Cinque Terre: Sunset Boat Tour & Swim from Monterosso

Summary

Sunset boat ride along Cinque Terre villages with snacks, swim and prosecco

You’ll cruise along Cinque Terre’s coast at sunset with a small group from Monterosso, stopping to swim in clear bays near Manarola and snack on Ligurian treats with prosecco. Local guides share real stories as you pass Vernazza, Corniglia, Riomaggiore—and there’s time to just watch the sky change colors over Punta Mesco before heading back.

What’s the experience like?

We were already out past Monterosso’s pier when I realized how salty the air actually tastes — not just a saying. The old wooden gozzo rocked under us, and our guide Marco grinned like he’d done this a thousand times (he probably has). He pointed at Vernazza coming up, all those pastel houses stacked like someone got carried away with gelato colors. There was a bit of spray on my glasses but honestly, I didn’t care. Someone handed around prosecco and focaccia — still warm somehow — and I remember thinking, “Is this what locals do after work?” Marco started telling stories about growing up here; I tried to follow his accent but sometimes just watched the cliffs instead.

We stopped near Corniglia for photos (everyone did), but it was quieter than I expected — just the hum of the engine idling and some gulls yelling at each other. The light was softer than in any postcard. When we jumped in for a swim by Manarola, the water was cold enough to make me gasp but so clear you could see right down to the pebbles. Someone forgot their snorkel mask and ended up borrowing mine; we laughed about it later over another round of snacks. The Cinque Terre coastline looks totally different from out there — less crowded, more… honest? Hard to explain.

Riomaggiore slid by next, all pinks and yellows against the rock. Marco slowed down so we could take photos (“No rush,” he said, which felt rare). There was this little pause where nobody talked — just watching the village catch that sideways sun. On the way back, we stopped at Punta Mesco for one last look as the sky went kind of lavender-orange. I still think about that color sometimes when things get loud at home. Didn’t expect to feel so quiet inside after a boat tour, you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunset boat tour along Cinque Terre coast

• Depart from Monterosso pier
• Sail past Vernazza, enjoy views
• Stop by Corniglia for photos
• Swim and snorkel near Manarola
• Stop in front of Manarola village
• Stop in front of Riomaggiore for photos
• Swim at secret spot in Cinque Terre
• Stop at Punta Mesco to watch sunset
• Return sailing to Monterosso

Top questions

Is swimming included during the Cinque Terre sunset boat tour?

Yes, there’s a stop for swimming and snorkeling in a bay near Manarola during the tour.

Does the tour include drinks or food?

Yes, an Italian aperitivo is served on board with local products plus prosecco, beer, soft drinks and water.

How many people are on each boat tour?

The maximum group size is 12 guests per tour.

Where does the sunset boat tour start?

The tour departs from Monterosso’s pier along the Cinque Terre coast.

Are towels or snorkeling gear provided?

Yes, beach towels and snorkeling equipment are included for use during your swim stop.

Which villages do we see on this Cinque Terre boat trip?

You’ll pass Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore by sea.

Is pickup available from Levanto?

On request it’s possible to arrange departure/arrival from Levanto instead of Monterosso.

Are service animals allowed on board?

Yes, service animals are allowed during this boat tour.

What’s included

Your evening includes departure from Monterosso pier aboard a traditional Ligurian gozzo with a small group (up to 12), use of beach towels and snorkeling gear for your swim stop near Manarola, floating noodles if you want them, plus an Italian aperitivo served on board—think regional snacks with prosecco or soft drinks—before returning as sunset fades over Punta Mesco.