Portofino & Ligurian Coast, Italy

For decades, yacht charterers have adored the tiny port of Portofino in Italy. Portofino was once a charming fishing village on the rugged East coast of Italy. Its popularity as a quaint and colorful town has now made it a famous port of call for luxury yachts, sailboats and charter boats. Portofino is a tiny town of cobble-stone streets, framed by hills of silvery, ancient olive groves. From the top of the hill, the views of the harbor and coastline are breathtaking. Cafes, boutique shops and gelataria’s spill out into the harbor piazza. The portside cafes are a great place to sit and watch the glamorous yachting world go by.

Further down the Italian coast, you'll sail upon 'Cinque Terra' - A succession of five coastal villages, all with the same spectacular views of the seas. These villages are less expensive and sophisticated, than their more popular sister, Portofino. There is a stunning and famous walk along this coastal route, linking the five towns.

This stretch of coastline is scenic and spectacular. The Italian coastline can make an enchanting charter yacht location. Yacht charters for the Ligurian coast, generally start in San Remo or Genova, perhaps even further back up the French Riviera. From this northern point in Italy, it's easy to follow the coastline down toward Elba, Tuscany's stunning National Park Island. Further south is Civitavecchia, the gateway to Rome and her splendid architectural and historical gems.

The types of yacht charter available in Portofino & Cinque Terra Italy include all the main types such as motor, sailing, bareboat charter, skippered, crewed yachts, catamaran, power boat, sailboat, luxury yachts and off-course the ever increasing super yacht charter. Like most of the Mediterranean, the Italian yacht chartering season generally runs from April to the end of October.