Porto Venere stands out as a top travel destination thanks to its dramatic cliffs, colorful villages, and crystal-clear waters. But what makes it truly special are the experiences you can enjoy on the water—whether it’s a romantic sunset cruise, a lively boat tour exploring the archipelago, or a private vessel tailored to your interests. We especially like the Cinque Terre: Sunset cruise tour with aperitif, which offers a perfectly balanced mix of stunning scenery, a relaxed atmosphere, and an included aperitif that makes the magic of sunset even more memorable.
While Porto Venere’s charm is best experienced from the sea, you’ll find a variety of options, from quick half-hour swims to full-day private charters. The list below covers everything from group tours with local guides to exclusive private adventures—each with its own flavor, price point, and appeal. Whether you’re after a leisurely sunset, adrenaline-fueled exploration, or a private day on the water, there’s something here to suit your style.
1. Cinque Terre: Sunset cruise tour with aperitif
At number 1, this 3-hour evening boat trip offers one of the most romantic ways to experience Porto Venere and Cinque Terre. Departing from Cinque Terre Ferries, you’ll cruise along the coast, watching the sun set over the sea with views of Palmaria and Byron Grotto. The highlight? An all-inclusive aperitif and a magical atmosphere as the sky transforms at dusk. This tour is perfect for couples or anyone wanting a calming, scenic end to a day of exploring. Its 4.2-star rating from 179 reviews suggests it’s well-loved for its memorable views and relaxed vibe. The moderate price of $53 per person makes it accessible, and the 3-hour duration fits nicely into most itineraries.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a romantic, low-key experience with stunning sunset views and a full aperitif, perfect for winding down after a day of sightseeing.
2. SIGHTSEEING AND SWIMMING BOAT TOUR
A shorter, more active option, the Sightseeing and Swimming Boat Tour offers 2.5 hours around the archipelago of Porto Venere. It’s rated 4.6/5 based on 27 reviews, making it a favorite for those who want a quick but immersive experience. The tour includes stops at crystal-clear caves, where you can swim directly from the boat, as well as exploring the three islands’ landscapes. It’s great for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing and water fun with minimal fuss. The flexibility to check availability for starting times helps tailor it to your schedule.
Bottom Line: Perfect for water lovers and those seeking a taste of Porto Venere’s natural beauty in a short burst.
3. Cinque Terre & Porto Venere Boat Tour
For a comprehensive experience, the Cinque Terre & Porto Venere Boat Tour combines the best of both worlds in a 5-hour cruise. Starting from Levanto, you’ll pass by Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, then explore Porto Venere with optional shopping and hiking. The tour includes swimming, snorkeling, and an onboard aperitif with local snacks—so it appeals to travelers who love active sightseeing with local flavor. The 5-star reviews reflect high satisfaction, especially for its scenic stops and relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: A fantastic full-day outing for those wanting in-depth exploration with plenty of swimming and stunning scenery.
4. Portovenere: Gulf Poets and Islands boat trip with lunch
Rated 5/5 by those lucky enough to join, this Gulf Poets and Islands boat trip is a luxurious 5-hour journey with fresh, cooked-on-board fish and stops for swimming and water games. It’s ideal for food lovers who want more than just views—they’ll enjoy lunch with freshly caught fish, prepared right on the boat while cruising around Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto Islands. The music, snorkeling, and water activities create a lively, joyful atmosphere. Reviewers note the “spectacular scenery” and “magical day,” making it clear this tour offers both relaxation and adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a gourmet experience combined with scenic exploration and water fun.
5. 5 Terre Private Boat Tour with Skipper
At 8 hours long, this private boat tour offers ultimate flexibility, uncovering the village charms and caves of the 5 Terre with your own guide and skipper. It includes stops at Porto Venere, Riomaggiore, Manarola, Vernazza, and Monterosso, with time for swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying the local flavors. The boat’s speed allows quick transitions between highlights, and the private format ensures a tailored experience. With rave reviews, the value for money and bespoke service make it ideal for travelers who want exclusivity and a customized trip.
Bottom Line: Best suited for groups or couples seeking a personalized, all-day adventure on the water.
6. GHP BOAT – PRIVATE SUNSET TOUR WITH APERITIVO
This 2-hour private sunset tour offers an intimate way to see the three islands of Porto Venere with a relaxed drink included—focaccia and white wine. The small-group setting and scenic views make it perfect for a romantic escape or a quiet moment away from crowds. Rated 4.6/5, travelers enjoy the panoramic vistas and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters.
Bottom Line: A short, romantic option for sunset lovers wanting a relaxed, personalized experience.
