La Spezia, boat tour Portovenere, snorkeling and aperitivo

Imagine gliding along the shimmering Ligurian Sea, with sun-drenched cliffs, historic caves, and colorful villages all around you. That’s exactly what this boat tour from La Spezia offers — a chance to see Portovenere and nearby islands from a new perspective, with plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and enjoy local flavors.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the stunning coastal scenery—from the red rocks to the ancient Portovenere panoramic views. Second, the insider knowledge of guides who can share stories and details that bring the area alive. Third, the refreshing swimming and snorkeling stops in crystal-clear waters that beckon for a dip.

One thing to consider is that the tour lasts around 4 hours, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed pace and outdoor activities. It might not be ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those looking for a full day of sightseeing. Still, if you’re after a scenic, authentic experience with a touch of leisure, this tour hits the right notes.

Who’s it best for? Perfect for lovers of coastal scenery, food and wine aficionados, and anyone eager for a quick escape into Liguria’s beautiful waters and charming villages.

Key Points

• Stunning views: See Portovenere, Palmaria Island, and the surrounding cliffs from the water.
• Snorkeling & swimming: Plenty of stops for cooling off in crystal waters.
• Local flavors: Enjoy regional snacks, wine, and Prosecco on board.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable crew who share insight into the area’s history and beauty.
• Comfort & amenities: Modern boat with toilets, showers, towels, and snorkeling gear.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance and reserve with flexible payment options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why You’ll Love the Boat Tour Experience

From the moment you step aboard the boat in Porto Mirabello, you’re greeted with a local welcome drink and a friendly atmosphere. As the vessel sets sail, you’ll get a firsthand view of Portovenere’s ancient charm—its colorful buildings, historic spires, and iconic castle making for perfect photo opportunities.

The tour takes you past the Byron Cave, a spot famous not just for dips but also for inspiring poets and writers with its mysterious atmosphere. Our guide, whose name we wish we knew, was clearly passionate about the area, sharing stories that make each stop feel meaningful. One reviewer even remarked, “Our captain was knowledgeable about the local area, took us to some beautiful spots, and looked after us.”

Discovering the Iconic Stops

Porto Mirabello & Portovenere

Your journey begins at Porto Mirabello, central enough to explore before or after the tour. Once underway, you’ll quickly arrive at Portovenere, a UNESCO World Heritage site. From the water, the town looks almost fairy-tale-like, with pastel-colored houses perched along steep hills.

A quick guided tour (if you opt for the full experience) reveals the town’s history and the significance of the White Madonna statue located in the “Seca del Tinetto,” which is visible just centimeters below the surface—an intriguing detail that adds to the mystical charm.

Tino and Tinetto Islands

Next, you’ll pass by the tiny islands of Tino and Tinetto, home to old monasteries and ancient ruins. These small islands pack a punch in terms of history and scenic beauty. The Tinetto island, in particular, is famous for its ancient Christian relics, and the white Madonna statue atop the island is a notable highlight—visible even from the boat or during snorkeling.

Byron Cave & Red Rocks

One of the tour’s most Instagram-worthy spots is the Byron Cave—a favorite for dips and some quiet reflection. The cave’s aura and connection to literary history give it a special vibe that many travelers appreciate. Then there are the Rocce Rosse, or Red Rocks, with their vivid color and unusual shapes, providing stunning backdrops for photos and a sense of connection to the raw natural beauty of Liguria’s coast.

Swimming, Snorkeling, and Relaxing

The tour isn’t just sightseeing from a distance; you get multiple stops for swimming and snorkeling in the clear waters that hug this part of Italy. Having access to snorkels on board is a plus—reviewers have appreciated the included gear, and some brought their own for comfort.

The water, often described as crystal-clear, invites you to jump in, with some spots featuring rocky coves perfect for exploring beneath the surface. Towels are provided, making it easy to dry off and move smoothly from one spot to another.

Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere on Board

A major highlight of this tour is the food and drink selection. You’ll enjoy a regional snack, accompanied by Prosecco, soft drinks, and local wines, all served with background music that adds to the laid-back vibe. One reviewer mentioned the “excellent selection of food and drink, more than enough for everyone.”

This casual, convivial atmosphere makes the trip feel like a day out with friends rather than a stiff tour. Plus, the boat is equipped with toilets and showers, so you can rinse off after swimming—an appreciated luxury after a few dips.

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The Itinerary in Detail

Start Point: Porto Mirabello
The meeting point is close to a gasoline station, making it easy to find. The tour lasts around 4 hours, including all stops, sightseeing, and leisure time.

Stop 1: Portovenere
A guided overview of this charming town introduces you to its history and highlights. You’ll see the colorful houses, historic church, and the famous castle. The water views from here are postcard-perfect and set the tone for the day.

Stop 2: Tino and Tinetto Islands
You’ll cruise past these tiny islands, home to ancient Christian relics and monasteries. The Tinetto island’s White Madonna statue, just centimeters below the surface, is a special sight.

Stop 3: Byron Cave and Rocce Rosse
These are natural marvels that you can enjoy from the boat or during your swim. The Byron Cave, in particular, is renowned for inspiring poets and offering a secluded spot for dips.

Final Stops: Secret coves and beaches
Throughout the cruise, many stops are in secluded coves and caves—perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun in peace.

Return: Porto Mirabello
After a few hours of exploring, swimming, and snacking, you’ll head back to the starting point, feeling refreshed and filled with beautiful memories.

Practicalities and What to Bring

Comfort is key: Wear your swimsuit and bring a towel. Sunscreen is essential—this tour is all about enjoying the sunshine.
A camera is a must to capture the stunning scenery, and snorkeling gear is available on board, though you can bring your own if you prefer.

Timing: The tour has flexible starting times, so check availability to find a slot that suits your schedule.
Note: This experience isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Booking & Cancellation: You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. This flexibility makes planning easier, especially if your travel dates aren’t yet fixed.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $113.29 per person, this experience provides a well-rounded mix of scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and leisure. The included amenities—snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, towels, and guides—add to the overall value by ensuring comfort and convenience.

Compared to other boat trips that might focus solely on sightseeing, this one balances active fun with relaxation and good local food, giving you a taste of Liguria’s essence without overspending.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy being on the water, exploring scenic coastlines, and having the flexibility to swim and snorkel, you’ll find this experience satisfying. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic regional snacks and good wine, along with the chance to see historic sites from a unique vantage point.

It’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues, but anyone looking for a relaxed, scenic day with a touch of adventure and local flavor will find this tour a real treat.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 4 hours, including stops for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing with snacks and drinks.

What’s included in the price?
You get a welcome drink, snacks with regional specialties, Prosecco, soft drinks, snorkeling equipment, towels, and access to toilets and showers onboard.

Are there any additional costs?
Not if you stick to the included food and drinks. You might want to bring extra snacks or personal items, but everything essential is covered.

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own if you prefer, but snorkeling equipment is provided on board.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour is family-friendly, it’s best for children who can enjoy swimming and snorkeling. It’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s advisable to reserve your spot as availability can vary. You can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Porto Mirabello, near a gasoline station, and returns to the same point.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.

This boat tour from La Spezia to Portovenere and the nearby islands offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural interest, and casual fun. It’s a fantastic way to see Liguria from the water, with memorable stops that include natural caves, historic ruins, and pristine beaches.

The inclusion of regional snacks, wine, and snorkeling gear makes it a great value for a half-day escape. It’s best suited for those who want a relaxed, authentic experience with plenty of opportunities to swim, take photos, and enjoy the coastline at their own pace.

If you’re after a scenic, laid-back tour that combines natural beauty with a taste of local life, this trip is worth considering—and the positive reviews certainly reinforce its appeal.

You can check availability for your dates here: