Shared boat tour: San Fruttuoso and culinary delights

The Gulf of Santa Margherita Ligure and the bay of San Michele reveal their most captivating beauty when approached from the sea. Santa Margherita appears as a natural amphitheatre, with pastel‑coloured façades, elegant villas, and palm‑lined promenades rising gently from the shoreline. The water shifts from emerald to deep blue, reflecting the harmony between the town and the surrounding Mediterranean landscape. As the boat moves toward San Michele di Pagana, the scenery becomes more intimate: quiet coves, rocky inlets, and houses perched just above the water create a sense of tranquillity and exclusivity. Seen from the boat, this stretch of coast expresses its true essence—refined, authentic, and deeply connected to the rhythm of the sea—offering a perspective that highlights both its natural charm and timeless elegance.

Portofino, when approached from the sea, reveals the full elegance and drama that have made it one of the most iconic destinations of the Mediterranean. The village appears gradually, framed by the green slopes of the promontory and the deep blue of the bay, until the famous harbour comes into view like a perfectly painted scene. Colourful houses rise in a semicircle around the water, their reflections shimmering on the surface, while luxury yachts and traditional fishing boats share the same sheltered inlet. The coastline leading to the village alternates between rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and stretches of untouched vegetation, creating a sense of exclusivity and natural harmony. From the boat, Portofino feels both intimate and majestic: a place where history, beauty, and maritime tradition meet. The approach by sea captures its true essence—timeless, refined, and deeply connected to the rhythm of the Ligurian coast

San Fruttuoso reveals its most authentic soul when approached from the sea, the only way to reach this hidden bay tucked between the cliffs of the Portofino promontory. As the boat enters the narrow inlet, the ancient abbey appears almost sculpted into the rock, its arches reflected on the turquoise water in a scene that feels suspended in time. Just offshore lies the Christ of the Abyss, the celebrated bronze statue resting on the seabed. Diving or snorkelling above it offers a powerful and emotional experience, as the figure slowly emerges from the clear water in a play of light and depth. After the swim, a short visit to the tiny village completes the journey: stone paths, the abbey’s cloisters, and the intimate beach create an atmosphere of tranquillity and authenticity found nowhere else on the Riviera. Seen from the boat, San Fruttuoso embodies the perfect harmony between nature, history, and the sea, a treasure accessible exclusively by water.

Paraggi, seen from the sea, reveals a blend of elegance and natural beauty that makes this small bay one of the most enchanting corners of the Portofino coastline. The water shifts through extraordinary shades of emerald and turquoise, so clear that the seabed is visible even from the boat. The coastline is framed by lush Mediterranean vegetation, with villas hidden among the trees and small stretches of sandy beach that give the bay its intimate, exclusive character. Approaching Paraggi by boat highlights the harmony between the vibrant colours of the sea, the green slopes of the promontory, and the refined atmosphere that surrounds the entire area. The bay is sheltered and calm, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or simply enjoying the view from the deck. Accessible most beautifully from the water, Paraggi offers a rare combination of tranquillity, charm, and natural splendour that captures the essence of the Ligurian Riviera.

Reach one of Portofino’s most iconic viewpoints. The Portofino Lighthouse sits at the edge of the peninsula, where lush Mediterranean landscapes meet the sea. From here, enjoy breathtaking coastal views, peaceful surroundings, and one of the most scenic photo spots on the Italian Riviera.

The Portofino Natural Park is a protected coastal reserve renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and rich biodiversity. Stretching from Camogli to Portofino, the park features dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, scenic hiking trails, and charming seaside villages. It is the perfect destination to experience the authentic beauty of the Italian Riviera, both by land and by sea.

San Fruttuoso Abbey is a hidden gem nestled in a secluded bay within the Portofino Natural Park. Founded in the 10th century by Benedictine monks, this historic monastery is surrounded by crystal-clear waters and lush Mediterranean nature. Accessible only by boat or on foot, it offers a unique blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery, making it one of the most iconic destinations on the Italian Riviera.

San Fruttuoso Abbey is a hidden gem nestled in a secluded bay within the Portofino Natural Park. Founded in the 10th century by Benedictine monks, this historic monastery is surrounded by crystal-clear waters and lush Mediterranean nature. Accessible only by boat or on foot, it offers a unique blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery, making it one of the most iconic destinations on the Italian Riviera.

Travel back in time visiting the Castle on the Sea, the symbolic monument of Rapallo. Built in 1550 to defend the city from the fierce invasions of Barbary pirates, this fortress stands on a fortified rock and is connected to the mainland by a picturesque stone pier.

Discover Punta Chiappa, a spectacular tongue of conglomerated rock that stretches in the cobalt blue sea of the Marine Protected Area of Portofino. An authentic, wild and accessible corner of Liguria only by sea or on foot, perfect for those looking for relaxation away from the crowds.

Brown Castle is one of Portofino’s most iconic landmarks. Originally built as a military fortress in the Middle Ages, it was later transformed into an elegant private residence. Surrounded by lush Mediterranean gardens, the castle offers spectacular panoramic views over Portofino Harbor and the Ligurian Sea. Today, it is a historic attraction where visitors can admire centuries of history, architecture, and one of the most breathtaking viewpoints on the Italian Riviera.

Church built in honour of Saint Jerome