Cinque Terre Coast Boat Tour from Monterosso

Monterosso al Mare and its pier

Monterosso al Mare is the northernmost and largest of the five villages, and the only one with a broad sandy beach. The old town, with its striped stone church and narrow lanes, sits on one side of a small headland, and the newer seafront with its promenade lies on the other. The boat leaves from the pier where the ferries depart.

If you are wondering how to get to Monterosso, it is a short train ride from La Spezia or a ferry ride along the coast. The boat does not wait at the dock, so arrive early, and leave time before your departure for a coffee or a look around the old town.

The Cinque Terre coast from the sea

The coast here has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997, and the sea in front of it is protected as a marine area. From the boat you see what hikers miss: vertical cliffs, terraces held up by dry-stone walls and villages that seem to grow out of the rock. Vernazza, Manarola and Riomaggiore each have their own harbour or landing, while Corniglia sits high on its promontory.

The skipper chooses the exact route according to the weather and sea conditions, so what you pass may vary from one departure to another. Many travellers ask whether a Cinque Terre boat tour is worth it. If you want photographs of the villages and a break from crowded paths and platforms, the answer is yes.

The swim and snorkel stop

Midway through the trip the skipper anchors in a sheltered spot to let you swim and snorkel. Snorkelling equipment is included, so you only need a swimsuit and towel. The rocky shoreline shelters small fish, and the water is clearest on calm days.

The sea is warmest from late June to September, but even on cooler days the stop gives you a pause to enjoy the cliffs from the water. The stop is weather permitting, and the skipper's decision on conditions is final. Non-swimmers can stay on board and enjoy the views.

Morning, afternoon or sunset

The morning departure usually has the calmest sea and soft light, and it leaves the rest of your day free for a swim or a lunch in the village. The afternoon departure has the strongest sun, with the most vivid colours on the cliffs and the clearest water for snorkelling.

The sunset departure is timed for the golden light, when the villages glow and the crowds have thinned. It is the favourite for couples and photographers. The best time to visit the Cinque Terre by boat depends on what you want, so compare the departure times in the booking panel and pick the one that suits your day.