Silversea Luxury Cruises A PORTOFINO

You will meet your English speaking guide at the tender pier and walk to the minibus. After a 45 minutes' drive you will reach Camogli where you will have a guided tour and some free time. Camogli is a small fishing village and a famous tourist resort located just at the basis of Monte di Portofino, in the province of Genoa, on the Italian Riviera. The name Camogli has a double meaning in Italian. The first translation, "houses close together" - "case a mucchi" is the italian translation of the Genoese dialect sentence "cà a mûggi" - is apparent when strolling through the town's narrow streets, which are lined by tall columns of pastel-colored homes. The second meaning, "houses of wives" - "casa delle mogli" is the italian translation of the Genoese dialect sentence "cà de möggê" - refers to the sea captains, sailors, and fishermen's wives, who traditionally spent their time at home while their husbands were out in the sea. Camogli has ancient origins, since prehistoric times, as shown by traces of human settlements found at Castellaro dating to the XII and XIII centuries BC. In the same area were also found some Roman artefacts dating back to the second century BC. The next historical certified evidence of Camogli existence is contained in a document of the Middle Ages, the date ranges between 1018 and 1045, in which Camogli is cited with as 'Villa Camuli'. The first core of the village dates back to medieval and develops in the area called 'Isola', where there is the Castel Dragone also known as 'Castello della Dragonara'. In the Middle Age the castle was built as a fortress to defend Camogli during the pirate raids from the sea. In the sixteenth century, the castle ceased to be a fortress and was used as a prison. Camogli features a small harbor, with colorful houses built right up to the fine beach and guarantees a very special gastronomy tradition (focaccia in particular). The basilica Santa Maria Assunta, the largest of the town's five churches, is beautifully decorated with art and gold left by many of the town's seamen when they died. Right next to it, you'll find an old castle which today houses a small aquarium. Return to Portofino by minibus afterwards.

Please note: This tour requires an extensive amount of walking of approximately 1.25 miles (2.0 km) sometimes over cobblestone surfaces, steep alleys and a few steps to negotiate to get off/on the coach. This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or guests who utilise a wheelchair. The time spent at certain venues may be extended or reduced, and other brief stops may be added. We recommend guests wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes as well as bring sun protection.

You will meet your hiking guide at the tender pier and you will hike to San Fruttuoso. This route is a very scenic one and it does not present major difficulties even if it must be pointed out that the initial stretch is a steep and strenuous climb. So the guests must be aware of this difficult part. The departure is in Via Fondaco, the road to the parking lot at the bottom of Portofino, which goes through under the Carabinieri station. Beyond the hotel, the road turns into a flight of wide stone steps and concrete, very well kept, which winds through the vegetation. After 10 ', in the locality Palara, a gate bars access but only to prevent the entry of wild animals, then you can go with the recommendation to close it behind. At the exit of a short tunnel created by the shrubs, left to the right, the detour to the village of San Sebastian, the trail continues to climb straight. A second gate meets a little later to Cappeletta, turn right after 50 meters the trail forks: left reaches "Base 0" (and then San Fruttuoso), right up to Pietre strette. The trail, mostly dirt roads and flat, winds through the countryside to places Vessinaro, where the deviation to "Cala degli Inglesi" (beautiful cove accessible only by feet or by boat), the path goes right under the chestnut trees and after 5' is entered, a short distance, on a steep paved road that ends in front of some houses. Having taken the path on the left that move to the western side of the promontory that overlooks the numerous coves below, alternating short stretches to flatter many ups and downs in the midst of protruding rocks, we arrive, after 1 hour and 10 'from the start, in the locality Base 0. Base 0, military post during World War II, is today a staging point from which panoramic, turning right you can get stones Narrow. From here the trail enters the woods and down in a steep and irregular path, with large panoramic views over the village. The arrival in San Fruttuoso is based at the landing of helicopters, from here you continue in the middle of some homes and, passing under a porch, you enter the first of two enchanting bays. The monumental San Fruttuoso Abbey comprises the church, which is located at the end of a narrow valley. The small, two-level cloisters between the church and the Abbey feature an open area in the centre flanked by the monks' cemetery to the east, the tombs of the Doria family to the west and the Gothic Abbey facing towards the sea. The first community of devotees of the martyr from Tarragona settled in this small bay at the beginning of the 8th century, and built a church that repelled Saracen raids until the 10th century. The abbey reached its greatest splendour in the 15th century. It has been the main political and economic centre of the promontory until the last century, and influenced the organisation of the territory, agricultural system and fishing economy. After the visit and some free time, you will return to Portofino by public motor boat. It will be a short ride of approx. 30 minutes.

Please note: This tour requires an extensive amount of walking of approximately 3.75 miles (6.0 km) sometimes over cobblestone surfaces, about 50 steps to negotiate at the Abbey in San Fruttuoso and a few steps to get off/on the boat. This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or guests who utilise a wheelchair. The time spent at certain venues may be extended or reduced, and other brief stops may be added. We recommend guests wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes as well as bring sun protection.

You will meet your tour leader at the tender pier and you will walk to Niasca bay where the kayak experience will begin. This tour will make you explore the beauty of the Tigullian Bay by kayak. Guided by marine biologists and local experts in off-track excursion, the staff assures not only the best company and highest quality of sea sport instruction and guiding, but the chance to come in contact with the most peculiar and traditional aspects of this small and rich natural sanctuary and its costumes. Guides of the Marine Protected Area will bring you in an ecological tour to discover ecosystems, habitats, and wildlife.

You will start from Niasca where you will be briefed on how to paddle on a kayak and then you will be ready to explore the Tigullian Bay coast, starting from Niasca and leaving the spectacular view of Paraggi Gulf behind you. You will then reach the port of Portofino and reach the "Olivetta" small beach, soared above by century-old maritime pine trees. A stretch of coast rich with caves and inlets - which are accessible only by kayak - will soon start. Here you will be able to spot a great variety of species (grey herons, cormorants and dolphins). Passing by the "Punta del Faro", the lighthouse, the panorama will change: no trace of civilization can be seen as the wild nature is finally prevails! After you kayak experience, you will paddle back to Niasca and return to Portofino on foot afterwards.

Please note: This tour is recommended for guests who are in good physical condition, and can swim in water too deep too stand. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guest with neck and/or back problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests prone to seasickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear a swimsuit under a cover-up with beach or water shoes, and bring sun protection, a towel and change of clothing from the ship. It's recommended to bring a snack and bottled water since no bars are available on the beach.

You will meet your English speaking guide at the tender pier and begin the walking tour of Portofino.

Through the centuries Portofino functioned primarily as a fishing village and, occasionally, as a small naval port, today it is a classy resort-village. Portofino's miniscule bay is neatly packed with pricey yachts, common pleasure boats and, as a vestige of its past, some fishing boats. The waterfront is lined with multicoloured pastel buildings, canopied outdoor cafes and a quay fit for strolling young lovers and its surrounding hills host bougainvillea-garnished villas owned by the rich and famous. If you don't bring your camera to Portofino you will regret it. The town is striking with its brightly colored antique buildings hovering over sparkling blue water. And the surrounding luxuriant green hillsides of the Portofino Promontory are equally stunning.

A very pleasant walk heads up to the right as you face the harbour: here you'll find a very attractive walking path through one of the largest concentrations of flora and fauna in the Mediterranean. For some fantastic views of the entire bay and the Tigullian Gulf, you will walk up the hill to the Church of San Giorgio. Perched high above the town, this church contains relics of St. George brought over by crusaders from the Holy Land. From here you can walk to another great lookout point at the Punto del Capo, the Portofino lighthouse.

You will then head to the public boat pier and board the boat for a short ride to Santa Margherita Ligure.

A beautiful old resort town favored by well-to-do Italians, Santa Margherita Ligure has everything a Riviera playground should have-plenty of palm trees and attractive hotels, cafés, and a marina packed with yachts. Some of the older buildings here are still decorated on the outside with the trompe l'oeil frescoes typical of this part of the Riviera. This is a pleasant, convenient base, which for many represents a perfect balance on the Italian Riviera: more spacious than the Cinque Terre; less glitzy than San Remo; more relaxing than Genoa and environs.

After 45 minutes' tour with your guide you will have free time in this little town. You can have lunch in one of the many nice restaurants or do some shopping.

The guide will give you the public boat ticket that you can use to return to Portofino independently whenever you wish.

Here is the timetable of the public ferry from Santa Margherita to Portofino:

13.15

14.15

15.15

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking over cobblestone surfaces, steep alleys and a few steps to negotiate to get off/on the boat. This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or guests who utilise a wheelchair. We recommend guests wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes as well as bring sun protection.

A very pleasant walk heads up to the right as you face the harbour: here you'll find a very attractive walking path through one of the largest concentrations of flora and fauna in the Mediterranean. For some fantastic views of the entire bay and the Tigullian Gulf, you will walk up the hill to the Church of San Giorgio.

This small church, sitting on a ridge above Portofino, is said to contain the relics of its namesake, brought back from the Holy Land by the Crusaders. Portofino enthusiastically celebrates St. George's Day every April 23.

Pristine views can be had from the deteriorating faro (lighthouse) at Punta Portofino, a 15-minute walk along the point that begins at the southern end of the port. Along the seaside path you can see numerous impressive, sprawling private residences behind high iron gates.

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking over cobblestone surfaces and steep. This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or guests who utilise a wheelchair. We recommend guests wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes as well as bring sun protection.

You will meet your guide at the pier and you will walk to the coach parking. Here you will board your 13 / 14-seater minibus to Rapallo. Liguria is home to some of Italy's most iconic foods and no one is more passionate about pasta, pesto, focaccia and other local products than your local host Guido. Join him on today's tour behind the gastronomic scenes of lovely Rapallo. WB Yeats, Max Beerbohm and Ezra Pound all garnered inspiration in Rapallo and it's not difficult to see why. With its bright-blue changing cabins, palm-fringed beach and diminutive 16th century castle perched above the sea, the town has a poetic and nostalgic air. It's at its busiest on Thursdays, when market stalls fill central Piazza Cile. The city prides itself in showcasing the best of Ligurian cuisine, a tradition that capitalizes on the treasures of the mountains and the sea, and there's no one better to show you around than keen connoisseur, master chef and all-around charmer Guido!

Meet him at one of the city's most unique monuments, the Musical Kiosk with its fanciful fresco, before continuing on to Rapallo's vibrant food market to explore the produce and herbs that feature in Ligurian recipes.

The tour continues to a nearby artisanal pasta factory, where a local chef makes traditional stuffed pasta called pansoto with market-fresh herbs, a few ingredients and his trusty rolling pin. Next it's time for some street food - Guido introduces you to his favorite focaccia baker serving this cheesy, decadent treat hot from the iron with a glass of local Vermentino wine. For the final stop, follow Guido to his own bottega, a veritable emporium filled to the rafters with delicacies like cured meats, oils and vinegars, and handmade pasta. Here, you'll have the chance to make pesto alla Genovese - 'pounding' (pestare, like the name says) the aromatic basil leaves into a fine paste with garlic, cheese, pine nuts and Ligurian extra virgin olive oil using a marble mortar and a pear-wood pestle. Pandolce is also on the menu; enjoy this traditional Christmas cake containing raisins, nuts and sundried raisins with a sweet Moscato from nearby Portofino and toast to the stellar recipes and lifelong memories you'll be taking home.

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking of approximately 0.65 miles (1.0 Km) over cobblestone surfaces and steep. This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or guests who utilise a wheelchair. We recommend guests wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes as well as bring sun protection.

Experience the splendid coastal beauty and medieval landmarks along the Italian Riviera during this memorable tour of San Fruttuoso and Camogli.

After tendering ashore, meet your guide and walk to the motor launch, then embark your boat and proceed for a coastal cruise to San Fruttuoso Bay.

San Fruttuoso

A deep inlet along the coastline of the Portofino Promontory between Camogli and Portofino is home to the famous medieval abbey of San Fruttuoso di Capodimonte, located in the fishing village of the same name. After its initial monastic use, the complex at San Fruttuoso di Capodimonte served as a humble home for fishermen, a den for pirates and later the property of the Doria Princes for centuries.

The monumental San Fruttuoso Abbey comprises the church, which is located at the end of a narrow valley. The small, two-level cloisters between the church and the Abbey feature an open area in the centre flanked by the monks' cemetery to the east, the tombs of the Doria family to the west and the Gothic Abbey facing towards the sea.

The first community of devotees of the martyr from Tarragona settled in this small bay at the beginning of the 8th century, and built a church that repelled Saracen raids until the 10th century. The abbey reached its greatest splendour in the 15th century. It has been the main political and economic centre of the promontory until the last century, and influenced the organisation of the territory, agricultural system and fishing economy.

Following your inside visit to the abbey, embark the boat for another brief cruise to Camogli.

Camogli

Camogli is a small Italian fishing village located on the Italian Riviera. The name of the village means 'house of wives', because the coloured faces of the beach houses were useful in helping guide fishermen back to shore, even in bad weather. Upon arrival, disembark your boat and commence your walking tour of this wonderful small town. Its houses are clustered together above the sea, and feature brilliantly-painted trompe l'oeuil, with fake windows, balustrades and more.

For some time, tourist activities have replaced old and deeply-rooted traditions that began to decline at the end of the 19th century. However, this process did not prompt rampant modern development in Camogli. The village has retained its unique structure, along with the extraordinary environmental elements that make it a splendid attraction to this day.

Following a walking tour of Camogli, embark your boat for the approximate 40-minute return cruise to Portofino. During the coastal cruise back to Portofino some focaccia bread with a glass of local wine will be served.

