Cinque Terre Boat Tour: Monterosso to Riomaggiore with Aperitif

Traditional boat ride along Cinque Terre villages with swimming and local drinks

You’ll feel the Ligurian breeze as you sail from Monterosso along Cinque Terre’s coastline, stopping to swim at Guvano Bay and sip prosecco on deck. With a local skipper guiding you through Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, every village brings its own story—and you might find yourself wishing the sun would slow down just a little.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour visiting Cinque Terre villages

• Depart from Monterosso by boat
• Visit Vernazza village
• Swim and snorkel at Guvano beach
• Enjoy drinks on board after swimming
• Stop at Corniglia village
• Visit Manarola village
• Arrive at Riomaggiore village

The Experience

The first thing I remember is the slap of salt on my lips as we pulled away from Monterosso — not even five minutes in and my shoes were already off. Our skipper, Marco, had that easy way locals sometimes do, pointing out which vineyards belonged to his cousin (or maybe he said uncle? My Italian’s not great). The sea looked almost too blue, like someone had turned up the color just for us. We drifted past Vernazza’s jumble of pastel houses clinging to the rock — I tried to take a photo but honestly it didn’t come close.

When we anchored at Guvano Bay, there was this hush except for the water slapping against the hull. I jumped in before I could overthink it — cold at first, then just perfect. Someone handed me a snorkel mask and I saw these tiny silver fish flickering below; felt like being let in on a secret. Back on board, Marco poured prosecco into little plastic cups and passed around chips and olives. The sun was starting to slide down by then, catching on the cliffs. I caught myself grinning for no real reason.

Corniglia came next — perched way up high, not actually touching the sea like the others. You could smell wild herbs drifting down from the terraces. Manarola was all steep alleys and painted shutters; two older women waved from a balcony and one shouted something about “la barca bella.” Marco laughed and told us she says that every day. By Riomaggiore, colors got even brighter somehow. It’s funny how each village has its own mood even though they’re so close together. The whole Cinque Terre boat tour felt both slow and fast at once — maybe that’s just how time works out here.

Top questions

How long does the Cinque Terre boat tour last?

The tour lasts about 3 hours from departure in Monterosso to arrival in Riomaggiore.

Is snorkeling equipment provided during the tour?

Yes, snorkeling masks and floats are included for swimming at Guvano Bay.

Are snacks or drinks included on this boat tour?

Yes, you’ll be offered prosecco, Aperol Spritz, beer, chips, olives and more onboard.

Which villages are visited during this Cinque Terre boat tour?

You’ll see Vernazza, Corniglia (from below), Manarola, and Riomaggiore along the route.

Can children or infants join this boat trip?

No, children and infants are not allowed on this particular tour.

Is hotel pickup included in this experience?

No hotel pickup is provided; you depart directly from Monterosso port.

Is this Cinque Terre boat tour suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

What should I bring for swimming or snorkeling?

You’ll need your swimsuit; snorkel gear is provided but bring your own towel if needed.

What’s included

Your day includes a traditional Ligurian boat ride with an experienced skipper departing from Monterosso; stops for swimming and snorkeling at Guvano Bay with all equipment provided; plus prosecco, Aperol Spritz or beer served alongside snacks like chips and olives as you cruise past Vernazza, Corniglia (from below), Manarola and finally arrive at Riomaggiore before heading back.