Portovenere private tour

Experience the Beauty of Portovenere and Cinque Terre from the Water

Imagine gliding along the Ligurian coast on a sleek, brand-new boat, with the sun warming your face and the sea breeze in your hair. That’s essentially what a private Portovenere tour offers—an exclusive, relaxed way to see some of Italy’s most stunning coastal villages and natural beauty spots from the water. This tour promises a personalized experience, with a spacious vessel, onboard tastings, and enough flexibility to make it a memorable day for families, friends, or couples seeking an authentic Ligurian adventure.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines comfort with intimacy—there’s no crowded bus or hectic schedule here. Plus, the opportunity to hop off for swimming in the clear waters or exploring Portovenere makes it stand out. The only caveat? It’s a somewhat premium option, costing over $2,000 for a group, which might seem steep for some travelers. However, for those looking to splurge on a special day with loved ones, the value of privacy, comfort, and exclusive access is hard to beat. This tour suits travelers craving a bespoke, scenic, and laid-back experience, away from busy crowds but full of charm.

Key Points

• Exclusive Private Experience: Only your group on a well-equipped, modern boat, ensuring comfort and privacy.
• Stunning Coastal Views: Enjoy panoramic sights of the Cinque Terre villages and the entrance to Portovenere from the sea.
• Flexible & Customizable: Tour plans can be tailored, including optional stops and activities like swimming or exploring.
• Local Tastings & Refreshments: Expect fresh, local appetizers and drinks onboard, adding a culinary touch.
• Ideal for Small Groups: Max of 8 on the boat, with the option to organize a larger group by adding another boat.
• Stress-Free Travel: No parking worries, no crowded ferries—just smooth sailing and relaxing scenery.

A Closer Look at the Portovenere Private Boat Tour

This tour is hosted by Costa di Faraggiana Boat Tour, a family-run business that emphasizes personalized service and local expertise. The boat itself, a spacious 34-foot vessel built in 2025, boasts a modern design that balances safety with luxury. The interior furnishings are well-appointed, providing a cozy yet luxurious environment for your journey, whether you want to sit at the bow, lie out on the sun deck, or relax in the shaded aft area.

Why Choose a Private Boat Tour?

A private tour like this offers a level of intimacy and flexibility that large groups or crowded tours can’t match. You’re not stuck with a set itinerary dictated by a large operator—this is about what you want to see and do. The boat can accommodate up to 9 people comfortably, and if you’re traveling with a larger group, arrangements can be made for multiple boats, accommodating up to 16 guests in total.

Departure Point & Accessibility

Starting from La Pietra in Levanto, the meeting point is convenient for those staying nearby or arriving by public transportation. The boat departs between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM, allowing you to choose a time that best fits your plans. Since the experience is private, you can coordinate your schedule easily with the crew.

The Itinerary: From Cinque Terre to Portovenere

One of the best features of this tour is the route. It covers a scenic stretch of coast—from Levanto to Portovenere—highlighting the best sights from the water. The trip includes visits to Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Coniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, with plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, or simply soaking in the views.

Monterosso al Mare greets you with its expansive beaches and charming old town. The guide or crew might point out notable sights and share tidbits, making each stop educational as well as scenic. Moving along, Vernazza stands out with its colorful harbor and historic architecture—an iconic shot from the sea.

Coniglia, a tiny island, offers a peaceful retreat for a quick swim or exploration, often less crowded than the main villages. The journey continues to Manarola and Riomaggiore, where cliffs, pastel-colored houses, and coastal trails create picture-perfect scenes.

The Bay of Portovenere

Arriving at Portovenere, you’ll admire the dramatic entrance into this UNESCO-listed town. The bay’s rugged coastline, the historic castle, and the colorful houses make it a photographer’s dream. Reviewers highlight the unforgettable views here, with one describing it as an “absolutely breathtaking” spot worth every moment.

