La Spezia Private Gulf Tour by Boat 4 Hours

Exploring La Spezia’s Gulf of Poets by Boat: A 4-Hour Private Tour Review

Imagine gliding across crystal-clear waters, surrounded by picturesque villages, dramatic cliffs, and hidden coves only accessible from the sea. That’s exactly what a private boat tour in La Spezia offers—a chance to see this renowned stretch of Italy’s Ligurian coast from a fresh perspective. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and expert setup suggest it’s a memorable way to soak in the region’s natural beauty without the crowds.

Three things we love about this experience are the diverse stops that combine sightseeing with swimming, the intimate private setting ideal for small groups, and the generous onboard lunch featuring local specialties. The tour’s mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and authentic Italian flavors sounds perfect for those who want a well-rounded, scenic escape.

One potential consideration is the four-hour duration, which might feel a bit condensed for travelers keen on relaxing at each spot longer, especially if the weather isn’t perfect. Also, the price per group reflects the private nature of the experience, making it more suitable for couples or small groups rather than solo travelers or larger parties.

This tour seems best suited for anyone seeking a personalized, scenic adventure filled with picture-perfect views, unique sea caves, and a taste of local culture—ideal for romantic getaways, small groups, or those eager for a curated sea excursion.

Good To Know

• Personalized Experience: Private tour means exclusivity and flexibility.
• Stunning Stops: Multiple scenic spots, villages, and caves to explore.
• Authentic Flavors: Fresh onboard lunch featuring local Ligurian cuisine.
• Ideal Duration: Four hours is enough for a comprehensive coastline tour without feeling rushed.
• Includes Snorkeling: Equipment provided for a quick underwater adventure.
• Price & Group Size: Priced for up to nine people, offering great value for a small party.

A Deep Dive into the La Spezia Gulf of Poets Boat Tour

This four-hour private boat trip, operated by Blue Waves Boat, offers a curated journey across some of the most stunning parts of La Spezia’s coast. The experience begins at the D-Marin Porto Mirabello Marina, a convenient starting point with easy access via public transportation, and ends back at the same spot, keeping logistics simple.

Why It’s a Great Choice

What sets this tour apart is its personalized nature—it’s a private experience for your group, allowing for a flexible, relaxed day with fewer crowds and more tailored sightseeing. The small group size (up to nine people) means plenty of space to relax, take photos, and enjoy the scenery without feeling cramped.

The itineraire is thoughtfully designed to give a balanced taste of land, sea, and underwater adventures. You’ll explore charming villages, discover sea caves, and visit iconic islands—all with plenty of chances to swim, snorkel, and enjoy the fresh Ligurian air.

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Portovenere kicks off the tour, where you’ll have a quick 30-minute stop to admire the UNESCO-listed church of San Pietro and the quaint medieval castle. The reviewer “Christopher_W” pointed out that this spot set the tone for the trip, with its historic charm and spectacular views.

Next, you’ll visit the Grotta di Byron, a famous sea cave where photo opportunities abound—10 minutes of awe-inspiring natural formations. Expect to snap plenty of pictures, as this stop is often described as a highlight for its dramatic scenery.

A brief 15-minute stop in Riomaggiore allows for quick photos and a taste of the Cinque Terre’s vibrant vibe, although it’s more of a scenic pass-through rather than a full exploration.

Piscina Naturale Portovenere and Palmaria offer a relaxed 35-minute break for swimming and enjoying a delicious onboard lunch. The natural pools are perfect for cooling off, and the onboard meal features local delicacies like pasta with pesto or fresh mussels, complemented by unlimited drinks—Prosecco, wine, beer, soft drinks, and limoncino. This part of the trip gets high marks for its combination of leisure and gastronomy.

Sea Caves and Islands—a passage to the Isola del Tino and Tinetto—takes about 30 minutes, where you can see the lighthouse and the Madonna rising from the waters, offering some of the most iconic views of the coast.

