La Spezia: Sunset aperitif with dinner on the boat

Experience a stunning sunset with a delicious dinner on a boat from La Spezia, visiting Porto Venere, Palmaria, Tino, and Byron Grotto for 3.5 hours.

La Spezia: Sunset Aperitif with Dinner on the Boat – A Perfect Evening on the Sea

This 3.5-hour boat tour in La Spezia offers a delightful way to watch the sunset while enjoying a buffet dinner and unlimited drinks. Priced at $107.14 per person, the tour departs from Mirabello port at 6:30 pm, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a relaxing evening with scenic views. With more than 10 bookings last month and an excellent 5.0 rating from a single review, this experience clearly appeals to visitors looking for a memorable maritime adventure.

The journey takes you through the natural pools of Porto Venere where you can take a refreshing swim, then continues to explore the three islands — Palmaria, Tino, and Byron Grotto — with plenty of photo opportunities and relaxing stops. The dinner, featuring cold cuts, cheeses, fresh mozzarella, focaccia, and trofie with pesto, is served onboard along with unlimited drinks including prosecco, wine, beer, and soft drinks. Watching the sunset over the open sea makes this tour a charming choice for a memorable evening.

Key Points

  • Departure from Mirabello port at 6:30 pm, lasting approximately 3 hours 30 minutes
  • Visit Porto Venere natural pools for swimming and stunning panoramic views
  • Explore three islands: Palmaria, Tino, and Byron Grotto, with stops at Cala dell’ Ammiraglio, Blue Grotto, and Byron Grotto
  • Buffet dinner includes cold cuts, cheeses, tomatoes, mozzarella, focaccia, and freshly cooked trofie with pesto
  • Unlimited drinks: Prosecco, wine, beer, and soft drinks served throughout the evening
  • The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum of 9 guests, providing an intimate experience
  • Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance for flexibility

Departure from Mirabello Port for a Scenic Evening Voyage

The tour begins at Mirabello port in La Spezia, where guests meet for the 6:30 pm departure. This timing allows travelers to enjoy the sunset as the boat sets out into the open sea. The boat’s size is small, with a maximum of 9 travelers, ensuring a cozy atmosphere with personalized attention from the crew. The mobile ticket makes access straightforward, and the departure point’s proximity to public transportation adds to the convenience.

Exploring Porto Venere’s Natural Pools

The first stop at the natural pools of Porto Venere offers an opportunity for a refreshing swim in the clear waters, with a 30-minute visit included in the itinerary. The admission ticket to this natural attraction is included, and the pool provides a stunning view of the Gulf of Poets. This stop sets the tone for the evening with a relaxing start and excellent photo opportunities.

Visiting Torre Scola, a 1600s Fortification

Next, the tour visits Torre Scola, an historic fortress dating back to the 1600s. The 10-minute stop allows guests to admire this well-preserved structure, which offers a glimpse into the area’s military history. The admission ticket for this site is included, enriching the experience with a touch of history amid the scenic voyage.

Discovering Palmaria Island’s Beaches and Grottos

The highlight for many is the visit to Isola Palmaria, especially Cala dell’ Ammiraglio, a beautiful beach reachable by tender boat with an electric motor. The 30-minute stop allows for a swim and relaxation in a picturesque setting. The tour also makes stops at Blue Grotto and Byron Grotto, where guests can enjoy photo opportunities and marvel at the natural formations shaped by the sea.

Tour of Isola Tino and Its Lighthouse

On Isola Tino, a brief 20-minute visit includes a walk around the island and a view of its iconic lighthouse. This stop offers a chance to appreciate the scenic coastline and observe the lighthouse that lights up the night, adding a charming maritime touch to the experience.

Byron Cave and Sunset Views

The Byron Grotto is where the tour stops for about 40 minutes, giving guests time to take photographs in the cave that inspired Lord Byron. As the sun sets, the boat offers spectacular views of the illuminated church of St. Peter on Portovenere, creating a romantic and scenic backdrop. This stop combines natural beauty, literary inspiration, and unforgettable sunset vistas.

Returning to Portovenere and Dinner in the Village

The boat then returns to Portovenere, where guests spend about 50 minutes exploring the charming illuminated village. During this time, a dinner on the boat featuring cold cuts, cheeses, and traditional Ligurian focaccia is served, perfectly timed for guests to enjoy dinner while appreciating the vibrant evening lights of the seaside town.

Final Return to Mirabello Port

The tour concludes with a 30-minute ride back to Mirabello port, where the boat docks at around 10 pm. The return trip offers final views of the coastline and a chance to reflect on the scenic adventure.

Practical Details for Participants

This small-group experience is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to participate. The tour includes all stops, a buffet dinner, and unlimited drinks. Towels are not included, so visitors should bring their own if planning to swim. The meeting point in La Spezia is easily accessible near public transportation, and the tour operates most days, contingent on good weather.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this sunset boat tour particularly appealing is the combination of scenic stops, historical sites, natural beauty, and a relaxed dinner. The unlimited drinks and delicious buffet elevate the experience, making it ideal for a leisurely evening with friends, family, or a romantic partner. The intimate group size adds a personalized touch, and the stunning sunset views over the sea create memorable moments.

Considerations and Limitations

While the tour offers many highlights, swimming is optional, and towels are not provided. The cost of $107.14 per person may be considered reasonable for an evening of scenic views, good food, and drinks, but it is important to book at least 24 hours in advance to secure a spot or to cancel if weather conditions are poor. No significant negatives are noted in the data, but travelers should be prepared for an outdoor, boat-based experience.

La Spezia Sunset Aperitif: A Memorable Sea Voyage

This La Spezia tour delivers a combination of natural beauty, history, and leisure, perfect for those wanting to enjoy an evening on the water with excellent food and drinks. The stunning views, especially during sunset, paired with stops at Porto Venere and the islands, make it a worthwhile choice for a relaxing and scenic experience.

Ready to Book?

La Spezia: Sunset aperitif with dinner on the boat



5.0

100% 5-star

“My friends and I loved this tour so much! We had the best time with Massimo. The views were so stunning and the dinner was delicious. Would definit…”

— A Tripadvisor Reviewer, Jun 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, starting at 6:30 pm and ending around 10 pm.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Mirabello port, La Spezia, at 6:30 pm.

What is included in the price?
The buffet dinner, unlimited drinks (prosecco, wine, beer, soft drinks), and admission tickets to stops like Porto Venere pools and the fortifications are included.

Are towels provided?
No, towels are not included, so bring your own if you plan to swim.

Can most travelers participate?
Yes, the experience is suitable for most travelers, with a small group size of up to 9 guests.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled, guests are offered a full refund or a reschedule.

Is there a minimum number of participants?
Yes, the tour requires a minimum number of travelers, but specific details are not provided in the data.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

How do I book?
Bookings can be made online via the provided platform, with mobile tickets issued for easy access.

What makes this tour different from other La Spezia excursions?
Its focus on scenic sunset views, intimate group size, and delicious dinner with unlimited drinks onboard make it stand out.

This sunset aperitif cruise from La Spezia offers a relaxing yet scenic evening, perfect for anyone craving beautiful sea views paired with good food and lively drinks. With its engaging stops and intimate atmosphere, it promises a memorable night on Italy’s coast.