Yacht Charter in Genoa | Luxury Yacht Rentals
Genoa is the vibrant gateway to Italy’s famed Italian Riviera – a city where medieval charm and modern luxury meet by the sea. Imagine stepping aboard your private yacht in Genoa’s historic harbor, with the 500-year-old La Lanterna lighthouse bidding you farewell as you set sail. A yacht charter in Genoa offers an unrivaled blend of cultural exploration and indulgent relaxation. By day, you can cruise along Liguria’s stunning coastline to exclusive ports like Portofino or toward the French Riviera; by night, return to gourmet dining on deck under the Mediterranean stars. Whether you’re a first-time charterer or a seasoned guest, Genoa promises a luxury yacht charter experience with an adventurous twist – all tailored by Boatcrowd’s expert team for families and luxury travelers seeking the extraordinary.
Why Charter a Yacht in Genoa
Prime Gateway to the Italian Riviera
Genoa’s strategic location between the French Côte d’Azur and Tuscany makes it the perfect springboard for exploring the Italian Riviera. In one direction lie the glamorous western resorts (like Sanremo, the “City of Flowers”) and in the other, the picturesque villages of the east (Portofino, Cinque Terre, Portovenere). A yacht charter Genoa itinerary lets you effortlessly cover more than 200 km of coastline at your own pace – from hidden coves to marquee destinations – without the hassles of land travel. With your private yacht, you can hop between Liguria’s UNESCO-listed gems (such as Genoa’s own Palazzi dei Rolli and the cliffside Cinque Terre villages) and drop anchor in secluded bays that few tourists ever see.
Culture, History & Culinary Delights at Every Port
As a historic maritime republic, Genoa is rich in art, architecture, and legend – it even claims Christopher Columbus among its sons. Strolling Genoa’s medieval alleyways, you’ll encounter ornate churches and the grand palaces of Via Garibaldi (many of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites). Beyond Genoa, each stop on the Riviera offers its own charms: pastel fishing villages, medieval castles, and open-air markets. Food lovers will be in heaven – this is the birthplace of pesto Genovese and focaccia, and every harbor town has trattorias serving fresh Ligurian seafood and local wines. From Savona’s chickpea farinata to Portofino’s upscale dining, a yacht charter allows you to savor regional specialties in their place of origin. Your Boatcrowd crew can even source ingredients from local markets so the private chef on board can prepare authentic delicacies – imagine a pesto pasta lunch enjoyed on deck as you cruise to the next port!
Smooth Sailing & Family-Friendly Adventure
The summer climate in Liguria is ideal for yachting – warm, sunny days around 75–85 °F and gentle breezes. Genoa’s harbor and the surrounding seas are well-protected and generally calm in the charter season, meaning even first-time charterers or children prone to seasickness will feel comfortable. The region boasts modern marinas and safe anchorages, ensuring worry-free mooring each night. Families will find plenty of adventure: the Ligurian Sea is part of a marine sanctuary teeming with dolphins and even whales – don’t be surprised if a pod plays in your yacht’s wake. Many yachts come equipped with water toys like snorkel gear, kayaks, and jet skis; you can snorkel above coral-laced reefs (perhaps even around the Christ of the Abyss statue off Portofino) or paddle along scenic coves. On shore, kid-friendly attractions await – from Genoa’s renowned Aquarium (one of Europe’s largest) to sandy beaches at Alassio and Sanremo, and gelato shops in every village. A luxury yacht charter Genoa adventure truly offers something for every age and interest, all delivered with five-star comfort and service.
3 Day Yacht Charter Genoa to Sanremo – Sample Itinerary
Experience the best of Liguria’s western Riviera (the Riviera di Ponente) on this three-day voyage from Genoa to Sanremo. In just 3 days you’ll cruise from Genoa’s historic port through charming seaside towns and into the glamour of Sanremo, covering roughly 80 nautical miles of coastline at a relaxed pace. (This itinerary is a one-way route; Boatcrowd can help arrange logistics for a seamless journey. Of course, every charter is bespoke – you can adjust stops or make this a round-trip as desired.)
Day 1: Genoa – Savona – Finale Ligure
Your yacht charter begins in Genoa’s Porto Antico, where you depart amid views of Genoa’s majestic skyline and the distant Apennine hills. Cruising west along the coast, you’ll pass colorful Ligurian villages and perhaps catch a final glimpse of Genoa’s La Lanterna lighthouse receding astern. By late morning, drop anchor near the island of Bergeggi, a marine reserve south of Savona, for a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters. After a leisurely lunch on deck, continue past Savona’s imposing fortress and onward to the Finale Ligure area. This afternoon, you might stop at Baia dei Saraceni, a stunning cove near the village of Varigotti, for another swim in emerald-green water surrounded by cliffs. Arrive at Finale Ligure by early evening – this charming town boasts a long crescent beach and an atmospheric medieval quarter in Finalborgo just inland. You can choose to anchor off the coast or pull into the modern marina at Loano for the night. Step ashore to stroll Finale’s palm-lined promenade or enjoy a relaxed dinner of local seafood and wine. The first day sets the tone for a laid-back luxury yacht charter along the Riviera, blending cruising with beach time and village charm.
Day 2: Finale Ligure – Alassio – Imperia
Awaken to a beautiful Riviera morning and breakfast with a view of Finale’s golden beaches. Today’s journey continues westward. Around mid-day, you’ll reach Alassio, a beloved resort town famed for its 3‑mile stretch of soft sand and Liberty-era architecture. Anchor off Alassio’s beach and take a swim or tender ashore – perhaps for a plate of trofie al pesto and a scoop of gelato along the beachfront promenade. Don’t miss a quick look at “Muretto di Alassio,” a wall decorated with tiles autographed by famous visitors, reflecting the town’s dolce vita heritage. Back on board, cruise around Capo Mele, enjoying panoramic views of the rugged coastline, as you set course for Imperia. By afternoon, arrive in Imperia’s Porto Maurizio harbor, greeted by the sight of the hilltop San Maurizio Cathedral – the largest church in Liguria. Imperia actually consists of two districts (Porto Maurizio and Oneglia) divided by a river, each with its own character. Thanks to a special microclimate, Imperia was officially recognized as the Italian town with the best weather (lots of sunshine, low humidity, and gentle breezes year-round). Spend the evening in Imperia strolling the picturesque waterfront. You might dine alfresco at a cozy trattoria on Oneglia’s side, sampling the town’s famed olive oil and fresh-caught fish. After dinner, enjoy a nightcap on deck – the clear skies here are perfect for stargazing. (Insider tip: Imperia’s marinas are less crowded than Sanremo’s, making them a peaceful stop. Your Boatcrowd charter broker can arrange any special tours, such as an olive mill visit in Oneglia, if you’re interested.)
Day 3: Imperia – Sanremo
It’s a short cruise on the final day, so you can savor a relaxed morning in Imperia. Perhaps take a quick hike up to the old town of Porto Maurizio for a panoramic view of your yacht in the harbor, or visit a café for a cappuccino and some focaccia di Recco (cheese flatbread) before casting off. Around mid-morning, depart Imperia and continue west along the Riviera dei Fiori (“Coast of Flowers”), named for the flower farms and gardens that flourish in this area’s mild climate. As you approach Sanremo, you’ll notice the hillside greenhouses and the grandeur of villas – hints of the city’s illustrious past. Arrive at Sanremo’s Porto Sole marina by lunchtime, where the crew will secure your berth among sleek superyachts. Sanremo has been one of the Mediterranean’s ritziest resorts for over a century, a favorite hideaway of nobility and film stars. Now it’s your turn to explore its delights. Stroll through La Pigna, Sanremo’s historic old quarter, a labyrinth of cobbled lanes draped in bougainvillea. Visit the iconic Casino di Sanremo, a 1905 Art Nouveau casino where you might try your luck at roulette under frescoed ceilings. If you’re traveling with family, a visit to the Giardini Nobel (lush public gardens) or a bicycle ride along the coastal promenade are great options. Before you conclude your charter, toast the journey with a glass of Ligurian Vermentino wine on deck, celebrating three days of exploration and luxury. In just 3 days, your yacht charter from Genoa to Sanremo will have taken you from the historical grandeur of Genoa through quaint beach towns to the elegant ambience of Sanremo – a perfect introduction to the Western Italian Riviera. To continue this adventure, you could even extend into France’s Côte d’Azur (Menton and Monte Carlo are just beyond the horizon). Every element can be tailored to your wishes – start planning with Boatcrowd to customize this Sanremo itinerary or design your own west coast route. Ready to turn this into reality? Inquire now with Boatcrowd and let us craft your unforgettable Genoa–Sanremo yacht charter.
3-Day Yacht Charter Genoa to La Spezia – Sample Itinerary
Heading east from Genoa, this three-day sample itinerary highlights the jewels of the Riviera di Levante (eastern Liguria), including Portofino’s glamour, the UNESCO-listed Cinque Terre, and the historic Gulf of La Spezia. It’s an ideal luxury yacht charter Genoa route for families and first-timers, as travel distances are short but attractions are plentiful. (You can run this as a one-way Genoa-to-La Spezia trip or round-trip back to Genoa. Consider this a taste of what’s possible – Boatcrowd will gladly adjust the schedule to suit your preferences.)
Day 1: Genoa – Santa Margherita Ligure – Portofino
Your crew welcomes you aboard in Genoa (convenient if you flew into Genoa’s international airport), and after a safety briefing and settling in, you’ll cruise east along the curving Ligurian coast. Enjoy the views as urban landscapes give way to green hillsides dotted with pastel towns. By late morning, your yacht rounds the Portofino promontory and enters the Gulf of Tigullio. Santa Margherita Ligure, a lively seaside town, is your first stop. Anchor off “Santa,” as locals call it, and head ashore to stroll its palm-lined harbor promenade. Perhaps enjoy a light lunch at a café – don’t miss the local focaccia col formaggio (cheese focaccia) or a scoop of artisan gelato. In the afternoon, it’s just a short hop around the headland to Portofino, the most iconic port of the Italian Riviera. As you glide into Portofino’s postcard-perfect harbor, you’ll be greeted by a half-moon of brightly colored houses and the sight of luxury yachts moored just off the piazzetta. It’s easy to see why Portofino is often called the world’s most photographed port. Spend the evening in Portofino, soaking up “la dolce vita.” You might hike up to Castello Brown or the Church of San Giorgio for panoramic views, or browse the designer boutiques around the piazza. As sunset casts a golden glow on the hills, enjoy aperitifs on deck – Prosecco for the adults, fresh lemonade for the kids – and watch the scene light up. Dinner can be on board under the stars, or reserve a table at a renowned waterfront restaurant like Da Puny for some of the region’s finest cuisine. (Insider tip: Portofino’s marina has very limited space. Ask your Boatcrowd charter broker well in advance to secure a prime berth, or plan to anchor just outside the harbor and use the tender. Either way, the experience of evening in Portofino is magical.)
Day 2: Portofino – Cinque Terre – Portovenere
Wake up to the gentle sounds of Portofino’s harbor – fishing boats puttering out to sea and church bells in the distance. After breakfast on deck (perhaps with some freshly baked focaccia from Portofino’s bakery), your captain charts a course southeast along the Riviera. In under two hours, you’ll arrive at the famed Cinque Terre coastline, a highlight of any yacht charter in Genoa and Liguria. The Cinque Terre – five medieval villages perched on steep cliffs above the sea – together form a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its unique beauty. From the water, you have an unbeatable view: pastel buildings tumbling down to tiny harbors, terraced vineyards clinging to the hills, and clear turquoise waters below. Cruise slowly by Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, and be sure to have your camera ready; Vernazza’s harbor with its castle tower is especially photogenic. If the seas are calm, the crew can launch the tender so you can go ashore in one of the villages (Monterosso or Vernazza are usually best for ease of landing). Wander a bit – maybe hike a short segment of the seaside trail or grab an espresso – then return to your yacht for lunch. This afternoon, continue down the coast to the Gulf of La Spezia. At the gulf’s entrance lies Portovenere, often called the “sixth Cinque Terre” for its breathtaking charm. Glide past Portovenere’s Church of St. Peter, which sits dramatically on a rocky point above the sea, and the row of tall, narrow harborfront houses painted in sorbet hues. Portovenere’s harbor is an ideal anchorage for the night. Go for a swim in the sheltered bay, perhaps near the Byron’s Grotto (a cave favored by the poet Lord Byron) – the water here is incredibly clear. Come evening, you can tender into Portovenere to explore its medieval lanes (stock up on local pesto and olive oil if you like) and dine at a quaint osteria serving regional classics. The view of your yacht anchored against Portovenere’s lit-up medieval skyline will be a memory to treasure.
Day 3: Portovenere – La Spezia (or Return to Genoa)
Enjoy a peaceful final morning aboard. Early risers might venture to Doria Castle above Portovenere for a panoramic view of the Gulf of La Spezia – a fantastic family photo opportunity. Back on the yacht, savor your last breakfast – perhaps a spread of fruits, focaccia, and coffee – while the sun plays on the calm waters of the gulf. It’s a short cruise to La Spezia, the main city at the gulf’s eastern end, which you’ll reach by late morning. La Spezia’s modern Porto Mirabello marina is a convenient end point with easy rail and road links (and it’s a gateway to explore Tuscany if you’re continuing your travels). As you disembark in La Spezia, take a moment to reflect on the sights of the past three days: you’ve experienced the Italian Riviera’s most beloved locales, from Portofino’s glamour to the wild beauty of the Cinque Terre and the storied charm of Portovenere – all in one perfectly tailored trip. In just 72 hours, this Genoa to La Spezia charter showcases the best of Liguria’s east coast, leaving you plenty of inspiration for a longer return visit. If you are doing a round-trip, your captain can plot a leisurely cruise back toward Genoa this afternoon, possibly stopping for one more swim in a secluded bay (Sestri Levante’s Baia del Silenzio is a lovely choice) or revisiting a favorite village for a last taste of gelato. Whatever you choose, Boatcrowd is here to make it happen – from arranging a private winery tour in the Cinque Terre hills to securing that special dinner reservation in Portofino. When you’re ready for the yacht to take you further, just say the word. Start planning with Boatcrowd to extend this itinerary or craft a new one – perhaps a week exploring Corsica and northern Sardinia, or a combo of the French and Italian Rivieras. The possibilities are endless.
Start Planning Your Genoa Yacht Charter
A yacht charter in Genoa unlocks the very best of the Italian Riviera – all in ultimate comfort and style. In one long weekend, you can sip aperitifs in Portofino, swim off the Cinque Terre, and roll dice at Sanremo’s casino, all without repacking a single suitcase. It’s this freedom and indulgence that make private yacht charters so irresistible. Boatcrowd’s team stands ready to curate every detail of your journey, from selecting the perfect luxury yacht to crafting a custom itinerary that suits your interests and timeline. The most popular yachts and prime berths in Genoa’s area do book up fast, especially for the summer season. So why wait? Start planning with Boatcrowd today – inquire now to secure your dates and let our experts turn your Genoa yacht charter dreams into an unforgettable reality. Your Italian Riviera adventure awaits!
