La Spezia: tour of the islands and Portovenere stops bath and aperitif

Experience the Best of La Spezia’s Islands and Portovenere in Just 3 Hours

The La Spezia: tour of the islands and Portovenere stops bath and aperitif offers a compact yet rich experience of Italy’s stunning Gulf of La Spezia. Priced at $131.70 per person, this private boat tour lasts roughly 3 hours and guarantees an intimate journey for up to 8 guests, providing personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. The tour’s highlights include visits to the Isola Palmaria, Isola del Tino, Muzzerone, and Portovenere, with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and savoring local flavors. This experience is perfect for those who want a quick yet immersive escape from the mainland chaos to enjoy uncontaminated spots, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking sunset views.

While the tour is designed for a small group, it’s flexible in timing and stops, which may vary depending on season and weather conditions. The combination of guided insights, water activities, and an aperitif makes this trip both relaxing and lively, appealing especially to travelers looking for a fun, scenic, and well-rounded day on the sea.

Key Points

• Price: $131.70 per person for a 3-hour private boat trip
• Capacity: Small group of up to 8 guests for a more personalized experience
• Stops: Four main locations including Isola Palmaria, Isola del Tino, Muzzerone, and Portovenere
• Activities: Swimming, snorkeling with an instructor, stand-up paddleboarding, and relax with local aperitifs
• Highlights: Uncontaminated natural spots, crystal waters, sunset views and a guided tour with engaging stories
• Extras: Use of snorkeling gear, inflatable equipment, bottled water, alcoholic beverages, and stereo system for added fun
• Booking: Book at least 31 days in advance for best availability, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before

Starting Point and Meeting Logistics at La Spezia

This tour begins at Polpara Boat Tour, Porto Mirabello, La Spezia, near public transportation. Guests are advised to arrive 15 minutes prior to departure to ensure a smooth start. The boat departs from a well-equipped and comfortable vessel with sunshades and comfortable seats, making the ride enjoyable even in warmer weather. The end point is the same as the start, completing a seamless loop around the Gulf of La Spezia.

The maximum capacity of 8 guests means each person will have space to relax and engage fully with the guide and the activities. If traveling with a larger group or with special requests, the operator suggests contacting them directly to accommodate your needs.

Exploring Isola Palmaria: The First Swim Spot

The tour’s first stop at Isola Palmaria provides an excellent opportunity to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. With 45 minutes allocated, visitors can enjoy a relaxing dip while observing marine life through the snorkel provided. The included admission ticket ensures smooth access to this protected natural area.

Palmaria is known for its unspoiled environment and is perfect for a refreshing break early in the trip. The guide shares insights about the island’s natural beauty and history, adding an educational touch to the leisurely swim.

Isola del Tino and Its Iconic Lighthouse

Next, the tour visits Isola del Tino, where a 15-minute stop allows a quick view of the lighthouse and the island’s patron saint. While this stop mainly offers a chance to admire the scenic views and take photos, the highlight remains the lighthouse which adds a picturesque element to the landscape.

This brief stop provides context about the island’s significance, guided by stories from the crew. It’s an ideal moment for those who enjoy photo opportunities and taking in the panoramic scenery of the gulf.

Muzzerone and Parete delle Meraviglie: The Pink Beach and Aperitif

The second swimming stop at Muzzerone and the nearby Parete delle meraviglie is a key highlight. With 45 minutes allocated, visitors can reach the pink beach—famous for its distinctive hue—and enjoy a local aperitif featuring products of the land.

This stretch combines water activities with tasting regional specialties, making it a delightful sensory experience. The admission ticket allows access to this pristine beach, and the aperitif adds a leisurely, flavorful dimension to the outing. The relaxed pace ensures you have plenty of time to swim, sunbathe, and chat with the group.

Portovenere: The Final Stop and Sunset Views

The last stop, Portovenere, lasts 15 minutes and offers a chance to see the charming seaside town from the water. It’s the perfect spot for a photo finish and to appreciate the town’s colorful buildings and historic charm.

Most notably, the tour provides the chance to witness a sunset from the sea, with the sky turning warm hues over the coastline—a moment that many find truly magical. After the boat returns to the meeting point, guests often feel they’ve gained a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty.

Water Activities and Equipment Provided

This tour includes snorkeling gear, stand-up paddleboards, lifebuoys, and inflatable doughnuts, all designed to enhance the water experience. The use of snorkeling equipment makes exploring marine life accessible even for beginners, while inflatables add fun to the cruise.

Guests also receive bottled water and alcoholic beverages, with a stereo system providing ambient music, creating a lively yet laid-back atmosphere. Towels and sun cream, however, are not included, so packing these essentials is recommended.

The Intimate and Flexible Nature of the Tour

With a maximum of 8 guests, this tour offers a personalized and relaxed environment. The operator emphasizes that departure times and stops may vary depending on season and weather, ensuring safety and optimal conditions.

This flexibility makes the experience suitable for those who prefer a calm pace and a tailored itinerary, especially in good weather. The tour is designed for most travelers, though those with specific needs should contact the provider directly.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Unlike larger tours, this experience focuses on quality over quantity, giving each guest time to enjoy each location and activity. The inclusion of local flavors, water fun, and sunset views creates a well-rounded day on the water.

The guide’s storytelling and passion shine through, making the trip both informative and engaging. The small group size ensures intimate interactions and the chance to ask questions about the islands and Portovenere.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This private boat experience suits those who want a relaxed, scenic escape with plenty of water activities and cultural insights. It’s ideal for small groups, couples, or families seeking an unhurried day on the sea, with the chance to treat themselves to local flavors and stunning sunset views.

While suitable for most, travelers should be comfortable with being on a boat for a few hours and participating in swimming and snorkeling.

Final Thoughts on the La Spezia Islands & Portovenere Tour

The 3-hour private boat tour offers a balanced combination of natural beauty, water fun, and local cuisine, all within a compact timeframe. Its small group size and personal guide make it a more intimate alternative to larger excursions.

The stunning stops at Palmaria, Tino, Muzzerone, and Portovenere, along with the opportunity for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying a sunset, provide a memorable slice of Ligurian coast. While the tour’s pace is relaxed, travelers should be ready for variable stops based on season and weather.

This experience is perfect for those who value personalized attention, water activities, and scenic views in a casual, friendly setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price of $131.70 includes snorkeling gear, inflatables, bottled water, alcoholic drinks, a multilingual guide, stereo system, and comfortable seating with sunshade.

How long do stops last at each location?
The stops at Isola Palmaria and Muzzerone last 45 minutes each, while Isola del Tino and Portovenere are approximately 15 minutes each.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, the tour notes no alcohol under 18, and physical activity such as swimming and snorkeling may require a basic level of comfort in water.

What should I bring?
Guests are advised to bring towels and sun cream, as these are not included. Packing sunglasses and a hat can also enhance comfort during the stops.

Can the itinerary change?
Yes, departure times and stops may vary depending on season and weather, and the operator emphasizes flexibility to ensure safety and enjoyment.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable, and weather-related cancellations are handled with a full refund or alternative date.