Portofino Boat Tours: Explore the Italian Riviera Like Never Before

The Ligurian Riviera is a timeless jewel of the Italian coastline – a place where history, natural beauty, and coastal elegance come together in a symphony of unforgettable experiences. Winding between rugged cliffs and pastel-colored fishing villages, this stretch of paradise is best admired from the water. And there’s no more immersive, authentic way to do that than with Portofino boat tours by Orange Wave.

Imagine the sensation of sea spray on your face as your boat slices through crystalline blue waters, revealing secret coves, Roman-era villages, and forested promontories that drop dramatically into the sea. Whether you’re drawn by the rich culture, the luxury of Portofino’s harbor, or the tranquil intimacy of a shared boat journey, our tours offer a gateway into a world that’s as refined as it is wild.

At Orange Wave, we don’t offer just boat rides – we curate experiences crafted to reveal the true soul of the Ligurian coast. Our Portofino boat tours are designed to capture the essence of this land: romantic, sun-drenched, and infused with the slow rhythms of sea life. With starting points in Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure, each of our four signature shared tours showcases a different face of the Riviera — from legendary destinations like Portofino and San Fruttuoso to hidden villages untouched by time.

Whether you’re daydreaming of a golden-hour cruise with wine in hand, snorkeling near a submerged statue, or stepping into quaint harbors lined with bougainvillea and cobblestone, our shared boat tours invite you to live the Ligurian dream — one gentle wave at a time.

If you’re yearning for crystalline waters, cinematic sunsets, and the quiet glamour of Portofino’s harbor, these Portofino boat tours are your first-class ticket to discovering a world where nature and elegance exist in perfect harmony.

So climb aboard. Let the sea lead the way. Here are the four unforgettable journeys you can book today with Orange Wave — where every tour is more than a destination; it’s a memory in the making.

1. Portofino Gulf Boat Tour – The Signature Experience

Tour page: Portofino Gulf Boat Tour

This tour is the beating heart of our Portofino boat tours lineup. Setting sail from the charming town of Rapallo, this experience invites you to discover the Gulf of Tigullio in all its glory. Glide past the serene bay of Santa Margherita Ligure and into the iconic harbor of Portofino – the postcard-perfect fishing village that has enchanted travelers and celebrities for generations.

Highlights:

• Cruise along the picturesque Portofino Natural Park coastline.
• Disembark in Portofino for a quick stroll or a waterfront espresso.
• Swim in the turquoise waters near Paraggi Bay.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day or a visual feast of Mediterranean beauty, this tour encapsulates the essence of Portofino boat tours in just a few serene hours.

2. Sunset Portofino Boat Tour – Romance on the Riviera

Tour page: Sunset Portofino Boat Tour

As the sun dips into the sea, the colors of the Ligurian coast come alive in ways words can hardly capture. Our Sunset Portofino Boat Tour is a must for couples, photographers, and anyone seeking a magical perspective on the Riviera.

Starting in the late afternoon, this tour sails through the golden-hour glow across the Portofino Gulf. It’s the ultimate romantic experience and one of the most sought-after options among our Portofino boat tours.

Highlights:

• Breathtaking sunset views over the Mediterranean.
• A toast with local wine or Prosecco as the sky turns pink.
• Opportunities to swim in secluded coves kissed by the last light of day.

There’s something truly poetic about seeing Portofino’s harbor illuminated by the fading sun – a memory that stays with you long after the journey ends.

3. Villages Boat Tour – Coastal Culture and Hidden Beauty

Tour page: Villages Boat Tour

If you’re craving a deeper dive into the authentic life of the Ligurian Riviera, the Villages Boat Tour is your perfect match. This tour takes you beyond the classic sights to showcase the charming fishing villages nestled along the coast – spots rarely touched by mass tourism but rich in culture, character, and culinary tradition.

You’ll sail through towns like San Michele di Pagana and Zoagli, experiencing a slower, more soulful side of Liguria.

Highlights:

• Discover lesser-known gems along the Tigullio coast.
• Learn about the local traditions and historical anecdotes from our knowledgeable guides.
• Enjoy multiple swim stops in crystal-clear, uncrowded waters.

Among our Portofino boat tours, this one offers the most in-depth cultural immersion, perfect for travelers who want more than just the view – they want the story.

4. Portofino & San Fruttuoso Boat Tour – Nature, History & Marine Wonders

Tour page: Portofino & San Fruttuoso Boat Tour

Last but far from least, our Portofino & San Fruttuoso Boat Tour combines two of the Riviera’s crown jewels. After exploring the dazzling shoreline and harbor of Portofino, we head to the remote, monastic cove of San Fruttuoso – a place accessible only by boat or by hiking trail.

Nestled between cliffs and lush greenery, San Fruttuoso is home to a medieval abbey and the famous underwater statue, the Christ of the Abyss.

Highlights:

• Visit two iconic landmarks in one unforgettable tour.
• Optional snorkeling near the submerged statue.
• Dock at San Fruttuoso for time to explore the abbey or relax on the pebbled beach.

This is a favorite among adventurous travelers and spiritual seekers alike. It’s also one of the most well-rounded of our Portofino boat tours, blending history, nature, and sea adventure into one perfect loop.

Why Choose Orange Wave for Your Portofino Boat Tours?

At Orange Wave, we don’t just offer boat rides – we curate experiences. Every one of our shared tours is led by passionate local guides, designed for small groups to keep the atmosphere intimate and personalized.

What Sets Us Apart:

• Small groups – A more personal and peaceful experience.
• Local captains – Deep knowledge of the area, history, and secret spots.
• Eco-conscious operations – Respect for marine life and protected areas.
• High flexibility – Multiple daily departures and easy online booking.

Our mission is to help you fall in love with Liguria, and our carefully crafted Portofino boat tours do just that – whether you’re here for a quick escape or a deep exploration of coastal life.

How to Book Your Tour

Booking your spot on one of our shared Portofino boat tours is simple. Just visit orangewavesea.com, choose your tour, select your date, and you’re ready to sail. Most tours are available from spring through early fall, with frequent departures during peak season.

If you’re planning a romantic getaway, family vacation, or solo escape, don’t wait too long – our Portofino boat tours are among the most popular in the Riviera and often sell out in advance.

There’s something uniquely transformative about seeing the Ligurian coast from the water. With every wave and whisper of sea breeze, you gain a new perspective – not only on Portofino, but on life itself. Whether you’re soaking in the golden glow of a sunset or snorkeling in the shadow of ancient abbeys, our Portofino boat tours promise moments of wonder that live far beyond your time in Italy.

So come aboard. Adventure, beauty, and serenity await — and it all begins with the right boat tour.

Orange Wave is ready to take you there.