Imagine gliding across the glistening waters of Italy’s Ligurian Sea aboard a spacious, nearly new boat, with the gentle breeze ruffling your hair and stunning coastal villages unfolding around you. That’s exactly what a private boat tour from La Spezia offers. Starting at Porto Mirabello, this 7 to 8-hour adventure whisks you through the Gulf of La Spezia, visiting iconic spots like Portovenere, the Cinque Terre, and Palmaria Island. The cost, around $1,776 for your entire group of up to nine people, might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the exclusive nature and personalized service, it’s a pretty solid value.
Two things we particularly appreciate about this experience are the chance to enjoy personalized attention from the crew and the opportunity to choose your stops among the colorful villages—an important feature for travelers seeking flexibility. The boat’s spaciousness ensures comfort, while the inclusion of lunch, local wine, and snorkeling gear adds a touch of luxury and fun.
A possible consideration is the price, which might be a stretch for budget travelers. Also, since fuel costs are extra on the day of your tour, it’s worth double-checking the final expenses before booking. Lastly, the tour’s 7 to 8-hour duration makes it ideal for a full-day adventure, but not necessarily suited for those with limited time or early departures.
This tour fits best for small groups or families craving an intimate, tailored experience. If you love scenic cruising, swimming in clear waters, and sampling local wines while soaking in incredible vistas, this tour is a perfect match.
Key Points
- Exclusive & flexible: Private tour with your group only, allowing for personalized stops and itinerary choices.
- Stunning scenery: Views of Cinque Terre, Portovenere, and Palmaria Island are unforgettable, especially from the water.
- Comfort & amenities: Spacious boat, lunch, wine, snorkeling gear, and friendly crew make for a relaxed day.
- Value for money: While pricier than group tours, the private experience coupled with quality service adds to the overall value.
- Authentic local experience: Savor local DOCG wines and delicious Italian cuisine amid breathtaking coastal scenery.
- Weather dependency: The tour’s success hinges on good weather; poor conditions mean possible cancellations or rescheduling.
A Deep Dive into the Experience
Starting Point and First Stop: Portovenere
The journey begins at Porto Mirabello in La Spezia. As soon as you step onto your boat, you’ll notice it’s modern, clean, and spacious, setting a comfortable tone for the day ahead. The crew, known for being personable and attentive, makes everyone feel at home.
Your first destination is Portovenere, a charming village with a famous carruggio (narrow alley), the San Pietro Church overlooking the sea, and the Doria castle—a fortress with panoramic views and a hint of history. With about an hour to explore, you can stroll the streets, snap photos, and soak in the atmosphere. The reviewers consistently mention how well-maintained and beautiful the town is, making it a great photo stop.
Cruising to Cinque Terre
After Portovenere, the boat sets sail towards Cinque Terre. This stretch of coast is world-famous for its colorful, cliff-hugging villages like Riomaggiore and Manarola. The highlight? The option to stop for a swim in pristine spots like Cala delle Rosse or Punta Castagna. With the chance to jump into the clear waters, it’s an ideal refreshment after sightseeing.
Your crew will likely give you some free time to visit a village of your choice, whether you want to wander the narrow streets, enjoy a gelato, or just relax by the water. The four-hour window provides ample time to explore or simply enjoy the views from the boat. Reviewers praise how the boat offers spectacular views, and how the flexible schedule allows for a more comfortable, less rushed experience.
Palmaria Island and Marine Exploration
Next, the boat cruises around Palmaria Island, offering wild, untouched scenery. This part of the tour is perfect for photographers or nature lovers, with opportunities to snorkel or simply marvel at the rugged coastline. The use of snorkeling equipment is included, which many reviews mention as a fun addition—especially on a hot day.
Final Stop in Lerici
The last stop takes you into Lerici, where you can admire the St. George castle and the vibrant main square from the water. It provides a scenic conclusion to your day, blending sightseeing with a relaxing cruise.
Food and Drink
Included in the tour is a lunch featuring local flavors, paired with a glass of wine from top-notch DOCG vineyards. The reviews emphasize how enjoyable it is to sip wine while gazing at the coastline, adding a touch of indulgence to the day. Soft drinks and soda are also available, making this a well-rounded experience for those who enjoy a leisurely, gourmet touch.
Crew and Comfort
Guests consistently mention how friendly and professional the crew is—crucial for feeling safe and cared for during a day on the water. The boat’s newness (or near-new condition) means comfort and reliability, and the ample space avoids the cramped feeling some boat tours can have.
Practical Considerations
While the price might be high, the personalized experience and inclusions—lunch, wine, snorkeling—justify the premium for many travelers. Keep in mind that there’s an additional fee of €50 per person for groups of six or more on the day of the tour, covering fuel and crew costs.
Weather can significantly impact the day, as the tour requires good weather to operate smoothly. Cancellations due to poor conditions are refunded or rescheduled, so flexibility is key.
Who Should Book This Tour?
If you’re traveling with a small group or family and crave a luxurious, personalized day on the water, this tour is hard to beat. It’s an excellent choice for photographers, food and wine lovers, or anyone wanting to avoid crowded ferries or bus tours. People who value comfort, flexibility, and authentic experiences will find this tour a rewarding way to explore Liguria’s stunning coast.
On the other hand, those on a tight budget or looking for a quick overview might find the price a little steep, especially since fuel costs are extra on the day. Also, if you prefer more structured, guided visits in each village, this tour’s flexible approach might feel too unstructured for your tastes.
Final Thoughts
This private boat experience from La Spezia offers a luxurious yet authentic way to see Liguria’s most beautiful spots. The stunning views, combined with local wine and delicious food, make it an appealing choice for those celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a memorable day on the coast.
The boat’s spaciousness and modern amenities make it suitable for those who value comfort, while the flexibility to choose stops and activities allows for a customizable adventure. With the friendly crew, scenic stops, and opportunities for snorkeling and swimming, it’s a well-rounded experience.
For travelers wanting a personalized, scenic, and delicious way to explore Cinque Terre and its surroundings, this tour delivers on all fronts. Just remember to bring your camera, a sense of adventure, and maybe a little extra for fuel if you’re feeling indulgent.
FAQs
Is this a group or private experience?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, ensuring personalized service and flexibility in the itinerary.
What is included in the tour price?
Your tour price covers lunch, alcoholic beverages, soda, and the use of snorkeling equipment. The boat, crew, and sightseeing stops are all part of the package.
How long does the tour last?
The typical duration is 7 to 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy stops, swimming, dining, and relaxing on the water.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Porto Mirabello in La Spezia and returns there at the end of the day.
Can I visit Cinque Terre villages on my own?
Yes, the tour offers the chance to disembark and explore the villages of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, or Monterosso, with the option to choose which ones to visit.
What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a reschedule or full refund.
This private boat tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, comfort, and local flavor—ideal for those looking to indulge a little while experiencing Liguria’s coast in style. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a memorable adventure, it promises unforgettable views and a smooth, personalized journey on Italy’s stunning waters.