Luxury Yacht Charter Holidays in the Italian Riviera

If you’re keen to book a luxury yacht charter in the Italian Riviera, our team is here to help. Simply call us on +44 (0) 1489 557 755, email info@princessyachtcharter.com or fill in our quick enquiry form. We’ll be in touch to get you on your way.

Experience luxury cuisine like the famous “gambero rosso” (red shrimp), pesto Genovese and Ligurian focaccia in local restaurants or Michelin-star venues. You can also take a taste tour of the wine, pesto and olive oil producers, with a visit to vineyards across the region – from Cantina Capellini in Cinque Terre to Azienda Agricola Saglietto.

This part of Italy is also rich in history, with ample opportunities for you to see ancient architecture, like castles and cathedrals, or see artefacts and exhibits in local and national museums.

Travelling on a luxury yacht charter also means you can find the hidden gems, like secluded bays and coves to enjoy the area’s warm and tranquil water, or relax on the peaceful sandy beaches.

Whether you’re keen on hiking the natural parks, enjoying water sports, attending festivals, or prefer a quiet ramble through ancient streets and lounging in the sun, the Italian Riviera has it all to offer.

To plan your yacht charter of the Italian Riviera, contact our dedicated team at Princess Charter. We’ll create a fully bespoke itinerary and take care of all your needs, from private flights to onboard details, we’re here to handle it for you.

What cities can I reach on a yacht around the Italian Riviera?

As you yacht charter the Italian Riviera, there are some wonderful cities and sights to explore. With the luxury of yacht travel, you can stop at as many (or as few) as you want! Often with exclusive access to remote beaches or coves along the way.

Here are just some of the spots you can include in your charter itinerary to experience the best of this region.

Portofino

Travelling east along the coastline, you’ll find the charming village of Portofino. Its harbour will greet you with rows of vibrantly coloured buildings, surrounded by lush green rolling hills that stretch high into the sky.

This small but elegant harbour is the perfect spot for those seeking a sense of seclusion, yet within its central square (La Piazzetta), you’ll find a different pace. Here you can enjoy luxury boutiques, laidback cafés, and admire the views of the marina.

Explore nearby sights, such as Castello Brown, a medieval castle with stunning gardens and a museum showcasing a rich history. Alternatively, you can take walks around the area to enjoy the coast, take in the sea views or enjoy a cocktail at local bars.

Genoa (Genova)

At the centre of the Italian Riviera sits the bustling city of Genoa. A great starting point for many travellers of the Riviera, this city is full of heritage and culture, woven from its great past as a maritime republic.

You can experience some of its past glory days with a visit to the ‘Old Town’ area (Centro Storico). Here you can navigate winding alleyways, colourful architecture and ancient structures.

Visit the Genoa Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Lorenzo), or the UNESCO World Heritage site Palazzi dei Rolli, a series of grand palaces from the 16th and 17th centuries.

There are over 20 museums and exhibits to enjoy across the city, including one of Europe’s largest aquariums. However, if you’re interested in art, venture to the northern edge to visit the Musei di Strada Nuova, full of ancient art and old master collections.

You’ll also find a great selection of restaurants, bars and cafes here to simply enjoy the culture and absorb the city’s unique atmosphere.

Cinque Terre

If you travel to the east of Genoa, following the coastal curve, you can find Cinque Terre. This area is made up of five fishing villages: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.

This region is strewn with steep, rugged hillsides that are piled high with buildings of all colours. Here you can enjoy exciting cliffside hiking trails and the freshest local cuisines, from seafood to the famous Liguria pesto.

This area is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, where its culture and heritage are preserved. Its terraced vineyards and stunning cliffs are best viewed from sea, making a yacht charter here the perfect match.

You can visit all five villages in this area, taking in the gorgeous sea views via the Sentiero Azzurro hiking trail (aka Blue Trail). Alternatively, anchor your yacht in Manarola or Vernazza for some excellent beaches and perfect waters.

There are also many scenic spots across the villages for you to enjoy a meal or a drink while watching the sunset. Making a stop here is the best way to experience authentic Ligurian culture.

Santa Margherita Ligure

Just down the coast from Portofino is the beautiful town of Santa Margherita Ligure. Many travellers say this is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area, and it’s great for yacht charter groups who want to avoid crowds.

Its atmosphere is a perfect blend of an authentic Italian fishing village, with a welcoming range of seafood restaurants, cafés and places to relax.

Here you can enjoy historical sites, like the 17th-century Villa Durazzo, with its opulent architecture, art galleries and furnishings. You can even amble around the gardens while admiring stunning views of the bay.

