Rent a boat in Cinque Terre

Rent a boat in Cinque Terre

Italy has hundreds of kilometers of glorious coastline, and Liguria has its fair share of the most spectacular coastal panoramas, especially the Cinque Terre which have been a part of the Unesco World Heritage since 1997. Cinque Terre is considered a National Park and its beautiful coastline and sea are a Protected Marine Area. Originally, these five lands were just five fishing villages with just mule tracks or footpaths connecting them; even today accessibility by car is limited. The best way by far to get to these historic destinations is by boat. Fortunately, Cinque Terre boat rental is readily available at affordable prices, with skipper or without. 

You can choose to rent a boat with skipper or without, at an affordable price. In Liguria, sailing boats are very popular, from small boats for just a few people to large sailing vessels that need a crew to run them. The bigger sailing boats can accommodate up to fifteen people, and they are floating homes with sitting rooms, bedrooms and bathrooms, kitchens and dining areas. Engine powered yachts can fit up to ten people, mostly with three cabins. Motorboats and speedboats are also popular here: zipping along with the spray flying is an exhilarating way to get to the various points of interest along the coast of the Cinque Terre.

How much does it cost to rent a boat in Cinque Terre? 

Cinque Terre boat rentals vary in price depending on the boat type, characteritics of the boat, the season among other things. 

Cinque Terre yacht charters in low season cost from $1,521 per day and $13,941 per week. In high season the cost is from $2,154 per day and $15,081 per week. 

Catamaran rentals in Cinque Terre instead during low season can cost $1,394 per day and $4,056 per week. In high season the prices go up and cost from $2,408 per day and $7,097 per week. 

Is it possible to rent a boat in Cinque Terre with or without a skipper?

It is possible to make a boat hire in Cinque Terre with or without a skipper. It is a great idea to do a bareboat boat rental in Cinque Terre if you want to be in charge of your own sailing. You will need a valid nautical license.

You may also choose to do a boat charter in Cinque Terre with a skipper. This is also a great idea if you are looking for a relaxing way to enjoy the water without worrying about the technicalities of sailing. 

What to do in Cinque Terre?   

Cinque Terre is made up of five small fishing towns: Vernazza, Manarola, Riomaggiore, Monterosso, and Corniglia. The best way to move around the area is with a Cinque Terre boat hire so you don’t miss out on the beautiful scenery. There is something about moving around on the water and finding the next town with its colourful houses. 

The mix of the Mediterranean sea, the gelato and the mountains are an amazing experience that you won’t want to miss. You can choose to start your boat trip from La Spezia to Cinque Terre. This is a great option for those who want to avoid the crowded train rides or walking many kilometres between each town. 

Monterosso al Mare, the largest town of the five, is ideal for those looking for a larger beach. Moor here and visit the 14th century Loggia del Podestà and parish church of San Giovanni Battista. The medieval Torre Aurora was built to protect the town from frequent pirate attacks. 

Vernazza, thought to be the prettiest of the five villages, is in between rocky cliffs with colourful houses that seem almost stacked on top of each other. Moor here to look at the little piazza (square) and admire the boats that bob around in the water. The best view is from your Cinque Terre boat charter. The second best? Climb the steps to the headland opposite of the round tower!

Corniglia, the only town without a harbour, stands 182 meters above sea level. This city is beautiful to see from your boat as you head to the next town. You can also drop your anchor to jump into the water for a bit!

Manarola is our personal favourite. Moor here and view the church, bell tower, 16th-century watchtower. Stop here to try the fresh fish! There are restaurants in this town that catch their own fish in the morning and fry them in the afternoon. This part is also ideal for those who want to get into the water to refresh themselves from the warm weather. 

Last, Riomaggiore! Riomaggio is the easiest to reach filled with colourful houses. The artists and photographers drawn to the village due to the natural beauty of the village. The 14th century church San Giovanni is a beauty to check out with its carved marble pulpit. 

It is a great idea to start your boat rental in La Spezia and move towards Cinque Terre. This is the best choice to admire the beautiful landscape of the Ligurian villages. It is worth traveling this way once at least. The best part is no need to follow anyone’s schedule or be in crowded and sweaty train rides. All you have to do is enjoy the views!

How is the weather and sailing conditions in Cinque Terre?

The weather in Cinque Terre follows that of the Mediterranean. The summer from May to October is warm with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 29°C. The winter from November to April has a minimum temperature of 5°C and highs of 15°C. If you are looking to run away from crowds, the months of April, May, August and September are the best times for a Cinque Terre boat charter. 

Which are the most popular ports in Cinque Terre?  

 The most popular ports in Cinque Terre to rent a boat are:

• Marina del Fezzano
• Marina di la Spezia

Other places to visit nearby are:

• Portofino 
• Chiavari
• Livorno
• Genova

How to get to Cinque Terre?    

If you are coming from outside of Italy, we recommend flying to Pisa Airport (PSA), Genova Airport (GOA) or Florence Airport (FLR). From any of these airports you can either take a train, shuttle bus or taxi to La Spezia. In La Spezia you can start your journey! The best way to travel is by boat, so why not rent a sailboat in Cinque Terre! 

How much does it cost?

If you’re considering renting a boat in Cinque Terre, the price will differ depending on the time of year, the number of passengers on board, and the size and type of boat you choose. Of course, additional amenities or services could also affect the price, such as having a skipper on board. Below are the average prices of a private charter in Cinque Terre by boat type.

Sailboat: Set sail in style for just $600 per day.

Motorboat: Enjoy a smooth ride on the waves for $1,350 per day.

RIB: Zoom along the coast on a RIB for only $360 per day.

Gulet: Experience the ultimate luxury for $1,782 per day.

Houseboat: Take your home on the water for $2,227 per day.

Yacht: Sail like a VIP on a yacht for $3,940 per day or $27,580 per week.

Catamaran: Explore Cinque Terre’s waters in comfort for $1,000 per day.

What does this include?

When you rent a boat with Nautal, you can expect a fully equipped vessel that comes with all the necessary safety gear, navigation equipment, and amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable sailing experience. Our boats are well-maintained and regularly serviced to ensure the highest standards of safety and reliability.

Best port or dock to keep your boat

• Riomaggiore Port in Cinque Terre offers a total of 30 berths and can accommodate boats up to 40 feet in length. The port provides facilities such as water, gas, electricity, and Wi-Fi. Visitors will also find restaurants and rental equipment available, making it a convenient and enjoyable stop along the Ligurian Sea.
• Manarola Marina features 15 berths and is capable of accommodating boats up to 35 feet in length. Boaters can avail themselves of facilities such as water, gas, and electricity. Restaurants and rental equipment are also available at the marina, ensuring a pleasant experience for visitors exploring the Mediterranean Sea.
• Vernazza Harbor boasts 20 berths and can accommodate boats up to 45 feet in length. The harbor provides essential facilities including water, gas, and electricity. Visitors can also take advantage of the onsite restaurants and rental equipment, adding to the convenience and enjoyment of their time in Cinque Terre.
• Monterosso Marina offers 25 berths and can accommodate boats up to 50 feet in length. The marina provides facilities such as water, gas, and electricity. Visitors can also enjoy the convenience of onsite restaurants and rental equipment, making their visit to Cinque Terre an enjoyable one.

Where to sail in Cinque Terre?

• Vernazza: Discover the charming village and its picturesque harbor, boasting colorful buildings and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Manarola: Sail to this enchanting village known for its dramatic cliffs and vibrant waters, perfect for snorkeling and diving.
• Riomaggiore: Experience the beauty of Riomaggiore's rugged coastline and stunning sunsets, offering an ideal spot for anchoring and enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
• Corniglia: Visit the smallest village of Cinque Terre, nestled on a rocky promontory, and enjoy the crystal-clear waters and peaceful ambiance.
• Portovenere: Venture beyond Cinque Terre to Portovenere, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and revel in the sight of its striking colorful houses and medieval castle.
• San Fruttuoso: Sail to this hidden gem tucked away in a secluded cove, home to a beautiful abbey and a serene pebble beach.
• Portofino: Explore the exclusive village of Portofino, renowned for its luxury yachts, charming harbor, and vibrant waterfront filled with stylish shops and restaurants.
• Palmaria Island: Discover the natural beauty of Palmaria Island, with its rugged coastline, secluded coves, and crystal-clear waters, ideal for anchoring and enjoying a peaceful atmosphere.
• Tino Island: Embark on a journey to Tino Island, a small and uninhabited gem with pristine beaches, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.

What can you see and do in Cinque Terre?

• Hiking the Sentiero Azzurro: Explore the famous coastal hiking trail, Sentiero Azzurro, which connects the five villages of Cinque Terre, offering breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and picturesque landscapes.
• Visiting the Manarola Vineyards: Take a stroll through the terraced vineyards of Manarola, known for producing the region's renowned Sciacchetrà wine, and enjoy panoramic views of the village and the sea.
• Exploring Monterosso al Mare Beach: Relax and soak up the sun on the sandy beach of Monterosso al Mare, the largest village in Cinque Terre, offering a refreshing escape with its crystal-clear waters and vibrant seaside atmosphere.
• Discovering the Vernazza Castle: Climb up to the Doria Castle in Vernazza, an ancient fortress that overlooks the village and offers panoramic views of the coastline, providing a glimpse into the region's rich history.
• Visiting the Church of Santa Margherita di Antiochia: Admire the beautiful Church of Santa Margherita di Antiochia in Vernazza, a centuries-old religious landmark featuring stunning Gothic-style architecture and intricate details.

Rent a boat with or without a skipper

Many of our boat charters in Cinque Terre come with the option of sailing with a skipper and/or crew. Although this may come at an extra cost, having a skipper on board can, no doubt, provide you with an even more enjoyable experience! Your skipper can adapt the sailing route so that your voyage best suits the desires of you and the rest of your party.

Additionally, setting sail with a skipper will make your voyage even more comfortable! The skipper will take care of all the technical aspects of sailing, so all you need to do is sit back and relax.

If you would like to take charge of your boat charter in Cinque Terre, then bareboat charters are the way to go. Enjoy a bareboat charter if you have a license and set sail at your own pace. You need a valid boating license to enjoy a boat this way so check with the boat owner beforehand to see that your license is valid.

When is the best time of year to rent a boat?

When it comes to the best time to visit and rent a boat in Cinque Terre, it's important to consider the weather, crowd levels, and overall experience. The high season in Cinque Terre is generally during the summer months when the Mediterranean Sea beckons visitors from around the world. Here's an overview:

The high season in Cinque Terre typically spans from June to August. During this time, the average temperatures in the region range from the mid-70s°F to the mid-80s°F. It's the peak tourist season, with warm and sunny weather attracting a large number of visitors. The sea is generally calm and ideal for boat rentals, allowing you to fully enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Ligurian Sea.

The months just outside the high season, including April, May, September, and October, make up the shoulder seasons in Cinque Terre. During these months, the average temperatures range from the mid-60s°F to the low 70s°F. The shoulder seasons offer a more relaxed atmosphere with fewer crowds compared to the summer months. It's a great time to rent a boat and explore the beauty of Cinque Terre while enjoying pleasant weather conditions.

What type of boat is best for a Cinque Terre boat charter?

Before choosing the right vessel for your boat rental in Cinque Terre, you first have to think about the duration of your holiday. If you’re only going to sail for a few days, it is best to opt for a daily charter such as a motorboat or a RIB. With the speed of these vessels, you’ll be able to see everything on your wish list in no time. If you’re planning a longer charter of a week or more you should choose a vessel that includes amenities you’ll need during your stay. Catamarans and yachts have the space and accommodations on board to ensure a comfortable stay on the water. For a more luxurious holiday, you might consider a gulet, and for an authentic sailing experience a sailboat.

If you’re unsure about whether or not a vessel suits your needs, feel free to contact the boat owners to get a better sense of what is included on board. With our large fleet, you’ll have no problem finding the perfect boat for your Cinque Terre boat charter!

Frequently Asked Questions about Cinque Terre

How much does it cost to rent a boat in the high season and the low season in Cinque Terre?

The average cost of renting a boat in Cinque Terre is around $526 per day during the high season, and approximately $444 per day during the low season.

What is the daily cost of a skipper in Cinque Terre?

The cost of a skipper varies depending on the destination and the boat owner. In Cinque Terre, you can expect to pay an average of $105 per day for a skipper.

How many cabins are there on a boat in Cinque Terre?

The average number of cabins on boats in Cinque Terre is 2. For larger groups, you can find boats with up to 2 cabins.

Which boat manufacturers are the most popular in Cinque Terre?

The leading boat manufacturers in Cinque Terre are Beneteau and Jeanneau.

How many people can a boat accommodate overnight in Cinque Terre?

On average, a boat in Cinque Terre has 4 berths. You can find boats with up to 7 berths.

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