From La Spezia: Portovenere and 3 Islands Boat Trip

Discover the Charm of Liguria’s Gulf of Poets on a Small-Group Boat Tour

The From La Spezia: Portovenere and 3 Islands Boat Trip offers an engaging 2.5-hour exploration of the Ligurian coastline, taking you through the scenic waters of the Gulf of Poets. This tour departs from HopHop Boat’s floating hub in La Spezia and visits three islands, historic ruins, and the enchanting village of Portovenere. Priced reasonably, it is perfect for travelers seeking an intimate, informative cruise with the flexibility to explore at their own pace. The tour features a small group setting, comfortable speedboats with leather seats, and bilingual guides who bring the region’s stories to life.

While the trip offers many highlights, including the Blue Grotto, Scola Tower, and Byron’s Grotto, it’s important to note that the duration limits time spent at each stop. Still, the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking coastlines, sea caves, and relaxed free time in Portovenere makes this experience a memorable way to see Liguria’s coast from the water.

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Key Points

• Duration: 2.5 hours, ideal for a half-day adventure
• Starting point: HopHop Boat in La Spezia, with flexible departure times
• Visits: Tinetto, Tino, and Palmaria islands, plus Portovenere
• Highlights: Sea caves, historic ruins, dramatic cliffs, and the Blue Grotto
• Group size: Small boats for a personal experience
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, with private group options
• What to bring: Sunglasses, hat, towel, sunscreen; no high heels allowed
• Weather: Tour runs rain or shine, with potential for itinerary adjustments based on sea conditions
• Booking: Reserve with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and pay later if preferred

Meeting Point and How to Find It

The tour begins at the HopHop Boat Floating Hub in La Spezia, located at coordinates 44.1044, 9.8272. Guests should arrive prepared to board the speedboat with leather seats, ready to set sail along Italy’s stunning Ligurian coast. The meeting point is easy to locate with the provided coordinates, and the staff is known for friendly and professional service.

What the Itinerary Looks Like on the Water

This tour starts with a cruise past fishing villages like Cadimare, Fezzano, and Le Grazie, showcasing traditional Ligurian maritime life. The boat then approaches Scola Tower, a striking 17th-century sea fort built by Genoa, which once protected the coast from invaders.

Travelers will see the three islands of Portovenere: the tiny Tinetto Island with its 6th-century chapel remains, Tino Island with its monastery ruins and Italy’s oldest active lighthouse, and Palmaria Island, the largest, known for its rugged landscapes and marble quarries. Along the way, the statue of Stella Maris stands as a guardian over a submerged reef, adding to the scenic charm.

From the outside, guests can admire the Blue Grotto, a sea cave famous for its shimmering turquoise waters, and Byron’s Grotto, where poet Lord Byron is said to have swum across the bay from Portovenere to Lerici. The boat then navigates through Le Bocche, the narrow strait separating Palmaria from Portovenere, offering stunning views of the village and coastline.

Portovenere: Free Time and Optional Beach Stop

Upon arrival in Portovenere, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, visitors enjoy approximately 75 minutes of free time. This allows for exploring the colorful harbor, wandering historic alleys, or relaxing at the Gabbiano Beach on Palmaria Island if a stop is requested at Punta Secco. The village’s medieval castle, old churches, and lively cafes are all within easy reach, making it a perfect place to soak in Liguria’s vibrant atmosphere.

If spending more time in Portovenere isn’t preferred, the captain can stop at Punta Secco for a gentle swim. After the stopover, the boat heads back to La Spezia, passing mussel farms and scenic coastlines, completing the journey with unforgettable views of the Gulf of Poets.

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The Experience on Board: Comfort, Safety, and Personal Touches

The speedboat trip is designed for comfort and safety, with leather seats and a knowledgeable bilingual guide who shares stories about the sights and region. The small group size ensures a personal atmosphere, enabling guests to ask questions and enjoy a more intimate experience.

The guides are praised for their friendly demeanor and expertise, making navigation through large waves or sea caves smooth and reassuring. The tour is accessible to wheelchair users, and private groups can also be accommodated, adding flexibility for special occasions or family outings.

Practical Tips for a Great Trip

Guests should remember to bring sunglasses, a hat, a towel, and sunscreen to stay comfortable during the cruise. High-heeled shoes are not allowed on the boat for safety reasons. Since there are no restrooms onboard, planning ahead is recommended, especially if spending extended time in Portovenere or swimming off the boat.

The tour runs rain or shine, with the itinerary potentially adjusting based on sea and weather conditions. Travelers should check the weather forecast and be prepared for a dynamic experience on the water.

How This Tour Compares to Similar Experiences

Compared to other boat trips in the area, this tour stands out for its small-group format, personal attention from guides, and flexible stops. It offers a balanced mix of scenic cruising, historical sights, and free time in Portovenere. The duration of 2.5 hours makes it an easy addition to a day’s itinerary, especially for those who want a taste of Liguria’s coast without a long commitment.

Other experiences may include trips to Cinque Terre or longer excursions with more stops. However, the focused visit to Portovenere and nearby islands emphasizes quality over quantity, providing a relaxed and informative outing.

Why Choose This Tour: Final Thoughts

This boat trip from La Spezia to Portovenere and the three islands offers an authentic, intimate glimpse of Liguria’s coast, combining stunning scenery, historic ruins, and the chance to relax. It is especially suitable for travelers who appreciate small-group adventures, knowledgeable guides, and flexible schedules.

While the limited time at each stop encourages efficient sightseeing, it also means visitors should not expect to spend hours exploring each island or Portovenere itself. The price point, well-organized logistics, and friendly service make this experience a strong choice for those wanting a concise yet enriching coastal cruise.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the boat trip?
The tour lasts 2.5 hours, making it a half-day activity perfect for fitting into a broader travel schedule.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from the HopHop Boat Floating Hub in La Spezia, located at coordinates 44.1044, 9.8272.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible and can be arranged for private groups.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring sunglasses, a hat, a towel, and sunscreen for comfort and protection during the cruise.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, there is an option for swimming at Punta Secco on Palmaria Island, if requested, or guests can enjoy a self-guided walk in Portovenere.

Is there a restroom onboard?
No, there are no restrooms onboard, so plan accordingly.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour runs rain or shine, but it may be adjusted based on sea and weather conditions to ensure safety.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later.

What makes this tour special?
The small boat size, personalized guiding, and flexible stops provide a more relaxed and engaging experience compared to larger tours.

Who is this tour best suited for?
It is ideal for those seeking an informative, scenic, and intimate boat experience around La Spezia, especially if short on time but eager to see the highlights of Portovenere and the surrounding islands.

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