Boat Tour of the 3 Islands & Portovenere

Experience the La Spezia Coastline with a Boat Tour of 3 Islands & Portovenere

Imagine cruising across shimmering waters, with the wind in your hair and panoramic views of rugged cliffs, colorful villages, and historic ruins. For roughly two and a half hours, this boat tour takes you around the three stunning islands—Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto—and into the charming town of Portovenere. The cost is around $81.76 per person, and you’ll be on a small, comfortable boat with a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

What we really love about this tour is its blend of scenic beauty and genuine local flavor. The knowledgeable guides share stories of the islands’ past, from Roman villas to WWII tunnels, adding depth to the views. Plus, the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters and explore Portovenere’s narrow streets makes it feel more like a day among friends than just another sightseeing trip.

A potential consideration is that the boat ride lasts about an hour and fifteen minutes, so if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer longer boat excursions, this might feel a bit quick. Also, the free time in Portovenere is about four hours, which is ample for a relaxed lunch, shopping, or a stroll along the seaside. This tour suits travelers who want a combination of scenic cruising, cultural discovery, and leisure, especially those who appreciate small groups and expert guides sharing local insights.

Key Points

• Small group size (maximum 12 people) ensures a more intimate experience
• Balanced itinerary with scenic cruising and free time in Portovenere
• Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding with stories and historical insights
• Option for swimming in clear waters during the boat ride
• Good value for the price considering personalized service and multiple stops
• Flexible in planning with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

A Close Look at the Boat Tour Experience

If you’re exploring La Spezia and want a taste of the Ligurian coast’s natural beauty and history, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction. Starting from the meeting point at Passeggiata Costantino Morin, the tour kicks off with a comfortable boat with leather seats, a stereo system, and a T-top awning—a perfect setup for enjoying the sun and sea breeze.

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

1. La Spezia Harbor & Initial Comfort
The journey begins on the boat, where you can settle into the leather seats and start relaxing. This initial stretch allows you to get a feel for the boat’s speed and comfort, as well as enjoy the views of La Spezia’s sheltered harbor. Reviewers mention the ride being refreshing, fun, and comfortable, with one describing the boat as “full of information and very friendly” from the start.

2. The Fishing Village of La Spezia
Your first stop is a picturesque fishing village that retains its original charm, with colorful houses and a small port. This is a classic Ligurian scene, and it gives you your first glimpse of the authentic local life away from tourist crowds.

3. Gulf of Poets & Borgate Marinare
Next, you’ll see the Gulf of Poets with its colorful villages and historic sites, including an Roman villa and a military base used by the Italian Navy. The guide’s stories about these sites add layers to the scenery, making the views more meaningful.

4. The Tower in the Sea & Tunnels
A highlight is the remains of a medieval tower in the water, dating back to the Maritime Republics, and WWII-era anti-aircraft tunnels carved into the rocks. These remnants reveal the strategic importance of this coastline through the centuries, and many find this a fascinating peek into history from the comfort of the boat.

5. Palmaria Island & Its Wild Nature
Then, it’s time for the wild beauty of Palmaria, with its rocky beaches, cliffs, and caves—a favorite for nature lovers. Several reviews praise the breathtaking scenery and the hidden caves, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the natural spectacle.

6. Tino Lighthouse & Ruins
The Tino Lighthouse offers spectacular views, and the remnants of WWII tunnels and an ancient abbey add a touch of intrigue. One reviewer mentioned the “mysterious Tino lighthouse” and ruins that evoke a sense of timelessness.

7. The Etruscan Temple & Stella Maris Statue
On Tinetto Island, you’ll see Etruscan ruins and the statue of Stella Maris, used historically to signal sailors. This tiny spot packs history and legend into a small, captivating space.

8. Byron and Shelley Legend Spot
Legend has it that Lord Byron used to swim from nearby Lerici to Shelley, and the boat passes by this legendary waterway. It’s a story many find charming and adds a literary touch to the scenery.

9. Free Time in Portovenere
The final stop is the beautiful town of Portovenere, often called the “gateway to the Cinque Terre.” Here, you can stroll through narrow, colorful streets, visit the San Pietro Church perched atop the promontory, or simply relax on a beach or in a local café. The four hours of free time are enough to enjoy a leisurely lunch, shop for local goods like pesto (which reviewers rave about), or explore the castle and cliffs.

The Return & Overall Comfort

The tour concludes back at the starting point, with many travelers remarking on the friendly staff and smooth logistics. The small group size makes it easier to ask questions and get personalized attention, which adds value to the experience.

What the Reviews Say

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides—with one describing their guide as “full of background stories” and another emphasizing the friendly and attentive nature of the crew. The scenery consistently earns praise, with travelers mentioning the stunning coastlines, cliffs, and caves.

The opportunity to swim is a common highlight, with reviewers noting the crystal-clear waters and perfect timing for a quick dip. A few mention that the boat ride was “refreshing and fun”, and that the views of Portovenere are just as memorable as the islands.

Practical Details: What to Know Before You Go

The price of about $81.76 per person offers good value given the personalized experience and multiple stops. The tour duration is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, with 1 hour and 15 minutes on the water and about four hours in Portovenere—enough to explore without feeling rushed.

The small group size (max 12) ensures a relaxed atmosphere, and the mobile ticket makes booking straightforward. Although food and drinks are not included, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy local gelato and seafood in Portovenere.

Weather can influence the experience, and the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which is reassuring in case of bad weather.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat tour is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed yet enriching experience that combines scenic beauty, history, and local charm. It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy small groups, personalized guides, and the chance to swim in clear waters. If you’re interested in historical sites, stunning coastlines, and authentic Ligurian towns without the crowds of larger tours, this trip will suit you perfectly.

This tour also works well for families, couples, and solo travelers who want a comfortable way to explore the coast with interesting stories and incredible views.

FAQs

How long is the boat ride?
The actual boat ride lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes, giving you a good taste of the coast’s scenery without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers the boat ride, life jackets, leather seats, stereo system, and a T-top awning. It also includes small admission tickets for the stops and a knowledgeable guide.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, many reviewers mention stopping at a good spot for a quick swim in the waters. The driver chooses locations where the water is inviting and safe for a dip.

How much free time do I get in Portovenere?
You will have about four hours to explore the town — enough for a leisurely walk, a nice lunch, shopping, or just relaxing by the sea.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Absolutely. The small group size and the relaxed pace make it suitable for families with children who can enjoy the scenery, swimming, and exploring.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, a hat, sunscreen, swimwear, and maybe some cash or card for snacks and souvenirs in Portovenere.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to check with the operator if you have very young children or specific needs.

Where do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is at Passeggiata Costantino Morin, La Spezia. The boat departs from there, ready to whisk you away into this beautiful Ligurian landscape.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour of La Spezia’s islands and Portovenere offers a fantastic balance of natural beauty, history, and leisure. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides ensure a more personal experience, making it a worthwhile choice for those wanting an authentic taste of Liguria’s coast. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a relaxing day out on the water, this trip provides plenty of memorable moments.

Most reviewers agree that it’s excellent value, with many describing it as “memorable,” “beautiful,” and “full of interesting stories.” It’s especially perfect if you want to combine scenic cruising with free time in one of Italy’s most charming towns. Just be sure to check the weather forecast to enjoy it at its best.

Your trip to La Spezia won’t be complete without experiencing this scenic, history-filled, and fun boat adventure—think of it as your very own private escape along the Ligurian coast.