Find out everything about sailing in Italian Riviera: itineraries, ports, yacht rental options & other useful information. We are happy to help! The Italian Riviera is a diverse and wild shore segment that offers a recreation filled with adventures. Visitors are amazed by the steep cliffs, lush flora and gloomy blue waters. The ancient towns built-into the cliff walls have been standing proudly for ages. There is something here that touches the human soul. You can explore the most exciting part of the Adriatic Sea. You will find important information about why it is worth sailing in the Italian Riviera.
This article gives you an overview of the following topics:
- When is it best to go sailing in the Italian Riviera?
- Ports and islands in the Italian Riviera: Places where you should dock
- Sail in Italian Riviera! Italian Riviera sailing trips
- Sailing in the Italian Riviera: 7 days in the Paradise
- Italian Riviera sailing tour from Genova
- 7 days Italian Riviera sailing itinerary (West)
- Marine gas stations in the Italian Riviera
When is it best to go sailing in the Italian Riviera?
Due to the typically Mediterranean weather of the Italian Riviera, summers are hot and winters are mild and wet. The northwestern and southern winds are dominant here. The wind is the slowest in the summer months, with a velocity of 12–19 km/h. In the spring, the climate is windier, but the temperature is mild as well. The best period for sailing in the Italian Riviera is between May and September: the average temperature is 25–30 degrees, which is ideal for a holiday. Check the sailing conditions and wind rose diagram of Italian Riviera.
Ports and islands in the Italian Riviera: Places where you should dock
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 sailing in Genova, or Genova yacht charter The city has two ports, one new and one old. Here you will find information about both.
Portosole
San Remo has two ports, one new and one old.One of the largest and most elegant marinas in the Mediterranean is Portosole. It is a newly built, fully equipped. The water is 2.5-7 meters deep; vessels with a length of up to 90 meters are welcome. There is 24-hour service, first aid, piped water, electricity, fuel, and technical assistance. Right by the harbour, there is a hotel, a restaurant, and shopping facilities. In addition, there is a centre here for the monitoring of the cetacean. To sum up, Portosole is complex with the real elegance of San Remo.
Porto Vecchio San Remo
Porto Vecchio is the old port, much smaller than Portoso. 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 Cervo
Porto Cervo is a port that satisfies all needs. There is a 46 metre-high lighthouse aiding navigation. Due to the rugged and rocky shores, it is important to follow the exact route. You can find several workshops in the port where you can immediately ask for help if you have a problem.
This is a small and secluded town less known among tourists. This is what makes it truly beautiful! You can explore its narrow and romantic streets; the port is tiny and cosy. The sandy beach is perfect for a good swim.
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
Gallinara Island
Legend has it that this uninhabited island was the home of St. Martin when he was a hermit. They have also discovered a Roman shipwreck on the shores of the island. It has protected flora and fauna. It is also the home and nesting site of a rare seagull.
Palmaria, Tino, Tinetto Islands
This archipelago, consisting of three islands, can be found near Portovenere. It is an endemic UNESCO World Heritage site with indigenous animals.
Bergeggi Island
The island, which has a shape of a mountain peak, is located a few hundred metres from the shores. It is part of a national park; it is a protected area with special dandelions.
Yacht charter around Italian Riviera
Sail in Italian Riviera! Italian Riviera sailing trips
Sailing in the Italian Riviera 7 days in the Paradise
Day 1. Lavagna – Sestri Levante
6, 01 km (3, 73 nm)
Get on board in Lavagna, and enjoy the perfect recreation. You can access the port of Sestri Levante on a short and convenient trip. They have many restaurants here recommended by the Michelin Guide. If you would like to have a swim before dinner, visit Baia de Silenzio, the most beautiful beach on the island.
Day 2. Sestri Levante – Moneglia
10, 90 km (6, 77 nm)
Your next stop could be Moneglia! It is a small town located in a bay; its sandy beach is protected from the waves by a dam. On your way here, the cliffs on the beach and the rich flora provide an exciting sight. Travelers will be amazed by the cosy streets and medieval houses in the city. You can also find great restaurants here if you get hungry. As for accommodation, there are many apartments or small pensions to choose from.
Day 3. Moneglia – Bonassola
10, 59 km (6, 58 nm)
There is a larger distance between Moneglia and Bonassola, but it’s definitely worth visiting the city! It is not so popular among tourists, so we shouldn’t expect big crowds. The town has an enchanting atmosphere due to the nice houses and the little chapel. The chapel is also an amazing viewpoint; you can see Cinque Terre and Porto Fino in clear weather. Staying in one of the typically Mediterranean accommodations will definitely be a wonderful experience.
Day 4. Bonassola – Monterosso
9, 27 km (5, 76 nm)
In the morning, you can continue your journey towards Monterosso, leaving without a hurry from the bay of Levanto. This small town is the gate of Cinque Terre. As soon as you spot the port, you will see a giant monument. Carved in the cliff on the beach, Neptune, the god of the sea holds the terrace of a mansion on his shoulders. The 14-meter-high work of art provides an amazing sight. You can choose from great restaurants along the boardwalk.
Day 5. Monterosso – Vernazza
2, 43 km (1, 51 nm)
After a delicious latte, continue towards Vernazza. You are in Cinque Terre now, in a beautiful fishing town. The grapes clinging on the steep mountainside will make you want to taste some good wines. If you dock in the small port of Vernazza, go on and explore the beautiful sights of the area. The region is a nice example of the symbiosis between humans and nature. The place belongs to a national park. Swim in the crystal clear water in Guvano Bay, which you can only access on a boat. Dive in the azure blue water at Vernassa Beach! Visit the local wine cellars, and try the wines that have protected designation of origin. Enjoy the harmony between nature and sustainable life.
Day 6. Vernazza – Anzo Setta
14, 35 km (8, 92 nm)
Turn back at Vernazza, and stop at the shores of Anzo Setta. Its wonderful beach is really inviting. Its hazy streets and terraced houses built hundreds of years ago, will tempt you to go to the beach. You will love the friendly behaviour and Mediterranean temper of the locals.
Day 7. Anzo Setta – Portofino – Lavagna
29, 56 km (18, 37 nm)
If you leave in the morning, you will be in Portofino before noon. This gem in the Rapallo Gulf will definitely enchant you. It is an exclusive experience for the last day. Have lunch in the restaurant on a terrace, buy something in the shops on the boardwalk or swim in the cosy bay! It’s definitely worth visiting the chapel on the top of the mountain and enjoy the cool air among the ancient walls. After lunch, you can quickly get back to Lavagna, the starting point.
Italian Riviera sailing tour from Genova
Day 1. Genova – Arenzano 21.39 km (13.29 nm), Day 2. Arenzano – Varazze 11.54 km (7.17 nm), Day 3. Varazze – Savona 9.61 km (5.97 nm), Day 4. Savona – Albenga 34.69 km (21.55 nm), Day 5. Albenga – Imperia 25.67 km (15.95 nm), Day 6. Imperia – Vado Ligure 60.45 km (37.56 nm), Day 7. Vado Ligure – Cogoleto – Genoa
46.87 km (29.12 nm)
More Genoa sailing itineraries
7 days Italian Riviera sailing itinerary (West)
Day 1. San Remo – Bordighera 10.37 km (6.44 nm), Day 2. Bordighera – Mortola Inferiore 10.24 km (6.36 nm), Day 3.Mortola Inferiore – Monte Carlo 13.88 km (8.63 nm), Day 4. Monte Carlo – Villefranche-sur-Mer 18.82 km (11.69 nm), Day 5. Villefranche-sur-Mer – St-Laurent-du-Var 16.17 km (10.05 nm), Day 6. St-Laurent-du-Var – Antibes 9.19 km (5.71 nm), Day 7. Antibes – Nice – San Remo 66.61 km (41.39 nm),
Marine 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, 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
We have provided you with advice on where to go sailing in the Italian Riviera. So embark on this adventure, and explore this unique corner of the beautiful country! Find more Italian Riviera sailing destinations.
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