La Spezia is a fantastic starting point for cruises and boat tours because of its prime location along Italy’s Ligurian coast. Unlike more crowded tourist hubs, La Spezia offers authentic, less commercialized experiences that put you right on the water, close to the iconic Cinque Terre villages and the Gulf of Poets. Whether you’re after a relaxing sunset cruise, a full-day sailing adventure, or a private boat experience, this port unlocks the coast’s best-kept secrets. We especially like tours that combine stunning scenery with opportunities to swim, snorkel, or simply unwind — like the Cinque Terre Sunset Boat Tour with Appetizers or the Gulf of Poets Boat Trip with Swim Stops.
If you’re looking for variety, La Spezia delivers. You can hop on a quick golden hour cruise, explore Portovenere and Palmaria Island with a private guide, or spend hours sailing the coastline in comfort. Each experience offers a different flavor of the Ligurian Sea, with options suitable for families, couples, or groups of friends. Now, let’s look at some standout tours on this list.
Quick Overview
This list features a mix of half-day, full-day, and private boat tours ranging from speedboat rides to luxury sunset cruises. Some tours focus on exploring the colorful Cinque Terre villages from the water, such as the Cinque Terre Sunset Boat Tour with Appetizers, which offers a relaxed evening experience. Others provide swimming, snorkeling, and marine life viewing, like the Gulf of Poets Boat Trip with Swim Stops. Private options give you tailored experiences, such as Guided Day Tour on Private Boat to Cinque Terre, ideal for families or small groups seeking exclusivity. Scroll down for detailed insights on each.
1. From La Spezia: Cinque Terre Boat Trip with free time ashore
This guided 4-hour boat tour offers a perfect snapshot of the Cinque Terre from the water, with free time ashore in Monterosso al Mare. The trip includes scenic views of all five villages, with highlights like the Romanesque church of San Pietro and the rugged rocky landscapes. You’ll pass Portovenere and enjoy informative commentary from your guide, making this a well-rounded experience. Reviews praise its balance of sightseeing and leisure, with one noting it’s “relaxing and fun,” even with young children onboard. The tour’s short duration makes it ideal for travelers with limited time who want a taste of the coast without sacrificing comfort. Bottom line: Best for a quick, scenic overview with a charming stop in Monterosso.
2. La Spezia: Gulf of Poets Boat Trip with Swim Stops
Spanning 6 hours, this trip offers a comprehensive exploration of the Gulf of Poets, including Porto Venere and Lerici, with ample swim and snorkel stops. The highlight is enjoying crystal-clear waters and marine life, alongside local regional food onboard. Unique features include the inflatable platforms for lounging and a menu crafted for relaxed enjoyment. Guests love the mix of history, scenery, and leisure, and reviews emphasize how enjoyable the swimming and snorkeling are, plus the helpful and friendly crew. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a full-day experience with plenty of water activities. Bottom line: Excellent value for those seeking a blend of sightseeing, swimming, and local flavors.
3. Guided Day Tour on Private Boat to Cinque Terre
This private 3 to 4-hour charter is tailored for up to four people, offering an intimate way to see Cinque Terre’s caves, coves, and the Byron cave. The boat is modern and comfortable, with a guide who shares 25 years of experience. Reviews rave about Alfredo’s careful, friendly, and knowledgeable approach, with many noting the tour was customizable to their interests. The highlight is the chance to relax, swim in the crystal waters, and visit less-accessible spots not reachable by land. For around $812, the experience is for those who want privacy and flexibility. Bottom line: A top choice for couples or small groups wanting a personalized, luxurious day on the water.
4. La Spezia: Cinque Terre Sunset Boat Tour with Appetizers
This 3-hour sunset cruise takes you along the coast as the sky shifts to shades of pink and orange. Boarding a speedboat (RIB), you’ll pass the colorful villages, Church of San Pietro, and cliffs, with stunning panoramic views at the golden hour. You’ll enjoy delicious Italian appetizers paired with regional wine, beer, or soft drinks. Reviewers describe it as “spectacular,” especially for the views at sunset. It’s a romantic option perfect for couples, or anyone wanting a memorable, less hurried experience. The tour’s small group size enhances the intimacy. Bottom line: Ideal for a romantic evening with unbeatable sunset scenery.
5. La Spezia: Gulf of Poets Boat Tour
This 4.5-hour tour offers a lively, informative exploration of the Gulf of Poets, including Portovenere, Tellaro, and Lerici. It offers swimming, snorkeling, and local food tasting, making it appealing to travelers who love a mix of activity and scenery. The tour is led by a young, dynamic crew, with reviewers highlighting how friendly and accommodating they are. Many praise the marine viewing opportunities and the flexibility of stops. It’s well-suited for those who want a full experience without the expense of private charters. Bottom line: A dynamic, fun-filled trip for active water lovers.
6. Afternoon Boat Tour to Cinque Terre with brunch on board
Starting from Levanto, this 4-hour tour features viewing the Cinque Terre villages from the sea, with stops for swimming and snorkeling in scenic bays. The highlight is the brunch onboard, with regional specialties, offering a laid-back, indulgent experience. The trip is best for those who want to combine gastronomy with sightseeing. Reviewers applaud the guide’s friendliness and the relaxed pace. For travelers who enjoy food and water, this is an excellent pick. Bottom line: Great for food lovers who want a scenic, leisurely cruise.
7. From La Spezia: Portovenere Islands Golden Hour Boat Tour
This 1.5-hour sunset cruise focuses on the Three Islands and Portovenere, offering spectacular views like the Blue Grotto and Madonna Stella Maris statue. The tour is perfect for those wanting a quick, beautiful experience, with prosecco and appetizers to enhance the sunset. Reviewers mention it as “captivating” and “a must-do for sunset lovers.” It’s ideal for travelers short on time but eager for a memorable evening. Bottom line: Short but sweet, perfect for a quick romantic escape.
8. La Spezia: Sunset Boat Tour with Aperitif
This 4-hour cruise takes you to Palmaria Island and Portovenere, with time to swim and relax. The highlight is sipping local wine and snacks while watching the sunset over the Ligurian Sea. Reviewers appreciate the friendly captain and the beautiful views, especially at dusk. It suits couples or small groups wanting a relaxed, scenic evening. Bottom line: Ideal for sunset enthusiasts seeking a peaceful, drinks-in-hand experience.
9. Cinque Terre Sailing Day Trip from La Spezia
This full-day sailing adventure offers a sailing-focused way to see Cinque Terre. It includes stops for swimming, snorkeling, and a Ligurian lunch with regional wine. The small group size (up to 10) ensures an intimate experience, with hands-on sailing tips from the crew. Guests rave about the views, lunch, and the relaxed pace. Perfect for those wanting a more active, engaging experience on the water. Bottom line: Great for sailing fans or those seeking an immersive experience.
10. Blue Boat Cinque Terre Sunset Tour
This private group cruise (up to 6 people) lasts about 3-4 hours, focusing on uninterrupted sunset views. Your captain takes you past fishing villages and the Church of San Pietro, with optional swimming and snorkeling. Reviewers describe it as “spectacular,” especially for romantic groups or families wanting privacy. The boat has restroom facilities and snorkel gear, making it comfortable and fun. Bottom line: Best for private groups seeking a personalized, romantic evening.
11. Cinque Terre: Sunset boat tour with aperitifs
This 3-hour tour emphasizes romance and scenery, with aperitifs onboard and views of the sunset over the coast. It’s praised for its atmosphere, though some mention the music being a bit loud. Ideal for those seeking an intimate, picturesque experience during the evening. If you want a romantic escape with good drinks and stunning views, this tour fits the bill. Bottom line: Short, sweet, and romantic.
12. Boat Tour in the Gulf of Poets, Portovenere and 3 islands
This 3-4 hour tour offers customized visits of Lerici, Tellaro, and the Palmaria islands. It features local food and maritime stories, with a friendly crew that makes the experience personal. Reviewers love the attention to detail and the beautiful spots visited, including the Byron cave. It’s best for travelers wanting a relaxed, guided experience with options to swim and explore. Bottom line: Great for small groups wanting a tailored coastal adventure.
13. La Spezia: Portovenere, Lerici, & Palmaria Island Boat Trip
This 5.5-hour tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Gulf of La Spezia with swimming, lunch, and visits to Portovenere, Lerici, and Palmaria Island. It’s perfect for travelers who want a full-day experience with multiple stops and marine activities. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide Giuseppe and the beautiful scenery. It’s well suited for those who want a day of active exploration combined with relaxation. Bottom line: A thorough, well-rounded option for a complete coast experience.
14. La Spezia: Lerici and Tellaro boat tour
This 2-hour tour offers a short, intimate exploration of Lerici and Tellaro. It’s best for travelers eager to see less-frequented villages by sea, with the chance to learn local stories from guides familiar with the area. The reviews mention the surprise-filled itinerary and the fascinating villages, making it a charming way to conclude your coast visit. Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a quick, authentic maritime experience.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in La Spezia
When selecting your ideal boat tour, consider your budget, time available, and what experiences matter most—whether it’s sailing, swimming, sunset views, or private comfort. For example, if you’re after a romantic sunset, the Cinque Terre Sunset Boat Tour with Appetizers offers an unforgettable experience. If you prefer a full-day adventure with sailing and snorkeling, look at the Cinque Terre Sailing Day Trip. Those seeking privacy and exclusivity should consider the Blue Boat Cinque Terre Sunset Tour.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular sunset or private tours, to ensure your spot. Think about what kind of pace and style suits your group—are you looking for relaxation, adventure, cultural insight, or luxury? Each tour offers something different, so match your choice with your interests.
Final Thoughts
From quick scenic glimpses to full-day sailing adventures, La Spezia offers a wide spectrum of boat tours. For a romantic sunset, the Sunset Boat Tour with Aperitif is hard to beat. If your goal is to explore the Cinque Terre villages from the water, the From La Spezia: Cinque Terre Boat Trip strikes a great balance of scenery and free time ashore.
For those who want a private, customizable experience, the Guided Day Tour on Private Boat to Cinque Terre offers unmatched flexibility. If you’re a water enthusiast eager to sail or enjoy marine activities, options like the Cinque Terre Sailing Day Trip or Gulf of Poets Boat Trip with Swim Stops will suit you perfectly.
Whatever your style, La Spezia’s boat tours promise breathtaking views, memorable experiences, and a fun way to see Italy’s Ligurian coast. Book early, pack your sense of adventure, and enjoy the sea breeze.