You can also take a stroll down the promenade, lined with palm trees, and take in the unique scenery. Alternatively, visit the boutiques and local shops or escape to one of the beaches. Baia di Paraggi is a real gem, with striking blue waters and white sands.

Santa Margherita Ligure is a great place to enjoy the Italian lifestyle, whether you want to hike trails in the nearby Portofino Regional Park, or enjoy the coastal atmosphere with great food, beaches and water activities.

La Spezia

Found at the farthest point east on the Italian Riviera, La Spezia is a vibrant city full of intriguing history, arts and events. As a location, it’s another great harbour to start your journey from, as it offers easy access to nearby Cinque Terre and the ‘Gulf of Poets’ (a beautiful bay area named after the many famous poets who regularly visited here).

As a major port city, La Spezia also has a fascinating history. While its deep-water harbour, stunning mountain backdrop, and colourful buildings make it the ideal holiday destination, this city was once Italy’s leading naval base.

The Technical Naval Museum (Museo Tecnico Navale) is a must-visit for anyone interested in Italian naval history. It showcases collections of ship models, artefacts, WW1 and WW2 vehicles, uniforms and weaponry.

If historical architecture is more your thing, you can visit St. George’s Castle (Castello San Giorgio). This hilltop medieval castle overlooks the city, offering fantastic views and plenty of exhibits to discover. The castle also includes an archaeological museum, with artefacts from the prehistoric and medieval ages.

You can also find lots of events and festivals taking place in the city throughout the year, such as the Estate Festival, International Jazz Festival or a series of swimming and rowing races.

La Spezia is an incredibly diverse city that offers any yacht charter in the Western Mediterranean a wide range of experiences to choose from.

If you’re keen to book a luxury yacht charter in the Italian Riviera, our team is here to help. Simply call us on +44 (0) 1489 557 755, email info@princessyachtcharter.com or fill in our quick enquiry form. We’ll be in touch to get you on your way.

What to see on a trip to the Italian Riviera

With up to 13 diverse areas to discover, the Italian Riviera has much to offer in terms of sights, activities and cultural experiences. To get the most from your trip, we’ve compiled some of the best things you can see and do in the region in our list below.

Historical locations

Scattered across the towns and cities on the Riviera, you can find fascinating structures and artefacts that offer a glimpse into the rich history of Italy. Highlights include:

Villa Durazzo in Santa Margherita Ligure

This spectacular 17th-century villa is a treasure trove of opulent features. Once the home of royalty in the 19th and 20th centuries, the Alessian-style villa is now open to the public, showcasing the valuable riches of times gone by.

Inside, you’ll find valuable artwork hung in galleries and portraits from celebrated 16th to 18th-century artists. Enchanting Murano glass chandeliers, vibrant frescoes, majolica and mosaic floors, and marble features adorn the many rooms, adding a unique elegance and character to each.

The villa itself is surrounded by historic parkland that’s centuries old, overlooking the Tigullio Gulf. Its mix of woodland, geometric terraces, secret gardens and cobbled pathways creates a sense of romance. With the bonus of impressive views of the surrounding coast, this place is not to be missed!

Abbey of San Fruttuoso (Abbazia di San Fruttuoso) near Portofino

This 8th to 10th century abbey is uniquely placed beside a secluded bay, found in the small fishing village of San Fruttuoso (between Camogli and Portofino). It’s only accessible by sea or on foot, making it the perfect little spot for a yacht charter stop.

This impressive Romanesque monastery has a rich religious and cultural history, and is open for visitors to explore. With beautiful surroundings, many also visit here to simply enjoy the greenery and swim in the tranquil bay.

If you’re a keen diver, you can also find the famous underwater statue of Christ of the Abyss nearby. This bronze statue was created by Guido Galletti in 1954. Its purpose is to memorialise the first Italian to use SCUBA diving equipment, and to pay tribute to lives lost at sea.

Castello Brown in Portofino

This grand 16th-century castle sits high atop the hills of Portofino, overlooking the main harbour. Its impressive structure has a long history of acting as a military defence post from as far back as Roman times.

Just a 10-minute walk from the pier, you can enjoy the castle’s beautiful rose gardens or visit the museum to view historical exhibits. You can also get a fantastic view of the surrounding gulf.

Naval Technical Museum (Museo Tecnico Navale) in La Spezia

If Italy’s naval history interests you, you simply cannot skip the chance to visit the Naval Museum in La Spezia. This city is very important, as it was the country’s leading naval base, and the museum now houses a large collection of artefacts from throughout Italy’s history.

Here you can see models of ships throughout time, vehicles used in both world wars, rare naval weapons, and uniforms. The collection is vast and tells an intricate story about the past lives of those in this area.

