Rapallo: Portofino, San Fruttuoso and Camogli Boat Tour

Exploring Liguria’s rugged coastline by boat offers a blend of breathtaking scenery, charming villages, and unforgettable moments on the water. This popular tour, run by Orange Wave, takes you through some of the most iconic spots in the region—Santa Margherita Ligure, Portofino, San Fruttuoso, Camogli, and Paraggi—each with its own distinct charm. With a 4.6-star rating from 33 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this experience rewarding.

We love this tour for its stunning ocean views, the opportunity to snorkel in crystal waters, and the insider tips from knowledgeable guides. The inclusion of stops at renowned destinations like Portofino and Camogli makes it a fantastic way to cover multiple highlights in a single day. Plus, the chance to explore underwater life with provided snorkeling equipment is a real bonus. That said, a potential consideration is the exposure to sun and weather—a bigger sunshade might be welcomed by some passengers, as noted by a reviewer.

This trip is best suited for water lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those with limited time who want a well-rounded taste of Liguria’s coast without the hassle of multiple transports. If you enjoy scenic boat rides, charming towns, and a bit of swimming, this experience is hard to beat.

This experience made our article of Rapallo’s 3 Best Cruises And Boat Tours: Which To Choose?.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal scenery with panoramic views from the water.
• Multiple stopovers at Portofino, Camogli, and other scenic spots.
• Snorkeling opportunities with provided equipment.
• Expert guidance from qualified skippers who share insights on the region.
• Flexible timing with two-hour to full-hour stops for exploring on land.
• Comfortable boat amenities including sunshade, freshwater shower, and onboard music.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Initial Cruise

The tour begins at Rotonda Marconi, where Orange Wave’s office is conveniently located. Here, you’ll meet your skipper and get a quick briefing before boarding the boat. The actual cruise kicks off with a 10-minute sightseeing sail to set the tone for the day—expect to enjoy your first glimpse of the Ligurian coast, with its rugged cliffs and scattered villas.

Santa Margherita Ligure

The first real stop is Santa Margherita Ligure, a picturesque town fringed with pastel-colored buildings and a lively marina. The 10-minute pause here is perfect for photos and stretching your legs. Many reviews mention the town as a charming introduction, with some taking a quick walk to admire the local architecture or grab a coffee.

Portofino: The Star of the Show

Portofino is undoubtedly the highlight of this cruise—a tiny fishing village that packs a punch. The boat docks here for about an hour, offering enough time for a quick walk, shopping, or a coffee break. Reviewers love the scenic views on the way in and the chance to snap pictures of the colorful harbor.

Many travelers appreciate the flexible schedule, leaving plenty of time to explore or simply relax and soak in the scenery. One reviewer noted, “If you don’t have enough time and wish to visit both, this is a great tour.” The area is lively but small enough to see the main attractions within the allotted time.

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San Fruttuoso and Its Marine Charm

Next, the boat cruises to San Fruttuoso, a tiny bay famous for its abbey and underwater treasures. Here, the 40-minute stop allows for swimming, snorkeling, and even brief scuba diving. The water’s crystal clarity is frequently praised, and many mention the vibrant marine life visible beneath the surface.

A reviewer fondly recalled, “The spots we stopped for swimming, Portofino, and Camogli are all so beautiful,” highlighting the appeal of this watery stop. The snorkeling gear included makes it accessible even for those new to underwater exploration.

Camogli: A Traditional Fishing Village

After another cruise segment, the boat arrives at Camogli for about 1.5 hours, giving travelers time to explore on land. The town’s colorful houses and lively streets make it a favorite for strolling and local cuisine. Guests often grab an aperitivo or street food, appreciating the authentic Ligurian atmosphere. A reviewer mentioned, “You get to discover the town’s beauty on land before returning,” emphasizing the balance of land and water activities.

