There are places where beauty cannot be fully captured unless you change your perspective, and Liguria must be explored by sea. How many times have you seen from the shore of your favorite beach the boats at anchor, the people happily diving and thought, how lucky they are! They have a boat and don't have to face their sun lounger neighbor every morning because their umbrella gives you shade, or have to arrive early in the morning to ensure the best spots. But have you ever thought that this little spot in the middle of the sea, far from the crowds and immersed in the most crystalline waters, in Liguria, could be you?

Where to take a boat trip in Liguria?

The waters of Liguria merge with those of France and the Principality of Monaco. The vastness of the Ligurian basin means there are countless directions to take and unspoiled places to explore. Did you know that many famous Italians and other countries have their boats moored in Liguria? Far from mass tourism, it is reserved for an elite flow.

• Côte d'Azur: to prove to you that what we have just told you is true, you will see how setting sail from the port of San Remo in about 45 minutes you will find yourself in the port of Monaco, with the renowned Monte Carlo, the smallest city-state in the world after the Vatican. And it is precisely in the Principality that you will find a completely artificial beach inaugurated in 2021: the Larvotto beach, the object of a redevelopment project of the area conceived by one of the most famous architects in Italy: Renzo Piano. Would you like to arrive from the sea, raise your head and enjoy one of the most spectacular views of your life? Sail over the crystal-clear waters, reach the Passable beach, the epic site of Cap-Ferrat, turn your back and the legendary bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer will open up in front of you. And again, the Mala beach at Cap d'Ail, with its rich vegetation, is considered by many to be the most beautiful on this side of the Côte d'Azur.

• Isola Gallinara: distinguished by its peculiar shape that resembles the body of a turtle. A kilometer and a half from the coast, in front of the town of Albenga, its Natural Reserve is home to one of the largest colonies of herring gulls.

• Capo Noli: the view can only be appreciated from the sea, from here you can admire the mountains that plunge directly into the clear water with its seabed full of colorful fish. If you move from Noli towards Varigotti, you will find the Saracen bay, where the water, thanks to the direction of the currents, seems to be the clearest in the area all year round.

• Genoa: some of the most interesting boat trips depart from the port of the historic maritime republic. We recommend the one to the Pelagos Cetacean Sanctuary, established for the protection of marine mammals under an agreement also involving the Principality of Monaco, Tuscany and Sardinia. It is one of the liveliest underwater territories in the Mediterranean and is home to more than 8,200 different species. Wouldn't it be exciting to stop with a boat in the open sea and watch whales, dolphins, grampus, sperm whales, and many others?

• San Fruttuoso: its nestled Abbey among the rocks, belonging to the FAI, makes this place unique in Liguria. Accessible only by sea or by a worthy hike, you can’t pass through Liguria without visiting it: it’s impossible not to be impressed!

• Portofino: village of soft-colored houses, home to boutiques and luxury tourism, large yachts dominate its harbor. Since 1999, its waters have been declared a protected marine natural area and it is particularly interesting for diving enthusiasts: in the center of the MPA and bordering the waters of Camogli, at a depth of 17 meters is the bronze statue of the Christ of the Abyss, which makes the area one of the most famous diving spots.

• Le Cinque Terre: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore are by far the most visited places, the first ones you think of when you think of a trip to Liguria, the colorful houses and large vineyards are a sight you can’t miss. Did you know that traveling by sea you can visit them all in one day? Ideal to avoid too many tourists and for those who don’t have much time.

• Gulf of Poets: the name has already inspired us, don't you think? It is because over the years it has been the destination of writers such as Byron, who were inspired by its idyllic landscapes. It encompasses Porto Venere, a famous UNESCO site with unique views from its promontory. Opposite is the island of Palmaria, the largest of the entire region and also a World Heritage Site: ideal for those looking for alternative beaches!

What kind of boat trips can you do in Liguria?

- Shared boat trip (with aperitif or lunch!): they say that the people you share experiences with will remember them for a lifetime, so whether you go alone, in a small group or just want to meet new people, choose this option! Motorboat or sailboat? In Liguria you can have both of them and in both there is enough space for everyone to feel comfortable: lying on cushions in the sun, relaxation is guaranteed. Moreover, most of these excursions include both an aperitif of cava, local wines and a delicious lunch on board: you won't have to think about anything, don't you think this is a perfect plan?

- Mini sightseeing cruise: discover the most famous villages of the Ligurian coast without worrying about the trip or the weather. You can choose to embark on a shared boat that will dock in the best ports of Liguria, giving you the opportunity to discover several places in a single day: stroll through the historical centers, have a coffee and taste the typical food in the restaurant that most inspires you!

- Boat rental (with or without skipper): did you know that you can drive a boat, even if you don't have a license? All you need is to be of legal age and that the boat has a maximum power of 40 hp and a maximum length of 10 meters. After a brief informative session that will provide you with the basic notions, you will be able to move with total autonomy, choosing the clearest waters in which to dive. Do you want a boat with more power to have a greater radius of exploration? Choose the option of hiring a skipper in addition to the boat: he will take the helm and watch over your safety!

- Exclusive boat trips: a whole Ligurian crew will take care of you and your needs on board, and you and your family or group of friends could enjoy a unique experience on your own boat. Among the equipment needed for snorkeling, the equipment for fun paddle surfing, the open bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, and the connection to the bluetooth speakers to explore the Ligurian Sea with your favorite background music, one thing is for sure: you won't get bored!

- Children's routes: the excursions usually have no age limit, they are really suitable for everyone. Some, however, have a suitable menu for children, and did you know that for the most curious and interested there are even excursions in Liguria with an expert marine biologist on board? You will take the children on a unique tour, discovering the secrets of the seabed, illustrating the most famous species and observing the marine flora and fauna: the little ones will go home happy and the cartoon marine animals will sound more familiar to them!

- Night boat trip: a special occasion is coming up and you want to surprise your better half? In Liguria, there is nothing more romantic than the sea during daytime. Make her wear a light dress and flat shoes, bring a sweatshirt: it might be windy and you will show her that you have really thought of everything. Fish dinner and white wine or sushi and champagne, does she prefer meat? No problem, you can invite her to a barbecue! And after the dessert stay in silence embracing and listening to the sound of your breathing to the rhythm of the waves, as full of love as the day you met.

When is the best time to take a boat tour in Liguria?

Certainly, the best time to explore Liguria by sea is from May to September; in fact, winds can be very strong in other seasons, which grants a break in this period. Liguria's temperatures can be milder in spring and summer, allowing you to fully enjoy the experience and take advantage of the beauty of the sea.

Find the excursion that best suits your needs and make the most of a different kind of vacation, Liguria's offer is immense!