Andrea Boat Charter Portofino

This experience made our article of Portofino’s 10 Best Boat Tours & Cruises (With Prices & Reviews).

Experience the Italian Riviera from the Water with Andrea Boat Charter

Imagine cruising along the shimmering Ligurian coast, stopping at picture-perfect villages like Portofino, Santa Margherita, and Camogli, with the breeze in your hair and stunning scenery all around. For those craving a flexible, intimate, and authentic way to see this famous stretch of Italy, Andrea Boat Charter offers a private boat experience that combines sightseeing, swimming, and cultural stops—all in a relaxed, personalized setting.

Priced at around $872 for a group of up to five people, this tour is designed to give you a taste of the coast’s most beautiful spots, with durations ranging from 3 to 7 hours. Whether you choose a half-day, full-day, or sunset cruise, you’ll enjoy snorkeling gear, beverages, and the attentive service of knowledgeable guides.

What we love most about this experience? First, the flexibility—the itinerary is adaptable, letting you spend more time in the villages you love or enjoying a swim at San Fruttuoso. Second, the personal touch—from the friendly, experienced guides like Guglielmo and Andrea to the possibility of tasting local focaccia bread in Camogli, it feels like exploring with friends rather than a tourist trap.

One aspect to consider? If you’re a foodie or museum lover, note that lunch and some site admissions are not included, so planning ahead for dining or exploring some of the stops on your own is wise. Also, because the tour is private, it’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking an exclusive experience rather than a crowded cruise.

If your idea of a memorable trip involves stunning coastal views, swimming in clear waters, and local cultural stops, then this boat tour is an excellent fit. It suits travelers who appreciate personalized service, love a mix of sightseeing and leisure, and want to avoid large group tours.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with private transportation and flexible itinerary options.
• Knowledgeable guides who share stories, history, and local tips.
• Stunning coastal scenery including Portofino, Santa Margherita, Camogli, and San Fruttuoso.
• Snorkeling gear and beverages included, with options for alcoholic drinks.
• Visit charming villages with free walking tours, perfect for exploring at your own pace.
• Limited lunch options—lunch is not included, so plan accordingly.

Exploring the Full Potential of the Tour

Our journey begins in Portofino, the star of the Italian Riviera, famous worldwide for its colorful buildings and celebrity history. During the tour, you’ll have the chance to dock here for a one-hour walk through this tiny but glamorous village. You can selfie your way around the piazzetta, or just soak in the lively atmosphere. Multiple reviews echo the thrill of walking in such an iconic spot: “You do not want to miss the opportunity to walk to the place where many celebrities spent their holidays,” one traveler said.

Next, the boat makes its way to Camogli, a genuine fishing village that looks like a postcard come to life. Docking here gives you about an hour to wander among brightly painted houses, catch the scent of fresh seafood, and enjoy delicious local focaccia bread. Many travelers appreciated this stop, with reviewers praising the authentic atmosphere: “Try the real focaccia!” and “Walking in a true fishermen’s village, full of colors and scents of Liguria.”

The highlight for many is Abbazia di San Fruttuoso, a secluded monastery set against rugged cliffs, accessible only by boat or hiking. Here, you can swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters, with some tours even offering the chance to see an underwater statue of Jesus. While the abbey entrance isn’t included, the water activities add a memorable touch. Reviewers appreciated this break: “Swim and snorkel to discover the underwater statue, an unforgettable experience,” one noted.

From there, the boat stops at Santa Margherita Ligure, a charming resort town boasting colorful houses, decorated churches, and lively cafes. Docking here allows for a quick half-hour stroll to enjoy the relaxed coastal vibe. It’s a perfect spot for those wanting a taste of local life, with reviews describing it as embodying the spirit of a relaxing holiday.

Finally, the tour may include a visit to Rapallo, a seaside town worth exploring for its walks along the waterfront and local shops. Here, guests can take another short walk or simply relax on the boat, soaking up the scenery.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

One of the biggest advantages of Andrea Boat Charter is the highly positive reviews emphasizing knowledgeable guides like Guglielmo and Andrea. They don’t just drive; they share stories, answer questions, and tailor the experience to your interests. As one reviewer mentioned: “Guglielmo had focaccia di Recco delivered to our boat, which was delicious.” Such touches elevate the trip from a simple boat ride to a personalized cultural excursion.

The stunning views along the coast are another highlight. We loved the way the guide would point out homes built into cliffs, illustrating Italy’s impressive engineering and architecture. The common theme among reviews is that seeing these villages from the water is the best way to appreciate their beauty and scale.

The snorkeling, included in the package, offers a refreshing break from sightseeing. Many travelers relished the chance to swim in the clear waters and explore underwater statues, adding a sense of adventure and discovery to the day.

The flexible itinerary is appreciated by those who want to customize their experience—whether that’s spending extra time in Portofino, enjoying a swim at San Fruttuoso, or exploring villages at their leisure. This personal touch is a rare feature compared to large group tours.

Analyzing the Value

At around $872 for up to five guests, this private tour offers excellent value if you’re traveling with family or friends who want a curated, intimate experience. The cost covers private boat transport, WiFi onboard, snorkeling gear, and beverages, which are generally included in similar high-end experiences. The fact that you can customize your stops and spend as much time as you like makes it a flexible and memorable way to explore the coast.

The additional costs like lunch or site admissions are not included, giving you the freedom to choose dining options that suit your tastes and budget. Many reviews highlight a delicious seafood lunch in Portofino or Camogli, often recommended after the tour.

Practical Details and Tips

• Booking in advance is wise; most trips are booked on average 79 days ahead.
• Duration varies from 3 to 7 hours—consider your stamina and interests when choosing.
• The tour includes most travelers, and service animals are allowed.
• Since the tour is private, it’s perfect for couples, families, or small groups seeking exclusivity.
• Wear comfortable clothing, bring sun protection, and consider a towel for swimming.
• Plan ahead for lunch or snacks, as they are not included.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a personalized, flexible experience that combines sightseeing, swimming, and local culture, this tour is a real winner. It’s especially suited to travelers who want expert guides sharing stories and insights, and who value authentic stops rather than touristy bus trips. Families with kids, couples celebrating special occasions, or small groups of friends will find this a memorable way to see the Ligurian coast.

The Sum Up

This private boat tour from Portofino offers a blend of breathtaking scenery, cultural stops, and leisure activities that few other experiences can match. The guides’ local knowledge, combined with the ability to tailor the day to your interests, creates a memorable, stress-free way to enjoy the Italian Riviera’s highlights. Whether you’re swimming in San Fruttuoso, wandering charming villages, or simply relaxing aboard with drinks in hand, this trip promises a true taste of coastal Italy.

For travelers who love scenic cruising, authentic villages, and personalized service, this is a superb choice. It’s ideal for those wanting more than just a sightseeing bus, seeking instead a slow-paced, immersive adventure on the water.

FAQ

• How many people can fit on the boat?
  Up to five guests, making it perfect for small groups or families.

• What’s included in the price?
  Private transportation, WiFi onboard, snorkeling equipment, bottled water, sodas, and alcoholic beverages on request.

• Is lunch included?
  No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or dine ashore after the tour.

• Can I customize the stops?
  Yes, the itinerary is flexible, and stops are discussed on the spot, allowing you to prioritize what you want to see and do.

• How far in advance should I book?
  Most trips are booked about 79 days ahead; earlier booking ensures availability.

• Are there any age restrictions?
  Most travelers can participate; service animals are allowed, and snorkeling gear is provided.

• What if the weather isn’t good?
  The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

• How long does the tour last?
  Duration ranges from 3 to 7 hours, depending on your preferences and stops.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  Yes, especially since it’s private and can be tailored for families, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and relaxed sightseeing.

This private boat charter around Portofino and its surroundings offers a fantastic way to experience Italy’s coast in comfort, style, and authenticity. Whether you’re after scenic views, cultural insights, or simply a relaxing day on the water, this experience ticks all the boxes.