8 Hours Cinque Terre with Lunch on Boat in Spezia

Experience the Best of Cinque Terre by Boat with a Delicious Lunch Included

This 8-hour boat tour in La Spezia offers a smooth way to explore the iconic Cinque Terre villages, with visits to Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso. Priced at $188.91 per person, it includes a generous onboard lunch, unlimited drinks, and several chances to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. The tour departs from Porto Mirabello at 10:00 am and is perfect for those seeking a flexible, scenic day on the Ligurian Sea, especially when land visits might be crowded or weather conditions are uncertain.

While the tour emphasizes the picturesque villages from the water, a notable limitation is that Cinque Terre’s land area remains inaccessible during March due to the park being closed, and in some weather conditions, the boat cannot reach the villages. The experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy seaside viewing, swimming, and laid-back exploration, rather than those expecting extensive land visits or detailed guided tours of each village.

Key Points

• 8-hour boat tour departing from La Spezia with lunch included
• Visits to Portovenere, Grotta Byron, Monesteroli, and five Cinque Terre villages
• Swim and snorkel opportunities at secluded beaches like Le Rosse and Monesteroli
• Flexible stops, including about 40 minutes in Vernazza and over an hour in Monterosso
• All drinks (Prosecco, wine, beer, soft drinks) are unlimited onboard
• Tour is limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience

Departure from La Spezia and Meeting Details

The tour begins at Viale Italia, Porto Mirabello, in La Spezia, with the meeting point clearly located near public transportation options. The tour kicks off at 10:00 am, and guests are expected to arrive in advance to board comfortably. The activity ends back at the original meeting point, providing a straightforward start and finish to the day.

Visiting Portovenere’s Historic Sights from the Sea

The tour starts with a 50-minute stop in Portovenere, where views of the church of San Pietro, the Portovenere Castle (dating from the 1400s), and the Grotta Byron come into view. This stop allows travelers to admire the romantic coastal scenery and take photos of these notable sites from the water. The admission tickets to these attractions are included, making it easy to appreciate the area’s historical charm.

Exploring Grotta Byron and the Red Rocks of Le Rosse Beach

The 15-minute stop at Grotta Byron offers a view of the famous sea cave that inspired Lord Byron, with the chance to swim at Le Rosse beach for about 40 minutes. Known for its red rocks and scenic seabed, this spot is ideal for snorkeling and cooling off. The cave’s unique coloration makes it a visual highlight, and the brief swim allows travelers to enjoy the crystal waters in a quiet setting.

Snorkeling and Swimming in Monesteroli’s Seabed

Next, the boat visits Monesteroli, a spectacular beach with a stunning seabed. The 40-minute stop offers opportunities to swim among fish, snorkel, and enjoy drinks and snacks onboard. This location is especially praised for the helpful marine life, which makes snorkeling accessible even to less experienced swimmers. The admission ticket for this spot is included, and the seafloor views are a major draw.

Discovering Riomaggiore from the Water

The first land village visited is Riomaggiore, a picturesque town that marks the start of the protected marine area. Travelers get about 20 minutes here to snap photos and enjoy the coastal scenery. As the tour only disembarks briefly, visitors can appreciate the village’s colorful houses and harbor views from the boat, without the crowds typical of land visits.

Scenic Passages in Manarola and Corniglia

Continuing along the coast, the tour stops 20 minutes in Manarola and 20 minutes in Corniglia, the second and third villages of the Cinque Terre. Both locations are known for their charming streets, vibrant buildings, and panoramic views. Although the stops are short, they provide a perfect opportunity for quick photos and appreciating the distinct character of each village from the water.

Disembarking at Vernazza for a Village Visit

The 45-minute stop in Vernazza allows visitors to disembark and explore the village’s square and historic streets. This stop is notable for its medieval tower, church, and lively square, giving a taste of traditional Ligurian life. The limited time means visitors should be selective but can enjoy the authentic charm of this colorful fishing village.

Long Stay in Monterosso and Floating Drinks

The most extended stop is in Monterosso, lasting 1 hour and 10 minutes. This village is renowned for its wide beaches, cliffs, and the possibility to dive into the sea directly from the boat. Visitors can relax with a drink in hand while floating in the water, a popular feature that many reviews highlight as a highlight of the trip. The stop allows for ample swimming and photo opportunities.

Snacking and Lunch on the Boat at Guvano Beach

Guvano Beach serves as a lunch stop, where the meal is served onboard. The menu features Liguria’s signature dishes like bruschetta, pasta al Pesto, or ai muscoli, along with Caprese salad made with buffalo mozzarella, tomatoes, and sauces. Drinks, including unlimited wine, Prosecco, and beer, complement the meal, offering a relaxed dining experience on deck. After lunch, a tray of fresh fruit and Limoncino provides a sweet finish to the meal.

Final Swim in Portovenere and Return to La Spezia

The return journey includes a last swim in Portovenere, lasting about 1 hour and 15 minutes, giving a final chance to enjoy the sea before heading back. The return to La Spezia arrives approximately 40 minutes after the last swim, completing the 8-hour adventure.

Practical Aspects: Group Size, Booking, and Weather Considerations

With a maximum of 12 travelers, this tour offers a more intimate experience. The mobile ticket ensures smooth access, and free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure provides flexibility. The tour starts at 10:00 am from Viale Italia, Porto Mirabello.

Weather plays a crucial role; poor weather can lead to cancellations, with options for rescheduling or full refunds. Some reviews mention seas too rough to visit the villages, but the crew prioritizes safety, sometimes changing plans based on sea conditions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat-based journey suits travelers who value scenic views, swimming, and relaxed exploration over extensive walking or land visits. The lunch onboard and unlimited drinks make it an affordable and social experience, especially for those who prefer not to navigate crowded towns. The experience is particularly ideal for families, small groups, or anyone looking to see Cinque Terre from the water in comfort.

Final Thoughts on the 8 Hours Cinque Terre Boat Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded day with beautiful vistas, delicious food, and multiple opportunities to swim. The small group size and personalized service are highlights appreciated in reviews. However, the weather dependency might limit some stops, especially in March when the park remains closed.

This boat tour in La Spezia is a reliable choice for those seeking an accessible way to experience the Cinque Terre’s coastal beauty without the hassle of land transport. Good value for money and friendly guides make it a solid option, especially for sea lovers and foodies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour accommodates most travelers, with stops for swimming and plenty of space onboard, making it suitable for families and older guests.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a camera. The boat has several bathroom stops, and snorkeling gear is available in the designated swimming spots.

Can I disembark in all villages?
Disembarking is possible in Vernazza and Monterosso, with about 40 minutes in Vernazza and over an hour in Monterosso. Other stops are viewed from the water.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, and poor conditions may lead to cancellation. In such cases, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are drinks included?
Yes, unlimited wine, Prosecco, beer, and soft drinks are served onboard throughout the trip.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the onboard lunch menu features bruschetta, pasta al Pesto or Muscoli, and Caprese salad, with fruits and Limoncino as a sweet ending.

How crowded is the tour?
The tour limits group size to 12 guests, ensuring a more personal experience compared to larger boat trips.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
While available year-round, the March schedule is limited to the Gulf tour up to Riomaggiore, and the park is closed, so late spring or summer may offer more comprehensive visits.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, as long as availability remains, but early booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

How do I cancel if needed?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the departure time for a full refund.