Find out everything about sailing in Liguria: itineraries, ports, yacht rental options & other useful information. We are happy to help! Sailing in Liguria is a real adventure. Boasting unique natural and architectural gems, Liguria could be a perfect place for a sailing family holiday. It’s a perfect choice both for experienced sailors and beginners, and the well-equipped ports make it all easier. 
Let’s see some ‘must-moor’ places!
- Mediterranean breeze: weather in Liguria
- Ports in Liguria
- Sail in Liguria! Liguria sailing trips
- Sailing in Liguria: one week at sea
- Liguria sailing trip:7 days Genova sailing plan
Mediterranean breeze: weather in Liguria
Liguria’s coastline is sheltered by the Apennines. Light breezes are present in the area from spring to autumn. In the touristy summer months, light winds are dominant, whereas the northerly winds blow in the nights and early mornings from the coast. The other two prevailing winds are Libeccio–a westerly or southwesterly breeze and the Tramontana, a stronger, sometimes tempestuous wind.
The coastline stretches for approximately 315 km, flecked with sandy patches and framed with cliffs. Liguria is undoubtedly characterized by the Mediterranean climate. Owing to the closeness of the sea, extremely high temperatures are rare, however, due to the high humidity, it can be quite muggy whilst sailing in Liguria.Check the sailing conditions and wind rose diagram of Liguria.
Ports in Liguria
Sailing in Liguria is ideal for those who would like to enjoy sailing, as well as explore towns and go sightseeing.
In this part of Italy, there’re several romantic small towns with their ports alluring the tired sailors. We have collected some of these ports and some islands.
Portofino
A real gem on the Italian Riviera, Portofino boasts what is believed by many to be the most picturesque port on the continent. However, it surely costs a pretty penny. Although the ports are very well-equipped with everything a sailor might need, prices are extremely high. Peak season is around May with huge crowds.
San Remo
When sailing in Liguria, make sure to visit San Remo, the famous old resort town. The town used to be a typical fishing village back in time, but is now famed for its flowers and casino and both the port and the coast is dominated by luxury and sumptuousness. The port is encircled by atmospheric restaurants and bars, so you definitely won’t get bored if you spend a night here. Enquire about their capacity before your arrival; the port is fairly small and shady spots are scarce.
Genoa
Genoa hosts the second-largest port of the Mediterranean Sea. Its original Old Port only provided 10 berths, which didn’t seem to be enough to satisfy the city’s needs. Therefore a new port has been built, stretching for 22km, with 4 entrances, encompassing several smaller marinas, offering thousands of berths.
Genoa is also a perfect place for beginner sailors as the waters aren’t particularly shallow and there aren’t any obstacles alongside the coastline either. In addition, the infrastructure, supporting nautical purposes is also very developed.
Bocca di Magra
Bocca di Magra is located at the mouth of the river Magra and its Marina offers 256 mooring places. Apart from the professional assistance provided, sailors can also access free Wi-Fi and their peace of mind is granted by the security services; all provided for a carefree holiday.
Sail in Liguria! Liguria sailing trips
Sailing in Liguria: one week at sea
Whilst sailing in Liguria, La Spezia could be a perfect port of call. It’s a great base for exploring the surroundings. Here’s a possible one-week itinerary.
Day 1. La Spezia – Portovenere
7, 16 km (4, 45 nm)
Spend the first day of your sailing holiday in Portovenere, in the Gulf of Poets. Portovenere is a perfect place to prepare your boat for the trip and to fetch everything you might need on the sea. That done, free some time to explore this fantastic, little town! Visit the Church of St. Peter and spend a lovely dinner in one of the many restaurants in the port.
Day 2. Portovenere – Palmaria
1, 00 km (3, 28 nm)
On the second day, set sail to reach the nearby island: Palmaria. Have a dip on the island’s splendid beach and visit the unique Blue Grotto. Later, if you’re still not too exhausted, take a walk on the trail winding around the island.
Day 3. Palmaria – Tino and Tinetto
4, 32 km (2, 68 nm)
On day 3, visit the islands of Tino and Tinetto. Both islands are fairly tiny, in addition, the former is only open for the public on a certain day of the year. However, it’s still worth sailing around here and admires the San Verino Abbey and the ruins of a 6th-century monastery.
Day 4. Tino and Tinetto – Riomaggiore
12, 57 km (7, 81 nm)
Explore Riomaggiore on the 4th day. It’s your ‘day off’ whilst sailing in Liguria. All you have to do is take in the awe-inspiring scenery. Immerse yourself in the sight of the rows of multicoloured houses, in the floating boats and spend a delightful meal in one of the restaurants lining the beach.
Day 5. Riomaggiore – Monterosso
8, 46 km (5, 26 nm)
Set sail to Monterosso in the morning. Monterosso is a beloved holiday resort and is therefore quite crowded. If you happened to be running short on the food that you picked up in Portovenere, you can restock here. There are several attractions in the town that are worth visiting, including the gothic Church of San Giovanni Battista, the Torra Aurora and the ruins of an old fortress.
Day 6. Monterosso – Levanto
7, 31 km (4, 54 nm)
On the last day of sightseeing, visit Levanto. The unique town is famed for its painted street walls, depicting realistic windows. Make sure you visit the local market, or if you’re up for some shopping, there’re several shops around too. Visit the most stunning villas as well, such as the one of the Agnelli family, the founders of Fiat.
Day 7. Levanto – La Grazie – La Spezia
32, 14 km (19, 97 nm)
Set off early in the morning! You’ll spend most of the day at sea, and the destination is your starting point: La Spezia.
Liguria sailing trip:7 days Genova sailing plan
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 – Genova 46.87 km (29.12 nm)
Italy is a real boating paradise for those who like romantic small towns, delicious seafood and pleasant boat rides. Just be open, and take in everything Liguria has to offer! More Italy sailing tours, or boat rental in Liguria.
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