Portofino boat tour from Genoa: swim and snorkel the coast

Beaches and a monastery only the boat can reach

A private speedboat tour departing from Genoa's old port takes you to Portofino, Camogli and San Fruttuoso in the Portofino Natural Park, where you swim at secluded beaches, snorkel at Punta Chiappa, and visit a historic monastery facing the sea. The skipper navigates; you choose the start time after booking. Snorkeling gear and an inflatable tow board are included; lunch is on your own.

Step-by-step itinerary

Boat tour from Genoa to Portofino

• Start at Genoa Cruise Port
• Visit San Fruttuoso monastery and Christ of the Abyss
• Explore Portofino Village
• Swim in Natural Park of Portofino
• Lunch and visit Camogli village
• Swim, snorkel, and relax at Punta Chiappa

The Experience

You board a private speedboat at Genoa's cruise port and head south along the Ligurian coast toward the Portofino Natural Park. The boat stops first at San Fruttuoso, where a monastery sits on the beach and the submerged Christ of the Abyss lies below the surface—a bronze statue resting on the seafloor that you can see while snorkeling. From there, the route continues to Portofino village for a walking tour through the harbor-side streets, then to the protected marine area where you swim in front of Paraggi beach, accessible only by water.

The boat makes a lunch stop in Camogli, an old fishing village where you can eat (on your own) and explore the narrow streets and waterfront. The final stretch takes you to Punta Chiappa for snorkeling and a final swim. Snorkeling equipment and an inflatable tow board come with the tour, so you don't need to arrange or rent them separately. The whole outing runs about seven and a half hours, and you can set your own start time by contacting the operator after you book.

The boat is yours alone—no shared departures, no other groups. The skipper handles navigation and timing while you decide how long to linger at each stop. Beaches and coves that require a car and parking to reach from the road are here just a swim away from the boat.

What’s included

• Private speedboat transportation from Genoa's old port.
• snorkeling equipment and an inflatable tow board.
• stops at San Fruttuoso monastery, Portofino village, Camogli's fishing village, and Punta Chiappa for swimming and snorkeling in the Portofino Natural Park.

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyInfant seats availablePets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelers

Operated by Swimming Cetacea

Is this one for you?Book this if you have a free afternoon or morning in Genoa and want to see the coast without renting a car or arranging your own transportation—the boat reaches beaches and the monastery that are unreachable by road, and the skipper handles all the navigation while you swim and snorkel.

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Top questions

What is the Christ of the Abyss at San Fruttuoso?

The Christ of the Abyss is a bronze statue submerged on the seafloor at San Fruttuoso, visible while snorkeling. It sits in front of the historic monastery that stands on the beach, making San Fruttuoso one of the most recognizable stops on the Ligurian coast.

Can I choose what time the boat leaves?

Yes, the starting time is customizable. After you book, contact the operator with your preferred departure time and they will confirm it with you.

Is snorkeling equipment provided, or do I need to bring my own?

Snorkeling equipment is included with the tour, along with an inflatable tow board. You don't need to rent or bring your own gear.

What is included in the price and what costs extra?

The tour includes private transportation on the speedboat, snorkeling equipment, and the inflatable tow board. Lunch during the stop in Camogli is not included and is on your own.

How long does the tour last?

The tour runs approximately seven and a half hours from departure at Genoa's old port through the stops at San Fruttuoso, Portofino, Camogli and Punta Chiappa, and back to the starting point.

Are there beaches where I can swim during the tour?

Yes. You swim in the protected marine area in front of Paraggi beach near Portofino, and again at Punta Chiappa where you also snorkel. Both are accessible only by boat and are part of the Portofino Natural Park.