OUR EXCURSIONS

Portofino, the calling card of Liguria

Portofino owes its name to its most beloved and famous residents: the dolphins. The Romans first named this small Ligurian village “Portus Delphini”, which later became Portofino. Today, it is famous all around the world and is recognised as a symbol of Liguria, luxury, sophistication and beauty.
The village is nestled in the Gulf of Tigullio, in one of the most beautiful bays in the world. It lies entirely within the Regional Natural Park of Portofino and the Marine Protected Area that also bears the name of the village. Its crystal-blue sea is right at the heart of the Cetacean Sanctuary.

On a tour of the Ligurian Riviera, you simply can’t miss out on a stop at Portofino.

Portofino has always been a popular destination for international jet-setters, especially since it has served as the backdrop for various renowned films and events.

Effortlessly able to wow its visitors, Portofino is the definition of beauty, thanks to its colours, aromas and sites. Whether Portofino is the start your tour or is approached from the sea, you can capture its essence in the various shades of colour of the sunrise and sunset that you can admire only from on board.

La Piazzetta

Once you have disembarked, the beating heart of the village is undoubtedly its famous main square, La Piazzetta, unique for the emotions it stirs and much loved by Ligurians, Italians and international VIPs alike. It has always been a popular location for their most personal moments.

The perfect retreat to soak up the “Dolce Vita” and sophistication, La Piazzetta can be experienced fully by touring its historic premises, which create the perfect backdrop for unforgettable moments.

Church of St George

After enjoying the Ligurian culinary specialities that La Piazzetta has to offer, our skippers recommend heading to the Church of San Giorgio, which houses the relics of St George, the patron saint of Portofino. His relics were brought by the local sailors when they returned from the Crusades. Even today, every time a sailor leaves Portofino, they look towards the Church.

The original Romanesque architecture of the Church dates back to the Lombard period, when the monks of San Colombano worked in the area. The current building was rebuilt in the 1950s, after being destroyed in a bombing. It reflects the layout that was revised and modified during a major restoration in 1760.
The short walk to the Church also offers a breathtaking view of the Gulf.

Climb aboard and enjoy fantastic views

Castello Brown

Castello Brown towers over La Piazzetta, positioned at the exact centre of the Portofino Bay. It can be admired on your approach to the shore aboard your yacht.

Initially built as a military building due to its strategic position, it was restored at the end of the 16th century by the Genoese Republic and expanded to offer greater defence for the seaside village.

Later, in 1867, the fortress was purchased by the British consul in Genoa, Sir Montague Yeats Brown, and thus became a noble building.
It is now an exclusive high-class events venue.

Choose the thrills you want to experience

Experience the Ligurian Riviera. From a new perspective

Charter Portofino offers luxury experiences aboard magnificent yachts that can take you to the most extraordinary corners of Liguria.

All routes and tours are customisable and exclusive.