La Spezia: boat tour-discover Portovenere & islands

Key Points

• Private 3-hour boat tour from La Spezia offers an intimate exploration of Portovenere and three nearby islands.
• Traditional boat with shade, towels, and snorkel gear provided for comfort and fun.
• Swim and snorkel opportunities are available during the tour, with optional time to visit Portovenere or nearby villages.
• Customized experience allows you to decide whether to relax on board or explore on land.
• Meet at Porto Mirabello, near a gasoline station, with easy access and flexible cancellation options.
• Guides speak both English and Italian, ensuring clear explanations and helpful commentary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

La Spezia’s Coastal Charm on a Private Boat

This 3-hour boat tour departs from Porto Mirabello in La Spezia, taking visitors on a personalized journey along Italy’s Ligurian coast. The tour emphasizes visiting Portovenere and three distinctive islands, all from the comfort of a traditional boat. With a small group limited to 10 participants, the experience feels exclusive and tailored to your interests.

The tour begins with a sail past Cadimare and Fezzano, traditional fishing villages with charming waterside views. These spots set the scene for the upcoming exploration of Portovenere, a village famed for its picturesque streets and historic charm. The local guide provides insightful commentary about the area’s history, making the journey both scenic and educational.

Visiting Portovenere: A Historic Coastal Village

Portovenere is the centerpiece of this trip, known for its unique blend of natural beauty and history. The guide shares stories about the creation of the village, helping visitors understand its significance along the Ligurian coast.

During the visit, travelers can enjoy strolling through the narrow streets, admiring colorful houses and historic sites. The tour includes time to explore on land or remain on the boat, depending on personal preference. This flexibility is an appreciated feature, allowing for a relaxed pace to suit everyone.

Exploring the Three Islands in Front of Portovenere

The boat surrounds three islands positioned directly ahead of Portovenere, offering spectacular views from the water. These islands provide a fascinating backdrop to the tour and are perfect for photo opportunities.

The guide also points out the Grotta di Byron, a beautiful cave accessible by boat or swim during the tour. This notable cave adds an element of adventure and natural wonder to the experience, perfect for those who enjoy scenic landscapes and geological formations.

Swimming and Snorkeling: An Oceanic Break

One of the tour’s key highlights is the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the clear Ligurian waters. During the trip, travelers can decide to stop and enjoy swimming or snorkeling with provided towels and snorkel gear.

The boat’s design offers shade, making it comfortable for those who prefer to relax while on the water. The soft drinks onboard complement the experience, keeping participants refreshed as they enjoy the sea breeze and marine life.

More Great Tours Nearby

Customization and Flexibility on Board

This private tour stands out because of its customized approach. Whether you want to spend more time swimming, visit the village of Portovenere, or stay on the boat and enjoy the views, the decision rests with you.

The driver and guide are flexible, allowing you to tailor the experience to your mood and interests. This aspect makes the tour especially suitable for those seeking a personalized, relaxed outing rather than a rigid schedule.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Group Size

Participants meet at Porto Mirabello, a well-known harbor area in La Spezia, with a nearby gasoline station for easy reference. The coordinates 44.09968948364258, 9.827054023742676 help you locate the meeting spot conveniently.

The small group size, limited to 10 participants, ensures a more intimate experience, perfect for families, couples, or small groups of friends. Booking allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility in planning.

The Traditional Boat and Onboard Amenities

The boat used in this tour is traditional, providing an authentic sailing experience with shade to keep out the sun during the cruise. The vessel is equipped with towels, snorkel gear, and soft drinks to enhance comfort and enjoyment.

This setup is ideal for those who want a relaxed cruise without sacrificing essential amenities. The professional crew ensures safety and comfort throughout the 3-hour journey.

Booking, Payment, and Language Support

Reservations can be made with the option to reserve now and pay later, making the experience accessible and flexible. The tour is led by guides who speak English and Italian, ensuring clear communication and helpful explanations about the sites and geography.

The cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind when planning your Ligurian adventure.

Why Choose This Tour?

This private boat tour is perfect for travelers who want a personalized experience of Portovenere and its surrounding islands. The combination of scenic views, historical insight, and water-based activities makes it a well-rounded choice. The small group size enhances the feeling of exclusivity, while the flexibility lets you prioritize swimming, land exploration, or simply relaxing on board.

While the tour lasts only 3 hours, it offers enough time for a comprehensive visit without feeling rushed. If you enjoy stunning coastlines and scenic islands, this experience delivers a memorable taste of Italy’s Ligurian coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts 3 hours, providing ample time to visit Portovenere, explore the islands, and enjoy swimming or relaxing on board.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is Porto Mirabello in La Spezia, close to a gasoline station for easy access.

What is included onboard?
Towels, snorkel gear, and soft drinks are provided, along with a traditional boat with shade.

Can I choose to visit Portovenere or stay on the boat?
Yes, the flexible schedule allows you to decide whether to explore the village on land or stay on the boat for the entire trip.

Is swimming and snorkeling available?
Absolutely. Travelers can stop to swim or snorkel during the tour at spots with clear waters, with equipment provided.

What languages do guides speak?
Guides are available in English and Italian, ensuring clear communication throughout the experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While specific age restrictions are not mentioned, the small group, water activities, and relaxed pace make it suitable for families with children who are comfortable in the water.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, sunscreen, and personal items. Towels and snorkel gear are provided.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

How do I pay for the tour?
You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the traditional boat is well-equipped with shade, ensuring a comfortable cruise experience.

This La Spezia boat tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic coastlines, cultural exploration, and water activities, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a personalized adventure along Italy’s Ligurian coast.

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