A scenic 30-minute stop in the village of Tellaro lets you stroll and take photos of this charming, coastal hamlet. Reviewers mention its “Thailand of La Spezia” nickname, hinting at its lush, idyllic vibe.

La Caletta, a cove reminiscent of tropical destinations, is perfect for swimming and relaxing for another 30 minutes, offering a true escape from the crowds.

Finally, visiting the Lerici Castle and its beautiful beach for about 20 minutes is a fitting end to the journey, with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to soak in the medieval atmosphere.

Lunch and Snorkeling

The onboard lunch is a generous affair, with classic Ligurian dishes and unlimited drinks—an excellent value for a private tour. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment adds an extra layer of fun, especially since many reviews highlight how the natural swimming spots are a major highlight.

What Travelers Are Saying

The sole review available describes the boat as “great,” with the captain being “very nice.” The reviewer particularly enjoyed the visit to the private beach, calling it “the best” part of the trip, and appreciated the opportunity to see sights and avoid crowds. This suggests a relaxed, personalized experience with attentive hosts.

Practical Details & Considerations

The tour is priced at around $1,077 for up to nine people, which breaks down to quite reasonable value for a private, luxury experience in one of Italy’s most beautiful regions. The cost includes lunch and snorkeling gear, but towels are an optional extra (€10).

The 4-hour duration balances well between sightseeing and relaxation, but travelers should be comfortable with a packed schedule of stops and some quick transitions. The itinerary’s nature allows for flexibility, but it’s best to arrive prepared for a busy but scenic day.

Since the tour is only suitable for most travelers and has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before, it’s accessible for many, especially those looking for a curated, intimate experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or families wanting a private day out on the water. It suits travelers eager to combine sightseeing with swimming and dining, all in a personalized setting. The tour’s focus on beautiful views, unique sea caves, and authentic Italian flavors makes it perfect for those who want to experience La Spezia’s coast without the hassle of crowded tours.

If your goal is a hassle-free, scenic, and intimate adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and good food, this could be just what you’re looking for.

The Sum Up

This private Gulf of Poets boat tour offers a well-rounded, scenic exploration of La Spezia’s coast, balancing sightseeing, swimming, and culinary delights. Its private setting ensures a relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for those seeking exclusivity and personalized service. The stops at charming villages, sea caves, and islands are highlights, especially when combined with the onboard lunch and snorkeling opportunities.

While it’s a bit pricey, the value lies in the exclusivity, flexibility, and access to spots that are often crowded or inaccessible by land. It’s best suited for couples, small groups, or anyone who appreciates stunning views paired with comfortable, curated experiences on the water.

If you’re after a scenic, authentic, and intimate way to discover the Gulf of Poets, this tour promises a memorable day wrapped in natural beauty and local flavor.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts around 4 hours, offering enough time to enjoy multiple stops without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes the boat trip, lunch with local Ligurian dishes and unlimited drinks, and snorkeling equipment. Towel rental is extra (€10).

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s a private tour for your group only, making it perfect for a personalized experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Porto Mirabello Marina in La Spezia, providing a convenient starting point.

Can I swim and snorkel?
Absolutely, snorkeling gear is included, and there are several designated swimming stops, like the natural pools at Portovenere and La Caletta.

What are the main highlights?
Expect scenic stops at Portovenere, Byron’s Cave, the Cinque Terre pass, islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto, as well as picturesque villages like Tellaro and Lerici.

Is there a dress code or what should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel if desired, sun protection, and camera. Towels are optional and can be rented on board.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
While not explicitly stated, the tour suits warmer months when swimming and boating are most enjoyable—late spring through early fall.

This detailed review hopefully helps you decide whether this La Spezia private boat tour fits your travel style. With its beautiful stops, delicious food, and intimate setting, it’s a fantastic way to experience Italy’s Ligurian coast beyond the usual crowds.