Private Boat Tour Cinque Terre and Portovenere – Sunsix

Discover the Private Boat Tour of Cinque Terre and Portovenere by Sunsix

This private boat tour from La Spezia offers an intimate way to explore some of Italy’s most colorful and scenic coastal spots. For $405.16 per group (up to 6 people), the 7 to 8-hour experience takes you across the Gulf of La Spezia, giving you a chance to enjoy stunning views, local delicacies, and calm waters onboard a brand new boat. Since the boat is in its first season at sea, you can expect modern amenities and a fresh sailing experience that’s ideal for small groups seeking a personalized adventure.

The tour is well-suited for those interested in scenic cruising, culinary tastings, and exploring historic villages without the crowds often seen in busier tours. The crew is described as attentive, ensuring that you feel comfortable throughout the day. A notable perk is the inclusion of local snacks, drinks, and a glass of wine, adding a touch of luxury to the journey. Keep in mind, there is an additional fuel fee of €300 and a skipper fee of €200 payable on the day, which are common for private tours of this kind.

Key Points

• Private experience for up to 6 guests at a reasonable cost per group
• Seven to eight hours of sailing around the Ligurian coast
• Visits to Portovenere, Cinque Terre villages, Palmaria Island, and Lerici
• Stops for swimming in Cala delle Rosse, Monesteroli bay, and other beaches
• Includes local snacks, wine, and beverages onboard
• Flexible itinerary allowing visits to preferred villages and sights

Starting Point and Duration of the Tour

This private boat tour departs from La Spezia, a key port city in Italy’s Liguria region. The experience lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, making it a full-day adventure that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and culinary enjoyment. The start time is flexible, with the tour operating daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, making access straightforward. Since the tour is private, only your group participates, ensuring a tailored experience. At the end of the day, the boat returns to the original meeting point, completing a seamless journey.

Exploring Portovenere: History and Highlights

The first stop is Portovenere, a charming village known for its colorful houses, famous carruggio, and historic sites. Here, visitors can stroll around the Church of San Pietro, admire the ancient walls, and explore Doria Castle. The docking allows for about an hour of free time to walk the streets and take in the seaside views.

This stop offers a blend of history and scenery, with a chance to appreciate the village’s medieval architecture and dramatic coastline. Since admission is free, it’s an easy and enriching start to the day.

Sailing to the Cinque Terre Villages

The highlight of this tour is the sailing towards the Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its vividly colored houses and cliffside villages. The boat anchors in Cala delle Rosse, Monesteroli bay, or Punta Castagna for a swimming stop, with options for relaxing in Canneto beach.

The famous villages—Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso—are accessible during this 4-hour stop. Guests can choose which villages to visit, combining exploration and leisure. The tour emphasizes scenic cruising and ocean views, providing a different perspective from land-based visits. Since the stops are admission-free, the focus remains on enjoying the coastline and village atmospheres.

Cruising Around Isola Palmaria and Its Wild Beauty

After visiting the Cinque Terre, the boat cruises around Isola Palmaria, a wild and scenic island known for its rugged landscape and natural beauty. This one-hour cruise offers opportunities to admire the unspoiled coastline and enjoy the sea breeze.

There’s no specific mention of activities on the island, but the cruise around it provides a peaceful moment with panoramic views. It’s a great chance for photo stops or simply relaxing on deck while taking in the dramatic scenery.

Visiting the Historic Town of Lerici

The final stop on this journey is Lerici, a historic town famous for its St. George Castle and picturesque main square. The boat docks for about an hour, allowing time for sightseeing and soaking in the medieval charm.

Guests can walk through the town, enjoy the views of the marina, and appreciate the coastal architecture. The visit to Lerici offers a quieter, more relaxed ending to the busy day of sightseeing.

Food, Drink, and Onboard Amenities

Included in the tour are local snacks, such as pizza and focaccia, along with soft drinks, soda, water, beer, and alcoholic beverages. Guests can sip wine from top DOCG vineyards, adding a tasteful element to the cruise.

The boat itself provides ample space for relaxing, and the crew is attentive, ensuring guests are well taken care of during the entire trip. The presence of scuba equipment suggests the possibility of water activities, although specifics are not detailed.

Practicalities and Additional Fees

While the price includes the use of scuba equipment and snacks, there are additional charges to be aware of: €300 for fuel and €200 for the skipper, payable on the day of the tour. These fees are typical for private vessel charters but are important to plan for.

The tour operates daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with booking confirmation received within 48 hours. It’s suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals, and offers full refund if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

This private boat experience offers a personalized itinerary and the opportunity to explore less crowded spots like Portovenere and Lerici, alongside the famous Cinque Terre villages. The inclusion of local wine and snacks elevates the cruise into a culinary journey, and the modern, spacious boat ensures comfort.

The flexibility in choosing villages and the offering of swimming stops make this tour particularly appealing to those wanting a customized, relaxed day on the water. Its high rating of 4.7 from three reviews underscores its popularity and quality.

Best Suited for

This tour is ideal for small groups seeking an intimate experience with personal attention from the crew. It appeals to those interested in scenic cruising, enjoying local wines and delicacies, and exploring coastal villages without the crowds. It’s a great option for families, couples, or friends who want a luxurious, relaxed day on the Ligurian Sea.

Final Thoughts on the Sunsix Private Boat Tour

The Private Boat Tour of Cinque Terre and Portovenere offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and tasting. Its personalized approach combined with beautiful scenery and thoughtful amenities makes it a compelling choice for travelers wanting a peaceful yet enriching day on the water.

While the additional fees for fuel and the skipper should be kept in mind, the overall experience promises stunning views, delicious local food, and the flexibility to focus on your preferred spots. This tour is particularly suited for those who appreciate small-group intimacy and premium service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is open to most travelers and includes swimming stops, making it family-friendly.

How long is the entire boat tour?
The experience lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, from departure to return.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes, local snacks, soft drinks, beer, water, and wine from DOCG vineyards are included onboard.

What are the extra costs on the day?
Guests should be prepared to pay €300 for fuel and €200 for the skipper, payable during the tour.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the stops are planned, guests can choose to visit specific villages like Riomaggiore or Vernazza during the Cinque Terre stop.

Is scuba equipment included?
Yes, the tour includes use of scuba gear, although activities beyond swimming are not specified.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance; cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is the boat accessible for people with mobility issues?
No specific information is provided about accessibility; it’s best to inquire directly with the provider.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, and any personal items needed for a day on the water.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be made in advance, with confirmation received within 48 hours. The tour operates year-round during specified hours.