Optional Stop & Lunch

The tour includes a chance to explore Portovenere for around 30 minutes, giving you time to wander its narrow streets or take photos of the picturesque harbor. Then, there’s the option for a lunch on the boat, featuring local products and fresh ingredients, with a backdrop of the island of Palmaria and the sea.

Swimming and Snorkeling: The boat stops at designated spots for swimming, where you can admire the seabed’s clarity and marine life — a highlight for many.

Onboard Experience & Amenities

The boat’s design ensures you feel both secure and pampered. The comfortable sundeck is perfect for sunbathing, while the shaded aft area provides a cool refuge if the sun gets intense. Onboard, you’ll find local snacks and drinks, including alcoholic beverages, adding a festive touch to the journey.

Reviewers consistently mention the quality of the onboard offerings. One traveler appreciated the “delicious lunch with homemade local specialties,” indicating that the food is fresh and thoughtfully prepared. The boat’s newness (built in 2025) guarantees modern safety features and reliability.

Small Group, Personal Service

With up to 8 guests per boat (and arrangements for more), you’ll never feel crowded. The family-run nature of the business shines through, with reviews praising the friendly, personalized service—Mario and his son meet guests in Monterosso, adding a personal touch that many travelers find memorable.

Pricing & Value

At roughly $2,064 for a group of up to 8, this tour is an investment. While not inexpensive, it offers exclusive privacy, high-quality amenities, and the freedom to customize your experience. The reviews mention it being “well organized” and an experience that “exceeded expectations,” which suggests good value for those seeking a unique, private outing.

The inclusion of local tastings, drinks, and optional swimming makes it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a full sensory experience. For travelers who prioritize comfort, exclusivity, and local flavor, this tour justifies the price.

Practical Considerations

• Duration: About 5 hours, which is enough time to enjoy the coast without feeling rushed.
• Availability: Runs from late spring to early fall (May to November), ideal for sunnier days.
• Weather Dependency: Good weather is essential; if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.
• Booking: On average, travelers book about 96 days in advance, so plan early if you want to secure a spot.
• Group Size & Flexibility: Maximum of 9 people per boat, with options for larger groups via additional boats.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private boat experience is perfect for those seeking an intimate, relaxed way to explore Liguria’s coast. It’s especially fitting for families, small groups of friends, or couples wanting to celebrate a special occasion. If you prefer guided group tours or are on a tight budget, this may not be the best fit. But for travelers craving privacy, luxury, and a taste of local life, this tour offers genuine value.

The Sum Up

If a day spent cruising along the Ligurian coast, soaking in stunning vistas, and enjoying local delicacies sounds appealing, this private Portovenere tour hits all the right notes. The combination of a modern, comfortable boat, personalized service, and flexible itinerary ensures a memorable and stress-free experience. While it’s a bit on the pricier side, the exclusivity and authenticity make it worth considering for a special occasion or simply a once-in-a-lifetime way to see Cinque Terre and Portovenere from the water.

Travelers who value comfort, privacy, and genuine local flavor will find this tour a fantastic choice. It’s well-suited for those who want a leisurely, scenic, and personalized escape along Italy’s stunning coastline.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The tour fee covers the private boat, onboard snacks, local appetizers, and alcoholic beverages. It also includes a stop in Portovenere and the option for a lunch featuring local products.

Can the tour be customized?
Yes, the itinerary is customizable, and options like swimming, exploring Portovenere, or additional boat arrangements are possible.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 8 guests per boat, with arrangements available to expand the group by adding more boats (up to 16 total).

Where does the tour start?
It begins at La Pietra in Levanto, a location accessible by public transportation.

What are the departure times?
Tours run from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, allowing flexibility based on your schedule.

How long does the tour take?
Approximately 5 hours from start to finish.

Is there a minimum number of travelers needed?
Yes, the tour is subject to availability and weather conditions, with cancellations possible if minimum numbers aren’t met.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and camera gear to capture the beautiful views and memories.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, including families with kids, as long as they enjoy boat trips and swimming.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour will be canceled or rescheduled in case of poor weather, with full refunds or alternative dates offered.