7. GHP Luxury Boat 4 Hours Private Tour – Gulf of the Poets
A step up in luxury, this 4-hour private tour cruises the Gulf of the Poets on a Tullio Abbate yacht. It offers spectacular views of Lerici, Tellaro, and the islands, with stops for swimming. The focus on comfort and exclusivity makes it ideal for special occasions or travelers seeking a high-end experience. Its reviews highlight the scenic views and the pleasure of exploring in style.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a luxurious, private day on the water with premium service.
8. Gozzo – Private Tour Gulf of the Poets
Similar to the luxury option but on a traditional Italian Gozzo boat, this 4-hour tour offers a more authentic, relaxed vibe. Departing from Portovenere, you’ll visit Lerici, stop for swims, and enjoy the scenic coastline. It’s a wonderful choice for those who want to experience the Gulf in a classic style.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a genuine Italian boat experience in a smaller, more casual setting.
9. Gozzo – Sunset Tour with Aperitivo Private Boat
This 2-hour private sunset trip offers the same intimate setting as the other private tours, with a scenic cruise around the islands, swimming, and aperitivo with focaccia and white wine. Its reviews highlight the beautiful sunset vistas and the quiet, romantic ambiance perfect for couples.
Bottom Line: A lovely short option for sunset and aperitivo lovers wanting privacy.
10. La Spezia: Sunset with aperitivo in Golfo dei Poeti
This 3-hour sunset tour from La Spezia combines sightseeing, swimming, and a relaxed aperitif aboard, with stops at Porto Venere, Palmaria, and Tino Island. Rated 5/5, it’s praised for its great timing, perfect for catching the sunset while enjoying regional snacks and music. It’s well-suited for those staying in La Spezia who want a scenic, easy evening.
Bottom Line: Excellent for an easy, high-quality sunset experience without traveling far from La Spezia.
11. Portovenere and Islands: Highlight Tour with Sunset & Prosecco
Rated 4.4/5, this 3-hour sunset tour on the charming “Giulietta” boat offers prosecco, music, and sunset views. It includes stops for swimming and snorkeling, with an emphasis on comfort and scenic beauty. The captain’s skill in capturing the perfect photo moments makes it ideal for travelers wanting a relaxing, elegant experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a combination of scenic sunset, good drinks, and a relaxed vibe.
12. Portovenere: Gulf Poet & Islands private boat trip with meal
This private 5-hour trip focuses on Palmaria and Tino Islands, with a freshly prepared fish lunch onboard. It’s suitable for snorkelers and water enthusiasts who want a personalized experience. The review mentions a “magical day” with “spectacular scenery” and excellent food, making it perfect for a special occasion.
Bottom Line: Best for food-loving, water-savvy travelers seeking a private adventure with a delicious meal.
13. Portovenere: Gulf Poet & Islands sunset boat trip with dinner
Rated 5/5, this sunset dinner combines scenic cruising, swimming, and a freshly cooked dinner on board. It’s a high-end option for those wanting both spectacular scenery and gourmet food. Reviewers praise the expert navigation and the captivating stories told during the cruise, making it a memorable splurge.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a luxurious, romantic, and scenic evening.
14. Sunset Tour with Aperitivo from Portovenere
This 2-hour private sunset tour offers a simple, elegant way to enjoy the archipelago’s scenic beauty. With a stop for swimming and an aperitivo of focaccia and wine, it’s perfect for a quick, romantic escape.
Bottom Line: Great for a short, scenic, and intimate experience, especially if you want something easy and memorable.
How to Choose Your Perfect Porto Venere Tour
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, timing, and interests. If a romantic sunset is your top priority, the Sunset tour with aperitivo or GHP Sunset Tour with Aperitivo are excellent. For private, bespoke adventures, the private boat trips or the Gozzo private tour provide exclusivity and flexibility. Budget travelers might prefer the 3-hour sunset with aperitif, while water enthusiasts should consider the full-day private boat trips with swimming and snorkeling.
Booking early is recommended, especially for private tours and during high season, to secure your preferred time and vessel. Think about your activity level—some tours involve swimming or hiking, so choose accordingly.
To sum it up, Porto Venere offers an impressive variety of boat experiences tailored to different tastes and budgets. For a romantic sunset, the Cinque Terre sunset cruise is hard to beat. If you want a full day of discovery, the Cinque Terre & Porto Venere Boat Tour delivers. For those seeking privacy and exclusivity, private options like the GHP Luxury Boat or private sunset tours are ideal. Whatever you choose, these experiences promise unforgettable memories of Porto Venere’s stunning coastline. Book early and enjoy the sea—the best views are waiting just for you.