Discover Liguria from the sea.

Exploring Liguria by land gives you plenty of beautiful sights, but experiencing this stunning coast from the water offers a different perspective entirely. The chance to glide along the coastline, taking in the vibrant colors of fishing villages and iconic landmarks, makes for a memorable adventure. This boat tour, offered by Unexpected Genoa, promises an intimate and authentic way to see Liguria’s highlights with knowledgeable guides and expert sailors.

What really draws us to this experience are three aspects: the personalized private group setting, the expertise of the guides who know the coast inside out, and the opportunity to visit less accessible, UNESCO-listed spots like San Fruttuoso. The one factor worth considering? Since the tour is boat-only with no onboard toilets or protection from weather, it’s best suited for those comfortable with seasickness and minimal amenities. Overall, it’s perfect for travelers craving an authentic marine adventure—and who love to explore at their own pace.

Good To Know

• Authentic Coastline Views: Experience Liguria’s most iconic spots from the sea, with expert narration.
• Private Group Experience: Personalized tours with a small, private group up to six people.
• Includes Guide & Boat: Cost covers boat, petrol, and guided commentary in multiple languages.
• Weather & Seasickness Considerations: No onboard toilets or shelter, so prepare accordingly.
• Ideal for Explorers: Perfect for those who enjoy maritime adventures, history, and scenic cruising.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with pay-later options.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring Liguria from the Water: What to Expect

This tour begins with a journey by car or train to Rapallo, a convenient hub that puts you directly in the heart of Liguria’s coast. From there, you board a mid-sized motorboat, ready for a day of discovery. The experience is designed for small groups, making it intimate and allowing for tailored commentary and relaxed exploration.

Starting Point: Rapallo

Rapallo serves as the perfect launch pad, offering easy access and a lively atmosphere. From here, your guides—who are both experienced sailors and educated storytellers—take the helm. They know the coast intimately, weaving stories of history, geography, and local myths, making the experience both educational and engaging.

The Itinerary Highlights

Santa Margherita Ligure:
Your first stop is Santa Margherita, a charming fishing village famous for its colorful boats and historic castle. It’s a favorite for anyone wanting a taste of authentic Ligurian life. The guides often share little-known facts about the town’s history, which dates back centuries. You might also enjoy seeing the traditional fishing boats that still operate here, offering a glimpse into local livelihoods.

Portofino:
Next, you’ll cruise past Portofino, the star of the Ligurian coast. Known worldwide for its glamorous reputation, this tiny fishing village has a fascinating history that predates its luxury status. You’ll get a sweeping view of its pastel-colored houses, the famous harbor, and the Castello Brown perched above the village. Expect plenty of commentary about Portofino’s evolution from a humble fishing port to a luxury magnet.

San Fruttuoso:
Perhaps the most surprising stop is San Fruttuoso, a UNESCO-listed site hidden from view unless you’re on the water. Here, you’ll see the Abbey of San Fruttuoso, built in the 10th century, and the famous statue of Christ of the Abyss submerged in the sea. The guides often describe this secluded bay as “a place you’d never expect,” with numerous mention of its tranquil beauty and fascinating history. Since it’s only accessible by boat or hiking, visiting here feels like a special secret shared only with those on the tour.

Camogli:
The last stop is Camogli, a picturesque fishing town famous for its colorful houses and long maritime tradition. This town still embodies old-world charm and tradition, with stories about local families and their history at sea. It’s a fitting end, providing a chance to soak in Liguria’s maritime culture.

The Boat & Guide: What’s Included & What’s Not

The cost of the tour covers boat hire, petrol, and the guiding service. The guides are fluent in multiple languages—English, Spanish, French, and Italian—and are keen to share their deep knowledge of the coast’s history, myths, and geography. They’re also seasoned sailors, ensuring safety and smooth navigation along the rugged coastline.

However, travelers should note that transportation to Rapallo’s harbor (by train or car) is not included, nor are food, drinks, or museum tickets. Mooring costs are only charged if specifically requested, so you should plan for these independently if you intend to stay longer or visit other sites.

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Practical Details: Duration, Weather & Comfort

The tour lasts roughly a full day—precise starting times depend on availability. Expect a small group experience, with a maximum of six people, making the journey intimate and flexible.

Since the tour takes place on a mid-sized motorboat with no onboard toilets or shelter, it’s best suited for those comfortable with minimal amenities. Weather can be unpredictable—sun or rain—and the boat can get wet, so packing a lightweight rain jacket or sun protection is advisable. Seasickness is a consideration, especially for sensitive travelers, as there’s no shelter from the waves or weather during the trip.

What Travelers Say

Multiple comments highlight the expert guidance and the value of experiencing Liguria from the water. One reviewer called the guides “knowledgeable and entertaining,” describing a relaxed pace that allowed plenty of time at each stop. Others appreciated the unique perspective offered by viewing the coast from the sea, noting how much more impressive the shoreline looks when seen from the water.

A few mentioned the lack of onboard facilities, which they viewed as a minor inconvenience, but most agreed that the scenery and storytelling more than compensated for it. Several reviews emphasized the importance of being prepared for the weather and seas, especially if you’re prone to seasickness.

The Value and Who It’s Best For

This experience offers a different way to see Liguria—more personal, authentic, and scenic than most land-based tours. It’s especially ideal for travelers who value private, small-group adventures and want to see iconic spots like Portofino and San Fruttuoso from an angle few get to enjoy. The guides’ storytelling adds a layer of depth that elevates the journey from a simple boat ride to an educational experience.

For those who love history, maritime culture, and scenic vistas, this tour hits all the marks. But it’s less suitable for visitors who prefer comfort amenities, have mobility restrictions, or are concerned about weather exposure. The private nature and flexible cancellation policy also make it a low-risk option for planning ahead.

The Sum Up

In a nutshell, this Liguria boat tour delivers a memorable, authentic look at Italy’s stunning coastline. With expert guides leading a small group, you gain a personalized view of famous villages and secret spots that are only accessible from the water. The experience emphasizes storytelling, scenic beauty, and cultural insights, making it ideal for travelers seeking a genuine maritime adventure.

If you’re comfortable with minimal onboard facilities and weather variability, this tour offers excellent value—especially considering the personalized service, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see Liguria’s coast from a truly unique angle. It’s perfect for explorers who love history, scenery, and the sea, and want their Liguria visit to be both scenic and enriching.

FAQ

What is included in the price of the tour?
The tour price covers the boat, petrol, and the guiding service in multiple languages.

Do I need to arrange transportation to Rapallo?
Yes, transportation to and from the harbor is not included, so you’ll need to plan your own travel arrangements.

Are there any age or health restrictions?
This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, non-swimmers, visually impaired people, or those prone to seasickness. It’s also not recommended for people over 287 lbs (130 kg) or with low fitness levels.

What should I bring?
Since there are no onboard toilets or shelter, pack weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and possibly a hat. Be prepared for getting wet and the sun exposure.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts about a day, with specific start times depending on availability.

Is the tour private or shared?
It is designed for private groups of up to six people, providing a personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking also offers a pay-later option, giving you flexibility.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included; you should bring your own if desired.

What makes this tour unique?
The combination of expert guides, private setting, and visiting lesser-known spots like San Fruttuoso makes this experience stand out from typical land-based or larger group tours.

You can check if your dates are available here: