La Spezia: Cinque Terre, Portovenere, Golfo dei Poeti Cruise

Imagine gazing at colorful fishing villages, dramatic cliffs, and shimmering waters, all from the deck of a comfortable boat while sipping local wine. That’s what you get with the La Spezia: Cinque Terre, Portovenere, Golfo dei Poeti Cruise — a 6-hour journey through some of Italy’s most breathtaking scenery provided by expert sailors. This experience promises a blend of sightseeing, swimming, and tasting regional goodies, making it an ideal outing for those wanting a taste of Ligurian beauty without the hassle of driving or crowded trails.

What we love about this tour is its relaxed pace, the chance to see several iconic spots from the water, and the inclusion of an aperitif with local products that adds a delicious touch. The boat’s large sundeck and shaded areas ensure comfort, even on sunnier days. However, keep in mind that this is a shared experience, so if you prefer a private or more exclusive outing, you might want to explore other options.

This cruise perfectly suits travelers who enjoy scenic views, authentic local flavors, and a laid-back, well-organized day on the sea. It’s especially great for those wanting to see the Cinque Terre villages from a different perspective, or for anyone looking to combine sightseeing with some refreshing swims in the Ligurian Sea. The only possible consideration? Since it’s a group tour, it may not be ideal if you’re seeking total privacy or a very rigid schedule.

Good To Know

• Stunning scenery from the water, including Cinque Terre and Portovenere
• Expert sailors providing a relaxed, informative experience
• Swim stops in crystal-clear waters, with some reviews mentioning cliff jumps and snorkelling
• Regional tasting with wine, local food, and aperitifs
• Flexible itinerary with stops at iconic villages and scenic points
• Comfortable boat features, including large sundecks and shaded areas

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Departure

The tour kicks off at the port of La Spezia, where guests board a well-equipped, comfortable boat. The vessel features a large sundeck for lounging and a big awning to provide shade, which makes all the difference on a sunny Ligurian day. Access to the sea is easy, thanks to the onboard swimming platform, enabling quick dips during breaks.

Visiting Portovenere

Your first stop is Portovenere, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its charming medieval ambiance. The guide (we’re told it’s often Andrea or another knowledgeable skipper) shares stories of the village’s history and points out the Church of San Pietro, perched dramatically on the promontory. Reviewers love the scenic views of colorful houses reflecting on the water, which makes for fantastic photos. Kelly mentions how the “tour is beautiful,” and it’s easy to see why this spot feels like a postcard come to life.

Passing Le Rosse and Schiara

Next, the boat cruises past Le Rosse, a striking rocky cliff formation that plunges into the sea. This area is often described as spectacular, with some reviewers noting the “rocky walls” as a highlight. The skipper points out the cliffs and shares insights into the coastline’s geology.

The journey then takes you to Schiara, a small fishing village that is notably remote and authentic. It’s a quiet spot, giving a sense of how traditional Ligurian life continues away from tourist crowds. We loved the authentic vibe and appreciate how this adds depth to the experience.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Cinque Terre from the Sea

The star of the trip is entering the Cinque Terre National Park, where the boat stops at each of the five villages for sightseeing and photos. From the water, the colorful Riomaggiore looks like a cascade of pastel houses, perfect for a quick photo stop as you pass by.

Manarola, perhaps the most famous, is renowned for its romantic charm and is a favorite among reviewers. Laura mentions how the tour took visitors to multiple swimming spots and included a cliff jump and snorkelling — activities that truly enhance the experience for active travelers.

Swimming and Relaxation

A key feature is the swimming break at Corniglia, which is perched on a cliff and offers clear waters. The review from Laura highlights how the stops for swimming and snorkelling stand out as the highlight of her trip, and some even enjoyed cliff jumping, making the experience more adventurous.

Vernazza and Monterosso

As the boat approaches Vernazza, expect charming sights like its medieval tower and small harbor. The shorter stop here allows for photos and soaking in the atmosphere before heading to Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the villages, known for its beaches and terraced vineyards. The 30-minute stop is ample for quick exploration, photos, and relaxing on the sand. Adrian notes how the guides offer delicious snacks and a fruit arrangement — a thoughtful touch, especially if celebrating a special occasion like a birthday.

The Hidden Gem: Monesteroli

On the return journey, there’s an additional swimming stop at Monesteroli, described as magical and wild. Accessible only by sea or steep staircases, this location is praised as a less crowded, more authentic spot, giving a sense of discovery. Guests often comment on how this is a unique highlight.

The Aperitif and Local Flavors

Throughout the journey, guests are offered an aperitif featuring local products. Reviewers describe the drinks and snacks as delicious, with some mentioning the local wines, beers, and regional finger foods. It’s a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the scenery with a glass in hand.

Practical Details and Flexibility

The tour is priced at $186.92 per person for about 6 hours, which many see as value for money considering the access to multiple iconic spots, swimming, and regional tastings. The tour is run by Venere Boat Tours, known for their safety standards and friendly crew.

Guests can choose between private or small group options, making it flexible for different preferences. The tour operates with English and Italian-speaking guides, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring peace of mind.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Expert Guides and Friendly Crew: Kelly and Adrian both praise their guides for their knowledge and friendliness. The guides not only navigate but also share stories and tips that enrich the experience, such as details about the villages and the history of the coast.

Beautiful Scenery and Photo Opportunities: From the boat, you’ll get unique perspectives of Cinque Terre’s colorful houses, cliffs, and harbors. The reviews confirm that the stops are well timed, giving enough time for photos and quick explorations.

Swimming and Snorkelling: The inclusion of multiple swimming stops, including cliff jumps and snorkelling, elevates the trip from a simple sightseeing cruise to an adventure. Reviewers like Laura found these moments to be the highlight.

Regional Tastings: The aperitif with local products offers a chance to taste Ligurian wines, beers, and snacks in a scenic setting, making the trip more memorable.

Comfort and Safety: The large sundeck, shade options, and easy sea access ensure everyone stays comfortable and secure, even on warmer days.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, appreciate authentic regional flavors, and want to see Cinque Terre from the water. It suits those looking for a relaxed yet active day with opportunities to swim and take photos. If you’re seeking a private experience or a very rigid schedule, you might prefer tailored options. It’s perfect for small groups or couples looking for an intimate adventure with plenty of picturesque stops.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around 6 hours, with varying departure times depending on the day. Check availability for specific start times.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a full-day cruise, including stops at key sites, swimming breaks, and an aperitif with local products.

Are there meal options?
No full meals are provided, but regional snacks, drinks, and aperitifs are included during the trip.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring swimwear, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera. Towels are a good idea for swimming breaks.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, especially with the opportunity to swim and relax.

Are there private options?
Yes, private or small group bookings are available for a more exclusive experience.

What about safety?
The boat is equipped with all safety systems and equipment, and the crew is experienced and knowledgeable.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there any time allocated for exploring the villages?
Stops vary from 15 to 30 minutes, enough for quick photos and brief walks around each village.

Final Thoughts

The La Spezia: Cinque Terre, Portovenere, Golfo dei Poeti Cruise offers a delightful way to experience Liguria’s coast from the water. With comfortable amenities, expert guidance, and stops at some of Italy’s most picturesque spots, it strikes a good balance between sightseeing and relaxation. The inclusion of regional tastings and swimming opportunities makes it especially appealing for those wanting a more immersive day on the sea.

It’s a solid choice for couples, small groups, or anyone eager to capture stunning views and enjoy authentic local flavors without the hassle of crowded tours or long hikes. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a different perspective on the Cinque Terre, this cruise delivers a scenic, enjoyable, and well-organized adventure.

Enjoy soaking in Liguria’s stunning coastlines, charming villages, and delicious regional treats — all from the comfort of a well-equipped boat with friendly guides.

You can check if your dates are available here: