When Joe and I decided to head to the Cinque Terre for our anniversary, I knew I wanted to book in something a bit special as a treat. A sunset cruise seemed like the perfect idea – and even before the dolphins turned up, it was magic!
Although I would have loved a private cruise, I couldn’t really justify the price-tag, so we opted for a small group with Explore Cinque Terre. Although I didn’t realise it when taking this photo, that was to be our boat! It fit 12 of us, plus a very excited toddler, and our wonderful captain Daniele. He’s a local of Manarola and kept us entertained with stories and local legends – and wine! – for the two hours.
Setting off from Manarola
Corniglia from the sea
We’d hiked between some of the villages earlier that day – post coming soon! – so it was fascinating to see a different side of them. I loved seeing the gorgeous colours of the different villages tinted golden by the sun.
Corniglia is the only village of the five with no easy sea access – just these precarious paths!
Heading towards Vernazza
The boat headed out from Manarola, which was very convenient for us, as it was where we were staying. We cruised out past Corniglia to Vernazza, where we took a brief spin around the harbour, before heading to Monterosso for a half-hour stop. Most of the group headed out to explore the town but, having visited earlier that day, we took the opportunity for a brief photoshoot and then to admire the setting sun.
We were already having a great time, admiring the beauty of the villages and the joy of being out on the water. And then… dolphins decided to join us! Seriously an incredible moment – I could hardly believe how lucky we were.
We cruised along on our course, letting the dolphins swim as they would, and were lucky enough to have them pop up on all different sides as we headed back down the coast.
That sunset!
So special
Gorgeous Riomaggiore
Home to Manarola
Even without the dolphins, this would have been a brilliant evening – as it was, it couldn’t be bettered! I really enjoyed seeing (literally) a different side to the villages than you can see from hiking or training between them, and our captain Daniele’s mix of banter and local stories was great. Click here for his details!
Have you ever visited the Cinque Terre? Did you see it by sea?
Linking up for #WanderfulWednesday with Marcella, Lauren, Van and Isabel – check out their travel link-up and their fantastic blogs using the links!
