Genoa is an excellent charter base if you want to turn the elegant ports, colorful seaside towns, and manageable daily legs of the Ligurian Sea into a rewarding one-week cruise. From here, both eastbound and westbound routes offer variety: relaxed coastal sailing, charming Italian harbors, and a few longer scenic passages all fit naturally into the plan. The area blends urban energy, intimate bays, and classic Mediterranean sailing atmosphere with ease. The routes below help you quickly decide which direction and rhythm suit your crew best.
The article includes the followings:
- Which month is best for sailing in Genoa?
- Ports around Genoa
- Sail in Genova! Genova sailing itineraries:
- Marine gas near Genoa, boat gas stations in the Italian Riviera
Which month is best for sailing in Genoa?
In Genoa, the most enjoyable sailing season usually runs from late May to late September, with June to September often standing out as the sweet spot, when the Ligurian Sea is pleasantly warm, daylight is long, and local sailing conditions are generally at their most welcoming for charter crews.
Spring: From March to May, Genoa slowly opens into the sailing season. Daytime temperatures usually range from 14 to 22 °C, while the sea warms from about 13 to 19 °C. Marinas are calmer and the coastline feels more spacious, which makes spring especially appealing for sailors who prefer quieter passages and a more relaxed charter atmosphere. Winds can be more changeable at this time of year: light to moderate coastal breezes are common, but stronger northerly tramontana outbreaks can also appear after passing fronts. The sea is often smooth or only lightly ruffled, though on windier days it can build into the short, steeper chop that is typical of the Ligurian coast.
Summer: From June through August, Genoa shows its classic sailing personality. Daytime temperatures are typically around 24–27 °C, and the sea usually reaches 22–25 °C, making life on deck and swimming stops especially enjoyable. Summer often brings a reliable sea breeze that builds from late morning, commonly from the west or northwest, giving many days of pleasant 8–15 knot sailing. Still, a libeccio flow from the southwest can quickly freshen conditions and create a shorter, livelier sea state. This is peak season, so marinas, waterfront towns and the most popular anchorages feel busier, especially in July and August, when the Ligurian coast has its full holiday energy.
Autumn: From September to November, Genoa remains surprisingly attractive for sailors. In early autumn, air temperatures often still sit between 22 and 26 °C, and the sea holds onto summer warmth at around 20–24 °C. September is particularly appealing: the peak summer crowds begin to thin out, yet the water is still inviting and the Riviera keeps its warm Mediterranean glow. As the season moves into October and November, rainfall becomes more frequent and the weather turns more changeable. Stronger southerly systems or brisk northerly winds can arrive, and the sea can build quickly into short, steeper waves. For sailors willing to watch the forecast carefully, autumn offers a more authentic and less crowded side of Genoa.
Winter: From December to February, Genoa is more of a season for experienced sailors than for laid-back charter cruising. Daytime temperatures are usually around 11–14 °C, while sea temperatures stay near 12–15 °C. Marinas are quiet, and the city’s maritime side takes on an elegant, cinematic atmosphere, but conditions are less predictable. Stronger northerly winds are more common in winter, and the Ligurian Sea can turn unsettled quite quickly when fronts move through. Coastal sailing can still be beautiful on clear, bright days, yet for most yacht charter crews this is a more technical, weather-sensitive period rather than an easy-going holiday season.
Ports around Genoa
Port of Genova
The Port of Genoa consists of several parts, including container and passenger terminals, whereas the Old Port (Porto Antico) is a beloved mooring place for yachts and sailing boats. Porto Antico is able to accommodate 280 boats, up to the 60m length. The coast is lined with entertainment facilities to ensure the joy and relaxation of visitors. Comprehensive administration services, yacht yards, 24/7 security service, and restaurants await visitors. The terminal crew will give you all the support you need for docking. After mooring, you have nothing else to do but to enjoy the attractions. Info about Genova yacht charter. Rent a boat in Genoa and experience what it feels like when everything is perfectly timed – the sunset, the sea, and freedom.
Porto Vecchio San Remo
Porto Vecchio is the old port, much smaller than Portiso. Here the water is 1-4.5 meters deep and it offers berths for 50 yachts. There are mainly fishing boats here. In front of the Santa Tecla fortress, life begins on the pier early in the day. The fishermen offer fresh catch and those who are open-eyed snap up the goods soon. San Remo sailing, San Remo yacht charter
Port of Bocca di Magra
The Magna river flows into the sea with the freshwater of the Alps here. There is a beautiful port decorated with flowers that tired travellers can use. You can rent a powerboat and explore the hazy bays nearby. The port itself is a wonderful sight, and the reaches of the Alps are truly breathtaking as well. There are several watersports opportunities. They offer continuous 24-hour service to sailors. There are almost 200 moorings provided for boats with a maximum size of 30 metres.
Port of La Spezia
This is a larger town. If you want to have a nice party, you should dock at La Spezia. There is a giant port here with several sections, and it has everything you may need. It is a quite busy port and serves sailors with full equipment. From smaller sailboats to large passenger ships, they accept all types of vessels. Dock and jump right into the Ligurian night! Rent a boat La Spezia
Portofino Peninsula
The Portofino Peninsula lies approximately 10.8 nm east of Genoa. A real gem in Liguria! On the eastern part of the peninsula, Camogli awaits visitors. This picturesque fishing village enchants everyone.
Nestled in a tiny bay, with its few winding little streets, Portofino village on the edge of the peninsula is a significant tourist destination, especially popular when arriving by boat. In fact, the economy of the village is mostly based on tourism. Unique restaurants, cafes and exclusive outlets of far-famed brands await you. In addition, Portofino’s beach is renowned for its cosiness and sparkling blue waters.
Sail in Genova! Genova sailing itineraries
HELP ME TO CHOOSEGenoa yachting: one week on the Ligurian Sea (east)
This eastbound one-week Genoa itinerary follows one of the most attractive stretches of the Ligurian coast, combining short to moderate daily legs with scenic seaside towns and easy stop planning. In peak season, it’s worth arriving early to popular harbors and paying extra attention to the weather window before the longer final return leg. Recommended level: intermediate Open sea passages: no
Day 1: Genoa – Nervi (5.9 nm – Sailing time*: about 1 hour)
Start your journey in Genova and head East alongside the Riviera di Levante coastline. Nervi’s port is located about 5.4 nm away, nestled in a natural bay. Nervi boasts a pleasant climate with fresh, humid air. The tiny fishing village offers accommodation aplenty and there’re several restaurants and guest houses in the close vicinity of the port. Make sure to take a stroll on Passeggiata Anita Garibaldi, the most beautiful seafront promenade of the region.
Day 2: Nervi – Camogli (5.3 nm – Sailing time*: about 1 hour)
Camogli is one of Italy’s most stunning settlements. A typical Mediterranean fishing village: louvred windows and multi-coloured houses; a real fairy-tale scene. Whilst immersing yourself in the immense beauty of the scenery, have some focaccia or drink an Aperol spritz on the seafront promenade. Fishing has a very significant role in the village, testified by the numerous fishing nets poised in a neat row on the port’s rails. There are various types of accommodation available: hotels, Airbnb, B& Bs and the port is able to accommodate roughly 300 boats, up to 10m lengths.
Day 3: Camogli – Portofino (11.6 nm – Sailing time*: about 2 hours)
Portofino-on the edge of the Portofino Peninsula- is a charming fishing village, stunning visitors with its subtle beauty. Portofino is a real gem in the province with its unique romantic landscapes and beloved Paraggi Beach. Its port has two separate parts, one for boats up to 18m and one for boats between 18-60m and the pier boasts facilities aplenty: electricity, drinking water, security service, laundry, just a few to mention. As compared to its tiny size, the village gives a home to some top-notch hotels and resorts.
Day 4: Portofino – Santa Margherita Ligure (2.2 nm – Sailing time*: about 1 hour)
Santa Margherita Ligure is situated on the western side of the peninsula, rather close to Rapallo and has a calmer feel to it than Portofino. The multi-storied, multi-hued houses, the church tower and the palm trees create a view, unlike anything you have seen before. The area is lined with hiking trails, some of them leading to viewpoints; it’s definitely worth having a walk around these. The town boasts a fine, sandy beach as well as one with pebbles and there’s accommodation aplenty. The port can accommodate boats up to 22m.
Day 5: Santa Margherita Ligure – Sestri Levante (9.0 nm – Sailing time*: about 2 hours)
Sestri Levante is a town of some 20, 000 inhabitants. There’s always a lot going on around here. Sestri Levante offers a wealth of hotels, restaurants and clubs. Moor up and throw yourself into the buzzing life of the town. If you’d like to liven it up a bit, visit Baia del Silenzio, the Bay of Silence, the most picture-perfect, far-famed beach of the town. The harbour is enclosed by the Old Town and is capable of accommodating boats up to 20m.
Day 6: Sestri Levante – Riomaggiore (19.1 nm – Sailing time*: about 3 hours)
Your next stop is the small fishing village of Riomaggiore, which you can see on the covers of many travel guides. Steep, narrow streets, maze-like staircases, and colorfully painted houses await you. It is worth arriving early in high season, as it can be pretty crowded during the day. Discover the city’s cultural attractions, such as the Chapel of San Rocco, the Historical Museum. The famous seaside hiking trail, Sentiero Azzurro, also starts from here.
Day 7: Riomaggiore – Bogliasco – Genova (42.2 nm – Sailing time*: about 7 hours)
If you like to get off the beaten track head to Bogliasco. This ancient fishing village was already populated in Roman times. The remains of the bridge over the river are reminiscent of times gone by. Stroll down the quiet streets and let the infectious joy of the locals brighten your mood! You are in for some fun on the central main square, as when the night falls the place fills up with life. Passeggiata a Mare is a trail craved in a cliff, winding alongside the coast. Have a stroll on it after dinner and admire the spectacular colours of the sea. The black sand of Sestri Levante’s beach is lined with crystalline waters. The town’s harbour is capable of accommodating 50 boats up to the 12m length. Set sail after breakfast and leaving Nervi behind, return to your starting point, Genoa.
* – an average 43 ft sailing yacht, with average weather conditions, sails around 6-7 knots per hour.
7 days Genova sailing plan (west)
This westbound 7-day round route is comfortable in structure but still includes a few longer sailing days, making it ideal if you want to balance city stops with a true cruising feel. Because of the bigger legs later in the week, it helps to plan fuel and berthing options in advance. Recommended level: intermediate Open sea passages: no
Day 1: Genova – Arenzano (11.5 nm – Sailing time*: about 2 hours), Day 2: Arenzano – Varazze (6.2 nm – Sailing time*: about 1 hour), Day 3: Varazze – Savona (5.2 nm – Sailing time*: about 1 hour), Day 4: Savona – Albenga (18.7 nm – Sailing time*: about 3 hours), Day 5: Albenga – Imperia (13.9 nm – Sailing time*: about 2.5 hours), Day 6: Imperia – Vado Ligure (32.6 nm – Sailing time*: about 5.5 hours), Day 7: Vado Ligure – Cogoleto – Genoa (25.3 nm – Sailing time*: about 4 hours)
* – an average 43 ft sailing yacht, with average weather conditions, sails around 6-7 knots per hour.
How to choose a Genoa sailing route?
- If you want romantic coastal towns and classic Ligurian charm: choose the eastbound route toward Nervi, Camogli, Portofino, and Riomaggiore.
- If you want more larger ports and a west Ligurian cruising feel: the 7-day Genoa circuit is a better fit with stops such as Arenzano, Savona, Albenga, and Imperia.
- If an easier daily rhythm matters most: choose a plan with more short legs and only one or two longer stages near the end of the week.
- If your crew prefers marina-to-marina cruising: stay with the coastal routes, where daily stopovers are easier to adjust flexibly.
Marine gas near Genoa, boat gas stations in the Italian Riviera
- SAN REMO: Depth:5m , Working time:8-19, GPS Coordinates: 43.8154405, 7.7783112
- IMPERIA: Depth: 8 m, Working time: 9-18, GPS Coordinates: 43.90814971923828, 8.083732604980469
- SAN LORENZO AL MARE: Depth: 3 m, Working time: 10-19, GPS Coordinates: 43.8154405, 7.7783112
- ALASSIO: Depth: 3, 5 m, Working time: 8:30-18:30, GPS Coordinates: 44.016876220703125, 8.192068099975586
- FINALE LIGURE: Depth: 3, 5 m, Working time: 8-22, GPS Coordinates: 44.174766540527344, 8.369462966918945
- SAVONA: Depth: 6 m, Working time: 8-18, GPS Coordinates: 44.3141, 8.4543
- VARAZZE: Depth: 6 m, Working time: 9-18, GPS Coordinates: 44.16952, 8.3436
- ARENZANO: Depth: 3 m, Working time: 0-24 depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival) depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival), GPS Coordinates: 44.40364074707031, 8.685897827148438
- GENOA: Depth: 4 m, Working time: 9-18, GPS Coordinates: 44.4063, 8.9339
- CHIAVARI : Depth: 5 m, Working time: 9:30-18:30, GPS Coordinates: 44.406951904296875, 8.908513069152832
- LA SPEZIA: Depth: 11 m, Working time: 8:30-19:30, GPS Coordinates: 44.09899139404297, 9.861970901489258
More Liguria sailing itineraries
Our article has summarised why sailing in Genoa is such a unique experience. Hop aboard and fill your heart with the treasures of Liguria! Find more Liguria sailing destinations
Request a quote for a Genoa charter, and we’ll help shape a route that matches your crew’s pace and the character of the Ligurian Sea. Set off well prepared and enjoy the best of the Italian Riviera from the water.
