Italian Riviera Yacht Charter Guide

Nestled between the French Riviera and Tuscany, Italy’s Liguria region is Italian Riviera is renowned for charming seaside villages, incredible gastronomy and idyllic views. Within this crescent-shaped territory are some of Italy’s most famous coastal towns, including the region’s capital city Genoa, the picture-perfect Cinque Terre and the quaint fishing village of Portofino. Comprising almost 10 kilometers of pristine coastline, there is no better way to explore the Italian Riviera than by yacht.

In 2004, the capital city of Genoa was named the European Capital of Culture and for good reason. The cobbled streets of Genoa are brimming with history, art, music and architecture. Also, a member of the World Heritage List, Genoa has so much to offer visitors, from historic homes and palaces to luxury shopping to abundant museums and a myriad of exceptional restaurants.

The brightly colored homes of the idyllic fishing village of Portofino play an excellent backdrop to afternoon cocktails aboard the yacht. Head ashore to enjoy high-end boutiques, delightful local seafood restaurants, medieval castles and beautiful sights. The sheltered harbor, often lined with superyachts during the summer months, is picturesque and begs for a photo or two. Since the 1950s Portofino has been a favorite spot of the Hollywood elite, the quintessential Portofino restaurant Puny played host to the engagement of Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor and European Royalty.

One of the most well-known provinces of the Italian Riviera, Cinque Terre, “Five Lands,” is a distinct area comprising the five adjacent towns of Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. These unique little villages each boast their own characteristics, and each must be experienced. The best means of doing so is walking the trail through the hills overlooking the ocean that meanders through stunning botanical gardens and olive orchards. Known as Via dell’ Amore, this easy 25-minute walk takes you from Riomaggiore and Monterosso. A sunset cruise on board the luxury yacht past Vernazza, one of the most striking of the lands, will offer scenes straight out of an Italian romance film.