Monterosso Al Mare stands out as a prime spot to enjoy boat tours and cruises along the stunning Cinque Terre coast. Its larger size and beaches make it an ideal base for exploring the region’s colorful villages from the water. Whether you want a luxurious private experience, a romantic sunset cruise, or a family-friendly tour, Monterosso offers a variety of options. We’re particularly fans of tours that mix sightseeing with authentic local flavor — like the Cinque Terre Private Boat Tour with its personal touch and insider stops, or the sunset cruises that turn the coast into a living postcard.
If you’re trying to decide which tour suits your style, this list covers the spectrum—from private excursions that give you full control over your itinerary, to group sunset cruises complete with local treats. You’ll find options suited for those seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both.
1. Cinque Terre Private Boat Tour
At number 1 on our list, the Cinque Terre Private Boat Tour offers a personalized experience aboard a traditional Ligurian gozzo departing directly from Monterosso. This tour emphasizes comfort and intimacy, with a large sundeck perfect for soaking up the sun and scenic views. The captain takes you past all five villages—Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—stopping at key spots for photos, swimming in turquoise waters, and exploring hidden corners only accessible by boat.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility. Guests can request specific stops or enjoy the ride at their own pace. The guide (and captain) Simone is known for sharing lively stories and local tips, making the trip more than just a scenic cruise. It’s perfect for travelers who want a private, relaxed experience and love taking photos or swimming in the sea. Reviews praise Simone’s enthusiasm, with one stating, “He offered us beer, local wine, focaccia, and homemade pesto!”
Bottom line: For around $244 per person, this tour balances exclusivity, comfort, and a focus on authentic coastal exploration. It’s best for small groups or couples looking for a luxury experience with personalized service.
2. Cinque Terre Sunset Cruise with Aperitif from Monterosso
Number 2 is the Cinque Terre Sunset Cruise, a two-hour and 45-minute adventure that captures the coast’s magic at golden hour. This cruise offers relaxed, expansive views of the villages as the sun dips below the horizon. Limited to 12 passengers, it’s an intimate way to experience the shifting colors of the sky reflected on the sea.
The cruise departs from Monterosso’s dock, with stops at Corniglia, Vernazza, and Manarola — each period affords time to admire the scenery, take photos, or simply enjoy the peaceful moment. The highlight is the aperitif, featuring local wine, snacks, and the chance to toast the sunset. The crew is friendly, with Captain Jack praised for his navigation skills and storytelling.
Reviews confirm the appeal: “The beautiful sunset on the water and the friendly crew made this a highlight.” This tour is ideal if you’re after a romantic, laid-back evening with the coast’s best views in a small-group setting. Price-wise, it’s a good value for the experience and the stunning scenery.
3. Cinque Terre Sunset Boat Tour: Golden Hour on the Water
The Cinque Terre Sunset Boat Tour is a slightly longer, more luxurious option that emphasizes comfort and style. At about three and a half hours, it’s perfect for travelers wanting an in-depth, scenic experience during the most photogenic time of day. This tour departs from Levanto (not directly from Monterosso), giving a different perspective on the coast.
The boat itself is brand new, with elegant finishes and hybrid engines, reflecting Italian craftsmanship and eco-conscious design. As you glide along, you’ll see Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, with plenty of time to swim in the crystal waters or snap photos. An aperitif of local delicacies accompanies the journey, making it as much about the culinary experience as sightseeing. The sunset’s vibrant colors are a major draw, offering breathtaking views that only the sea can deliver.
Guests note the attentive crew and the chance to avoid crowds while enjoying a relaxed, boutique-style outing. The cost of $141 per person might seem high, but the blend of luxury, scenery, and local treats makes it worthwhile. This cruise appeals to travelers seeking a refined, memorable experience with plenty of photo opportunities.
Bottom line: This is a top pick for those who want elegance paired with scenic beauty, especially during sunset.
4. 2-Hour Boat Tour at Sunset in the Cinque Terre with Pesto Tasting and Focaccia
Number 4 on our list is the 2-hour Sunset Boat Tour, a shorter but delightful option that combines scenic views with local flavors. This tour departs from Monterosso and takes you past the main villages—Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, and Manarola—while the magical sunset light bathes the coast.
What sets this tour apart is the inclusion of pesto tasting and focaccia, made by a local family, which offers a taste of true Ligurian tradition. This authentic touch elevates the experience from simple sightseeing to culture. The large sundeck provides space to relax, enjoy the panoramic vistas, and swim in the sea if you wish. The reviews highlight the friendly guide, Simone, who shares local stories and tips, making it feel more like a gathering of friends.
At $109.48 per person, it’s excellent value for those short on time but wanting a memorable, flavorful adventure. It’s best suited for travelers who want a mix of scenery, local cuisine, and a relaxed atmosphere. Keep in mind it’s a shorter tour, so pace yourself if you love exploring every village.
Bottom line: Perfect for an afternoon escape that combines scenic beauty with delicious Ligurian food.
5. Cinque Terre Sunset Tour by Private Boat with Pesto and Typical Wine
Number 5 is the Cinque Terre Sunset Private Boat Tour, a luxurious option for a personalized experience. For around $249 per person, you get exclusive access to a traditional Ligurian gozzo, with a large sundeck perfect for relaxing as the sun sets over the villages.
This private tour covers all five villages, with stops for swimming and photo opportunities. The highlight is the curated experience of tasting local pesto and a glass of Ligurian wine, making it ideal for couples or small groups wanting intimacy and customization. The guide’s hospitality and local knowledge make it stand out, providing insights into the area’s culture and scenery.
Guests describe it as “a unique and wonderful experience” and appreciate the flexibility to tailor the itinerary. It’s best suited for travelers seeking privacy, luxury, and a gourmet touch. Its premium price reflects the exclusivity and personalized service, ideal for special occasions.
Bottom line: For a romantic or special celebration, this private tour offers a memorable, tailored experience with authentic food and stunning views.
6. Cinque Terre daily boat tour with traditional Ligurian gozzo
The Daily Boat Tour offers a half-day adventure designed for those who want to see the Cinque Terre from a relaxed, local perspective. Lasting about three hours, this tour features a traditional Ligurian gozzo, with options to enjoy local tapas, prosecco, beer, or soft drinks.
What makes this tour appealing is its focus on authenticity and flexibility. It includes scenic stops at Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and wildlife viewing. The itinerary is flexible, with the crew happy to adjust based on weather or passenger interest. Reviewers highlight the boat’s comfort and the fun, relaxed atmosphere created by the knowledgeable crew, who serve regional snacks and local drinks.
Priced at about $109, it offers good value for a scenic coastal cruise with food and drinks included. It’s ideal for travelers looking for an easygoing, cultural experience that combines sightseeing with the chance to swim and relax.
Bottom line: This tour is great for those wanting a local, authentic feel—especially if they want to include swimming and tasting regional flavors.
7. 3 Hour One-Way Sunset Boat Tour from Monterosso to La Spezia
Lastly, the One-Way Sunset Boat Tour from Monterosso to La Spezia offers a scenic twilight journey along the coast, ending at La Spezia. Priced at around $112.75, this tour provides a different perspective—combining sea views of all five villages with the experience of cruising toward the Gulf of the Poets.
It’s a slower-paced, 3-hour experience that highlights the twilight glow over the villages. The trip includes a stop for swimming and enjoying regional snacks and drinks, with the chance to take photos of the coast as the sun sets. Reviewers mention the personable guides, like Captain Sara, and the quality of the boat, which makes the journey comfortable and enjoyable.
This option is ideal if you’re heading to La Spezia afterward or want a relaxed, scenic transit with a sunset finale. Its value lies in combining transportation, sightseeing, and a memorable sunset experience.
Bottom line: Great for travelers who want to combine travel with a beautiful sunset, especially if heading elsewhere afterward.
How to Choose the Right Cruise or Boat Tour in Monterosso Al Mare
Choosing the right cruise or boat tour depends on your priorities. If you want a private, intimate experience with personalized attention, the Cinque Terre Private Boat Tour is unbeatable. For a romantic evening, the Sunset Cruise with Aperitif offers a perfect blend of scenery and local flavor.
If your goal is a more relaxed, authentic experience, the Daily Ligurian Gozzo provides an easygoing day, and the shorter sunset options balance scenery with timing. Budget-conscious travelers may prefer the 2-hour sunset tour, which includes regional tastings.
Consider your interests—do you want a gourmet experience, culture, or simply to see the coast’s best views? Also, check whether you prefer small-group intimacy or a private charter. Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and experience.
Final Thoughts
Monterosso Al Mare offers a remarkable array of sea adventures, from private luxury to relaxed group outings. For a personalized, high-end experience, the private boat tour with pesto and wine is hard to beat. If you’re after a romantic sunset with local snacks, the sunset cruises are a clear choice. Budget travelers can enjoy the authentic, scenic daily boat tour, while those heading somewhere else can opt for the one-way sunset trip.
No matter your style, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on exploring the best of Cinque Terre from the water. So pick your ideal boat adventure and get ready to see these charming villages from a whole new perspective.