If historical stories and artefacts intrigue you, why not explore an Amalfi Coast yacht charter? In this unique stretch of southern Italian coastline, you can visit more historical landmarks, like Pompeii, and immerse yourself in Italian history.

Culture and events

If you’re looking for ways to experience more of the Italian culture, there are many tours and exhibits to consider. Some of these include:

Vineyard tours

Across the Liguria region, there are vineyards offering tours and tasting experiences. Local wine varieties include Vermentino, Pigato, and Bosco.

Many tours also include opportunities to try local foods or activities like pesto making. The best areas for these tours are typically in Vernazza or Manarola, in the Cinque Terre region. These offer smaller, authentic experiences. However, larger tours with greater selections can be found, such as Cantine Lunae Bosoni.

Some highly rated tours include:

Cian du Giorgi Winery (Vernazza, Cinque Terre)
Offers local Ligurian wines, intimate tours and beautiful seaside vineyard views.

Cascina delle Terre Rosse (Finale Ligure)
Guided tours, tasting, and vineyard walks along coastal hills.

Cà du Ferrà Wine & Tasting (Bonassola)
Offers sustainable Ligurian wines, vineyard visits and a coastal setting.

Many other tours and vineyard experiences are available throughout the Italian Riviera, simply speak with your yacht charter team to arrange a visit.

Art galleries

For art lovers, there really are endless opportunities for you to find rare, valuable and historical pieces to admire in this part of the world.

Head to the Musei di Strada Nuova in Genoa to see works from old masters, including Dyck, Rubens and Caravaggio. This gallery is found inside a series of grand palaces, adding to the experience.

There is also the Gallery of Modern Art (Galleria d’Arte Moderna di Genova Nervi), if that’s more your scene. Here, works from 19th and 20th-century artists can be viewed, such as Serafin Avendano, Carlo Bossoli, and Renato Guttoso.

For a more intimate experience, try the Museo del Parco in Portofino. This art museum showcases local pieces, which celebrate the culture and heritage of the area.

Also, look out for artworks in historical buildings and museums, as there are some treasures to be found.

Events

Depending on when you travel, you’re likely to find an event or festival livening up the area you visit. Some of the festivals that take place across the Riviera include:

International Jazz Festival, La Spezia (July)
Featuring world-famous artists in beautiful venues across the city.

Coppa Byron, La Spezia (July/August)
A famous 8km swimming race, inspired by Lord Byron, across the Gulf of Poets, attracting competitors from around the world.

Festival of Pesto, Santa Margherita Ligure (September):
Food festival dedicated to the area’s iconic pesto sauce, with cooking demos and tastings.

Portofino Regatta (Regate di Primavera) (April)
A famous yacht sailing competition in Portofino harbour, lasting 3 days.

Exploring nature

With its beautiful coastline and rugged hills, the Liguria region is full of natural features to enjoy. Some spots to visit on your trip could include:

Gulf of Poets (Gulf of La Spezia)

This stunning bay is so named because it inspired a number of famous poets who would regularly visit the area. Poets such as Percy Shelley, Lord Byron and Virginia Woolf.

You can take a tour of the area by sea, admiring the natural landscapes and scenery of the islands of Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto.

Perhaps you’ll discover the same inspiration as the famous poets as you admire the vibrant blue waters, pretty seaside villages and rugged green hills. You can also enjoy activities in the water here.

Walking and hiking trails

The natural terrain along the Italian Riviera makes it an exciting place for hiking and enjoying the landscape on foot. There are many trails you can follow, such as the Cinque Terre hiking paths.

These paths allow you to explore historic buildings, villages, and take in incredible views. The Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) will take you through all five villages of the region, so you can get the ultimate experience of the area.

Alternatively, Portofino Regional Park offers a protected area with a blend of lush woodlands, coastal hills and wildlife spotting.

Beaches

From small coves to large stretches of coastline, there are many beaches and waterfronts for you to enjoy.

Some highly recommended areas include the Baia di Paraggi, near Santa Margherita Ligure. Known for its sheltered, peaceful atmosphere and clear waters, it’s an ideal spot for swimming or snorkelling.
Some other notable beaches include Monterosso al Mare, Forte dei Marmi and Varigotti.

If you’re a fan of spending time on the beach, why not consider extending your yacht charter to Sardinia? Some of the world’s best beaches can be found here, as well as beautiful natural landscapes and vibrant blue waters. Speak to our team at Princess Charter to include Sardinia on your next trip.

Dining and nightlife

Italy has some of the world’s best cuisine, and as you travel the Riviera, there are great local cafés and Michelin-starred restaurants to experience. With fresh seafood arriving daily in markets across the region, you’ll find local delicacies and traditional dishes in abundance.

Notable dining venues include:

Orto Ritrovato Restaurant
Near Portofino and Cinque Terre, offering creative, seasonal Ligurian cuisine with ingredients sourced locally.

Impronta d’Acqua
Awarded a Michelin star, this restaurant focuses on modern interpretations of regional dishes and is located in Chiavari.

Portobello and Ristorante Baia del Silenzio
Found in Sestri Levante, both provide waterfront dining with beautiful sea views.

Osteria Della Corte
This venue in La Spezia is a favourite for authentic Mediterranean flavours, spectacular plating and elegant surroundings.

Aside from fantastic dining, you can also visit local bars in most areas, like Citto in Sestri Levante, to enjoy authentic Genoese aperitivos by the beach.

Essential Italian Riviera travel information

Before you travel to any destination, it’s important to know some key pieces of information. To help you choose the right time, length and details of your travel, we’ve outlined some essential travel information for the Italian Riviera below.

Seasons

The best season to yacht charter the Italian Riviera is between May and September. During this time, the weather is between 22°C and 35°C.

If you’re concerned about tourist numbers, opt for May, June and September for quieter periods. However, if you’re seeking hotter temperatures, July and August usually reach up to 35°C, but this is peak time for travellers.

Temperatures in the sea during the summer are a comfortable 25°C to 26°C.

A yacht charter of 7 days is recommended to ensure you see the main highlights. However, you could choose a longer trip, 10-14 days, if you wish to include other nearby regions, such as the Amalfi Coast or the French Riviera.

Accessibility

There are three major airports that can provide access to the Italian Riviera.

Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA): This is the main airport in the region, via Genoa, and the most recommended as a central starting point.

Pisa International Airport (PSA): Recommended for access from Italy, travelling from the eastern end of the Riviera

Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE): For access from the French/western side of the Riviera.

Which airport you choose will depend on your preferred charter starting location. However, each major airport is well-connected by train or road for transfers.

If you would prefer to travel privately, by jet or helicopter, our team can help you with all the arrangements. You can speak to your adviser about our VIP travel options.

Currency

The Euro (€) is the official currency used throughout Italy.

Languages

Italian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

How to charter a yacht in the Italian Riviera

If you’re keen to experience north-west Italy, there’s no better way than on a yacht charter of the Italian Riviera. With a wide range of towns and cities to explore and the ideal climate, the freedom of a yacht charter means you can see it all at your own pace.

Arranging your trip couldn’t be simpler when you choose a Princess Charter. Our dedicated team are on hand 24/7 to help you plan the perfect bespoke itinerary, select your ideal yacht and support you throughout your journey.

To get started, all you need to know is when you want to travel, how many will be in your party and how long you want to travel for. It’s also good to have some idea which places you want to include on your journey – but our team can help you plan every detail, so you don’t need to worry about a thing.

We’ll ensure your itinerary, yacht, and crew have everything your party needs. We also arrange for any special requests, such as dietary requirements or event tickets, to be taken care of. All you have to do is relax and enjoy your trip.

Call us on +44 (0) 1489 557 755, email us at info@princessyachtcharter.com, or fill in our enquiry form to get started today.

FAQ

What do I need to know before booking an Italian Riviera yacht charter?
All you need to know is when you want to travel, who you’ll bring with you and the destinations you want to include on your trip. All the other planning and details can be arranged by our dedicated team members at Princess Charter.

We’ll plan a fully bespoke itinerary for you, assign you the ideal yacht and place you with trusted crew members. We’ll also be on hand 24/7 before and during your journey to take care of all your needs.

How do I secure my booking for a yacht charter in the Italian Riviera?
Simply call our team on +44 (0) 1489 557 755, email us at info@princessyachtcharter.com, or fill in our quick enquiry form. Once we know your wishes, we can start planning and secure your booking.

Is the Italian Riviera worth it for yacht chartering?
This idyllic coastline is perfect for yacht chartering. You can visit multiple locations with ease and enjoy private views, harbouring in secluded bays, and the Italian culture at your own pace. There is so much to see and do here, travelling by yacht is the very best way to experience it.

Why choose Princess Yacht Charter for my charter?
At Princess Charter, we plan our trips entirely around you, from creating a bespoke itinerary to pairing you with a yacht to suit your every need. We’re also on hand at any time to help you with requests, whether that’s to obtain event tickets or arrange for something special on board. Our team will do everything we can to ensure your trip is as luxurious as your surroundings.