La Spezia: Sunset Tour into the Gulf of Poets

If you’re dreaming of watching the sun dip behind some of Italy’s most enchanting coastlines, the Sunset Tour into the Gulf of Poets offers a memorable way to do just that. Hosted by Sirius Boat Tours, this two-hour voyage promises more than just beautiful views — it’s a chance to see Liguria’s coast from a unique perspective while enjoying local flavors and a peaceful ambiance far from busy tourist spots.

What makes this tour stand out are its stunning vistas of Portovenere, the chance to relax with a glass of Prosecco while the sun sets, and the opportunity to explore charming seaside villages. That said, it’s worth noting that this experience is quite short, so if you’re craving an in-depth cruise or more extensive stops, you might find it a bit limited. Overall, it’s ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, appreciate authentic Italian coastal charm, and want a relaxed, scenic escape.

This tour suits those seeking a romantic sunset, lovers of beautiful coastal scenery, or anyone wanting a taste of Liguria’s maritime magic without the commitment of a full-day excursion. Whether you’re on a honeymoon, celebrating a special occasion, or just want to unwind, this cruise offers a peaceful, picturesque way to end your day.

Key Points

• Stunning sunset views over the Gulf of Poets and Portovenere
• Authentic local experience with delicious appetizers and drinks
• Close-up views of seaside villages and important maritime sites
• Guided storytelling about the area’s legends and history
• Relaxing music and atmosphere enhance the scenic cruise
• Accessible and flexible options for private or small groups

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Sunset Experience

A sunset boat tour in La Spezia isn’t just about the ride — it’s about capturing the essence of Liguria’s coast in one of its most captivating moments. As you depart from Porto Mirabello, you’ll be accompanied by friendly captains Alessandro and Andres, who add a touch of personal warmth and local insight. The two-hour cruise promises to take you along the coast, observing seaside villages like Marola, Cadimare, Fezzano, and Le Grazie, with a view of the Italian navy’s Arsenal and the Italian Special Forces base.

What’s particularly appealing about this experience is how it combines the natural beauty of the area with historical and cultural tidbits. For example, the guides share stories about the statues and legends linked to the region, such as that of Stella Maris, the sailor’s protector. The boat’s musical background creates a relaxed, cozy environment perfect for unwinding as you cruise past the islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto, and see Torre Scola in the distance.

The Scenic Stops

The itinerary includes several stops and viewpoints, each chosen to highlight the area’s beauty and charm. Stops at villages like Le Grazie and a couple of secret spots are brief — around 5 to 10 minutes — but they’re enough to snap photos, take in the scenery, or enjoy a quick walk. The highlight, of course, is the final approach to Portovenere, where you’ll linger for about 30 minutes to enjoy the sunset from one of Liguria’s most iconic spots.

Food and Drink

During the cruise, you’ll be treated to a selection of local appetizers and drinks, including non-alcoholic options like water, coca-cola, and fruit juices, as well as prosecco and beer. The reviews highlight the quality of the food, with guests mentioning delicious focaccia and tasty drinks that enhance the relaxing vibe. The provided snacks and beverages make the experience feel more indulgent without feeling overly commercial or touristy.

The Atmosphere

With the boat’s onboard amenities, including a bathroom, shadowed seating area, ladder for swimming, and a gentle musical backdrop, the environment is both comfortable and inviting. The guides provide explanations in multiple languages — Italian, English, and Spanish — making it accessible for international travelers.

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The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins with a flexible start point, which may vary based on your booking. Once onboard, the journey begins with scenic drives through picturesque villages, such as Marola and Cadimare, offering quick photo opportunities. These stops provide a glimpse into traditional Ligurian life, away from the more tourist-heavy spots.

Next, the boat approaches Le Grazie, renowned for its peaceful ambiance and stunning views. Short stops here allow for photos and a chance to appreciate the quieter side of Liguria’s coast.

The “hidden gem” and “secret stop” are particularly intriguing — and while brief, they promise a few special vantage points or lesser-known views that add a sense of discovery to the cruise.

Finally, the main event: arriving in front of Portovenere just before sunset. Here, you’ll have about 30 minutes to enjoy appetizers, sip drinks, and marvel at the changing colors of sky and water. Guests consistently mention how magical this moment is, often describing the view as “fantastic” and the atmosphere as “very relaxing.” The experience concludes with a gentle cruise back to La Spezia, leaving you with unforgettable memories.

What You Can Expect

The tour is designed for small groups or private bookings, which means you get a more personalized experience. The boat—equipped with a skipper, bathroom, and shaded area—ensures comfort throughout. If you’re concerned about timing, you’ll appreciate the flexibility that allows for last-minute booking and the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

While the tour is only about two hours, the value lies in how well it combines scenic beauty, cultural insights, and genuine relaxation. The guides’ explanations in multiple languages ensure you don’t miss the stories behind the landmarks, while the music and ambiance keep the mood light and enjoyable.

Practical Tips for the Tour

To make the most of this experience, bring along a towel and beachwear — the ladder makes swimming easy, and the water around these islands is crystal clear. Since towels aren’t included, it’s best to have one handy if you plan to swim or just want to dry off after the cruise.

Dress comfortably, as the boat can be sunny or breezy, and consider arriving a little early to settle in. The meeting point is flexible, depending on your booking, so double-check your confirmation.

How Does the Cost Stack Up?

Given the inclusion of a boat, skipper, drinks, food, and explanations in several languages, this tour offers excellent value for a two-hour experience. The small-group or private options mean you get personal attention, making it feel special without a hefty price tag. Compared to larger, more commercialized tours, this experience emphasizes intimacy and authenticity, which many travelers find worth the cost.

The Sum Up

This sunset cruise in La Spezia is ideal for those seeking a peaceful, scenic, and authentic taste of Liguria’s coast. The combination of stunning scenery, local storytelling, and delicious snacks creates a relaxed yet memorable experience. It’s particularly well-suited for couples, small groups, or anyone looking to unwind and enjoy Italy’s maritime beauty without the rush of a longer tour.

The friendly guides, high-quality amenities, and breathtaking views make it a worthwhile choice, especially if you’re a fan of sunsets, coastal villages, and good local food. While a bit brief, the experience delivers more than enough charm and scenery to justify its cost.

If you’re after a laid-back, picturesque outing that captures the spirit of Liguria, this sunset tour will leave you with a smile and plenty of photos to cherish.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, starting just before sunset, with a flexible schedule depending on your booking.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the boat with skipper, fuel, music, bathroom stop, explanations in multiple languages, drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic), food, and onboard amenities like a hand shower and ladder for swimming.

Are there options for private or small groups?
Yes, the tour can be booked as a private or small-group experience, providing a more personalized and intimate atmosphere.

Is it wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel and beachwear if you plan to swim; additional items like sunglasses and a hat are recommended for sun protection.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for people with back problems or heart conditions, but specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point varies depending on your booking, but it generally begins at Porto Mirabello in La Spezia.

Will I get to see Portovenere?
Absolutely. The final stop offers the best views of Portovenere, especially during sunset, with plenty of time for photos and to soak in the scenery.

Is food included?
The tour provides local appetizers like focaccia and drinks, with a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy during the sunset.

This La Spezia sunset tour balances scenic beauty, cultural storytelling, and relaxed enjoyment — perfect for anyone wanting to soak in Liguria’s coastal magic with a glass of prosecco in hand.

You can check availability for your dates here: