Liguria sits on the edge of the Ligurian Sea, between the French Cote d’Azur and Tuscany. It’s part of Italy and the Ligurian capital, Genoa, is actually the 6th largest city in Italy. This is the sort of terrain that you need to rent a motorboat in Liguria without skipper and simply explore.
You can plan an itinerary and motor from place to place. You’ll be better off adopting a relaxed approach and going with the flow though.
Organize to rent a motorboat in Liguria without skipper, this is possible and surprisingly affordable providing you have a license, they are essential for any motorboat over 30hp.
If you haven’t got a license you can always take a motorboat with a skipper, it will give you the freedom of the waves.
Genoa is roughly central on the coast, to the west you’ll find several smaller towns that were once well-known destinations for the British. Today, many of these towns attract Italian tourists and have a very authentic vibe. You’ll find some of the friendliest locals and the best foods in these places. They can rival the better-known destinations at lower rates.
If you’re after a more authentic experience then rent a boat in Liguria without skipper and cruise along the coast west of Genoa. Stop as and when you like to fully appreciate the beauty of the area and the people.
If you’re after a little more action then head east from Genoa and stop at Portofino. This is where the famous go to enjoy the sunshine, you’ll be rubbing shoulders, and wallets, with these people.
The area to the west is known as the Golfo del Tigullio. The first three towns, Portofino, San Fruttuose, and Santa Margherita Ligure are known as the most expensive with the exclusive lifestyle. But, it’s not just fine dining and designer shopping. You’ll also find the San Giorgio Church and Castello Brown just above Portofino. These are steeped in history and give you a great vantage point, you can even check out the Portofino lighthouse from land.
Just along the coast from Portofino is the old fishing town of Camogli. This is a great place to get in touch with a more authentic Italian experience. The multi-colored houses face the water around the small harbor with several eating and drinking establishments. It’s a great spot to unwind.
No trip to Liguria would be complete without motoring down the coast to Cinque Terre. This is five medieval villages nestled on the hillsides inside what is now classified as a National Park. Each of these small towns offers a unique perspective of life on the Italian Riviera if you have the time it's worth looking at all of them.
The best idea is to take your time motoring back and forth from Genoa to the Cinque Terre. There is an abundance of secluded coves along the way, many of which can be accessed by land. You’ll find beautiful sandy beaches lapping against the deep blue water. It’s warm at 20°C and inviting. Anchor the boat and take a dip before you move on to the next taste of paradise.
The Italian Riviera lives up to its name, you’re not going to want to leave.
Don’t forget to allow some time to look around Genoa, the capital city of Liguria. It’s a stunning town that mixes the old with the new, creating a cosmopolitan feel with many traditional features still intact. There’s plenty to see and do here before or after you rent a motorboat in Liguria without a skipper