Portofino: Boat tours with Utility Portofino

Imagine gliding along the Ligurian coast on a classic boat, the sun warming your skin, and the sound of gentle waves accompanying you as you explore some of Italy’s most picturesque spots. That’s exactly what you get with the Portofino boat tour operated by Utility Portofino. This experience promises an authentic seaside adventure, where the focus is on comfort, scenery, and discovering quieter corners of this well-loved stretch of Italy.

What we love about this tour is how it combines stunning views with intimate access to secret spots, all led by an experienced skipper who treats you like a guest rather than just a passenger. Plus, the flexible duration—anywhere from 4 to 8 hours—lets you tailor your day to your interests. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the weather; since this is a boat-based experience, rough seas or strong wind could impact your plans.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace, authentic experiences, and some light outdoor activity like swimming or walking. It’s perfect for those seeking a break from crowded boat excursions, offering both comfort and a genuine taste of Liguria’s coast.

• Authentic local experience aboard classic boats seeking out peaceful, picturesque spots.
• Flexible duration (4-8 hours) allowing for an adaptable day on the water.
• Comprehensive itinerary including Portofino, San Fruttuoso, and Camogli with opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and mild hiking.
• Expert skipper providing attentive, personalized service, making the journey feel special.
• All essentials included like towels, water, soft drinks, and Ligurian focaccia—adding value.
• Weather dependency means flexible plans are important if wind or rain appear.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

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The Charm of the Classic Utility Boat

Sailing aboard the iconic Utility boat, you’ll notice it’s designed to feel both welcoming and nostalgic. While modern comforts are present, the focus remains on the authenticity of the experience. The boat’s size typically allows for a private or small-group atmosphere, ensuring you won’t feel lost in a crowd. Our “guide” (the skipper) is not just a driver but a host who’s well-versed in the local coastline, ready to point out interesting landmarks or suggest a quiet spot for swimming.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at Calata Marconi 38, a convenient hub just outside the bustling Portofino harbor. From there, the adventure unfolds with a series of stops carefully chosen to showcase Liguria’s best-kept secrets.

Santa Margherita Ligure (30-minute stop)

This charming town is our first glimpse of the region’s elegance. We loved how the guide pointed out the different architectural styles and shared stories about the area’s history. It’s a quick visit, but enough to snap some photos of colorful houses and imagine the lively local life here.

Rapallo (30-minute stop)

Next, the boat makes a brief stop in Rapallo, another historic seaside town. The waters here are clear, and you might find the atmosphere slightly more relaxed than Portofino. It’s a good spot for a quick walk, some more photos, and perhaps a quick swim if the weather allows.

San Fruttuoso (1.5-hour stop)

This is the highlight for many travelers. The San Fruttuoso Bay is stunning, with an abbey sitting pretty above the water, and the chance to go ashore and visit the historic church and museum. The boat stops here long enough for a leisurely lunch—many guests opt for a fresh seafood meal at one of the local restaurants—plus time for swimming and snorkeling. The bronze Christ of the Abyss statue is a fascinating underwater sight, consistently praised for its unique cultural significance.

Camogli (1.5-hour stop)

The last notable stop is Camogli, a fishing village with tall, painted houses lining the waterfront. It’s a photographer’s paradise, and many guests enjoy wandering along the promenade or relaxing in a cafe. This town provides a perfect end to the tour, with relaxed vibes and plenty of photo opportunities.

Extra Highlights: Punta Chiappa and Hermit’s Cave

No trip would be complete without exploring Punta Chiappa, its distinctive pudding-shaped rocks making for striking scenery. Here, you can witness both the fishing traditions still alive today and explore the Hermit’s Cave, a place of solitude and mystery. The cave’s history traces back to Giovanni, a man who lived there alone in the 4th century AD, making it a fascinating stop for history buffs or those curious about local legends. The clear waters around Punta Chiappa are perfect for swimming, especially at spots like the Bougainvillea House, where the deep blue sea invites a refreshing dip.

The Final Stop: Camogli

After a day on the water, the tour concludes in Camogli, a village famous for its colorful houses and old-world charm. Here, you can soak in the atmosphere, walk along the harbor, or simply relax with a gelato. Many reviews mention how this last stop provides a laid-back ending to a busy but rewarding day.

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What to Expect: Practical Tips for the Day

The tour’s start time varies, typically around 10 am, and lasts between 4 and 8 hours. The flexibility to choose your duration is great if you prefer a shorter trip or want to push for a full day. The skipper is available throughout, ensuring a personalized experience—no crowded group feeling here.

The tour price covers the boat, fuel, towels, water, soft drinks, Ligurian focaccia, and fresh fruit. That’s a significant value, considering the private, all-inclusive feel. Lunch is not included, but the stops at local restaurants make it easy to find excellent, fresh seafood.

The experience is ideal for those who aren’t prone to seasickness, as the waters can sometimes be choppy. Also, it’s not suitable for babies under 1 year or people over 95, likely due to comfort and safety considerations.

The Experience of the Skipper and Service

Reviews often highlight the friendly, attentive service of the skipper, who tends to be knowledgeable about the coastline’s history and geography. Guests note feeling pampered and well cared for, which adds to the overall value.

Weather Considerations

Since this is a sea-based excursion, the weather can influence the trip. Windy days might mean a bumpier ride or even rescheduling. Flexibility in plans is helpful, and the provider’s cancellation policy allows for a full refund if you cancel 24 hours in advance.

Why This Tour Is a Solid Choice

This boat tour is a great option for travelers looking to explore Liguria from a different perspective—by sea, in comfort, and with the chance to see some of Italy’s most beautiful coastal spots in a relaxed setting. The combination of scenic stops, opportunities for swimming, and a knowledgeable guide makes it a well-rounded choice for couples, small groups, or even solo travelers who value authentic experiences.

The value for money is noteworthy considering the all-inclusive amenities and personalized service. It’s not just a boat ride; it’s a curated experience that balances sightseeing, leisure, and cultural discovery.

Who Should Consider This Tour

If you desire a private, flexible day on the Ligurian Sea with access to hidden coves and historic sites, this tour fits perfectly. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace, comfortable boat rides, and engaging guides. However, if you’re prone to seasickness or traveling with very young children or seniors over 95, you may want to consider other options.

This Portofino boat tour with Utility Portofino offers a well-rounded experience of the Ligurian coast, combining scenic beauty, cultural interest, and personalized service. With plenty of opportunities for swimming, photography, and exploring, it delivers good value for those who want a genuine taste of Italy’s maritime charm.

Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-time boat traveler, the careful planning, attentive skipper, and stunning stops make this an experience worth considering. Just remember to bring your sunglasses, a hat, and a sense of adventure—this tour is a wonderful way to see Liguria from its most authentic angle.

• What is included in the price? The tour fee covers the boat, fuel, towels, still and sparkling water, soft drinks, Ligurian focaccia, and fruit.
• How long does the tour last? The duration can be anywhere from 4 to 8 hours; check availability for specific start times.
• Is lunch included? No, lunch is not included, but stops at local restaurants are available for a seafood meal.
• Can I swim during the trip? Yes, swimming and snorkeling are part of the experience at various stops, especially in designated spots like Camogli and Punta Chiappa.
• Is the tour suitable for children? It’s not recommended for babies under 1 year or people over 95, mainly due to comfort and safety reasons.
• What language is the guide available in? The live tour guide speaks English, Spanish, French, and Russian.
• Are there any restrictions on alcohol or drugs? Yes, alcohol and drugs are not allowed onboard.
• What should I bring? Bring sun protection, a hat, swimwear, and possibly a change of clothes if you plan to swim or hike.
• What happens in bad weather? The tour may be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are unsafe or too rough. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• How many people can join the tour? It is a private group, so the experience is tailored to your party size, ensuring a more personalized outing.

This private boat tour in Liguria offers a wonderful way to see the coastline’s most iconic and secret spots, all while enjoying the comfort and charm of a classic boat. It’s an experience that mixes scenic beauty, cultural discovery, and relaxation—well worth considering for your Ligurian adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: