La Spezia: Gulf of Poets Boat Trip with Swim Stops

If you’re dreaming of exploring Italy’s famed Ligurian coast, a boat trip through the Gulf of Poets might just be the perfect plan. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, countless travelers have shared their experiences, and the glowing reviews, combined with detailed itineraries, tell a compelling story. This 6-hour adventure combines scenic views, historical highlights, refreshing swims, and delicious regional food, all with a friendly crew making sure your day is unforgettable.

What really appeals about this trip? First, the chance to see Porto Venere and Lerici from the water offers a different perspective on these picturesque towns. Second, the onboard food and drinks are praised for quality and variety—think regional snacks, wine, and cocktails. Third, the boat’s facilities—including inflatable suits, paddles, snorkeling gear, and floating platforms—add a fun, interactive element. One thing to consider? The trip is weather-dependent, so if rain or wind roll in, the experience might be less smooth. It’s best suited for travelers craving authentic coastal scenery, relaxed swimming, and a taste of local culture, with the caveat that it might not be ideal for those with mobility issues or seasickness.

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Key Points

Stunning Coastal Views: Experience Liguria’s coast from the water, including iconic towns Porto Venere and Lerici.
Comfortable & Fully Equipped Boat: Equipment like snorkeling gear, inflatable suits, and paddles enhance your experience.
Delicious Local Cuisine & Drinks: Enjoy regional food, wine, cocktails, and snacks onboard—highly praised by previous guests.
Multiple Swim & Photo Stops: Swim in clear waters, take pictures at scenic spots, and relax on inflatable platforms.
Knowledgeable Guides: Guides share interesting tidbits about the area’s history and landmarks.
Flexible Booking & Refund Policy: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with options to reserve and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What to Expect on This Ligurian Boat Tour

The journey begins at Porto Mirabello, where your adventure with BOAT OF SAPO kicks off. The boat itself is spacious and well-equipped, offering a sundeck, restrooms, and all the gear needed for a fun day on the water. The crew, praised widely for their friendliness and attentiveness, includes guides who speak both Italian and English, making sure everyone feels comfortable and informed.

The entire experience spans about six hours, during which you’ll visit the most famous spots of the Gulf of Poets. The itinerary is thoughtfully planned to maximize your time swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying regional delicacies.

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The Stops in Detail

Stop 1: Porto Mirabello
Here, you’ll hop onto a comfortable boat that will be your home for the day. The departure point is convenient, and reviews mention that the crew’s communication — especially by Sara, who provided clear instructions — makes the start smooth.

Stop 2-3: Palmaria & Byron Grotto
The first major stop takes you to Palmaria Island, where you’ll have around 30 minutes for sightseeing. The island’s cliffs and natural beauty give a great backdrop for photos, and the tour often passes by Byron’s Grotto—a favorite for both history buffs and Instagrammers. Reviewers have noted the boat cruises past this cave, providing excellent photo opportunities without the need to disembark.

Swim & Snorkel in Crystal Waters
One of the most praised aspects of this trip is the swimming stops. The water is described as crystal-clear, inviting travelers to jump in and explore marine life. Gear like goggles, snorkeling equipment, and inflatable suits are provided, and guests often remark on how well-stocked and easy to use these are. The floating platforms and inflatable SUPs are also big hits, giving guests space to relax or play in the water.

Stop 4: Porto Venere – A Colorful Gem
The highlight for many is Porto Venere, a UNESCO-listed town famous for its vibrant houses and historic charm. The tour allocates about 2 hours here, including free time to explore, swim, or enjoy regional snacks and drinks onboard. Reviewers love that guides share stories about the town’s legend—like the one where Byron’s cave was born from sea foam. The onboard meal here features regional fare and drinks, which guests say are fresh, tasty, and plentiful.

Stop 5-6: Lerici & Castle Views
Lerici offers stunning views of San Giorgio Castle overlooking the harbor. The stop allows for more swimming, photos, and enjoying the natural beauty of this small town. The reviews highlight the quality of the food and drinks on board, including pasta, prosciutto, and regional cheese, making this stop both scenic and culinary.

Final Return
After about 6 hours, the boat returns to Porto Mirabello, leaving guests with lasting memories of the Ligurian coast, countless photos, and perhaps a new appreciation for the region’s history and natural beauty.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

The Value of Scenic Views & Local Culture

Travelers consistently mention how the unique vantage point from the boat offers a fresh perspective on the coast’s colorful towns and rugged cliffs. The guide’s insights elevate this, as they share stories about the poets and artists who drew inspiration from this landscape. This combination of scenery and storytelling makes for an enriching experience.

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The Food & Drink Experience

Guests often highlight the quality of onboard food—simple regional snacks, pasta, prosciutto, and fresh fruit—that complements the stunning scenery. The drinks, including regional wine, cocktails, and soft drinks, are frequently praised for their variety and quality. Some reviewers even recommend bringing a special bottle or wine to elevate the experience further.

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The Equipment & Facilities

The boat’s amenities, like snorkel gear, floating platforms, and paddles, are described as high-quality and easy to use. Having all these options means you can customize your time in the water, whether you want to snorkel among fish or just relax on the deck.

The Guides & Crew

The guides, including Sara and Filippo, receive multiple mentions for their friendliness, professionalism, and their ability to make everyone feel at ease. Their stories add depth to the trip, and their attention to safety and comfort is much appreciated.

The Flexibility & Booking

The option to reserve now and pay later, along with a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance, makes booking flexible and low-risk. This is a significant advantage for travelers with uncertain schedules or those wanting to lock in a memorable experience without immediate commitment.

Breakdown of the Itinerary & Highlights

Porto Mirabello – Starting Point

The trip kicks off here with a friendly crew, and reviews note how easy it is to find the boat. Sara’s clear instructions help prevent any confusion, especially for first-time visitors.

Palmaria & Byron Grotto – Scenic & Photo Opportunities

The cruise passes by Palmaria Island, famous for its natural beauty, giving a sense of adventure and exploration. The Byron Grotto, in particular, is a favorite, providing a picturesque backdrop for photos without the hassle of hiking or climbing.

Swimming & Water Activities

Guests rave about the quality of the water and the ease of using snorkel gear. The floating platforms and inflatable suits add an element of fun, allowing everyone to relax and enjoy their surroundings comfortably. Reviews show a common theme: travelers appreciated the opportunity to swim in clear waters, often describing it as the highlight of their day.

Porto Venere – Cultural & Culinary Stop

This town’s colorful houses and iconic churches provide photogenic moments. The two-hour stop is enough to explore, swim, and enjoy regional foods. Many reviewers mention how the food exceeded expectations—fresh pasta, prosciutto, and regional cheeses that are simple but delicious, served alongside regional wines.

Lerici & San Giorgio Castle – Natural & Historic Beauty

Lerici’s harbor and castle views are breathtaking. Guests often comment on how the scenic beauty combined with swimming opportunities makes this a memorable end to the tour.

Final Return & Reflection

The cruise concludes back at Porto Mirabello, with many guests feeling relaxed, inspired, and full of stories and photos to share.

Practical Tips & Considerations

Bring your passport or ID for check-in and safety.
Pack beachwear, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen—the Ligurian sun can be strong.
Luggage or large bags are not allowed on the boat, so pack light.
High heels, pets, and alcohol are not permitted onboard.
The tour is weather-dependent; rain or wind might affect the experience.
Not suitable for those with mobility impairments or seasickness—check your comfort levels before booking.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This boat trip is ideal for travelers seeking a balanced mix of scenery, relaxation, and cultural insight. If you enjoy swimming, good food, and stunning coastal views, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a leisurely day on the water with friendly guides and a lively atmosphere.

However, if you’re sensitive to rough seas or have mobility issues, this experience might not be the best fit. The two long stops and multiple swim opportunities require some agility, and the weather can influence how smoothly things go.

FAQs

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The reviews suggest the boat is spacious enough for small groups, with some reports of only a few passengers on board, ensuring personal attention and comfort.

What should I bring for the trip?
You should bring your passport or ID, beachwear, and perhaps a hat and sunscreen. Luggage or large bags are not allowed, so pack light.

What kind of food and drinks are included?
Expect regional snacks, pasta, prosciutto, cheeses, regional wine, cocktails, spirits, and soft drinks. Guests often praise the quality and freshness.

Are snorkel and water gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment, googles, inflatable suits, and paddles are included and are noted for being of good quality and easy to use.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking options also allow you to reserve now and pay later.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children seem to enjoy the stops, especially the swimming and water toys. However, the tour might not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.

How long is each stop?
Stops range from 10 to 30 minutes for photo opportunities or sightseeing, with the main stops in Porto Venere and Lerici lasting about 2 hours and 105 minutes respectively.

What if the weather is bad?
Since the tour is weather-dependent, poor conditions could lead to rescheduling or cancellation. Always check the forecast and communicate with the crew if you have concerns.

Final Thoughts

This Gulf of Poets boat trip offers a fantastic way to see Liguria’s most beautiful coastal towns from a comfortable, fun boat. With excellent reviews praising the guides, quality food, and stunning scenery, it’s clear that many travelers find the experience worth every penny. Whether you’re after a relaxing day on the water, a chance to swim in crystal-clear waters, or a scenic tour filled with interesting stories, this trip delivers.

It’s especially suited for those who value authentic experiences and good value, thanks to the inclusion of food, drinks, and water activities. Just remember to pack light, bring your camera, and prepare for a day of sea, sun, and spectacular views.

Enjoy your voyage through Italy’s legendary Gulf of Poets—an adventure that promises relaxation, beauty, and a touch of history.