Portofino: Boat Tour with Corvetta 24

If you’ve ever dreamed of sailing along Italy’s famed Ligurian coast, this boat tour from Portofino promises a charming blend of scenic views, peaceful swimming spots, and local flavor. While we haven’t personally hopped aboard, the experience as described offers what many travelers find memorable—an authentic, relaxing way to explore the coast like a local.

What we love about this tour is the personal touch of having an experienced skipper at your service, ensuring you’re well looked after and able to focus on the stunning scenery. The second is the itinerary’s variety: from secluded coves perfect for swimming to historic sites like San Fruttuoso’s abbey and the mysterious Hermit’s Cave. A potential snag? The tour’s length and activity level might not suit those prone to seasickness or seeking a leisurely, ground-based visit.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want more than just a quick sightseeing pass—it’s perfect for those craving a combination of relaxation, adventure, and authentic coast-hopping. If you love scenic boat rides, discovering hidden corners, and enjoying fresh seafood in charming villages, this tour speaks your language.

Key Points

• Authentic experience aboard a classic Corvetta 24 boat with a dedicated skipper.
• Visiting multiple scenic spots including Portofino, San Fruttuoso, and Camogli.
• Includes swimming, snorkeling, and photo stops at some of Liguria’s most beautiful locations.
• A well-structured itinerary with plenty of time for sightseeing, relaxing, and enjoying local cuisine.
• All fuel and basic amenities like water, fruit, and Ligurian focaccia are covered in the price.
• Ideal for private groups looking for a tailored, intimate experience on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Liguria from the Water: A Detailed Look

This 8-hour boat tour offers a compelling way to see Liguria’s coastline without the hassle of land-based transport. Starting from Calata Marconi, the tour whisks you away into the Gulf of Tigullio, where every turn reveals something extraordinary. The company, Mussini Giorgio S.r.l., emphasizes personalized service, and that’s clear from the moment you step aboard a vessel that feels both sturdy and charming—true to the classic Corvetta 24 design.

Why Choose a Boat Tour Over Other Options?

Most travelers choose this kind of boat trip because it offers access to places that are otherwise difficult to see—like Cala degli Inglesi or the Hermit’s Cave. The experience is also flexible; with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling at several stops, you can enjoy a refreshing break amid stunning scenery. Plus, the boat’s speed and maneuverability allow for an itinerary that packs in a lot within just a few hours.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Santa Margherita Ligure
The journey begins with a photo stop and free time here, giving you a chance to soak in the charming coastal town. The boat ride of about an hour provides sweeping views of the coastline, and if weather permits, you’ll love the opportunity to swim or snorkel in the calm waters.

Stop 2: Rapallo
Another scenic stop with a chance to snap pictures of this lively town or take a quick swim. The approximately hour-long visit offers similar options for relaxation and exploration, and the boat’s speed means you won’t linger too long, keeping the pace lively.

Stop 3: San Fruttuoso
This is the highlight for many—the bay with its famed abbey and bronze Christ statue on the seabed. You’ll have about 1.5 hours here, enough to explore the abbey, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant with fresh seafood, and take a dip in the clear waters. The boat makes frequent stops for swimming and snorkeling, and the scenery here truly feels untouched.

Stop 4: Camogli
Known for its tall, colorful houses, Camogli is a picturesque fishing village. The roughly 1.5-hour stop includes time for sightseeing and swimming, with some reviews mentioning the water behind the old tuna fishery as exceptionally clear. It’s a charming spot to walk around or relax on the waterfront.

Stop 5: Portofino
The final main stop offers a chance to take in the iconic harbor, renowned worldwide for its elegance. The boat ride here lasts about 1.5 hours, allowing for sightseeing and some relaxed cruising along the coast. Some travelers note the views of the famous pastel-colored houses as a highlight.

Unique Spots and Highlights

Olivetta Cove near the port is a tiny, peaceful spot where you can swim beneath beautiful houses perched on the rocky promontory. Punta Chiappa is a rocky outcrop with striking conglomerate formations, a favorite for its rugged beauty and history linked to local fishing traditions.

The Hermit’s Cave, accessible only by sea, remains shrouded in mystery and offers a chance to see vibrant marine life, including posidonia meadows. The crystal-clear waters around the bougainvillea house and the old tuna fishery are perfect for swimming, with some reviewers calling these the most memorable spots for the water’s clarity and beauty.

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The Value and Practicalities

The price includes the skipper, who is described as “completely at your disposal,” along with essentials such as towels and water. The addition of Ligurian focaccia, fruit, and wine adds local flavor. Notably, the tour costs are inclusive of fuel and basic amenities, making it a good value considering the scope of the experience.

You’ll want to consider the timing—starting times are variable, so checking availability in advance is wise. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for very young children, the elderly over 95, or those prone to seasickness, so pack or plan accordingly.

Overall Experience and Tips

This boat tour is best suited for those who appreciate stunning vistas and a mix of relaxation and adventure. The guided stops and scenic routes allow you to avoid the crowds on land while still soaking up Liguria’s beauty.

We’ve heard from travelers that the service is top-notch, with many praising the authenticity of the experience and the comfort of the boat. The option for a private group adds another layer of appeal for families, friends, or couples seeking a tailored day on the water.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a genuine Ligurian adventure, enjoy being on the water, and want a flexible itinerary with plenty of time for swimming and sightseeing, this tour is a solid choice. It’s particularly good for those who prefer small, private groups and want to avoid the crowds of larger tour boats.

However, if you’re sensitive to seasickness, or looking for a very relaxed, land-based day, you might want to consider other options. The tour’s length and active stops require a certain level of comfort with being on a boat and moving between sites.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour of Portofino and the surrounding coast offers a wonderful way to see Liguria’s highlights in a single day. The combination of scenic cruising, charming villages, and beautiful swimming spots creates a well-rounded experience that emphasizes authenticity and local charm.

You’ll love the stunning views, the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters, and the personalized service from your skipper. It’s a great value for anyone who wants to combine sightseeing, relaxation, and a taste of Ligurian life in one memorable trip.

For travelers seeking an active, immersive way to explore Liguria’s coast—away from crowded land-based sights—this tour hits all the right notes, making it a highlight for many visitors.

FAQ

How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting and ending at Calata Marconi, 38, with a flexible schedule based on availability.

What towns does the tour visit?
Stops include Santa Margherita Ligure, Rapallo, San Fruttuoso, Camogli, and Portofino, with each offering unique sights and experiences.

Is swimming included?
Yes, swimming and snorkeling are part of most stops, especially at spots like Cala degli Inglesi, San Fruttuoso, and behind the tuna fishery.

Are drinks and snacks provided?
The tour includes water, soft drinks, Ligurian focaccia, fruit, and wine. Lunch at local restaurants is not included but can be enjoyed during the stops at San Fruttuoso or Camogli.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best for travelers over one year old and not suitable for those over 95 or prone to seasickness. Children should be comfortable on boats.

What languages are available for the tour guide?
The live tour guide speaks English, French, Russian, and Spanish.

Do I need to pay in advance?
You can reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility in planning your trip.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and a camera. The boat provides towels and basic amenities, but personal comfort items are recommended.

This detailed exploration should help you decide if this Ligurian boat tour is the right fit for your Italian coast adventure. With its mix of sights, water activities, and authentic local flavor, it’s a treat for those seeking a memorable day on the sea.

You can check availability for your dates here: