Colourful houses clinging to the rock, terraces plunging into the sea, villages reached by footpaths: the Riviera di Levante is beautiful from land, but from the sea it becomes something else. Here is how to experience the Cinque Terre by boat, together with Portofino and the Gulf of Poets.
Portofino and its headland
The ideal starting point is the Portofino headland, protected as a marine area. The little harbour, with its piazzetta and houses overlooking the water, is one of the most photographed places in Italy. From the sea you can also easily reach Santa Margherita Ligure, with its elegant promenade.
San Fruttuoso
On the outer side of the headland lies the bay of San Fruttuoso, with the ancient abbey overlooking the beach. It can only be reached on foot or from the sea: arriving by boat early in the morning is an unforgettable experience. On the seabed of the bay stands the statue of the Christ of the Abyss.
The five villages
Continuing south-east you come to Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. Four of them overlook the sea, while Corniglia sits on top of a headland. From the sea you really understand how they were built, between rock and vines. To go ashore you use the tender or moor where permitted.
The Gulf of Poets
Beyond the Cinque Terre lies the Gulf of La Spezia, known as the Gulf of Poets. Portovenere, with the church of San Pietro on the cliff, and the island of Palmaria offer quiet anchorages for the night. Further east, Lerici and its castle.
A few days’ itinerary
- Day 1: Santa Margherita and Portofino, dinner in the harbour.
- Day 2: San Fruttuoso in the morning, then sailing towards the Cinque Terre.
- Day 3: Monterosso and Vernazza, swims along the coast.
- Day 4: Manarola and Riomaggiore, then Portovenere for the night.
- Day 5: Palmaria and Lerici, return.
The itinerary changes with the weather: with a strong libeccio or scirocco the captain chooses the best shelter. Read our guide to Mediterranean winds.
Protected areas
Portofino and the Cinque Terre are marine protected areas, with zones where navigation and anchoring are restricted or prohibited. That is also what makes them so beautiful. The captain knows the rules and chooses where to stop; you will find some advice in sustainable chartering.
When to go
May, June and September are ideal months: beautiful light and fewer crowds in the villages. We talk about it in low-season charters.
Frequently asked questions
Where do we depart from?
Usually from the ports of the Riviera di Levante, such as Santa Margherita, Rapallo or La Spezia. We suggest the most convenient port for your arrival.
Are a few days enough?
Yes: even a long weekend lets you see Portofino and part of the Cinque Terre.
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