Upon arrival in Portofino tender back to the ship at your leisure.

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking, with a few steep steps that must be negotiated in order to embark and disembark the motor launch. The entrance to the San Fruttuoso Abbey requires walking over gravel surfaces, and the inside visit of the abbey includes many uneven steps to climb. This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Operation of this tour is dependent upon sea and weather conditions. A strict dress code is enforced when visiting the abbey; short pants and tank-tops are not permitted. The time spent at certain venues may be extended or reduced, and other brief stops may be added.

Ride the waters of the Italian Riviera and discover the beauty of two of its highlights. Enjoy a coastal cruise within the Tigullio Gulf, and time to step off the boat and explore Sestri Levante and Santa Margherita Ligure.

Sestri Levante

Walk a short distance from the pier and step aboard your transportation for the day's 4-hour tour. Ride along the sparkling coast of the Tgiullio Gulf for 45 scenic minutes. Dock in beautiful Sestri Levante, formerly an island which has since been joined to the mainland. Its promontory stretches out into the gulf, creating two bays: the Bay of Silence (Baia del Silenzio) and the Bay of Fairytales (Baia delle Favole) in recognition of Hans Christian Anderson, the famous writer of fables who lived here for a short time.

While Sestri Levante was once a simple fishing community, it is changing in the face of growing tourism and a new town is developing alongside its charming old town. Pastel buildings dot the beautiful curved harbour, filled with luxury yachts and fishing boats alongside one another. On land, see the architectural evidence of this town's ancient roots, extending as far back as the 10^th century. Look for the medieval fortification remnants and Roman ruins of the Oratory of Santa Caterina that fell victim to the conquest of Napolean in the 18^th century.

Santa Margherita Ligure

Return to the boat to travel another 30 minutes to visit lovely Santa Margherita Ligure. Alight on land and enjoy an hour to yourself in this city that is known for its elegance and atmosphere that mingles many different historic eras in artful fashion. Stroll the charming streets and soak up the unique charm of this town nestled around its port, with nautical, medieval, and Belle Epoque influences in its architecture. Enjoy the effect of the cobbled streets, medieval churches and elegant hotels that make this place fascinating, refined, and yet still understated as compared to other Italian Riviera destinations.

After some time to shop or sit down and relax over a coffee, it is time to return to the more ostentatious Portofino. Enjoy your last brief boat ride (15 min) and return to the ship.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of activity, including over 1.2km of walking (often over cobblestone surfaces) and 3 steps to board the boat, making this tour less suitable for guests with walking difficulties and not accessible for those in wheelchairs. Guests must be able to board and exit the coach on their own. Guests prone to seasickness may not find this tour suitable as there is a total of 90 minutes of travel by boat. Children as young as 3 may participate on this tour accompanied by an adult. There is a strict dress code for guests wanting to enter the church; shorts and tank tops are not allowed; guests with bare shoulders must bring a scarf. Otherwise wear comfortable shoes clothing and expect some sun exposure. Space on this tour is somewhat limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Explore Portofino (Tigullio area only) at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Guide is English-speaking. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Portofino (Tigullio area only) at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Guide is English-speaking. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Portofino (Tigullio area only) at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Guide is English-speaking. Participation is limited to 6 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Portofino at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Guide is English-speaking. Participation is limited to 6 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Portofino is a stunning seaside resort, a glistening jewel on the Italian Rivera. Tucked away in a corner cove of the scenic Ligurian coast, its charm and beauty are a winning combination that took it from a quaint fishing village to a playground for the rich and famous. And the hearty soil, sea air and sunshine allow grapes, herbs, citrus and olives to grow abundantly producing fine wines and dishes flavored with olive oil and indigenous mouth-watering tastes.

Your English-speaking tour escort will walk you to Niasca Bay where you will enjoy a 1 hr 30 minutes' SUP experience. Stand up paddle boards (SUP) offer a fun, relaxing way to play on the water. And since you stand at your full height, you can enjoy unique views of everything from sea creatures to what's on the horizon. Starting on the beach, the instructor shows the marine itinerary and points out the most interesting geo-naturalistic spots. The instructor will show you the paddling technique and the basic movements to keep on standing on the board without losing your balance. Leaving Niasca bay to our shoulders, you follow the coast until your reach Portofino's small harbor where you may zigzag through the traditional fishing boats of Liguria fishermen's. Once back in Niasca you will go back with your English speaking tour escort to the port.

Please note: This tour is recommended for guests who are in good physical condition, and can swim in water too deep too stand. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guest with neck and/or back problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests prone to seasickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear a swimsuit under a cover-up with beach or water shoes, and bring sun protection, a towel and change of clothing from the ship.