9 Of The Best Tours In Portofino

Portofino is a small but mighty star in Italy’s Ligurian coast. Its colorful buildings, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear waters make every tour a memorable adventure. Whether you want to paddle through secret creeks, cruise past iconic landmarks, or stroll through charming streets, Portofino offers a variety of ways to see its beauty up close. I personally love the Portofino Kayak Tour for the chance to escape the crowds and paddle into caves and coves most visitors never see—plus, it ends with a delightful organic lunch and wine at a scenic viewpoint. It’s a fantastic way to combine active exploration with a taste of local flavors.

If you’re after a relaxing yet scenic experience, the Rapallo: Sunset Boat Tour offers a spectacular sail along the coast with views of Santa Margherita Ligure, Paraggi, and Portofino itself. For those preferring a full day on the water, the Portofino Riviera and Cinque Terre Private Boat Tour delivers an 8-hour journey with swimming, sightseeing, and regional snacks. And for lovers of underwater life, the Portofino: Boat Tours in the Marine Protected Area provides snorkeling amid colorful fish and vibrant seabeds. Each of these tours captures a different aspect of Portofino’s charm, making it easy to tailor your trip.

Quick Overview of Top Tours in Portofino

Our list includes kayaking adventures, luxury boat cruises, and full-day private charters—each offering something unique. Whether you prefer active outings like Portofino Kayak Tour, scenic boat trips such as the Portofino Riviera and Cinque Terre Private Boat Tour, or quick walks through Portofino’s streets, there’s an experience for every interest. Below, we break down each tour’s highlights and what makes it special.

1. Portofino Kayak Tour

At number 1, the Portofino Kayak Tour stands out for its active, intimate encounter with the coastline. For around $56.89 per person, you get approximately 1.5 hours of paddling through Portofino’s Marine Protected Area. This tour is ideal if you like being on the water and want to see caves and secret creeks inaccessible from land. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the guide shares tips about the local environment along the way. Depending on the season, you can also opt for snorkeling or a sunset kayak, adding to the adventure.

What makes this tour shine is its combination of gentle activity and spectacular scenery. Several reviewers mention how this was the highlight of their trip, praising the ease of the activity for beginners and the opportunity to escape crowds. The included organic lunch and local wine afterward provide a perfect wind-down. If you’re comfortable with a bit of physical effort and want a fresh, hands-on perspective of Portofino’s coastline, this is a top pick.

Bottom Line: A perfect choice for active travelers who want a personal connection to the sea and stunning views, with options to snorkel or enjoy sunset paddling.

2. Rapallo: Sunset Boat Tour

Number 2 on our list is the Rapallo: Sunset Boat Tour, offering a 1.5-hour cruise that captures the magic of Liguria at dusk. Starting from Rotonda Marconi, this cruise explores the coast’s hidden bays and picturesque hamlets like Santa Margherita Ligure, Paraggi, and Portofino. As the sun dips behind the water, you’ll enjoy a glass of regional wine and local appetizers, making it a laid-back yet luxurious experience.

The itinerary includes stops for swimming, snorkeling, and taking photos of the stunning seaside villages. It’s an ideal choice if you want to relax on the water while soaking in spectacular views. Many guests praise the smooth ride and the friendly crew, with some noting that sunset views are at their best here. It’s perfect for couples or small groups seeking a romantic, memorable evening without the full-day commitment.

Bottom Line: A relaxed, scenic cruise ideal for sunset lovers and those wanting a taste of the coast’s best views with good company and regional snacks.

3. Portofino Riviera and Cinque Terre Private Boat Tour

For those who want to spend a full day exploring by sea, the Portofino Riviera and Cinque Terre Private Boat Tour is a standout. With a flexible schedule, this tour offers a bespoke experience that can include swimming, snorkeling, sightseeing, and even dolphin watching. Starting from Rapallo, the trip can last between 7.5 and 8 hours, making it ideal for travelers with a full day to dedicate.

This private tour uses a premium fleet, and the itinerary is tailored to your interests. Highlights include visits to San Fruttuoso’s abbey, the colorful villages of Cinque Terre, and stops for regional snacks and drinks onboard. The guide’s local knowledge, combined with the yacht’s comfort, makes for a seamless day on the water. Reviewers note the captain’s skill and the ability to customize the experience, making it perfect for couples, families, or groups wanting exclusivity.

Bottom Line: An exceptional, all-encompassing day trip for those who want flexibility and luxury on the Ligurian Sea.

4. Portofino: Boat Tours in the Marine Protected Area

Number 4 introduces the Boat Tours in Portofino’s Marine Protected Area, lasting around 3.5 hours. This tour is perfect if you want to snorkel amid vibrant marine life and explore the seabed with a professional skipper guiding the way. The boats are brand new and comfortable, providing an enjoyable ride through one of Italy’s most protected and beautiful waters.

The itinerary includes snorkeling at the Christ of the Deep, Punta Chiappa, and other scenic spots. Reviewers mention sightings of dolphins, clear water, and Toni, the local guide, as highlights. It’s an active tour that combines sightseeing and underwater exploration, making it ideal for ocean lovers who want to learn about the marine environment.

Bottom Line: A great pick for snorkelers and marine wildlife enthusiasts looking for a well-organized, eco-friendly boat experience.

5. Cinque Terre: Boat Tours with Paraggina Tender Line

Number 5 offers an 8-hour boat tour that covers the Cinque Terre villages and the surrounding coast. This tour includes stops in Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, with options for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing along the way. The service emphasizes a high level of customer care, with an experienced skipper making sure everyone’s needs are met.

You’ll cruise in a long-tail boat, enjoy guided tours at key stops, and have plenty of free time to explore or relax. The tour’s length and variety make it suitable for travelers who want to see the most famous villages from the water, with the convenience of a well-organized day.

Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who want a comprehensive boat experience of the Cinque Terre, with personalized service and plenty of time for photos.

6. Portofino: Boat Tour with Corvetta 24

Number 6 features an 8-hour boat tour aboard the Corvetta 24, offering a luxury ride around Portofino and the Gulf of Tigullio. This experience is perfect for those seeking comfort combined with scenic exploration. The tour visits San Fruttuoso, Rapallo, Camogli, and Portofino itself, with stops for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing.

The captain is experienced and attentive, aiming to create a personalized journey. Many reviews highlight the quality of service and the opportunity to see multiple sites in one day. It’s a good choice if you want a relaxed pace and access to secluded spots only reachable by boat.

Bottom Line: A luxurious, all-in-one day boat experience suitable for travelers wanting comfort, flexibility, and a scenic overview of the area.

7. Portofino: Boat Tours with Paraggina Tender Line (Longer Version)

This extended version of the Paraggina Tender Line tour offers between 4 and 8 hours of cruising, with multiple stops at Santa Margherita Ligure, Rapallo, San Fruttuoso, and Camogli. It emphasizes personalized attention from an experienced skipper and includes stops for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing.

The flexible timing allows you to craft your perfect day on water, with options to include guided tours and local dining. Reviewers appreciate the professional service and the chance to see many sites from a comfortable boat, making this ideal for travelers who want variety and a relaxed pace.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a flexible, multi-stop boat tour that combines sightseeing, swimming, and regional flavors.

8. Portofino: Boat Tours with Utility Portofino

Number 8 offers a flexible 4-8 hour boat experience, with stops in Santa Margherita Ligure, Rapallo, San Fruttuoso, and Camogli. It features guided tours, swimming, snorkeling, and hiking options, all led by an attentive skipper. This tour provides a rundown of the coast with the ability to customize your stops.

The emphasis on tailored experiences makes it suitable for those who want to combine land and sea activities or visit specific spots like San Fruttuoso or Portofino. Reviewers highlight the professionalism and the convenience of a well-organized trip.

Bottom Line: A versatile choice for travelers who want to see multiple towns and enjoy active water activities at a relaxed pace.

9. Discover Portofino on a Guided Walking Tour

Finally, for those who prefer staying on land, the Discover Portofino on a Guided Walking Tour offers a quick 40-minute stroll through this charming fishing village. It’s perfect for first-timers or those short on time, providing tips on where to eat, shop, and explore.

The small group size (maximum 15 people) ensures an intimate experience, and the guide shares interesting stories about Portofino’s transformation into a luxury destination. It’s an easy, informative way to get a feel for the town’s atmosphere and history without getting wet.

Bottom Line: Ideal for first visits or travelers who want a quick, insider’s look at Portofino’s streets and secrets.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Portofino

Choosing between these options depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. If active outdoor experiences appeal, the Portofino Kayak Tour offers a memorable paddle through caves. For a relaxed, scenic evening, the Rapallo Sunset Boat Tour provides a romantic cruise perfect for sunset lovers. Those with a full day and a desire for luxury will find the Portofino Riviera and Cinque Terre Private Boat Tour a great choice.

If underwater exploration is your thing, the Boat Tours in the Marine Protected Area are hard to beat. For a comprehensive sightseeing experience, the Cinque Terre boat tour combines iconic villages with time for swimming. Budget, schedule, and interest in land versus sea activities will guide your decision.

Final Thoughts

Portofino’s tours range from active paddling and snorkeling to luxurious full-day cruises and quick land walks. Those seeking an adrenaline rush or intimate connection with the sea will love the kayak or private boat options. Relaxed travelers may prefer sunset cruises or short guided walks. Whichever you choose, early booking is wise—these experiences fill up quickly in the busy season.

Remember, whether you want to clip into a kayak, float on a boat, or explore on foot, Portofino offers a way to bring its stunning scenery home in your memory. Pick what fits your travel style best and enjoy the spectacular Ligurian coast.