Portovenere and Gulf of Poets: Full Day Boat Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day afloat along Italy’s captivating Ligurian coast, a full-day boat tour of Portovenere and the Gulf of Poets promises a blend of breathtaking scenery, charming villages, and refreshing swims. This experience, offered by L’Acciughina, is tailored for those who want to see some of the most photogenic spots in the region without the hassle of planning transportation or navigation. We’re here to provide a detailed look so you can decide if this adventure fits your travel style.

Two things we especially like about this tour are the stunning views of islands and coastline—they’re truly postcard-worthy—and the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters at unspoiled coves. The tour’s small group size, capped at 11, promises a more intimate experience. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the fact that larger groups over 7 might be split between two boats, which could slightly dilute the shared experience.

This tour is ideally suited for travelers who love nature, scenery, and a relaxed pace. Beach lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those interested in a taste of authentic Ligurian coastal life will find this trip particularly appealing. Now, let’s explore what makes this a worthwhile day out—and what to keep in mind along the way.

Key Points

• Small group experience ensures personal attention and a more relaxed vibe.
• Stunning landscapes and island views are the tour’s highlight, ideal for photographers.
• Swimming and snorkeling at pristine coves make it fun and refreshing.
• Expert skippers share engaging stories and local insights.
• Comfortable boat amenities include a sun awning, USB charging, and water access.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Day on the Ligurian Sea

This boat tour offers a comprehensive and engaging way to experience the coast of Liguria without the stress of driving or navigating. Starting from Fezzano—an adorable village between La Spezia and Portovenere—the journey kicks off early in the morning, setting the tone for a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing. The boats, small but well-equipped, feel cozy without feeling cramped, and they’re built for comfort with features like a sun awning and a ladder for easy water access.

The friendly crew, including an experienced skipper, guides you through the itinerary, sharing stories that deepen your appreciation for the area’s history and natural beauty. The focus is on natural scenery and authentic experiences, rather than commercialized stops—though you’ll have the chance to explore highlights and secluded spots.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

Starting Point: Marina del Fezzano

Your adventure begins in this charming fishing village, where the friendly staff greets you and helps you settle onto the boat. From here, the cruise takes you along the coast, offering your first glimpses of seaside villages like Borgate Marinare, with their colorful houses and fishing boats.

Portovenere and the Church of San Pietro

One of the tour’s most striking sights is the Romanesque Church of San Pietro, perched atop the rocks and overlooking the sea. You’ll pass by this iconic structure, which is a favorite shot for photographers. Its dramatic location makes for a wonderful photo opportunity and provides a sense of the area’s deep maritime history.

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Passing the Natural Park and Islands

Next, the boats glide past Portovenere Natural Park, a protected area known for its rugged cliffs and lush greenery. You’ll also see the islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto. These are not just scenic backdrops but are also notable landmarks that give the tour its spectacular landscape.

Coveted Swimming Spots: Le Nere, Le Rosse, and Punta Pineda

Perhaps the most loved part of the day is stopping at unspoiled coves such as Le Nere and Le Rosse. These quiet spots, accessible only by boat, offer crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The included gear and towels make it easy to enjoy these hidden gems without extra hassle. As one reviewer put it, “Perfect! Very fun and informative experience. I would suggest this to everyone.”

Other Highlights: Byron Grotto and Monesteroli

The route takes you past Byron Grotto, associated with Lord Byron’s visits, adding a touch of literary charm. You’ll also pass by Monesteroli, a traditional fishing village with stories of old coastal life, and Punta Pineda, another scenic cove worth a quick stop for photos or a swim.

The Enchanting Islands: Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto

The islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto are the tour’s crown jewels. You’ll cruise near these rugged outposts, which offer stunning views, and depending on the weather and the boat capacity, you might stop briefly to snorkel or simply enjoy the scenery from the boat.

Return to Portovenere and Free Time

The day concludes with a visit back to Porto Venere, where you’ll have approximately 30 minutes to explore, shop for souvenirs, or just soak in the scenery one last time before returning to Fezzano.

What the Tour Includes and Why It Matters

The tour’s price of about $170 per person includes all transportation by boat, snorkeling gear, a ladder for swimming, and a sun awning for shade. Fuel, insurance, and safety equipment are also covered, ensuring peace of mind. USB charging ports are a thoughtful touch, allowing you to keep your devices ready for photos—all essential for capturing the stunning landscapes.

The small group size (max 11) fosters a relaxed atmosphere, allowing for personalized attention and plenty of opportunities for questions or spontaneous stops. If your group exceeds 7, it’s good to know you might be divided between two boats—this helps keep things comfortable but means shared experiences might be slightly more reserved.

The Experience: Practicalities and Pacing

With an 8-hour duration, this tour offers a leisurely pace that balances sightseeing, swimming, and free time. The departure times vary—be sure to check availability—so you can plan accordingly. Starting early means you get the best light for photos and avoid crowds at the popular stops.

What really sets this tour apart is the combination of scenic beauty, expert storytelling, and the chance to get into the water at pristine spots. It’s especially appealing if you’re a photographer, a swimmer, or simply someone who loves to relax on the water with spectacular views all around.

The Value in Context

At nearly $170, this tour isn’t the cheapest activity you’ll find in Liguria, but the price reflects the small-group setting, expert guidance, and all-inclusive nature. Compared to independent boat rentals or multiple short trips, it offers a well-organized, hassle-free way to see a variety of stunning sites without worrying about navigation or safety.

Multiple reviewers have praised both the scenery and the friendliness of the guides. As one put it, “Perfect! Very fun and informative experience. I would suggest this to everyone.” This signals that the experience delivers on its promise of a memorable, scenic day with genuine local insights.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want an easy, comfortable way to see Liguria’s coastline and enjoy some time in the water. It suits families, couples, or small groups of friends looking for a laid-back day of scenery and swimming. It’s also ideal if you’re short on time but want to maximize your exposure to coastal highlights.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

In essence, this boat tour offers a well-rounded taste of Liguria’s natural beauty, blending scenic cruising with opportunities for swimming and photography. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and well-thought-out stops make it a standout choice for those who appreciate authenticity and comfort.

If your idea of a perfect day involves sea breezes, stunning islands, and peaceful coves, then this experience is likely to leave you with lasting memories. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to see beyond the typical tourist spots and get a true feel for the coast’s charm.

However, if you prefer more active, adventure-packed excursions or are traveling with large groups, you might explore other options. Still, for a relaxed, scenic, and genuinely beautiful day on Italy’s Ligurian waters, this tour strikes a fine balance between value and experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the relaxed pace, swimming opportunities, and small group size make it suitable for children, especially those comfortable around water. Always check with the provider if you have young children or specific needs.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and breathable clothing. Towels and snorkeling gear are provided, but you might wish to bring your own mask or camera.

How many stops will we make for swimming?
The tour stops at several coves and spots like Le Nere, Le Rosse, and Punta Pineda for swimming and snorkeling, depending on weather conditions and group size.

How long is the free time in Porto Venere?
You’ll have about 30 minutes at the end of the tour to explore, shop, or take photos in Porto Venere before heading back.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking is flexible, allowing you to reserve with confidence.

Can I join if I don’t speak Italian?
Yes, the tour is offered in English and Italian, so non-Italian speakers can enjoy the experience comfortably.

This boat tour offers a wonderful way to discover Liguria’s coast, combining scenic views, authentic stops, and relaxing swimming spots. It is best suited for those seeking a laid-back yet visually spectacular day on the sea—perfect for capturing memories and enjoying Italy’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: