Portofino: Boat Tours with Paraggina Tender Line

If you’re craving a genuine taste of the Ligurian coast, a boat tour with Paraggina Tender Line might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally floated along these waters, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a truly scenic, relaxing, and authentic experience that offers much more than just a sightseeing cruise.

What immediately draws us to this tour are three main points: the personalized service, the chance to explore lesser-known bays, and the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters away from crowded beaches. The idea of being pampered by an experienced skipper who knows the best spots is appealing, especially when combined with the freedom to truly enjoy each location.

One potential consideration is the duration—ranging from 4 to 8 hours—which might feel long for some travelers, especially if you prefer quick sightseeing or have limited time. However, this extended time allows for a more relaxed pace and deeper immersion into the area’s natural beauty.

This tour is best suited for those who value authentic experiences, beautiful scenery, and a personalized touch—perfect for couples, small groups, or families seeking a leisurely exploration of Liguria’s coast. It’s also ideal for travelers who love swimming, photography, and discovering hidden corners away from the crowds.

Key Points

• Customizable Duration: Options between 4 to 8 hours allow flexibility for different schedules.
• Authentic Local Experience: Skippers are experienced, offering personalized and insightful service.
• Hidden Spots: Stops at Cala degli Inglesi, San Fruttuoso, Punta Chiappa, and Hermit’s Cave showcase lesser-known but stunning locations.
• Sea and Shore: Opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and visiting historic sites like the Abbey and Christ of the Abyss.
• Convenience & Comfort: The tour includes essentials like towels, water, soft drinks, and Ligurian focaccia, adding value.
• Exclusive Access: Some spots, like Cala degli Inglesi, are accessible only by boat and on foot, making this tour special.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Experience: A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The tour begins at Calata Marconi, 38, a location near the O Magazin restaurant, which offers a convenient meeting point for travelers staying in or near Portofino. From there, a speedboat whisks you away into the Ligurian waters, setting the tone for a lively, scenic ride along the coast.

First Stop: Olivetta and the Pictorial Coves

The first highlight outside Portofino’s harbor is Olivetta, a tiny cove where you’ll find the opportunity to swim beneath some of the most beautiful houses perched on the cliffside. This spot is notably quiet, providing a peaceful start to your day. Reviewers mention the “beautiful houses” and the “secluded” nature of Olivetta, emphasizing its appeal for a serene swim and photo ops.

Santa Margherita Ligure: Photo & Exploration Time

Next, you’ll stop in Santa Margherita Ligure for about 30 minutes. This is a chance to snap some photos of the colorful harbor, walk around, or enjoy a quick guided tour if you wish. Many travelers find this stop charming and picturesque, with some reviews noting it as a “perfect photo stop” that captures the essence of Ligurian seaside life.

A Scenic Ride to Rapallo

The journey continues with a 20-minute speedboat cruise to Rapallo, where you’ll have about 40 minutes for activities like swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking in the views. The tour’s flexibility allows you to choose between relaxing in the sun, exploring the town, or taking a long-tail boat ride. Reviewers appreciate the “spectacular views” and the “welcoming local atmosphere” that make Rapallo a worthwhile stop.

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San Fruttuoso: The Jewel of the Coast

The highlight for many is San Fruttuoso, a small bay dominated by the historic Abbey that rises straight from the sea. Here, you’ll get a chance to visit the abbey and its small museum, and perhaps enjoy lunch at one of the local eateries known for fresh, Ligurian seafood.

A major attraction here is the Christ of the Abyss, a bronze statue submerged at 17 meters, visible during swims or snorkeling. Tour reviews mention the “beautiful, peaceful bay” and the “unique experience” of swimming near the statue, which is a must-see.

Punta Chiappa & Hermit’s Cave

From San Fruttuoso, the tour moves on to Punta Chiappa, a dramatic promontory with distinctive puddinga rocks made of pebbles. The area is historically a fishing point, and you’ll see local fishermen still practicing their trade.

The Hermit’s Cave adds a touch of history and mystery; it’s said to have been inhabited by a hermit named Giovanni in the 4th century, living off the sea. Today, reaching the cave is only possible by boat, making it a special and secluded spot. Reviewers mention its “mysterious vibe” and the richness of marine life in the seabed area.

Swimming Spots & Marine Life

At Punta Chiappa, two specific swimming spots stand out. The bougainvillea house offers water so deep blue you’ll feel like you’re swimming in a postcard, while behind the old tuna fishery, the crystal-clear waters allow you to see the seabed from the boat itself. Many comments note how these spots make for memorable swimming experiences, especially because they’re away from crowded beaches.

Final Stop: Camogli

The tour culminates in Camogli, a seaside village with tall, colorful houses on a natural harbor. The town offers charming streets for a leisurely walk, and many reviews highlight its “picturesque” quality. Here, you can explore, take more photos, or simply enjoy the relaxed atmosphere before heading back.

Return Journey

The return to Calata Marconi involves a final 30-minute speedboat ride, giving you one last chance to take in the coast’s scenic views. The entire trip can last up to 8 hours, providing ample time for all the stops or a more relaxed pace.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour’s price includes an experienced skipper, towels, fuel, water, soft drinks, Ligurian focaccia, fresh fruit, and wine. This makes it a great value, especially considering the personalized service and access to exclusive spots.

Lunch at a restaurant isn’t included, so travelers should budget for a meal if they wish to dine ashore. Many reviews suggest bringing snacks or planning a seaside lunch in San Fruttuoso or Camogli to fully enjoy local cuisine.

Practical Details & Considerations

• The tour runs for 4 to 8 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability. Check ahead to align with your schedule.
• It’s a private group experience, which means more personalized attention, but also a higher price point compared to larger group tours.
• The tour is offered in multiple languages including English, French, Italian, and Spanish—helpful for international travelers.
• It’s not suitable for non-swimmers, babies under 1 year, or those prone to seasickness. The experience involves some boat rides, swimming, and walking ashore at certain stops.
• Tips to make the most of the tour: wear sunscreen, bring a hat, and pack a waterproof camera for capturing the blue waters and colorful villages.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Travelers looking for an authentic, intimate experience will find this tour appealing. If you enjoy quiet bays, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and learning about local sites from knowledgeable skippers, it’s perfect. It also suits those interested in photography or history, given stops at iconic landmarks like the Abbey and Christ of the Abyss.

This experience is especially good for small groups or couples who want a relaxed, customized way to explore the coast without the crowds. Be aware that it’s a full-day adventure, so it’s best for those comfortable with boat rides and outdoor activities.

Final Thoughts: Is it Worth It?

Considering everything, this boat tour offers a great balance of scenic beauty, cultural interest, and personalized service. The stops are carefully chosen to showcase both natural wonders and historical sites, making it more than just a boat ride. The inclusion of amenities like towels, drinks, and fruit adds to the comfort and value of the experience.

For those who want to see the Ligurian coast from a different perspective, this tour makes it easy to relax, explore, and enjoy at your own pace. The ability to swim in secluded spots and visit iconic landmarks makes it a worthwhile choice for travelers seeking genuine, memorable moments.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The duration ranges from 4 to 8 hours, depending on the options you select and the stops you prefer to include.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a skipper, towels, fuel, still and sparkling water, soft drinks, Ligurian focaccia, fruit, and wine.

Can I bring my own food?
Lunch at a restaurant is not included, but you are free to bring snacks or plan to eat at one of the stops, like in San Fruttuoso or Camogli.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
It’s not recommended for non-swimmers because swimming and snorkeling are part of the experience, along with boat rides and shore visits.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, it’s not suitable for babies under 1 year, people over 95, or those with mobility issues like non-folding wheelchairs or strollers.

What should I wear?
Light clothing, swimwear under your clothes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and non-slip shoes are advisable.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, particularly those with non-folding wheelchairs or electric wheelchairs.

In all, this boat tour with Paraggina Tender Line offers a beautifully balanced mix of relaxation, discovery, and authentic local flavor—well worth considering for your Ligurian adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: