Yacht Charter in the Italian Riviera
Imagine mornings with the Ligurian Sea's gentle waves while Portofino's pastel houses shine under the sun and the ocean breeze invites you to explore the deck. A yacht charter in the Italian Riviera provides this unforgettable experience and more. The Italian Riviera stands as one of the Mediterranean's most popular yachting destinations because it unites sophisticated charm with stunning natural landscapes. A yacht charter Italian Riviera vacation combines luxurious experiences with exciting adventures while you sail through sunny coastlines and visit charming seaside towns and picturesque harbors. Your private crewed yacht promises the ultimate comfort to explore the Italian Riviera's main attractions including its busy ports and exclusive boat-accessible coves. Boatcrowd provides the ideal platform through its crewed motor yacht fleet (55’–99’) and superyacht collection (above 100’) for anyone to experience this journey whether they are new to chartering or seasoned yacht guests seeking something special.
Why This Part of Italy?
The Italian Riviera extends along the Ligurian Sea between the French Côte d’Azur and Tuscany as a destination known for its breathtaking coastal beauty and authentic Italian beauty. The Italian Riviera presents a more discreet sophisticated atmosphere compared to its French counterpart through its combination of vineyard-covered sloping lands with small fishing settlements nestled among coves and family-operated restaurants serving authentic local meals. The Italian Riviera yacht charter lets you experience la dolce vita through daily cruises by historic towns above turquoise waters while you spend evenings tasting local wine on deck beneath starlight.
The Italian Riviera stands out as a major attraction because it provides a wide range of activities in its short coastal distance. The region caters to different tastes through its combination of quiet fishing settlements and upscale resort centers. The Italian Riviera dei Fiori (“Riviera of Flowers”) section near Sanremo attracts visitors with its Belle Époque charm alongside its flowering gardens. The Riviera di Levante extends its eastern area to showcase dramatic scenery where the Cinque Terre villages remain as postcard-perfect cliffsides that UNESCO recognized as a World Heritage Site. Your yacht journey gives you the ideal spot to observe these legendary sites as the sea provides an unmatched viewing platform. You can sail directly to Portofino and Vernazza harbor colors before dropping anchor in private bays for convenient shore visits without dealing with crowded trains or narrow roads. Visitors who love the beach can find two exceptional sandy stretches at Alassio and Sanremo that provide perfect conditions for strolling along the shore or jumping into the water from the yacht's swimming platform. The protected Portofino Marine Reserve provides excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities because of its clear waters which support diverse marine life. You can access top-notch locations with ease using a yacht because it matches luxury standards and cultural exploration needs for families and affluent visitors.
An Italian Riviera yacht charter provides affluent families and individuals with an excellent opportunity to combine luxurious living with cultural exploration. The 1950s brought Hollywood stars and European royal families to Portofino which established the coastline as an elite retreat. The region presents a friendly atmosphere that welcomes people from all ages despite its glamorous reputation. The area provides activities for both children and adults to enjoy which include bay swimming and snorkeling alongside medieval castle exploration and seaside hiking and gelato enjoyment in piazzas.
The Ligurian Sea becomes your personal water playground when high-end yachts bring along snorkel equipment along with kayaks and jet skis for passengers to enjoy. Families who want adventure can take special excursions which include snorkeling at the underwater bronze Christ of the Abyss off Portofino and hiking through Portofino Natural Park for breathtaking yacht views.
The Italian Riviera becomes an attractive choice due to its extensive cultural heritage alongside its gastronomic delights. The region known as Liguria holds the origin of pesto alla Genovese and provides Italy with its freshest seafood together with its produce. Each harbor provides an opportunity to taste local specialties including Genoese trattoria-made trofie pasta with pesto and Santa Margherita bakery-made focaccia and fresh branzino from the beach. The region's vineyards yield light reds and crisp white wines including Vermentino and Ormeasco which pair well with the ocean breeze.
Your crewed yacht allows private chef to source local ingredients from markets which enables them to prepare gourmet meals on board for a personalized 5-star dining experience at sea.
Beyond the pleasures of food and scenery, the Italian Riviera is steeped in history and old-world glamour. Many towns along this coast were chic retreats in the 19th and early 20th centuries, and you’ll find echoes of that heritage in their architecture and ambience. Strolling through Portofino, for instance, you pass boutique-lined cobbled streets and elegant villas draped in bougainvillea – a scene straight out of la belle époque. In Sanremo, nicknamed the “City of Flowers,” grand Art Nouveau hotels and a century-old casino hint at its past as a winter resort for European nobility. Even Genoa, the region’s bustling capital and main port, impresses with its rich maritime history and stately palazzi (the Rolli palaces of Genoa’s centro storico are UNESCO-listed). Beginning your charter in Genoa offers the chance to explore its cultural treasures – from the frescoed mansions of Via Garibaldi to the famous aquarium (one of Europe’s largest, and a hit with children) – before you set sail. Likewise, ending a cruise at La Spezia, on the Riviera’s eastern edge, positions you at the gateway of the Cinque Terre and Tuscany.
Notably, the climate and sailing conditions in the Italian Riviera are excellent for yachting, especially during the late spring and summer. The prime cruising season is from late May through September. In mid-summer, average highs are a comfortable 25–30°C (mid-70s to mid-80s °F), and rainfall is scarce – ideal weather for both lazy days on deck and active water sports. The Ligurian Sea is generally calm in summer, and the coastline offers many sheltered bays and modern marinas, which means smooth cruising for families (even those with first-time charterers or children prone to seasickness). These waters are also part of a marine sanctuary for dolphins and whales, so don’t be surprised if a pod of dolphins plays in your yacht’s wake during the journey – a magical bonus especially for the kids. The shoulder months of May, June, or September can be especially rewarding: you’ll enjoy warm weather and fewer tourists on shore, while still benefiting from all the high-season services for yachts.
Finally, what truly sets an Italian Riviera charter apart is the ease and flexibility it affords. In a single week you can comfortably sample the region’s marquee destinations – sipping aperitifs in Portofino one day, swimming off the rugged Cinque Terre the next – all without the packing and unpacking or traffic jams of land travel. Along the way, you’ll enjoy genuine Italian hospitality both on board and ashore – as your crew caters to your every need and the locals welcome you warmly. Even a short 3-day yacht charter can be packed with highlights if planned well. Because the distances between key spots are relatively short, you won’t spend all day in transit; instead, each cruise is an enjoyable part of the journey, with stunning views at every turn. Your captain and crew (often with deep local knowledge) handle all the logistics – from securing prime berths in popular ports to recommending hidden coves for a private swim. They can even arrange exclusive onshore experiences at your request – be it a wine tasting at a Ligurian vineyard, a guided tour of a historic village, or a special beach picnic for your family. With experts taking care of every detail, you are free to relax and immerse yourself in the journey. Inquire now to start planning with Boatcrowd and make this truly enchanting corner of Italy the setting for your next luxury yacht experience.
Yacht Charter for a Day in the Italian Riviera – Most Popular Destinations
A day yacht charter provides the perfect taste of Italian Riviera magic for those who want to experience the region before deciding on a longer sailing trip. A day trip allows you to experience luxury yacht cruising while visiting one or two famous coastal destinations. The small size of the region allows you to visit many highlights in a single day because you can set sail in the morning and explore and relax before returning home in the evening with amazing memories. The Italian Riviera's valuable attractions are situated in close proximity to each other so you can experience its treasures during a short sailing trip. A short yacht charter provides an excellent opportunity to experience the yachting lifestyle because it allows you to try the experience without long-term commitment while also enabling you to add a day at sea to your Italian travel plans. Below are some of the most popular one-day yacht charter itineraries and destinations in the Italian Riviera:
Genoa to Portofino (Historic Port to Glamorous Harbor)
Begin your day in Genoa, a city of grand maritime heritage, and cruise southward along the Riviera di Levante. In just a couple of hours, your yacht will round the verdant promontory to Portofino, the Riviera’s crown jewel. As you approach the harbor, you’ll see Portofino’s famous palette of pastel buildings and gleaming yachts clustered in the bay – a sight so picturesque that Portofino is often called the world’s most photographed port. Spend the afternoon strolling Portofino’s boutique-lined piazzetta or hiking up to Castello Brown for panoramic views of the coast. Your crew can arrange lunch at a renowned seafood restaurant on the waterfront (perhaps the legendary Da Puny, known for its Ligurian cuisine ), or serve a gourmet meal on deck with Portofino’s postcard backdrop in view. After soaking in the town’s charm, enjoy a leisurely cruise back to Genoa by evening. This yacht charter Genoa route offers a perfect mix of urban culture and Riviera glamour in one day.
Portofino, San Fruttuoso & Camogli (Bay-Hopping Adventure)
If you’re already staying near Portofino or Santa Margherita Ligure, a day charter around the Portofino promontory is a must. Your captain can steer the yacht to the secluded bay of San Fruttuoso, accessible only by boat or foot, where a medieval abbey stands at the water’s edge. Here you can anchor for a swim and snorkel – the bay’s clear waters hide the famous submerged statue Christ of the Abyss at 17 meters depth, a unique underwater sight for adventurous swimmers. For lunch, head to the fishing village of Camogli, known for its picture-perfect harbor and delicious focaccia, or have a picnic prepared on board. In the afternoon, cruise at a relaxed pace, keeping an eye out for dolphins, and perhaps drop by the chic waterfront of Santa Margherita Ligure for a quick aperitivo. This day itinerary is perfect for families, offering a mix of adventure, relaxation, and a touch of culture all within a few nautical miles.
La Spezia to Cinque Terre (Villages of the Cinque Terre)
Starting from La Spezia – a convenient charter base with a modern marina – you can explore the legendary Cinque Terre in one unforgettable day. As your yacht departs La Spezia’s harbor and passes Portovenere, you’ll be greeted by the sight of Riomaggiore, the first of five centuries-old villages tucked into the cliffs. Cruising along this UNESCO-listed shoreline, you’ll pass Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare in succession. Each village presents a cascade of multicolored houses and terraced vineyards meeting the sea. Your crew can arrange a stop off Vernazza or Monterosso – the two villages with small harbors – so you can go ashore for a stroll through the winding lanes (perhaps sampling some local limoncino liqueur or artisanal gelato as a treat). From the water, you’ll appreciate the Cinque Terre’s dramatic beauty without the crowds. On the return cruise, consider a late-afternoon pause at Portovenere, just south of Cinque Terre, to admire its church and clifftop castle in the warm glow of sunset. A yacht charter La Spezia day trip like this packs in a ton of scenery and culture, leaving you with the distinct pleasure of having seen these famous locales from the exclusive vantage of your private yacht.
Sanremo & the Western Riviera (Riviera of Flowers Cruise)
On the western end of the Italian Riviera lies Sanremo, an elegant town colloquially known as the “City of Flowers”. This area is aptly nicknamed the Riviera dei Fiori (Coast of Flowers) for its abundance of blooms. A day charter here might involve a scenic cruise along the palm-fringed coast toward the French border, offering views of charming towns like Bordighera and even distant glimpses of Monaco. Stop at a tranquil anchorage near Ospedaletti or Bordighera for a swim in clear waters away from the bustle. Back in Sanremo, take time to explore the town’s inviting old quarter (La Pigna) with its maze of cobbled lanes, or try your luck at the historic Art Nouveau casino. This relaxing itinerary is ideal for those who want a taste of the Riviera’s laid-back side – where Italian charm meets a touch of French Riviera glamour just over the horizon.
Each of these day-charter options offers a unique glimpse of the Italian Riviera’s many facets. The key is personalization: with Boatcrowd’s network of crewed yachts, you can customize your day – from your departure port to the onboard menu and activities – to suit your interests. It’s a perfect choice for celebrations, family outings, or even scouting out where you’d like to spend more time on a longer charter. For instance, you may choose to linger in a tranquil cove for an extended swim or combine multiple villages into one ambitious day – the itinerary is entirely up to you. Your captain and crew will ensure you make the most of the day, striking the ideal balance between sightseeing and relaxation to suit your preferences.
3 Day Yacht Charter in the Italian Riviera – Sample Itineraries
For those who can spare a long weekend or wish to extend their vacation with a short yachting getaway, a 3-day Italian Riviera yacht charter is an enticing option. In three days, you can cover a lot of ground (or rather, water) along this coastline, experiencing a mix of marquee destinations and hidden gems at a comfortable pace. Below are two sample 3-day yacht charter itineraries that showcase different facets of the Italian Riviera. These itineraries are kept brief and flexible – think of them as inspiration, since every charter can be tailored to your preferences.
Portofino & Cinque Terre Highlights (3 Days)
Day 1: Embark in Portofino or Genoa – Santa Margherita & Portofino: Begin your journey by boarding in Genoa(convenient for international arrivals) or directly in the chic harbor of Portofino. After a welcome briefing and settling into your yacht (perhaps a 75-foot motor yacht ideal for families), set sail along the coast towards the Portofino promontory. Enjoy a short cruise to Santa Margherita Ligure, the lively nearby town, where you can anchor for lunch. Santa Margherita’s waterfront is lined with cafes and gelaterias – a perfect introduction to Ligurian life. In the afternoon, cruise just around the corner into Portofino’s picture-perfect bay. Spend the evening in Portofino, sipping Prosecco on deck as the sunset casts a golden glow on the hills and the 16th-century fort above town. Dine on board under the stars or reserve a table at one of Portofino’s renowned waterfront restaurants. (Insider tip: ask your Boatcrowd charter broker to secure a prime berth in Portofino’s tiny marina well in advance, as space is extremely limited in peak season.)
Day 2: Portofino – Cinque Terre – Portovenere: Wake up to a tranquil Portofino morning – perhaps with a stroll to the pastel-painted piazzetta for an espresso and some fresh focaccia. Back on board, your captain will set course southeast along the Riviera. In a couple of hours, you’ll arrive in the waters of the Cinque Terre. As you cruise past the five iconic villages (Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore) from the comfort of your yacht, be sure to have your camera ready – the view of Vernazza’s tiny harbor and castle, framed by steep terraces, is unforgettable. Weather and sea conditions permitting, the crew can launch the tender so you can land in one of the villages (typically Monterosso or Vernazza) for a short exploration on foot. Back on board, enjoy a leisurely lunch as you continue to Portovenere, a gem of a town often considered the “sixth” Cinque Terre village by those in the know. Portovenere’s tall, narrow houses and the Gothic Church of St. Peter perched at the cliff’s edge create a dramatic backdrop for an afternoon swim. Anchor in Portovenere’s sheltered bay or take a mooring near the island of Palmaria just across the channel. In the evening, wander Portovenere’s carruggi (lanes) to pick up artisanal pesto and olive oil, or simply relax on the yacht with a view of the twinkling village lights. Portovenere sits within the Gulf of La Spezia, often romantically called the Gulf of Poets after Lord Byron and other writers who cherished its beauty.
Day 3: Portovenere – La Spezia (or Return to Genoa): Savor a relaxed breakfast on deck, soaking in the serene morning atmosphere of Portovenere’s harbor. If you’re feeling active, you might take a quick hike up to Portovenere’s Doria Castle for a panoramic Gulf view – a great family photo op. Afterwards, depart for a short cruise into La Spezia, where this itinerary concludes. La Spezia’s modern marina (with easy road and rail links) makes for a convenient disembarkation point. Alternatively, if your charter is a round-trip, you can enjoy a longer cruise back up the coast to Genoa, stopping for lunch and a final swim along the way. (The captain might suggest a beautiful bay at Sestri Levante or a revisit to Portofino for one more gelato.) In just three days, you’ll have experienced the Italian Riviera’s most beloved sights and the joys of life aboard a private yacht – a perfect mini-vacation that will leave you yearning to return. Start planning with Boatcrowd to customize this itinerary or craft your own Italian Riviera adventure.
Western Riviera to Central Glamour (3 Days)
Day 1: Sanremo – Alassio – Finale Ligure: Begin in Sanremo, on the western Riviera, where you’ll step aboard your yacht amid the town’s historic harbor. Cruise eastward along the coastline of the Riviera dei Fiori, soaking in views of rolling hills and seaside villages. By late morning, arrive at Alassio, a charming town famed for its long sandy beach and Liberty-style architecture. Enjoy a swim off the yacht near Alassio’s golden shores and perhaps have lunch on deck featuring local olive oil and freshly baked focaccia. In the afternoon, continue cruising to Finale Ligure or the nearby Baia dei Saraceni, a stunning cove with emerald waters. Finale’s long promenade and medieval quarter make it an enjoyable stop if time permits. In the evening, the yacht can anchor in a quiet bay or pull into the marina of Loano or Finale for the night, allowing you to stroll ashore for a relaxed dinner.
Day 2: Finale Ligure – Genoa – Portofino: After breakfast, get underway for a scenic cruise towards Genoa. It’s a longer leg, but your yacht’s comforts – expansive sun pads, air-conditioned lounges, perhaps even a jacuzzi on the sundeck – make the voyage delightful. As you approach the city, the sight of La Lanterna – Genoa’s 500-year-old lighthouse – greeting you from the harbor is breathtaking. Arrive in Genoa by midday and savor the contrast between the peaceful sea and the bustling panorama of Italy’s largest port city. You might disembark for a brief guided walk through Genoa’s historic center (to admire the 16th-century palaces of Via Garibaldi and perhaps sample some authentic pesto), or simply appreciate the cityscape from the yacht. In the afternoon, continue eastward for a short hop to Portofino, arriving by late afternoon. This evening, revel in Portofino’s magical atmosphere, knowing you’ve covered a lot of Riviera coastline in just two days. Enjoy dinner onshore at a boutique restaurant or a sunset cocktail on board, surrounded by megayachts and the twinkling lights of the harbor.
Day 3: Portofino – Camogli – Santa Margherita Ligure: On your final day, take a relaxed morning in Portofino – perhaps indulge in some shopping at the designer boutiques or hike up to the church of San Giorgio for one more panoramic look at the bay. Around midday, begin a leisurely cruise back west. Stop at Camogli, just a few miles along the coast, to admire its postcard-pretty harbor one last time – and maybe take a refreshing dip in the sea. If you wish, make a short detour to the idyllic San Fruttuoso cove for a farewell swim in view of the Abbey. Finally, arrive at Santa Margherita Ligure, where you’ll disembark in the late afternoon. Santa Margherita’s convenient location (and train links) will ease your onward travel, and the town’s friendly charm provides a sweet final memory of your charter. In three days, this itinerary takes you from the western glamour of Sanremo all the way to the heart of the eastern Riviera, showcasing the region’s diversity. It’s an excellent option for travelers who want a taste of everything – and it can be adjusted to include more of what interests you most, be it extra beach time, cultural tours, or gourmet dining stops.
These suggested routes demonstrate how much you can experience even in a long weekend. If you have more time, you could easily extend your journey – perhaps spend a full week venturing further to the Tuscan Archipelago (the island of Elba and its neighbors) or even combine the Italian and French Rivieras in one grand cruise. The beauty of a private charter is that the itinerary is yours to shape. Even in just 3 days, the Italian Riviera’s blend of relaxation and adventure will leave you with incredible memories … and likely a taste for more.
A yacht charter in the Italian Riviera provides access to a realm where luxury meets genuine Italian charm. The Italian Riviera offers you complete freedom to stop wherever you want while receiving personalized care as you discover one of the world's most stunning coastal regions. The Italian Riviera promises enchantment throughout every moment of your day charter or multi-day yacht journey from Genoa to La Spezia and beyond. Boatcrowd guarantees expert yacht planning services through our selection of fine motor yachts and superyachts which makes planning your dream yacht getaway as delightful as the journey itself. So, why wait? The Italian Riviera coastline beckons you to experience either a yacht charter in Portofino or a sailing journey through the Cinque Terre region. The most popular yachts and berths become unavailable during peak summer months so it is essential to start planning early. Contact Boatcrowd immediately to start your inquiry and let the Italian Riviera create an unforgettable luxury yacht charter experience that will stay with you forever.
