, like the villages, are free to view from the water.

What should I bring?
While snacks and drinks are provided, bringing sun protection, a camera, and swimwear for optional dips is recommended.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for those comfortable on a boat for a few hours and with no severe mobility issues.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. The tour is weather-dependent, and poor conditions may lead to rescheduling or full refunds.

How do I book?
Bookings can be made online through the official provider, Rosso Alle Rossa Boat Tour, with mobile tickets available for convenience.

This boat tour in La Spezia offers an authentic slice of Ligurian coast life, blending scenic beauty with local charm. Whether you’re after breathtaking photos, a relaxing day on the water, or a taste of Italy’s seaside magic, it’s an experience worth considering.