Paraggi and Final Relaxation

The journey continues with a stop at Baia di Paraggi, where guests can swim or snorkel in calm, clear waters. The 30-minute break here is ideal for a relaxing dip or snapping more photos. Many travelers appreciate the chance to enjoy a peaceful moment before the final cruise back to Rotonda Marconi.

Wrapping Up the Day

The final cruise segment is a leisurely 20-minute sail back, with a sense of satisfaction after a day filled with scenic views, charming villages, and underwater adventures. The boat’s amenities, such as the sunshade and freshwater shower, help keep everyone comfortable throughout.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Knowledgeable guides and skippers add depth to the experience, sharing insights about the coastline and landmarks. Many reviewers mention how the guides enhanced the trip with local tips and interesting facts, making it more than just a boat ride.

The scenic routes between stops are particularly praised—many comment on how the views of cliffs, villas, and coves are breathtaking from the water. The crystal waters provide excellent snorkeling opportunities, with equipment included to make it easy for those who want to explore beneath the surface.

Flexibility is another highlight. With stops ranging from 10 minutes to 1.5 hours, you can tailor your experience—whether wanting to take photos, enjoy a quick swim, or walk around charming towns. The tour’s duration of 5 hours strikes a good balance between sightseeing and relaxation.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts about 5 hours, with availability depending on the day and weather conditions. It’s important to arrive 30 minutes early at Rotonda Marconi to check in and get settled. The boat includes fuel, a qualified skipper, snorkeling gear, and onboard amenities like music and a freshwater shower, adding to the value.

Remember, swimming suits, towels, and sunscreen are not included, so plan to bring these along. While the boat offers plenty of shade, a larger sunshade could enhance comfort on hot days, as some guests noted.

Prices are reflective of the comprehensive experience, blending scenic cruise, stops, and guided insights. For travelers seeking a hassle-free way to see Liguria’s highlights from the water, this tour offers excellent value.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This boat tour is ideal for those short on time but eager to see multiple highlights of Liguria’s coast. It suits water lovers, especially those who enjoy snorkeling and swimming in clear waters. If you appreciate picturesque villages and scenic boat rides, you’ll find plenty to love here.

It’s also a good choice for families, couples, or small groups, thanks to its relaxed pace and inclusive amenities. However, those prone to seasickness or seeking a more active land-based experience might find this tour less suited to their preferences.

Final Thoughts

This boat journey offers a well-rounded way to discover Liguria’s most iconic locations, combining scenic views, charming villages, and underwater adventures. The balance of land and sea, along with the professional guidance, makes it a strong choice for travelers wanting a memorable, picture-perfect day.

While a larger sunshade might improve comfort for some, the overall experience delivers excellent value for the price—especially considering the snorkeling gear and multiple stops. Whether you’re after stunning coastal scenery, photo opportunities, or just a relaxing day on the water, this tour covers it all.

If you’re keen to see Portofino’s elegance, Camogli’s authenticity, and San Fruttuoso’s underwater charm in a single outing, this experience is definitely worth considering. It’s a fantastic way to soak up Liguria’s beauty without the hassle of organizing separate transport or tours.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for people prone to seasickness?
This tour might not be ideal if you’re susceptible to seasickness, as it involves a boat ride along unpredictable coastal waters.

How long is the total tour?
The experience lasts approximately 5 hours, including all stops and cruising time.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might want to bring snacks or a light meal, especially if you plan to explore towns on land.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and possibly a hat or sunglasses for sun protection. Towels and sunscreen are not provided.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Yes, snorkel equipment is included, and the waters are praised for their clarity and marine life.

Is there a guide on board?
Your skipper is qualified and knowledgeable, often sharing insights about the region and landmarks.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent and can be rescheduled or canceled in case of unfavorable conditions, so check the forecast before booking.

This boat tour offers a scenic, well-organized way to explore Liguria’s coast, combining natural beauty with charming towns—all in a comfortable, fun setting. Whether you’re snapping photos, swimming in crystal waters, or simply soaking up the views, it promises a memorable day on Italy’s beautiful Riviera.

You can check availability for your dates here: