The best boat tour in the Cinque Terre
The first time I went to the Cinque Terre, I fell in love with these postcard villages. Colorful houses overlooking the sea, only a few shops and cafes, and some of the best gelato. In the days spent exploring every village, we traveled mostly by train. However, we also hiked and went on a boat tour, and that was the best choice we could make.
There are many advantages to traveling by boat, but what I loved most were the stunning views.
Years later, after moving to Tuscany, we often go back to explore the Cinque Terre. The region has become so popular that it has become almost impossible to take the train at certain hours of the day. Many travelers choose to stay in La Spezia or Levanto, and depend on the Cinque Terre Express train.
By taking the boat, you not only skip the crowds, but can also visit Portovenere and admire the whole coast.
I’m sure you must have a lot of questions about planning the perfect boat tour around the Cinque Terre, so I will try to answer them all.
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Table of Contents
Planning for the perfect boat tour in the Cinque Terre
When we went on a boat tour in the Cinque Terre some years ago we did not plan on doing that. But after we did it, I always recommend it to first-timers.
Where do boat tours leave from?
That depends a lot on the type of tour you decide to do.
However, most tours leave from La Spezia or one of the five villages (Monterosso al Mare in particular), with various stops. For the group tours you cannot choose the departing point, while for the private ones you do have some flexibility.
Should you do a private tour or a group one?
We took the ferry from La Spezia, got off in Portovenere and took the next boat to Vernazza. This was basically the public boat system that operates in the Cinque Terre, thus the boat was packed with people. We didn’t have a guide with us and we had the liberty of planning our visit as we wished.
However, if I were a first timer I would go for the private tour now.
You should also know that many of the boat tours don’t offer time offshore. They simply sail you along the coast, stop in front of each of the villages so you can admire and take pictures. Additionally, many offer wine and snacks onboard, and time for swimming and snorkeling.
What time of day is best?
If you can, I would recommend going for the sunset tour. You might not be able to swim at that time of the day, but the views are the best.
Is it better to see Cinque Terre from the water or land?
Both experiences are a must, when you have the time.
On a boat tour you get to admire the villages from the sea, while on land you get to feel the local vibe.
A boat tour lasts for around 2 hours, and that is enough in my opinion. On the other hand, on land you can explore every corner, taste delicious local food, and even go hiking.
How do you book in advance, and how far ahead should you?
We always recommend booking on official platforms such as Viator or GetYourGuide.
There, you can choose from many options and read people’s reviews. On top of that, you can cancel or change your mind without wasting money.
If you don’t know where to start from, here are some great options worth considering.
Cinque Terre Private Boat Tour
You can do a 2-hour or a 3-hour private tour on a small boat just for you and your group.
Sail past all five Cinque Terre villages – Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore – in style aboard a classic Ligurian gozzo.
Board at Monterosso’s small port (Molo dei Pescatori), and end where you began – no transfers, no hassle.
Book the 2-hour private tour here!
Book the 3-hour private tour here!
Cinque Terre Sunset Boat Tour Experience
Start with an easy meetup right at Monterosso harbor, so no stress finding a hidden dock.
It’s a small‑group cruise—just ~10 people—so you get personalized attention, more space, and a relaxed vibe.
You’ll sail past all five cliff‑side villages bathed in the gorgeous golden light of sunset. Onboard, enjoy a true Ligurian experience: fresh regional bites, local white wine or Prosecco, good company, and even fun stories or history from a friendly English‑speaking crew.
Duration: 2 hours
Cinque Terre by the sea with local wine from Riomaggiore
Embark on a 2 hours 30 minutes experience of sailing along the Cinque Terre coastline with starting and ending point in Riomaggiore.
Learn about the local history, swim in the crystal clear water, and enjoy some glasses of local wine.
Book the tour from Riomaggiore here!
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