La Spezia: Dolce Vita in gulf of poets

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Italy’s Liguria coast from a fresh perspective, this boat tour in La Spezia promises a memorable journey. It’s not just about seeing the charming villages—though you’ll do plenty of that—but also about soaking in the breathtaking views, tasting local delicacies, and feeling that gentle sea breeze. We’re quite taken with the way this tour combines natural beauty with authentic flavors, making it a genuine slice of the Italian Riviera lifestyle.

A couple of standout features we love: the stunning panoramic views of Portovenere, Lerici, and the islands from the water, and the chance to sample homemade regional food and local wine. The only potential consideration? The tour’s duration—at 3 hours in the sunset version, it’s a relatively short window, but perfect if you’re after a relaxed, scenic experience rather than a full-day adventure. This tour suits travelers looking for a balanced mix of sightseeing, authentic food, and a touch of romance—ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a peaceful, personalized way to explore.

Key Points

• Spectacular coastal scenery: Get up close with the rocky landscapes and charming villages from the comfort of a private boat.
• Authentic local flavors: Enjoy homemade Ligurian food and regional wines, especially Vermentino, paired with refreshing drinks.
• Flexible timing: Choose between a daytime tour or a sunset cruise, both offering unique perspectives.
• Personalized experience: Small groups or private tours mean more intimate, relaxed exploration.
• Authentic guides: Friendly hosts with genuine local knowledge make all the difference.
• Ideal for relaxed travelers: If you love scenic views and good food without rushing, this fits beautifully.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Gulf of Poets by Boat — What to Expect

This tour offers a privileged view of La Spezia’s coast, showcasing some of Italy’s most picturesque villages and islands. Starting from either La Spezia or Lerici, you’ll hop aboard a typical 8-meter Didi boat, a classic vessel that captures the essence of Italian Riviera charm. The tour duration varies between 3 to 4 hours, with the daytime trip being longer and more leisurely, and the sunset tour offering a more condensed, romantic experience.

You’ll love the way the boat glides smoothly across the water, giving you a fresh vantage point that land-based sightseeing simply can’t match. The experience is designed to be relaxed, allowing you to truly enjoy the scenery, taste local products, and even cool off with a swim or snorkel stop.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Initial Sailing

Your adventure kicks off from one of two convenient pickup points—either near La Spezia or Lerici—making it easy to access regardless of where you’re staying. After boarding, you’ll set sail for approximately 30 minutes towards the first picturesque stop.

Lerici — A Photo Opportunity

The charming town of Lerici is your first scenic highlight. We loved the way the boat offers a different perspective of this historic seaside town, with its colorful houses and castle dominating the skyline. A quick photo stop here lets you capture the beauty from the water.

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Tellaro — The Hidden Gem

Next, you’ll visit Tellaro, often described as one of Italy’s loveliest villages. The reviews highlight this stop as a favorite, especially for its authentic atmosphere and stunning coastal scenery. Here, you’ll indulge in regional food—think homemade vegetable pies and focaccia—paired with a glass of Vermentino, a crisp Ligurian white wine. Some tours include snorkeling at this stop, giving you a chance to cool off in the clear waters.

Tino Island and the Palmaria Cave

The tour then moves on to Tino Island, where scenic drives and photo stops give you spectacular views of the coast and the iconic Grotta dei Colombi di Isola Palmaria. The boat’s proximity to these islands allows for great snapshots of the rugged, rocky landscape—the kind that makes your Instagram followers jealous.

Porto Venere and Sunset Views

One of the trip’s highlights is arriving at Porto Venere, often called a piece of paradise. The tour provides time for photos and soaking in the sunset, which is described as a truly magical moment—ideal for romantic couples or anyone seeking a peaceful end to the day. The reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the host’s friendliness, which enhances this segment.

Return and Relaxed Drive Back

The journey concludes with a scenic drive back towards La Spezia or Lerici, allowing you to reflect on the day’s highlights. The total experience offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural sights, and delicious regional flavors.

The Food, Drinks, and Authenticity

What makes this tour stand out is the focus on local, homemade food and regional wines. Expect to sample focaccia, vegetable pies, and regional specialties, all paired with Vermentino wine, along with beer, Aperol spritz, water, and sodas. These offerings give you a taste of Liguria’s culinary traditions and make the experience feel genuine and unpretentious.

Guests have raved about the friendly hosts, like Davide and his partner, who are praised for their kindness and authentic approach. One reviewer notes, “Davide & his girlfriend were so kind and truly genuine people,” which adds a warm touch to the outing.

The Value for Money

At approximately $90.84 per person, this tour offers a solid value for anyone looking for a scenic, relaxed experience. The price covers the boat, captain, food, drinks, taxes, fuel, and insurance—no hidden costs. For a few hours of stunning views, authentic tastes, and personalized service, it’s an affordable way to see the coast without the hassle of navigating yourself or booking multiple activities.

While it’s a shorter trip, the intimate group size and focus on quality over quantity make this a worthwhile splurge, especially for those who appreciate a relaxed pace and authentic experiences.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat tour is perfect for romantic couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want a peaceful, scenic escape with plenty of opportunities for photos and tasting regional flavors. It’s especially suitable if you value authenticity and personalized service over large, crowded excursions. If you’re seeking a romantic sunset cruise or a gentle introduction to the Ligurian coast, this tour hits the mark.

Travelers who enjoy natural landscapes, local foods, and friendly hosts will find this experience fulfilling. Keep in mind it’s not an extensive exploration but an ideal balance of sightseeing, relaxing, and savoring the laid-back Dolce Vita.

The Sum Up: The Best for Authentic, Scenic Experiences

This boat tour in La Spezia offers an authentic taste of Liguria—from breathtaking vistas and charming villages to homemade regional food and local wines. It’s a relaxing, intimate way to explore the Gulf of Poets, perfect for those who want to enjoy Italy’s scenery without the hustle of large groups or hectic schedules.

The knowledgeable guides and genuine hospitality make this a standout experience. You’ll love the way the boat glides along the coast, offering a different perspective on familiar sights, and how the taste of local delicacies complements the visual feast.

While it’s a shorter trip, the focus on quality, relaxed pacing, and authentic flavors makes this a valuable addition to any Ligurian itinerary. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a peaceful, scenic, and tasty slice of Italy’s coast—one that’s perfect for creating memories with loved ones or enjoying some well-deserved quiet time with spectacular views.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs between 3 and 4 hours, depending on whether you choose the sunset or daytime option.

Where does the tour start from?
You can start from La Spezia or Lerici, with pickup options near each location, around 17:00 or 17:30 respectively.

What is included in the price?
Price includes the boat ride, the captain, typical homemade food like focaccia and vegetable pies, various drinks including regional wine and beer, safety equipment, taxes, fuel, and insurance.

Are there options for private groups?
Yes, private tours or small groups are available, making for a more personalized experience.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, but the designated meeting points are conveniently located.

Can I swim or snorkel during the tour?
Some stops include snorkeling opportunities, particularly at Tellaro, giving you a chance to cool off in the sea.

What should I bring?
A passport or ID card is recommended. Comfortable clothing, sun protection, and a camera are also good ideas.

This La Spezia boat tour offers a wonderful way to experience the quintessential Ligurian coast—balancing scenic beauty, authentic flavors, and personalized service. Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape or a peaceful break from busy sightseeing, it’s a trip worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: