Liguria

More than 300 kilometers of steep cliffs and rugged coastline dotted with jutting peaks and vast expanses of Mediterranean scrub.

Portofino is one of the most iconic and symbolic places in Liguria. All over the world, in fact, they know the image of this magnificent seaside village, set in the green promontory, with its tall colorful houses arranged in a semicircle around the famous Piazzetta. This pearl of the Mediterranean is now one of the most renowned tourist resorts in the world and attracts thousands of travelers every year, including artists, politicians and international celebrities.

Your yacht charter Liguria route can start from La Spezia, a city that has always been connected to the history of the Navy. It is worth visiting the Naval Museum, as well as the archaeological collections preserved in the Castle of San Giorgio overlooking the city. Make sure to taste the local specialty “mes-ciua,” typical cereal soup, before leaving La Spezia.

The last stop of your luxury yacht charter in Liguria is Deiva Marina, which has one of the largest sandy beaches in Liguria. You can enjoy an invigorating swim in the clear blue sea there, which has been awarded the European Blue Flag several times. Strategically located between the “Cinque Terre” and Portofino, Deiva Marina is connected to the most beautiful resorts of the “Riviera di Levante” and is the ideal destination for sea lovers.

On the third day aboard your Liguria yacht charter you can stop in Erice, a lovely village surrounded by a heavenly landscape that inspired many artists, with an ancient castle situated on the highest point of the bay, and the walls surrounding the old city. Do not miss the Chapel of St. Anastasia and the hexagonal tower. You can moor in the Gulf of Poets to enjoy the splendour of the sunset at this Ligurian pearl.

The Cinque Terre are considered one of the most attractive tourist resorts in Italy. In the Cinque Terre National Park, the villages of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore are connected by a dense network of paths and are known worldwide for their rare beauty. A sea with crystal-clear waters, beaches and rugged coastline, breathtaking views and trails of unparalleled charm make the Cinque Terre the perfect place to spend a vacation immersed in nature and kissed by the sun

Large part of the Cinque Terre’s tourist success is due to their paths and walks which curve round the coast or reach the sanctuaries above each village. The view is breath-taking and anybody can enjoy them: young or old. The most famous one is The Blue Trail, that links all the 5 villages.

Vernazza, a town that consists of a complex web of “alleys” and steep staircases. Go ashore and reach the small square by the sea that is the center of the town and where there is a church dedicated to St. Margaret of Antioch, or go to the castle located on the other side of town.

It is a small fishing village, which is a part of the “Cinque Terre National Park”. Get off the yacht and walk in the historic center along the “narrow streets,” where you can drink a glass of “sciacchetrà” in one of the local wineries or take a stroll to the former Convent of the Capuchins.

Another amazing place of the “Cinque Terre” is Riomaggiore. Cruise or sail there on the fifth day of your boat charter in Cinque Terre. Enjoy a walk through town, where the houses that pepper the hillsides are built one next to another and painted with the typical colours of Liguria. Near the small beach of Fossola, you can set on the Torre Guardiola trail to enjoy superb vegetation and clear views up and down the coast. Couples cannot miss the famous “Love Road”, a picturesque path that begins in Riomaggiore and leads to Manarola, which is the second village of the Cinque Terre.

Corniglia where a long and spectacular cliff connects to a nearby town by a staircase of 365 steps, just like the days of the year. The village is very ancient and charming and has preserved stone houses. From the terrace, which is the last point of the village overlooking the sea, you can admire the ancient valley of the mills.

Relax for a day on the Guvano beach and enjoy an invigorating swim in the sea. If you arrive by yacht in May, do not miss the legendary local festivities, such as “Stappamaggio,” the feast of the “Sciacchetrà.”

You can reach Levanto on the ninth day of your luxury yacht charter in Cinque Terre. It is an agricultural village, called “the gateway to the Cinque Terre.” It boasts one of the largest beaches in the area, which has recently become popular with surfers. In Levanto you can see the church of St Andrew, the medieval lodge, an ancient fortress surrounding the village and the clock tower. Before going back aboard your hired yacht, try the famous “gattafin” and stock up on the wonderful local olive oil.

On the fourth day aboard your charter yacht you can head to Portovenere, a picturesque seaside village. Dating back to Roman period and overlooking the emerald sea, it is framed by three charming islands “Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto”. Portovenere houses the church of St. Peter on the promontory that you can reach by going through the village, Byron cave, the castle and the church of St. Lawrence. You should then stay in town for dinner and try fresh fish on the “calata.”

The resort of Santa Margherita Ligure is one of the most attractive and charming in the Riviera di Levante – the eastern half of the Ligurian coast in north-west Italy – and is also well placed to explore local highlights such as Portofino. Start your visit with a stroll along the promenade, pausing for a morning coffee or afternoon ice-cream along the way. The seafront is the main attraction at Santa Margherita Ligure, with its beach (Gio e Rino Beach and Baia di Paraggi), lively harbour and promenade, and is very picturesque with palm trees, grand buildings and brightly coloured houses immediately behind the seafront.

Next day head for Bocca di Magra, known for being the meeting place of famous artists and writers, such as Montale, Einaudi, Pavese and Vittorini who made it their summer residence. This small town is perfect for people looking for a peaceful getaway in the beautiful surrounding. Bocca di Magra is a fantastic destination for discovering small islets, hidden coves and out-of-sight beaches, which are only accessible by water. This is why Bocca di Magra appeals to a large number of yacht charterers.

Bonassola, one of the most picturesque towns on the Ligurian coast with a myriad of narrow alleyways filled with local craft shops. The bay has a half-moon shape and offers a well-equipped beach. In Bonassola there are several spectacular bars and restaurants perfect for a relaxing drink or for a romantic dinner by candlelight.