Portofino is among the most visited and visually iconic of all Mediterranean yacht destinations: the horseshoe harbour of pastel buildings, the fortress above, the emerald hills behind, and the yacht-lined quay have appeared in more charter brochures than any other single Italian image. A motor yacht is the natural way to experience Portofino, giving access to the Ligurian Riviera’s most rewarding coves, a capable tender for the shallow water dining spots, and the freedom to depart before the morning ferry crowds arrive and return after they have gone.
Italy’s charter fleet includes approximately 36 motor yachts suitable for a Ligurian itinerary, from agile 30-metre yachts that can manoeuvre in Portofino’s tight harbour to 70 to 80 metre superyachts that anchor in the bay and shuttle guests ashore by tender. The Ligurian coast rewards a vessel with good deck space: the afternoon light along the cliffs between Portofino and the Cinque Terre is best appreciated from an upper deck with a cold Ligurian white wine in hand.
Weekly motor yacht rates in Italy begin at approximately 50,000 euros for a 30-metre vessel and extend to 250,000 euros and above for large superyachts in July and August. The advance provisioning allowance of around 30% covers fuel, berthing in the premium marina which is among the most expensive per metre in the Mediterranean in high season, and world-class provisions from the Ligurian market. August represents peak pricing and peak congestion; September is universally preferred by experienced charter guests.
From Portofino, a motor yacht covers the Cinque Terre in a day, San Remo in two hours, the French Riviera in half a day, and the Tuscan Archipelago in an overnight passage. The Ligurian Riviera rewards a slower, more selective pace than a simple point-to-point itinerary.
