9 Best Cinque Terre Boat Tours: Expertly Reviewed with Personal Insights (2023)
LOOKING FOR THE BEST CINQUE TERRE BOAT TOURS? YOU’VE COME TO THE RIGHT PLACE!
When you’re in Italy, exploring the breathtaking beauty of Cinque Terre is a must! While there are plenty of ways to soak in this coastal gem’s charm, nothing quite compares to the adventure of a boat tour!🚤
I embarked on this incredible adventure with my family of 5, and I can confidently say it was one of the BEST if not the best highlights of our Italian vacation. 🤩
Don’t have time to read the full article?
Book this Cinque Terre Private Boat Tour with Sea Breeze Tours ~ with a perfect 5-star rating! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Cinque Terre’s rugged cliffs, colorful villages, and crystal-clear waters are best appreciated from the deck of a boat. ❤️ 🧡 💛 💚
As we sailed along the Italian Riviera, we were treated to some of the most awe-inspiring sights imaginable. Additionally, we had the unique chance to swim in the pristine waters and explore a cave, making our journey even more unforgettable!
In this article, I’ll introduce you to the 9 best Cinque Terre boat tours. I’ve thoroughly researched all these tours for you! They boast high ratings and glowing reviews, so you can skip the research and book your Cinque Terre boat tour with confidence, knowing you’re in for an amazing experience! 🌟👏
Without further ado, here are the 9 best Cinque Terre boat tours!
NOTE:
I highly recommend booking these Cinque Terre boat tours through Viator.com. I personally book with them whenever I travel.
Also as a travel agent, I recommend Viator.com to all my clients for their Italy tours and tickets. What I love about Viator.com is most of the time you are allowed free cancellation up to 24 hours before your booking. It’s just so simple and easy to use.
My Top 3 Picks: Best Cinque Terre Boat Tours
#1 TOP PICK
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Cinque Terre Private Boat Tour with Sea Breeze Tours
✔️ Snacks and drinks provided including prosecco
✔️ Use of snorkeling equipment
✔️ Restroom on-board
#2 PICK
Cinque Terre Private Tour, Sea, Visit of the Villages
✔️ Full-day boat tour
✔️ Snacks and drinks provided
✔️ Land visits to Portovenere, Riomaggiore, and Monterosso
#3 PICK
3-Hour Private Boat Tour of the Cinque Terre with Cinque Terre Sea Tours
✔️ Pesto Cinque Terre, focaccia, water, local wine, and beer included
✔️ Use of snorkeling equipment
Best Private Cinque Terre Boat Tours
No matter if you’re looking for a romantic trip, a family outing, or just a peaceful escape, the following private boat tours will make your Cinque Terre visit unforgettable!
Here are the best private boat tours of Cinque Terre!
1. Cinque Terre Private Boat Tour (Sea Breeze Tours)
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 3 HOURS | 🚤 BOOK NOW
Experience the breathtaking coastal charm of Cinque Terre on this highly-rated Cinque Terre Private Boat Tour with Sea Breeze Tours.
This boat tour conveniently departs from your choice of either Monterosso or Levanto.
You’ll set sail in comfort aboard a boat equipped with a restroom! So no worries about having to use the restroom while on board. This is especially great for those who have young kids!
While on board you’ll listen to the captain tell stories about the rich history, culture, and culinary delights of the Ligurian coastline.
This was the best tour we did during our two weeks in Italy! Matteo was fabulous and did a great job balancing history and fun. Made everyone feel at ease in our family with children ranging in ages from 3-16. Great way to see all of Cinque Terre without the hiking which was hard with a little one. Worth every penny! Thank you!
–Kathleen_M (see more reviews)
And guess what? If you want to visit one of the five charming seaside villages, just ask them, and they’ll make it happen!
On this 3-hour boat tour, you’ll also enjoy a local aperitivo featuring prosecco! 😋. You’ll also have the opportunity to snorkel and swim in the picturesque coves along the way. 🤿 🏊🏻♀️
SUMMARY:
✅ 3-hour private Cinque Terre boat tour
✅ departs from your choice of either Monterosso or Levanto
✅ snacks and drinks provided including prosecco
✅ use of snorkeling equipment
✅ restroom on the boat
BEST BOAT TOURS CINQUE TERRE
2. Cinque Terre Private Tour, Sea and Visit of the Villages (Cinque Terre dal mare)
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 7 HOURS | 🚤 BOOK NOW
The Cinque Terre Private Tour, Sea, and Visit of the Villages with Cinque Terre dal mare is a 7-hour thrilling adventure of Cinque Terre. Yes, 7 hours!!
On this full-day boat tour, you’ll see the stunning coastal wonders of the eastern Ligurian region from the sea and land!! It gives you the best of everything!!
You’ll be cruising aboard a modern, luxurious 750 cabin cruiser known as the gozzo. It even has a restroom on board!
Our day boat trip far exceeded our expectations!! Friendly and knowledgeable, scenery incredible! Our driver took us to great places to swim and awesome place for lunch!! Worth every penny!!! Highlight of our trip!! Thank you!!!❤️❤️
-Anne_H (see more reviews)
On this luxury private boat tour of Cinque Terre, you’ll get the chance to dive into beaches accessible only by sea and enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
The land portion includes docking at the historic towns of Portovenere, Riomaggiore, and Monterosso and exploring.
SUMMARY:
✅ 7-hour boat tour of Cinque Terre
✅ departs from La Spezia
✅ snacks and drinks provided
✅ use of snorkeling equipment
✅ land visits to Portovenere, Riomaggiore, and Monterosso
BEST BOAT TOURS CINQUE TERRE
3. 3-Hour Private Boat Tour of the Cinque Terre (Cinque Terre Sea Tours)
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 3 HOURS | 🚤 BOOK NOW
The 3-hour Private Boat Tour of the Cinque Terre with Cinque Terre Sea Tours departs from Monterosso aboard a traditional Liguarian gozzo.
This boat ride is all about style and soaking in the stunning views. Picture a large sun deck where you can kick back, relax, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
Simone was amazing- beautiful boat and fantastic guide. The homemade pesto and focaccia just delicious. Simone was a wealth of knowledge on the Cinque Terre. The cave
-Theresa_d (see more reviews)
swimming was an added plus!
On this boat tour, you’ll cruise by all five charming Cinque Terre villages, and they’ll even show you Cannetto Beach with its refreshing waterfall. There’s plenty of time to stop, take awesome photos, and swim in the crystal-clear turquoise waters. Plus, they’ll introduce you to their famous “Pesto Cinque Terre” and their delicious focaccia! 😋
And don’t worry about getting thirsty – they’ve got you covered with water, local wine, and beer available throughout the trip. So, if you want to experience the Cinque Terre in style and make unforgettable memories, this is one of the best Cinque Terre boat tours for you.
SUMMARY:
✅ 3-hour private boat tour of Cinque Terre
✅ departs from Monterosso
✅ snacks and drinks provided included local wine and beer
✅ use of snorkeling equipment
BEST BOAT TOURS CINQUE TERRE
4. Cinque Terre Sunset Tour by Private Boat with Pesto and Typical Wine (Cinque Terre Sea Tours)
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 2 HOURS | 🚤 BOOK NOW
Those looking for a private sunset boat tour of Cinque Terre, book the Cinque Terre Sunset Tour by Private Boat with Pesto and Typical Wine with Cinque Terre Sea Tours.
On this 2-hour private sunset boat tour you’ll experience the mesmerizing beauty of Cinque Terre during the enchanting afternoon hours when the sun begins to set and casts a magical light over the villages, cliffs, and coves.
We had a great time on our sunset boat tour. We had already explored the different villages on foot, but seeing them by sea was even more beautiful. Our captain was so knowledgeable and fun, and the focaccia bread and pesto (made by his mother) was amazing. This was definitely a highlight of our stay in Cinque Terre.
-Courtney_S (see more reviews)
You’ll set sail aboard a classic, stylish Ligurian gozzo. With a spacious sundeck, it’s the perfect spot to relax and soak in the breathtaking views. The tour will take you past all five charming villages of Cinque Terre, allowing you ample time to pause and capture amazing photos. You’ll also have an opportunity to swim in the beautiful turquoise waters and explore the hidden, small coves.
To conclude your memorable journey, you’ll be treated to a tasting session featuring their renowned “Cinque Terre Pesto” and mouthwatering focaccia. Complimentary water, beer, and local wine will be also available on board.
SUMMARY:
✅ 2-hour private sunset boat tour of Cinque Terre
✅ departs from Monterosso
✅ snacks and drinks provided including Cinque Terre Pesto, focaccia, water, beer, and wine
✅ use of snorkeling equipment
BEST BOAT TOURS CINQUE TERRE
5. Cinque Terre Private Boat Tour (Cinque Terre Sea Tours)
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 2 HOURS | 🚤 BOOK NOW
Besides their 3-hour daytime tour and their private sunset tour, Cinque Terre Sea Tours also offers excellent 2-hour daytime tours. This 2-hour Cinque Terre Private Boat Tour is perfect for those who don’t have a lot of time but are still looking to experience Cinque Terre from the water. You can choose from several different times in the morning or afternoon.
When you embark on this traditional Ligurian gozzo from Monterosso, you’re in for an amazing way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Cinque Terre. The spacious sundeck provides the perfect setting for you to unwind, and soak in the breathtaking vistas.
Our Tour guide, I think his name was Simmone. Was AWESOME!! It will be a experience to be remembered. He was very knowledgeable about the area, funny, fun to be with. We had 3 young teens on board. He showed them all the best swimming spots with caves. I would highly recommend doing this with your kids. Or anyone for that matter. I was the grandma on board and I loved it!! 😄😄
-Debbie_E (see more reviews)
On this best boat tour of Cinque Terre, you’ll pass by all five villages of the Cinque Terre. You’ll have opportunities to capture stunning photographs and the chance to swim in the beautiful turquoise waters and maybe even explore the hidden coves that dot the shoreline.
As the journey draws to an end, you’ll also be treated to a tasting of the renowned “Pesto Cinque Terre” and their focaccia. To quench your thirst, water, local wine, and beer will also be available during the tour.
SUMMARY:
✅ 2-hour private tour of Cinque Terre
✅ departs from Monterosso
✅ snacks and drinks provided include Pesto Cinque Terre, focaccia, water, beer, and wine
Best Cinque Terre Boat Tours (Non-Private)
The following best Cinque Terre boat tours are highly reviewed boat tours that are NOT private. These best Cinque Terre boat tours are great for those on a tighter budget or for those who may be looking to meet some new friends while experiencing the beauty of Cinque Terre.
Even though these are not private, the following boat tours are intimate and have a maximum of 10-12 people.
6. Cinque Terre Sunset Boat Tour Experience (Sea Breeze Boat Tours)
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 3 HOURS | 🚤 BOOK NOW
The Cinque Terre Sunset Boat Tour Experience with Sea Breeze Boat Tours is an intimate small-group boat tour where you get to experience the Cinque Terre sunset from the water.
This intimate small group boat tour with a max of 10 people is VERY popular and highly rated. In fact, this best boat tour of Cinque Terre has over 200 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ reviews!
Beautiful sunset, knowledgeable guide, perfect swimming, and delicious foccacia. The captain kept the wine flowing.
-Joe_C (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
Departing from either the picturesque Monterosso or Levanto, your journey will take you past the vibrant villages of Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. You have plenty of opportunities for capturing stunning photos.
Your adventure will also include a stop in the charming village of Vernazza, where you’ll have the chance to explore its beauty before reboarding your boat.
You’ll indulge in a delicious aperitif and prosecco as you cruise by these coastal gems and savor the sunset. Plus, for those seeking underwater thrills, snorkeling equipment is readily available on board.
SUMMARY:
✅ 3-hour small group boat tour of Cinque Terre (no more than 10 people)
✅ departs from Monterosso or Levanto
✅ snacks and drinks provided including wine
✅ use of snorkeling equipment
✅ restroom on board
BEST BOAT TOURS CINQUE TERRE
7. Cinque Terre Lunch Boat Tour (Aquamarina)
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 4 HOURS | 🚤 BOOK NOW
For those looking for a unique Cinque Terre experience, the Cinque Terre Lunch Boat Tour with Aquamarina is an excellent option.
This 4-hour small group Cinque Terre boat tour has a max of 12 passengers.
Departing from Monterosso, you’ll embark on an exciting adventure across Vernazza, providing you with plenty of opportunity to capture stunning photographs of the region’s breathtaking natural landscapes. The tour also offers opportunities for a refreshing swim along the way.
We had a WONDERFUL day visiting the Cinque Terre by boat. Definitely a highlight of our time in the Italian Riviera! Our guide was native to the area and shared so much history with us. After touring the villages via boat, we jumped in the water for a refreshing swim towards the caves. Just amazing. The seafood lunch we enjoyed on the boat was one of our best Italian meals. This adventure is definitely on the list to do again if we are so lucky to return.
-Vanessa_M (see more reviews)
During this scenic journey, you’ll sail past the renowned Guvano beach and witness the charming villages of Corniglia and Manarola, both famous for their vineyards and exceptional wines.🍇🍷The tour ends in Riomaggiore, where you’ll enjoy unparalleled views of the nearby islands.
What sets this tour apart is the delicious lunch prepared fresh on board. This meal features locally sourced ingredients, allowing you to savor the authentic flavors of the region while taking in its remarkable scenery.
SUMMARY:
✅ 4-hour boat tour of Cinque Terre (no more than 12 people)
✅ lunch prepared on board
✅ drinks provided including soda/pop and alcoholic beverages
✅ use of snorkeling equipment
BEST BOAT TOURS CINQUE TERRE
8. Relaxing Boat Tour with Aperitif in Cinque Terre (5 Terre Pelagos Boat Tours)
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 2.5 HOURS | 🚤 BOOK NOW
Departing from the stunning village of Manarola, the Relaxing Boat Tour with Aperitif in Cinque Terre with 5 Terre Pelagos Boat Tours is an exciting journey that promises breathtaking moments and unforgettable memories. As you step aboard, a welcome drink sets the tone for the fun adventure ahead. 🍷
The boat navigates the entire Cinque Terre coastline, revealing its awe-inspiring beauty. Your voyage leads to Punta Montenero, the southeast boundary of the Cinque Terre National Park, where you can take a refreshing dip in the pristine waters of the Ligurian Sea.
We had the most amazing morning on the boat. We got to enjoy delicious drinks and snacks, swam multiple times, and learned all about Cinque Terre. Our captain was wonderful. This was the highlight of our trip
-MARY_G (SEE MORE REVIEWS)
The excitement continues as the boat heads to Punta Mesco, the northwest point of the National Park. Here, you might even witness dolphins frolicking in the sea. 🐬
Throughout the tour, an experienced skipper provides fascinating insights into the rich history and culture of the Cinque Terre villages. Strategic stops offer opportunities for swimming and snorkeling, while an onboard aperitif with local wines, soft drinks, and delicious snacks ensures relaxation and indulgence.
SUMMARY:
✅ 2.5-hour boat tour of Cinque Terre (max 10 people)
✅ departs from Manarola at 10:30am
✅ soda/pop, wine, and snacks provided
BEST BOAT TOURS CINQUE TERRE
9. Day Boat Tour Cinque Terre & Porto Venere (Sea Breeze Boat Tours
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH: 5.5 HOURS | 🚤 BOOK NOW
Setting off from either Levanto or Monterosso around 10:00 a.m., you’re in for a fun adventure on the Day Boat Tour Cinque Terre & Porto Venere with Sea Breeze Boat Tours.
On this 5.5-hour tour, you’ll see the colorful coastal villages from the sea while a knowledgeable guide shares insights about the region’s history and culture. You’ll also get to enjoy a tasty aperitif with local treats like focaccia and pesto, complemented by prosecco and background music.
Highly recommend this boat tour! I went with my husband and it was a great experience. The boat was comfortable, not too crowded, and the host was friendly and informative. I really enjoyed learning about the history. The pace of the experience was great- it didn’t feel too long or short. We stopped to swim twice and it was our favorite part. Goggles/snorkels were provided so you could see the fish.
-Rachel_F (see more reviews)
On this tour, you’ll get to explore serene coves perfect for swimming and even go snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. Afterward, your next stop is Porto Venere, a village once beloved by renowned poets. Here, you can visit the Church of San Pietro, an ancient pagan temple with a stunning coastal view.
During quieter months, you might also visit Vernazza or take a final dip in the sea before returning around 3 p.m.
SUMMARY:
✅ 5.5-hour boat tour of Cinque Terre (max of 10 guests)
✅ departs from Monterosso or Levanto at 10am
✅ snacks and drinks provided including bottled water and alcoholic beverages
✅ use of snorkeling equipment
✅restroom on board
✅ freshwater shower on board
FAQs
Here you’ll find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the best boat tours in Cinque Terre.
Absolutely!! A boat tour of Cinque Terre offers stunning views of the colorful villages nestled along the cliffs that you’ll only see by boat. You’ll also have the chance to discover hidden gems like secluded beaches and caves that are often inaccessible by foot.
Snorkeling in Cinque Terre can be enjoyable, but it’s not a top-tier snorkeling destination. The marine life is limited, the coastline is rocky, and water visibility varies. If you’re a casual snorkeler looking for a relaxed experience with basic marine life, you can have a great time. However, for those seeking extensive marine biodiversity or vibrant coral reefs, there are better options elsewhere.
Ideally, plan to spend 2 to 4 days in Cinque Terre, depending on your interests and schedule. Two days allow a quick visit, while three days provide a more relaxed experience. Four or more days offer deeper exploration and leisurely activities. But even if you only have time for 1 day in Cinque Terre do it! One day is definitely doable and better than no days at all!
Determining the “most beautiful” part of Cinque Terre is subjective. Each village has its unique charm. However, I think the most beautiful are Riomaggiore and Manarola.
The best ways to get around Cinque Terre are by train, hiking, and boat. Trains are efficient for moving between villages, hiking offers a scenic and immersive experience, and boats provide unique coastal views.
The ideal time to spend in Cinque Terre varies but typically ranges from a day trip of 8-10 hours to 2-4 days for a relaxed visit.
Final Thoughts: Best Boat Tours Cinque Terre
Booking a boat tour in Cinque Terre is an absolute must for any traveler exploring this breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site.
From the stunning villages and dramatic cliffs to the crystal-clear waters, Cinque Terre is best experienced from the deck of a boat. 🚤
My family and I loved our boat tour adventure in Cinque Terre, and I’m confident you will too! 🌟
You can’t go wrong with any of these featured tours because they all have a stellar 5-star rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ and numerous glowing reviews. 👍
Still unsure about the best Cinque Terre boat tour?
I suggest this Cinque Terre Private Boat Tour with Sea Breeze Tours!
I hope this guide has helped you find the perfect Cinque Terre boat tour for your Italian vacation! 🛥️
Ciao! 🇮🇹🌟
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