Rapallo: Portofino, San Fruttuoso and Camogli Boat Tour

Exploring Liguria’s coastline by boat offers a chance to see some of Italy’s most iconic seaside villages from a fresh perspective. This 5-hour boat tour from Rapallo promises a scenic journey, stopping at charming spots like Portofino, San Fruttuoso, and Camogli, with opportunities to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. It’s a good blend of sightseeing, local flavor, and a splash of adventure—perfect for travelers seeking an active, yet relaxed day.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its ability to combine breathtaking coastal views with authentic village visits. The boat is well-equipped, and the inclusion of snorkeling gear makes the water-based part of the experience more accessible. However, travelers prone to seasickness might want to consider weather conditions, as the open-water segments can get a little choppy. This tour suits those who love a scenic cruise, enjoy discovering small towns, and don’t mind a bit of sun and saltwater.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal scenery from the boat makes the journey special.
• Visit multiple charming villages in one day—Portofino, Camogli, San Fruttuoso.
• Includes snorkeling equipment for an interactive water experience.
• Authentic taste of local culture in Camogli with a stop for local delicacies.
• Flexible timing with a full itinerary that balances sightseeing and leisure.
• Great value for the price considering the stops, water activities, and scenic views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

This tour offers a carefully curated route that captures the essence of Liguria’s coast, focusing on both natural beauty and authentic village life. We’ll walk through each part of the itinerary to help you picture your day on the water.

Starting Point at Rotonda Marconi

Your adventure begins at Rotonda Marconi, a convenient meeting spot right in Rapallo. Here, the tour provider, Orange Wave, welcomes you for a smooth check-in. This location is central, making it easy for travelers staying in Rapallo or nearby towns to join in. The check-in process is streamlined, with express security checks helping you avoid long lines. Expect to arrive about 30 minutes before departure—a good time to settle in with some water and get your camera ready.

First Sightseeing Cruise (10 minutes)

The journey kicks off with a short cruise that offers a quick taste of the coastline. It’s an excellent way to get your bearings and start soaking up the views of the Ligurian Sea. During this initial leg, you’ll see the coast’s rugged beauty, with perhaps a few distant glimpses of the towns ahead.

Santa Margherita Ligure – A Photo Stop

Next, the boat slows to give you a 10-minute window to admire or snap photos of Santa Margherita Ligure. This elegant seaside town, with its pastel-colored buildings and lush backdrop, is a favorite for many. We loved the way the boat allows you to appreciate its charm from the water, where the town appears as a postcard-perfect scene.

More Great Tours Nearby

Cruising to Portofino

The highlight of most trips—Portofino—arrives with a one-hour stop. Here, you can stretch your legs, enjoy a quick walk, or pop into local shops. The tour provides ample time for photos, a coffee break, or just soaking up the scenery. Many visitors note the town’s charm: colorful houses, luxurious yachts, and scenic views. Be mindful, though, that Portofino can be busy, so if you want to explore deeper or shop, plan accordingly.

Water Time at San Fruttuoso

From Portofino, the boat cruises for about 20 minutes to San Fruttuoso, a hidden gem with a tiny monastery and a secluded beach. This stop is especially appealing for water lovers. You’ll have around 40 minutes for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the boat. The provided snorkeling gear makes it easy to explore the colorful seabed. Reviewers rave about this part—“The spots we stopped for swimming, Portofino and Camogli are all so beautiful,” says Donika, highlighting the water’s clarity and vibrant marine life.

Lunch or Cultural Time in Camogli

Next, the boat heads to Camogli for a 1.5-hour visit. This lively fishing village offers a more authentic experience compared to Portofino’s luxury vibe. You’ll have time to walk its narrow streets, enjoy local snacks or an aperitif, and see its colorful houses. Many travelers appreciate the chance to taste regional delicacies here—an authentic culinary touch that adds depth to the day. The reviews mention the “local snacks” and “beautiful scenery on the way,” emphasizing how this stop combines land and sea exploration.

Final Water Segment in Paraggi

After Camogli, the boat moves to Baia di Paraggi, a small bay known for its clear waters. Here, you can enjoy another 30-minute break to swim and snorkel, making the most of the water-friendly parts of your trip. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxed close to your aquatic adventures.

Wrapping Up with Scenic Views

The last cruise legs take you back toward Rapallo with shorter cruise segments (around 20-30 minutes), giving you one last chance to enjoy the coast’s stunning vistas before returning. The entire experience concludes back at the starting point, giving you a chance to reflect on a day packed with scenery, culture, and water fun.

What to Expect on the Water and Beyond

The boat itself is equipped to make your ride comfortable and safe. You’ll find a sundeck and T-top for shade, perfect for relaxing while soaking up the sun. The freshwater hand shower and ladder facilitate water access, and music onboard adds a lively touch. The vessel’s qualified skipper ensures smooth sailing, and all emergency equipment is on hand for safety.

The tour includes fuel, snorkeling gear, and drinking water, making it a reasonably comprehensive package. Keep in mind that food isn’t included, so bringing along snacks or purchasing local delicacies during stops is advisable—especially in Camogli. Travelers have noted that packing a swimming suit, towel, and sunscreen makes the experience more enjoyable.

What’s Not Included

• Food, so plan to eat beforehand or purchase at stops.
• Towel, swimming suit, and sunscreen—these are recommended for water activities.
• Personal items like cameras or cash for souvenirs.

Weather and Seasickness

Because the tour depends on weather conditions, it’s good to stay flexible. The experience can be canceled or rescheduled if the sea gets too rough. The open-water parts might cause seasickness in sensitive travelers, so consider this if you’re prone.

Price and Value

At $152.93 per person, this tour offers a lot: scenic cruising, multiple stops, water activities, and a taste of local culture. When you factor in the stops at Portofino and Camogli, plus snorkeling gear, it’s a worthwhile investment for those eager to see the coast from the water without the hassle of organizing individual boat trips.

Most reviews agree the experience provides great value for the price, especially considering the variety of sights and activities packed into just five hours. The inclusion of qualified guides and water equipment enhances the overall quality.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat tour appeals most to active travelers who enjoy scenic cruises, small-town exploring, and water fun. It’s perfect if you want a full day of varied experiences without the effort of separate bookings. Families with older children might enjoy the snorkeling and water segments, while couples will appreciate the romantic coastal views. However, those prone to seasickness should consider weather forecasts, and travelers seeking a completely relaxed, land-based experience might prefer a slower-paced day.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour from Rapallo to Portofino, San Fruttuoso, and Camogli offers a fantastic way to see Liguria’s coast. The combination of stunning scenery, charming villages, and water activities makes for a memorable day. With knowledgeable skippers guiding you, the views are breathtaking, and the water-based stops bring a refreshing dimension to your exploration.

While it’s a busy itinerary, the balance of sightseeing, leisure, and culture means most will find it a good value. Just remember to bring sunscreen, a towel, and your sense of adventure. If you’re looking for a way to combine coast-hopping with marine fun, this tour could be just the ticket.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially older children who enjoy swimming and water activities. However, younger kids might find the boat ride long or the journey a bit busy.

What should I bring with me?
A swimming suit, towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a camera for the scenic views. Food isn’t included, so consider bringing snacks or plan to buy local treats in the stops.

How long do we stay in each village?
Portofino is about an hour, Camogli around 1.5 hours, and the water stops vary between 30 to 40 minutes. The schedule is designed to give a taste of each location.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided, and the water is described as clear with colorful seabeds—ideal for underwater exploration.

Is there shade on the boat?
Yes, the boat has a T-top for shade, but it might be advisable to bring a hat or extra sun protection, especially if you’re sensitive to the sun.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is subject to weather conditions and can be rescheduled or canceled if necessary. Arrive early and stay flexible.

Does the tour include any meal?
No, food isn’t included. You might find local delicacies during stops, particularly in Camogli, but bring your own snacks if needed.

How many people are on the boat?
The review data doesn’t specify group size, but typically, such tours balance a comfortable number of passengers with an intimate experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance. This provides peace of mind if your plans change.

This boat tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and water-filled day exploring Liguria’s most captivating villages. Perfect for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with some aquatic fun, it promises a memorable slice of Italy’s coast—whether you’re snapping photos, swimming in clear waters, or simply relaxing under the sun.

You can check availability for your dates here: