Ligurian Sea Day Sailing Trip by Set Sail Tours in Lavagna, Italy
Imagine gliding smoothly along the stunning Ligurian coastline, with the breeze in your hair and the sun warming your face. For about 6 hours, this private sailing adventure offers an intimate look at Italy’s beautiful coast, departing from Lavagna. The cost is around $319.79 per person, and the experience is designed for small groups, making it perfect for couples, friends, or families wanting a personalized day on the water.
What makes this trip stand out is the flexibility — you can leave the itinerary to your skipper or craft your own route to explore hidden coves or popular spots. Plus, there’s a delicious included lunch and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling at scenic anchorages like Punta Pedale Beach and Moneglia.
One thing to consider is that towels and sunscreen are not provided, so packing these essentials is a must. Also, while the tour is private and customizable, it’s best suited for those who enjoy a laid-back, comfortable day under the sun with opportunities to spot marine life such as dolphins and turtles. This trip appeals most to travelers who value authenticity, scenic beauty, and a relaxed pace away from crowded tourist boats.
Who is this experience ideal for? It’s great for those seeking a tailored, peaceful sailing day—perfect for adventurous couples, groups celebrating special occasions, or anyone who loves being on the water and exploring the Ligurian coast at their own pace.
Key Points
- Personalized Experience: Tailor your route or let the skipper guide you for a fully custom sailing day.
- All-Inclusive Lunch: Enjoy a cold lunch with drinks, fresh fruit, and snacks, making it a stress-free day.
- Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for dolphins, turtles, and pilot whales while cruising.
- Beautiful Anchorages: Stop at Punta Pedale Beach and Moneglia for swimming, snorkeling, and photo opportunities.
- Flexible Schedule: Approximate 6-hour trip with plenty of time for relaxing, sailing, and exploring.
- Highly Rated: Consistently praised with a perfect 5.0/5 from over 100 reviews, highlighting excellent hosts and memorable experiences.
The Experience in Detail
Starting Point and Timing
The tour departs from Via Porto Turistico, 48 in Lavagna at 10:00 am, a convenient location near public transport options. The start time ensures you’ll have ample daylight for the best views and wildlife spotting. The activity ends back at the meeting point, providing a straightforward plan for your day.
Duration and Private Atmosphere
Spanning about 6 hours, this experience feels just right—long enough to relax, explore, and enjoy without feeling rushed. Since it’s a private tour, only your group will participate, fostering a friendly and personalized atmosphere. Many reviews highlight how the host, Michael, makes guests feel like sailing with a good friend, adding warmth and attentiveness to the trip.
The Itinerary: What’s Included and What’s Not
While the tour isn’t bound to a fixed itinerary, it typically includes two main anchorage stops for lunch, swimming, and snorkeling—Punta Pedale Beach and Moneglia. Both locations are praised for their stunning scenery and clear waters.
- Punta Pedale Beach: Known as a prime spot for lunch and water activities, this anchorage allows visitors to bask in the sun, swim, or snorkel with gear. The included admission tickets make it easy to relax without extra planning.
- Moneglia: Celebrated for its beauty, this anchorage offers a chance to explore a charming coastal town after swimming, with no extra cost.
What You’ll Do on the Boat
You’ll have the opportunity to help with the sails, which adds a fun, hands-on element for those interested, but it’s also perfectly acceptable to simply relax and soak up the views. The deck time is perfect for sunbathing and enjoying the breathtaking scenery of the Ligurian coast.
Wildlife and Sightseeing
A significant highlight is the chance to see dolphins, turtles, and pilot whales. Many guests mention watching marine life while cruising, which adds a sense of excitement and connection to nature. The skipper is knowledgeable and eager to share insights about Tiguillo Bay and the local coast, enriching the experience with stories and local lore.
Food and Drinks
A delicious cold lunch is included, complemented by drinks such as beer, wine, coke, and water. Reviewers rave about the quality of the meal, with one even mentioning that the April spritz was the best they had in Italy! This added touch of hospitality makes the day feel truly special and hassle-free.
What to Bring
Bring your own towels and sunscreen—these aren’t provided. Packing light but smart ensures you’re comfortable, whether you want to snorkel, relax, or take photos. The weather can be unpredictable, so check the forecast and prepare accordingly.
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Analyzing the Value
At roughly $319.79 per person, this might seem steep at first glance. However, when you consider the personalized nature of the trip, the inclusion of lunch, and the chance to customize your route and stops, it offers excellent value for those who prioritize comfort, authenticity, and a memorable experience away from crowded tours. The reviews consistently praise the host, Michael, for making every detail count—from meeting at the train station to ensuring everyone feels cared for.
The flexibility to choose whether to help with the sails or simply relax adds to the value, especially for travelers who cherish a tailored experience. Plus, the chance to spot marine wildlife adds an extra layer of enchantment that’s often missing from more commercial tours.
Why This Tour Will Delight You
If you’re seeking a peaceful escape on the Ligurian Sea, this trip offers exactly that—away from the hustle and bustle of tourist boats. The intimate atmosphere and personalized service make it a favorite among travelers, with many reviews highlighting how Michael’s hospitality elevates the experience.
For those interested in photography, you’ll love the vantage points from the boat, especially during the harbor entry and at the anchorage spots. The local knowledge shared by the skipper enriches the trip, transforming it from a simple boat ride into an engaging mini-adventure.
Wildlife watching is another big draw, with multiple reviews mentioning dolphins and turtles seen along the way. The scenic coastlines, clear waters, and charming towns like Moneglia ensure plenty of photo-worthy moments.
Practical Tips
- Book in advance, as the trip is popular and often booked about 75 days ahead.
- Arrive early to get comfortable and meet your skipper, Michael, who often goes out of his way to make the start smooth.
- Bring your own towels and sunscreen; the boat provides none.
- Wear comfortable clothing suitable for water activities, and don’t forget your camera.
- If you’re prone to seasickness, consider medication, especially if you plan to help with sails or spend time on deck.
FAQs
Is this a group tour or private?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, making it ideal for personalized experiences.
How long does the trip last?
The sailing adventure lasts approximately 6 hours, including stops for swimming and lunch.
Are food and drinks included?
Yes, a cold lunch and drinks (beer, wine, coke, water) are included, making it a relaxed, all-in-one experience.
Can I help with sailing?
Absolutely—you’re welcome to help with the sails if you wish, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.
What are the main stops?
The main stops are Punta Pedale Beach and Moneglia, both known for their beauty and water activities.
Are there any additional costs?
Towels and sunscreen are not provided, so budget for these essentials. Extra snorkeling gear isn’t mentioned, so bring your own if you want to snorkel.
What’s the best time of year to go?
While not explicitly stated, good weather is essential, so late spring through early fall is likely ideal.
How is the weather cancellation policy?
If bad weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Final Thoughts
This Ligurian Sea day sailing trip offers a rare blend of personalized service, scenic beauty, and authentic encounters with marine life. It’s perfect for travelers looking to escape crowded tours and who value flexibility, delicious food, and a genuine connection to Italy’s coast. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a peaceful day on the sea, this experience promises memorable moments delivered with care and expertise.
Ideal for those who prefer a quiet, tailored adventure, with the option to contribute to sailing or just soak up the sun. Gather your friends or loved ones and prepare for a day that’s both relaxing and engaging—an authentic taste of Italy’s Ligurian coast.
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