La Spezia: Gulf of Poets Boat Trip with Swim Stops

Key Points

• Duration and Departure: This 3-hour boat trip departs from La Spezia with a detailed itinerary including Porto Venere and Lerici.
• Highlights: Features swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, exploring iconic locations, and enjoying regional food and drinks onboard.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Sara and Filippo are known for their friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive service, making the experience comfortable and engaging.
• Luxury Amenities: Includes inflatable platforms for relaxing or floating, local snacks, and a variety of beverages—all delivered with hospitality and care.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and options to reserve now, pay later provide flexibility for travelers.
• Top-Rated Experience: With a rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 121 reviews, this tour consistently earns praise for its value, scenery, and staff.

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La Spezia: Gateway to the Gulf of Poets

This boat tour launches from La Spezia, a charming Ligurian city that serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the famed Gulf of Poets. The trip lasts around 3 hours, making it perfect for those seeking a relaxed yet adventure-filled experience. The departure location is clearly marked at 4R2J+23 La Spezia, and the tour is operated by BOAT OF SAPO, known for their friendly service and well-maintained vessels.

The tour is suitable for travelers who appreciate scenic coastal views and water-based activities. It’s especially appealing to those looking for a combination of sightseeing, swimming, and local regional food, all wrapped into a manageable half-day trip. However, potential participants should be aware that the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or seasickness, and weather conditions may affect the experience.

Discovering Porto Venere’s Colorful Charm

The first major stop is Porto Venere, a vibrant town famous for its colorful buildings and picturesque scenery. Legend claims that it was formed by sea foam from Lord Byron’s cave, adding a touch of myth to its allure. Visitors have the chance to swim in the clear waters here, offering a different perspective of this lively coastal settlement.

During the two-hour stay, travelers can take photos, enjoy local snacks, or simply relax on the boat while taking in views of Porto Venere’s charming architecture and rugged coastline. The guide leads visitors through its history and points out the notable castle and famous landmarks, making the stop both scenic and informative.

Exploring Lerici’s Historic Harbor and Castle

The second highlight is Lerici, a small town set in a natural inlet on the gulf’s eastern side. Its San Giorgio Castle commands the harbor, offering striking vistas that are perfect for photos. The stop here lasts about 105 minutes, giving ample time for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying local regional food onboard.

Swimmers will appreciate the chance to dive among historical ruins and ancient fortifications that date back to World War II. The area’s natural beauty, combined with its historic sites, makes Lerici a compelling destination for both water lovers and history enthusiasts. The crew provides snacks and drinks, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere during the visit.

Exciting Stops at Palmaria and Byron Grotto

Before reaching Porto Venere, the tour includes a 30-minute sightseeing visit of Palmaria Island, known for its scenic landscapes and natural beauty. This gives travelers a quick but panoramic view of the island’s rugged coast and lush greenery.

Notably, the Byron Grotto offers a photo stop lasting 10 minutes. Passersby can snap pictures of the cave that is linked to the poet Lord Byron, adding a literary touch to the trip. The boat navigates past these sites smoothly, combining sightseeing with the chance to relax on the water.

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Swimming, Snorkeling, and Sea Vibes

One of the main attractions of this tour is the opportunity to swim and snorkel in Ligurian waters. The boat is equipped with floating platforms—perfect for lounging or taking a dip in the crystal-clear sea. The guides are attentive and helpful, often offering snacks and drinks throughout the day, which help maintain a festive, relaxed vibe.

The water activities are well-paced, with enough time at each stop for a refreshing swim. The marine life viewing adds an extra layer of interest, especially for those keen on snorkeling and discovering local underwater ecosystems.

Food, Drinks, and Marine Delights Onboard

Guests enjoy regional food served onboard, which includes local snacks and meals that highlight Ligurian flavors. The tour emphasizes freshness and quality, with many reviews praising the delicious food and abundant beverages such as beer, cocktails, wine, and spirits.

The music played onboard enhances the relaxed, sea-side atmosphere. Many travelers mention the generous supply of drinks and the friendly service of the crew, notably Sara and Filippo, who are praised for their hospitality and attention to detail.

The Boat and Facilities

The boat used for this tour is spacious and equipped with inflatable platforms for lounging. It provides a stable, comfortable environment for swimming and relaxing. The cleanliness and well-maintained condition of the vessel contribute to a positive experience.

The boat also has toilets onboard, which are clean and accessible. However, travelers are advised to bring beachwear and ID or passport, and avoid bringing luggage or large bags. The tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues or prone to seasickness.

Guides and Customer Service

The guides, especially Sara and Filippo, are highly praised across reviews for their knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive approach. They share interesting facts about Porto Venere, Lerici, and the surrounding sites, making the trip informative as well as fun.

Many reviews highlight the helpfulness of the crew, including their efforts to accommodate late arrivals or assist guests feeling seasick. The crew’s hospitality and professionalism are consistent strengths, contributing to a warm atmosphere on board.

Practical Information and Booking Details

The tour offers flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the chance to reserve without immediate payment. The departure times vary, so checking availability is recommended.

Participants should bring passport or ID and beachwear. The tour is conducted in English and Italian, and private groups are available for those seeking a more personalized experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This boat trip suits travelers who enjoy scenic coastal views, water activities, and regional cuisine. It is ideal for those wanting a relaxed, social atmosphere with friendly guides and lively onboard service. It’s not recommended for people with mobility issues or seasickness prone individuals, but otherwise, it offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience of Liguria’s coast.

La Spezia: Gulf of Poets Boat Trip with Swim Stops

This 3-hour tour from La Spezia stands out thanks to its beautiful stops at Porto Venere and Lerici, historical and scenic attractions, and friendly, attentive guides. The tour’s all-inclusive approach—with local snacks, drinks, and the option to swim and snorkel—creates a relaxed and engaging atmosphere.

The boat’s amenities and the professional service make it a great choice for those wanting to explore the Gulf of Poets without the hassle of self-navigation. The high review score of 4.9/5 reflects consistent satisfaction among previous participants, who appreciate the quality of food, scenic stops, and helpful crew.

Potential guests should be prepared for weather variability and seasickness, but overall, this tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and fun. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying Liguria’s coastal beauty, this trip delivers a memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the duration of the tour?
  The tour lasts around 3 hours.

• Where does the tour depart from?
  It departs from 4R2J+23 La Spezia.

• What are the main stops?
  The main stops are Porto Venere and Lerici.

• What activities are included?
  Swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on inflatable platforms are included.

• Is food provided?
  Yes, the tour offers regional snacks and meals onboard.

• Are drinks included?
  A variety of beverages such as beer, cocktails, wine, and spirits are available throughout the trip.

• Can I cancel my booking?
  Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour.

• Is the tour accessible for everyone?
  No, it is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or seasickness.

• What should I bring?
  Bring passport or ID and beachwear.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  Yes, the reviews suggest it is enjoyable for families and kids, especially due to swimming opportunities and relaxed pace.

• How do I book?
  You can reserve now and pay later, with options to cancel free of charge.

This boat trip in La Spezia offers a practical, enjoyable way to explore Liguria’s coast, with excellent reviews confirming its quality and hospitality.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby