Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?

Yes, the activity is designed for beginners, with guidance provided by marine biologists to ensure safety and enjoyment.

Bring your swimsuit, waterproof sunscreen, a towel, and a waterproof camera if desired. All snorkeling equipment is provided.

Are there options for non-swimmers?

Yes, sea watching from the boat is available if you prefer to stay dry but still enjoy the marine surroundings.

What is the best season for this experience?

Summer offers the warmest waters and best visibility, but spring and fall also provide great conditions with fewer crowds.

Is there any environmental impact?

Arbaspaa emphasizes eco-friendly practices, ensuring minimal disturbance to marine life and promoting conservation.

How many people are in each trip?

Small groups ensure personalized attention, typically limited to 10-12 participants for an intimate experience.

Snorkeling & Sea Watching with Arbaspaa in Porto Venere

Porto Venere, nestled along Italy’s rugged La Spezia coast, is renowned for its stunning sea cliffs, historic charm, and marine beauty. Arbaspaa offers a standout way to connect with this vibrant marine environment through their 2.5-hour snorkeling and sea watching expedition, guided by experienced marine biologists. This journey is an ideal starter adventure, providing a window into the rich underwater life that makes this protected area a treasure trove of color and movement. As the boat glides out, travelers are treated to sweeping views of Porto Venere’s iconic coastline, with its pastel-colored houses and ancient fortresses looming above shimmering waters. Once briefed on safety and introduced to top-quality snorkeling gear, participants don equipment and dip beneath the surface, where schools of shimmering fish, playful octopuses, and curious sea bream await. The marine protected area’s clear waters showcase a tapestry of life tied to Italy’s authentic maritime traditions. Expert guides share insights into the local ecosystem and the area’s history, revealing how conservation efforts have maintained the vibrancy of this submerged landscape. Beyond the snorkeling itself, the boat ride offers a relaxed opportunity to watch for dolphins and sea birds, making it a multi-sensory experience of Porto Venere’s coastal ecosystem. Arbaspaa’s commitment to eco-friendly practices and educational engagement makes this trip more than just a swim — it’s a chance to deepen appreciation for Italy’s marine heritage while supporting sustainable tourism. Whether you're a curious beginner or a seasoned snorkeler, this adventure offers an up-close encounter with the local seas that many visitors overlook. It’s a rare chance to witness the lively underwater world just off Italy’s Ligurian coast, making Arbaspaa’s guided tour a highlight for outdoor lovers in the area.

About Arbaspaa

Arbaspaa is an activity and tour operator based in Manarola, Liguria, offering a broad range of guided experiences across Cinque Terre and the Gulf of Poets. Specialties include cooking classes, marine activities, photographic workshops, wine and food tastings, boat and kayak tours, e-bike routes, and diving sessions inside protected marine areas.

Arbaspaa collaborates with qualified local instructors and professionals: sea activities are led by marine biologists and certified diving instructors, photography tours are taught by a professional Nikon photographer, and some wine tastings are guided by an AIS professional sommelier. Experiences range from short, focused sessions—such as a three‑hour cooking lesson and two‑hour photo walks—to multi‑hour boat trips, half‑day kayaking, and full e‑bike excursions. Activities depart from Manarola, Monterosso, La Spezia, and Porto Venere depending on the trip.

Many tours include provided equipment, local ingredients, or onboard meals like BBQ fish lunches and aperitivi with wine and focaccia. Arbaspaa also offers private tours, self‑guided hiking packages, and specialty courses such as pesto and kneading classes in nearby towns. Safety and respect for local environments are emphasized through operations in Marine Protected Areas and guided snorkeling and diving protocols. Booking options cover small groups and private bookings. For travelers seeking authentic Ligurian food, coastal exploration, photography coaching, or active sea adventures, Arbaspaa provides locally grounded, professionally guided options across the Cinque Terre and surrounding Liguria coastline. Sample activities include cooking lessons, snorkeling, diving, kayak and boat tours, photography walks, e‑bike routes, pesto and bread courses, and guided wine tastings across Liguria.