Blue Ocean Club
6 days · 6 stops

Jewels of the Italian Riviera

The sun warms the deck as your yacht departs Genoa, the Ligurian coastline unfurling like a painted scroll. Dramatic cliffs plunge into an emerald sea, concealing ancient fishing villages and coves accessible only from the water. From the glamour of Portofino to the terraced vineyards of the Cinque Terre, this is an intimate journey through the heart of the Italian Riviera, where every anchorage reveals another facet of its enduring charm and culinary excellence.

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  1. DAY 01

    San Fruttuoso & Camogli

    After a short cruise from Genoa, the secluded bay of San Fruttuoso appears, a tiny pebble beach dominated by a 10th-century abbey. The water is startlingly clear, revealing the famous submerged statue of Christ of the Abyss. Nearby, the tall, brightly-painted houses of Camogli cascade down the hillside to its bustling little harbour, a perfect vision of a classic Ligurian fishing village.

    • Dive or snorkel over the 'Cristo degli Abissi' (Christ of the Abyss) statue.
    • Explore the medieval Abbey of San Fruttuoso, now a national monument.
    • Enjoy an aperitivo in the harbour of Camogli, watching the fishing boats return.
    • Hike part of the trail from San Fruttuoso towards Portofino for stunning views.
    Anchorage
    Anchorage in the bay of San Fruttuoso (weather permitting)
    Dining
    Da Laura, a simple, family-run trattoria on the beach at San Fruttuoso serving fresh fish.
  2. DAY 02

    Portofino

    A gentle morning cruise brings you to the legendary harbour of Portofino. This amphitheatre of pastel-hued buildings embraces a bay filled with sleek tenders and traditional fishing boats. The air hums with a quiet sophistication, watched over by the historic Castello Brown, which commands the headland and offers a peerless view of this iconic Riviera gem.

    • Hike the cypress-lined path to Castello Brown for panoramic views of the harbour.
    • Browse the exclusive designer boutiques hidden along the Piazzetta.
    • Take a tender to the Portofino Lighthouse (Il Faro) for a sunset cocktail.
    • Visit the Church of San Giorgio, resting place of the town's patron saint.
    Anchorage
    Marina di Portofino (reservations essential) or anchor in the nearby bay of Paraggi.
    Dining
    Ristorante Puny, an iconic and celebrity-favourite spot right on the main square.
  3. DAY 03

    Santa Margherita Ligure

    Just around the headland lies the elegant resort town of Santa Margherita Ligure. A palm-fringed promenade is lined with grand hotels and Liberty-style villas, fronting a large, active harbour. It offers a more spacious and relaxed atmosphere than its famous neighbour, with beautiful public gardens and a charming historic centre to explore.

    • Stroll through the ornate gardens of Villa Durazzo-Centurione.
    • Discover the Baroque splendour of the Basilica of St. Margaret of Antioch.
    • Enjoy the chic beach clubs at Niasca or Paraggi Bay, a short tender ride away.
    • Sample the local 'gamberi rossi' (red prawns), a prized delicacy.
    Anchorage
    Porto di Santa Margherita Ligure
    Dining
    Ristorante Antonio for classic Ligurian seafood or Trattoria Baicin for authentic local dishes.
  4. DAY 04

    Sestri Levante

    Your journey continues south to Sestri Levante, uniquely situated on an isthmus connecting the mainland to a small peninsula. This geography creates two distinct bays: the lively Baia delle Favole (Bay of Fables) and the serene, sandy Baia del Silenzio (Bay of Silence). The latter is a perfectly curved crescent of sand and pastel buildings, offering one of the most romantic anchorages on the coast.

    • Anchor and swim in the calm, protected waters of the Baia del Silenzio.
    • Walk through the 'caruggi' (narrow lanes) of the old town centre.
    • Hike the trails on the Punta Manara headland for exceptional coastal vistas.
    • Taste 'testaroli' pasta with fresh pesto, a regional speciality.
    Anchorage
    Anchor in the Baia del Silenzio (Bay of Silence)
    Dining
    Ristorante Portobello, with tables set directly on the sands of the Bay of Silence.
  5. DAY 05

    Vernazza, Cinque Terre

    Today you cruise along the dramatic, UNESCO-protected coastline of the Cinque Terre. The yacht provides the ultimate vantage point for these five villages clinging to the cliffs. You anchor off Vernazza, its natural harbour guarded by the medieval Doria Castle and the waterfront Church of Santa Margherita d'Antiochia, creating an unforgettable scene.

    • Climb the Belforte tower of Doria Castle for the classic postcard photograph.
    • Hike a portion of the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) towards Monterosso.
    • Swim in the small, protected harbour or from the rocks below the castle.
    • Sample Sciacchetrà, the rare and delicious local dessert wine.
    Anchorage
    Anchor off the coast of Vernazza or neighbouring Monterosso al Mare.
    Dining
    Ristorante Belforte, built into the ancient castle fortifications with staggering sea views.
  6. DAY 06

    Portovenere

    Your final day begins at Portovenere, the majestic gatekeeper to the Gulf of Poets. This fortified village is defined by the incredible Church of St. Peter, a black-and-white striped Gothic church perched on a rocky outcrop facing the open sea. A row of tall, narrow 'case-torri' (tower houses) lines the harbour, completing a scene of medieval maritime power before your short cruise to La Spezia.

    • Explore the Church of St. Peter, seemingly carved from the cliff itself.
    • Visit Byron's Grotto, a rocky cove where the poet is said to have swum.
    • Circumnavigate the islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto by tender.
    • Walk down the main street, Via Capellini, to discover local artisan shops.
    Anchorage
    Disembark at Porto Mirabello, La Spezia
    Dining
    A final celebratory lunch at Locanda Lorena on Palmaria Island, with views back towards Portovenere.
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