Portofino Yacht Charter

Portofino is a jewel of the Italian Riviera, famed for its pastel-hued buildings, lush hills, and glamorous heritage. Once a Roman colony and later influenced by French, Spanish, and Austrian rule, the town blends cultural richness with Mediterranean charm. Its picturesque harbour welcomes superyachts, while larger vessels anchor off nearby Santa Margherita. Charterers can explore scenic trails, visit Castello Brown, or relax in seaside cafés. Portofino's yachting season runs from May to September, offering a wide range of luxury vessels and itineraries, including the Cinque Terre and Portovenere. With its elegance, history, and cinematic beauty, Portofino remains one of the Mediterranean’s most iconic and exclusive yacht charter destinations.

Portofino grants direct routes to San Fruttuoso, Paraggi Beach, and Camogli. An extended cruising season supports both high-traffic and quieter periods. On land, amenities include fine dining at Michelin-starred restaurants, curated boutiques, and coastal trails leading to landmarks such as Castello Brown and the Church of St. Martin. Modern marinas and well-equipped facilities support a variety of vessels and charter itineraries along the Ligurian coast.

Portofino yacht rentals center around its iconic harbor, famed for colorful buildings, luxurious shopping, and a vibrant marina attracting superyachts. Nearby, Santa Margherita Ligure offers a lively seafront, charming marina, and bustling nightlife. Further along the coast, Nervi impresses with scenic parks and historic villas, while Sestri Levante, known as the “Bay of Silence,” features sheltered coves and sandy beaches. The broader Tigullio Gulf ties these destinations together, boasting deep blue waters, rugged coastline, and hidden bays ideal for anchoring and swimming.

The premier marinas in Portofino, renowned for their luxury and convenience, cater to a range of yacht sizes and deliver top-tier services.

Portofino Marina stands out with its prime waterfront location and can accommodate yachts up to 70m. It provides high-end amenities including concierge service, refueling, and maintenance, all just steps from the town’s upscale boutiques and gourmet restaurants.

Just a short distance away, Santa Margherita Ligure Marina welcomes about 450 yachts up to 22 m., featuring facilities such as water, electricity, a fuel station, and easy access to local attractions.

Yacht charter pricing in Portofino is shaped by several key factors, including the size and type of yacht, the season, and the length of the booking. Rates are highest during the peak summer months, when Portofino’s harbor is bustling with luxury yachts and demand surges. For a quieter yet equally charming escape, the shoulder months of May or September are more preferable, when prices are more competitive and the Ligurian coastline is less crowded. While seven-day charters are the standard, longer bookings may unlock favorable discounts. Early reservations are strongly advised to secure the best selection and allow room for negotiation. Alternatively, those with flexible plans might find appealing last-minute deals, though yacht availability becomes more limited.

Charters departing from Portofino are subject to Italy’s VAT, currently set at 22% on the base rate. In addition, an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA), usually between 35–45%, is required to cover variable costs such as fuel, provisions, marina fees, and other onboard expenses. Any unused funds are returned at the end of the trip, while excess costs are settled separately - ensuring a personalized and transparent yachting experience along this iconic stretch of the Italian Riviera.

The best time to enjoy a yacht charter in Portofino spans from May through September, when the Ligurian coast is at its most enchanting. July and August mark the peak season, bustling with vibrant energy, glamorous events, and sun-drenched days. For a quieter, more refined experience, late spring (May to June) is ideal - the sea is calm, the temperatures are pleasant, and the iconic harbor remains relatively uncrowded. September offers a golden retreat, with warm waters and softer light, perfect for relaxed cruising and elegant evenings along the Riviera.

Portofino offers a rare mix of opulence, charm, and breathtaking scenery. Its vibrant harbor, Michelin-star dining, upscale marinas, and access to gems like Camogli and the Cinque Terre make it ideal for yacht charters. From serene spring days to lively summer nights, Portofino promises a yachting escape like no other.

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