Liguria Yacht Charter

The Ligurian Riviera, stretching from the French border to Tuscany, is a stunning yacht charter destination famed for its pastel-hued villages, dramatic cliffs, and rich cultural heritage. From the chic casino town of Sanremo and the Belle Époque allure of Alassio along the Riviera di Ponente to the cliffside villages of Cinque Terre and the glamour of Portofino, the region offers a diverse and picturesque coastline. Chartering a yacht here provides access to hidden coves, charming harbors, and iconic towns, with flexible itineraries between Genoa, Santa Margherita, and beyond. The area enjoys a long cruising season from spring to early autumn and a wide selection of yachts. With its mix of natural beauty, history, and Mediterranean allure, the Ligurian Riviera is ideal for an unforgettable charter experience.

From sun-drenched hills dotted with vineyards and ancient olive trees to stylish coastal towns and cosmopolitan lounges, the Ligurian Riviera delivers a truly refined yacht charter escape. This beautiful part of northwestern Italy features iconic beaches like San Remo and the sweeping white sands of Alassio, attracting sunseekers and boating enthusiasts alike. The serene, clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, windsurfing, or paddling through secluded bays. Alternatively, charterers can unwind on the yacht’s sundeck, sipping Ligurian wine as the shoreline drifts by.

The Ligurian Riviera offers diverse yacht charter regions. In the west, Sanremo and Alassio boast sandy beaches and Belle Époque charm. Eastward, Portofino and Santa Margherita shine with luxury and natural beauty. The Cinque Terre’s five cliffside villages promise iconic views and marine reserves, but be prepared to anchor offshore and use tenders to visit these protected areas.The area around La Spezia presents opportunities to explore Portovenere, Lerici, and Palmaria Island - the best locations for snorkeling and coastal hikes.

The Ligurian Riviera is home to several top-tier marinas that cater to luxury yacht charters with exceptional services and facilities. 

Porto Mirabello in La Spezia is one of the region’s largest and most well-equipped marinas, offering around 400 berths for yachts up to 140 meters. It features a full-service shipyard, crew amenities, restaurants, and boutique shopping. 

Marina di Portofino, though much smaller with only about 14 berths, is renowned for its exclusivity and prestige. Nestled in the picturesque village of Portofino, it grants an intimate and iconic setting for superyachts. Despite its size, it provides essential services like concierge support, fuel, and utilities.

Marina di Varazze, with around 800 berths for yachts up to 55m., is a modern and sustainable marina located close to Genoa. It boasts 24/7 security, technical assistance, shops, and dining options.

Situated just minutes from Genoa’s international airport, Marina Genova Aeroporto boasts approximately 500 berths, accommodating vessels up to 130m. It stands out for its comprehensive technical services, heliport, customs clearance, and luxury facilities.

Lastly, Marina di Loano provides about 990 berths for yachts up to 77m. This spacious, family-friendly marina includes a yacht club, spa, shopping area, and full maintenance support. 

Yacht charter pricing along the Ligurian Riviera depends on several factors, including the type and size of the yacht, the duration of the charter, and the season. Rates peak during the summer months, particularly from June to August, when the region is buzzing with events and the Mediterranean climate is at its best. For those seeking a quieter and more cost-effective escape, the shoulder seasons - especially late spring and early autumn - offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, often at more favorable rates.

While most charters in the area are booked for a week, longer rentals may come with negotiated discounts, especially during off-peak periods. Booking early is strongly advised, particularly for popular hubs like Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure, and La Spezia, as prime yachts tend to get reserved months in advance. On the other hand, flexible charterers might find last-minute options with reduced pricing, although availability is usually more limited.

In the Ligurian Riviera, a 22% VAT is typically added to the base charter fee.  An Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA), typically amounting to 35–45% of the charter cost, should also be factored into the overall budget. This prepaid amount covers variable expenses such as fuel, food and drinks, port fees, and other incidentals. The yacht’s captain manages these funds, and any unused balance is refunded at the end of the trip. This structure ensures that each journey is tailored to individual preferences - whether that involves gourmet dining on board or spontaneous detours to hidden bays along the Riviera’s dramatic coastline.

The best period for a yacht charter along the Ligurian Riviera spans from May to October, with peak activity occurring during the lively months of July and August. In May and June, charterers can enjoy pleasant weather, calm seas, and a more relaxed ambiance, ideal for those desiring a serene and intimate sailing experience. As autumn approaches in September and October, the region still basks in warm temperatures and gentle winds, providing an elegant and leisurely atmosphere perfect for savoring the Riviera’s natural beauty and charming coastal towns in style.

Chartering a yacht in the Ligurian Riviera unlocks unique activities - snorkeling around Palmaria Island, hiking the cliffside trails of Cinque Terre, dining in seaside trattorias, and exploring pastel-hued villages only accessible by sea. It’s time to discover a coast where every stop offers a new story. 

Contact Us for the ultimate private luxury yacht experience in the Ligurian Riviera. Yacht Hunter’s expert charter consultants will craft a bespoke itinerary, seamlessly aligning your desires with insider recommendations to indulge in this enchanting destination.