Genova (Genoa) is a historical port city in northern Italy, noted for its many examples of Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, and Gothic architecture. It is sheltered by the Apennines, so the wind is weaker than in other parts of Italy which makes the Genoa yacht charter a perfect option for a relaxing sailing holiday.
Probably one of your first associations when mentioning Liguria is Cinque Terre, the charming villages perched high atop the rocky coastline. There are in total five: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Explore the breath-taking villages of Cinque Terre, connected by a serpentine walkway, through a Genova and Cinque Terre (Liguria) yacht charter. This 18-kilometre length of the coastline is home to quaint sidewalk cafés that serve strong coffee, delectable meals, and sweet gelato, as well as hidden beaches that can only be reached by boat.
Find Your Ideal Yacht in Genova and Cinque Terre
Why are Genova and Cinque Terre Popular Among Sailors?
Embark on an unforgettable sailing adventure along the Italian Riviera with a Genoa yacht charter. The Italian Riviera, with its countless gulfs, coves and inlets, touristic ports and long, sandy beaches, is truly adapted to the water lover’s every demand. It is crammed with fishing villages, and coastal cities with sea resorts and day beaches – much of it easily reachable by car, train and planes, and vessels large and small. Beginner sailors will appreciate Italian Riviera’s deep waters and the lack of obstacles which make it a perfect place for a bareboat yacht charter.
Many marinas in Italy have ormeggiatori who will board and moor the boat for you to take the stress out of mooring up. August is the hottest month with the highest boat rental prices as all the Italians go on holiday; it is also when marinas become so jam-packed that it is well worth booking a space in most popular marinas in advance.
The winds along the Italian Riviera are usually south-westerly and south-easterly breezes but pay attention to summer spring and summer gales. The seafront is lined with colourful houses that make it easier for sailors to spot it when coming back from their Liguria sailing journey.
Sailing the Ligurian Coast or the Italian Riviera is certainly an unforgettable experience, so make sure to bring a souvenir back home, such as pesto that originates from this area.
Yacht Charter in Genova and Cinque Terre Sailing Region
A Genoa yacht charter will take you into a breath-taking natural harbour that is flanked by mountains and the ideal location for sailing the Ligurian coast. Sail around rocky, green-hilled coasts dotted with pastel-coloured houses to find the Archipelago of Portovenere's distinctive harbours, beautiful beaches, and protected anchorages.
Portofino. Viareggio and La Spezia. Even the names of the cities and villages that surround Italy's breath-taking Cinque Terre area evoke a feeling of richness and serenity. The best way to discover this amazing region of Italy is by a yacht or catamaran charter in the Cinque Terre. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is surrounded by some of the most stunning coastline scenery, is sure to wow. Each of the five towns along the Cinque Terre's rocky coastline is charmingly secluded and has its own character, down to its accent.
There are many things to do in this sailing region all year long, but the prime months to opt for a Genova and Cinque Terre yacht charter are late May to early September.
Best Places to Visit in Genova and Cinque Terre Region
When chartering a yacht in Genova, make sure to include a stop at the stunning Cinque Terre, a string of five historic fishing villages connected by hiking trails. The Cinque Terre Express trains run frequently between the villages, making it easy to explore all five in one day.
The town of Genova has a rich history, starting as a working port and evolving into a bustling and captivating city. As you wander through its narrow, winding streets, you'll encounter baroque churches, charming cafes, and magnificent architecture.
Don't miss the largest aquarium in Europe, the Old Port, the Biosphere, Piazza de Ferrari, Porta Soprana, the house of Christopher Columbus, and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. After you explored Genoa and Cinque Terre on your sailing holiday, don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit the Liguria coastline that has many gems that are equally worth a visit.
Portofino is a picturesque fishing village known for its beauty and vibrant building colours. It is situated between mountains and vegetation, making it a must-visit destination for yachting enthusiasts on the Italian Riviera.
Lavagna is a popular seaside resort, boasting a magnificent sand beach that stretches for several kilometres. It also houses the largest tourism port in Liguria, Tiguillion.
The Gulf of La Spezia, also known as the Gulf of Poets, is named after the city of La Spezia located at its centre. It was a popular destination for famous poets in northern Italy's Liguria region. Consider visiting the charming villages of Portovenere and Lerici, as well as the islands of Palmaria and Tino.
Important Info for Sailing in Genova and Cinque Terre (Liguria) Sailing Region
Best time to sail
April – October
Most popular marinas
Porto Mirabello, Porto Lotti, Bocca di Magra, Marina Porto Antico, Marina del Fezzano
Nearest airports
Genoa (GOA)
Number of charter yachts
30+
Popular regattas
Tangone Regatta
Top attractions
Cinque Terre, San Remo, Genoa, Portofino, La Spezia, Porto Venere
Gastronomy Highlights of Genova and Cinque Terre Sailing Region
When on your Cinque Terre holidays, be sure to get a taste of the local food. Ligurian cuisine incorporates both locally produced ingredients (such as preboggion, a combination of wild herbs), as well as ingredients imported from other regions such as Sardinian pecorino used in Ligurian staple – Pesto Genovese.
Pesto Genovese is a world-famous sauce made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, grated sharp cheese (pecorino or Parmesan) olive oil and salt. It is used as a sauce for pasta, served with a few boiled potatoes and green beans, or stirred into soup to make minestrone alla Genovese.
A golden focaccia bread, often flavoured with olives, sage or rosemary, or covered with toppings, is the famous Ligurian bread that has made its way around the world.
Latte fritto Genovese literally translates to fried milk is a rather simple Ligurian specialty.
Farinata di ceci or Cecina is a simple flatbread made with chickpea flour, water, extra virgin olive oil, and salt.
