Portofino Boat, 5 Hours, Free Time

Overview

This is a ferry transfer, not a guided tour. The boat leaves from Genoa's Porto Antico, next to the Aquarium, and carries passengers along the Ligurian coast to Portofino, where they get two hours ashore before the return crossing. There is no guide on board, as several reviewers pointed out, so what you are paying for is the sea crossing and the time in town.

The trip runs about five hours in total. The outbound leg is listed as an hour and a half, though one reviewer reported arriving in closer to an hour and ten minutes, and the return is the same. Once in Portofino, the two hours are yours: lunch, the Piazzetta, the boutiques, or the walk up to Castello Brown, a 16th-century castle with views over the harbor. Reviewers said the time felt about right for the size of the village, though a few wished for longer.

It suits travellers who want an easy way to reach Portofino from Genoa by sea, with views of the coast along the way. The listing describes the boat as comfortable and spacious, and one reviewer said the crossing was peaceful and relaxing. It is not the right pick for anyone expecting commentary, a tour leader, or organized sightseeing in town.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Check-in at Ponte SpinolaArrive at the blue ticket office at the start of Ponte Spinola, in front of the Aquarium entrance, 30 minutes before departure to collect a paper ticket and receipt.
2. Sightseeing cruise to PortofinoBoard a spacious boat for the outbound crossing along the Ligurian coast, listed at 1.5 hours.
3. Free time in PortofinoTwo hours ashore. Optional extras at your own cost include lunch, shopping in the boutiques, and visiting the Piazzetta or Castello Brown.
4. Return cruise to GenoaReboard for the 1.5 hour crossing back along the coast.
5. Arrive at Porto AnticoThe boat docks back at the Consorzio Liguria Viamare point in Genoa's Porto Antico.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points will make the day go more smoothly.

• Bring sun protection. One reviewer strongly recommended a hat, since the sun is direct on the water. The boat has both open and covered seating, so choose a spot that suits the conditions.
• Sit on top. The same reviewer said the top deck is the better place to sit, and found the lower deck uncomfortable. They also suggested earplugs or earphones because the engine is loud.
• Plan your two hours. Reviewers said two hours is enough to walk the village and climb to Castello Brown. Decide your priorities before you dock.
• Eat smart. One reviewer advised walking off the marina for cheaper food prices. Lunch is otherwise at your own expense during the free time.
• Arrive early for tickets. Italian rules require passengers to collect a paper ticket at the office even with an electronic booking. The operator asks everyone to check in 30 minutes in advance.
• No pets, no smoking. The listing states that smoking and pets are not allowed on board. Leave both behind if you are traveling with either.

Common issues. The excursion depends on sea and weather conditions, and the provider will call the day before if it has to cancel. Some reviewers felt two hours in Portofino was too short, and several made the point that there is no guide or commentary, just the ferry transfer. One reviewer considered the day a bit expensive for what it is. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you make your own way to Ponte Spinola.

Common Questions