Private Boat Tour from La Spezia to Portovenere and Palmaria Islands Tino Tinetto

A private boat tour from La Spezia to Portovenere and the Palmaria Islands offers a flexible, intimate way to experience one of Italy’s most breathtaking coastal areas. For around $1,719.59 per group (up to 8 people), you can spend anywhere from 3 to 8 hours cruising, snorkeling, and discovering hidden gems along the Ligurian coast. The itinerary combines scenic sailing, cultural stops, and opportunities to get wet and wild in the sea — perfect for those who love natural beauty and authentic local flavor.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters full of marine life, including octopuses and colorful fishes, and the personalized attention you get from your guides, Paola and Marco. They’re praised consistently for their warmth and attentiveness — making this trip feel more like a day out with friends than a formal tour. Another highlight is the unspoiled atmosphere of Palmaria Island, where you can enjoy Mediterranean flora and even spot dolphins if you’re lucky.

A potential consideration for some travelers is that the tour length and activities vary—if you’re short on time or prefer a relaxed pace, you might want to opt for the shorter options or plan your own itinerary. Also, since this is a private group experience, it’s best suited for those who want exclusivity and tailored service rather than a large, crowded excursion.

This tour is ideal for adventurous couples, families, or groups of friends who want a mix of sightseeing, nature, and local culture. It’s especially suitable if you appreciate personalized service, beautiful scenery, and active time in the water.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour means your group’s needs and interests shape the day.
• Natural Beauty & Snorkeling: Excellent chance to see marine life in pristine waters around Palmaria and Tino islands.
• Cultural and Scenic Stops: Enjoy Portovenere’s charming village, Byron’s Grotta, and Tinetto island’s diving spots.
• Flexible Duration: Ranging from 3 to 8 hours, so you can tailor your day to suit your pace.
• Includes Food & Beverages: Local dishes, snacks, wine, and soft drinks make the trip both tasty and refreshing.
• Comfort & Convenience: Modern boat, WiFi, restrooms, parking, inflatables, and snorkeling gear included.

Exploring La Spezia to Portovenere & the Islands

This tour begins in La Spezia, a lively port city often overshadowed by the more famous destinations along Italy’s Ligurian coast. From the Mirabello marina, you set off on a modern, comfortable boat with your guides, Paola and Marco. Their warmth and local knowledge immediately set a welcoming tone.

Portovenere: The Historic Village

Your first stop is the charming Portovenere, a UNESCO-listed town famous for its colorful houses, narrow carrugi (alleys), and a medieval church perched dramatically above the water. Paola or Marco usually give you about 15 minutes here, enough to stroll, snap photos, or visit the church if you wish. This early visit allows you to soak in the authentic Ligurian atmosphere before the crowds arrive later in the day.

Sailing Inside the Porto Venere Natural Park

Next, you’ll cruise inside the Porto Venere Natural Park, a protected area full of stunning cliffs, lush vegetation, and hidden coves. The boat glides smoothly past rugged coastlines, offering postcard-perfect views. This part of the tour lasts about an hour, giving you a true sense of the area’s wild beauty.

Byron’s Grotta & Fortress

A quick stop at the Grotta di Byron is always a treat. This limestone cave inspired Lord Byron, who visited here in the 19th century. As part of the tour, you’ll get a glimpse of the Fortress of Portovenere and the historic windmills, all from the comfort of your boat—an easy way to appreciate local history and scenery without heavy hiking.

Palmaria Island: The Heart of the Tour

The highlight for many travelers is the visit to Palmaria Island. This protected area boasts Mediterranean vegetation, rocky coves, and pristine beaches like Pozzale. You’ll have about 15 minutes to explore or just relax and take in the views. The guides often take you to the Blue Grotto, a wild and less-visited cave where the sunlight creates shimmering reflections—an ideal spot for photos and a quick swim or snorkel.

Snorkeling & Marine Life

One of the trip’s biggest draws is the snorkeling. The guides provide snorkeling gear, and many reviews mention the abundance of octopuses and fish in the seabeds. The waters here are remarkably clear, making it easy to spot marine life. We loved the way the guides made everyone feel comfortable, encouraging exploring and offering tips for underwater viewing.

Tino & Tinetto Islands

Your boat will then circle around Tino Island, known for its lighthouse and historical military structures. The tour usually includes snorkeling or diving at Tinetto, an uninhabited islet with fascinating ruins and a peaceful atmosphere. The hour spent here is a perfect chance to see underwater life and enjoy some secluded time.

Lerici & the Bala di Lerici

The journey wraps up with a stop near Lerici, where the famous castle and the colorful houses on the seafront evoke scenes from the Disney-Pixar film Luca. This area offers a different flavor — a charming fishing village with a lively piazza and scenic harbor.

Practical Aspects & What to Expect

The boat itself is modern and well-equipped, with WiFi, restrooms, inflatables, and mattresses available for lounging. The lunch includes local cold dishes, snacks, soda, and wine, providing a welcome break and a taste of Ligurian cuisine. Many reviews commend the quality of food and attentiveness of the crew.

The tour’s duration is flexible — from a short 3-hour trip to a full day of around 8 hours — making it suitable for different schedules. Your guides aim to customize the experience based on weather, group interests, and time constraints, so communication is key.

The price might seem high, but considering the private nature, personalized service, all included amenities, and the unique access to spots most visitors never see, the value is significant. Many reviewers describe the tour as “an excellent experience,” highlighting the stunning scenery, good food, and attentive hosts.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a luxurious yet authentic way to explore the coast, this trip is perfect. It suits adventurers eager to snorkel and explore secluded beaches, as well as those wanting to combine cultural sights with natural beauty. Families or couples seeking a romantic, private experience will find this especially appealing.

The Sum Up

This private boat tour offers a balanced mix of scenic cruising, cultural exploration, and marine adventure. The flexibility to customize your day, the chance to snorkel in vibrant waters, and the personal attention from Paola and Marco create a memorable journey that feels exclusive but accessible.

While the price may be on the higher side, the inclusion of delicious local food, beverages, snorkeling gear, and modern comforts makes it a worthwhile investment for those who value quality and authenticity. If you want a personalized, scenic, and active way to experience the Gulf of Poets, this tour checks all the boxes.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy natural landscapes, cultural sites, and water activities, and who appreciate the idea of avoiding large tour groups. It’s perfect for those seeking a relaxing yet engaging day on the sea, with plenty of opportunities to discover the lesser-known corners of this cherished coastline.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The duration can range from about 3 hours to 8 hours, depending on your preferences and how many stops you want to make.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private boat, snorkeling equipment, WiFi, restroom, inflatables, mattresses, and a meal with local dishes, snacks, soda, and wine.

Can I visit Portovenere on the tour?
Yes, you’ll have about 15 minutes to explore the village, its alleys, and the medieval church before heading out to other destinations.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, making it easy for you to explore marine life in the clear waters around Palmaria and Tinetto islands.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While specific age restrictions aren’t listed, the relaxed pace and water activities suggest it can work well for families with children comfortable in the water.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and a camera. Everything else, like food and gear, is provided.

This private boat tour from La Spezia offers a genuine, well-rounded experience of Italy’s Gulf of Poets, blending natural beauty, history, and delicious local flavors in a way that’s both memorable and personal.