Setting Sail from Santa Margherita Ligure

As the sun began its gentle descent over the Ligurian Sea, I found myself boarding a charming vessel at the old port of Genoa, ready to embark on a journey that promised to unveil the hidden gems of Santa Margherita Ligure’s bays. The air was filled with a sense of anticipation, reminiscent of the train journeys I so often write about, where each station holds a new story waiting to be discovered.

The boat, a quaint reminder of the bygone era of leisurely travel, set off promptly at 2 PM. The gentle hum of the engine was a soothing backdrop to the rhythmic lapping of waves against the hull. As we navigated the azure waters, the coastline unfolded like a well-loved novel, each bay a new chapter filled with its own unique charm.

Our first stop was the picturesque village of Santa Margherita Ligure. From the sea, the village appeared as a vibrant tapestry of pastel-colored buildings, their reflections dancing on the water’s surface. It was a scene that could easily have been plucked from a postcard, a timeless beauty that seemed to whisper stories of the past.

Discovering the Allure of Portofino

Continuing our journey, we arrived at the famed village of Portofino. Known for its glamorous allure, Portofino is often hailed as the jewel of the Italian Riviera. Yet, as I disembarked and wandered through its narrow streets, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia for a time when such places were less touched by the hands of modernity.

The village, while undeniably beautiful, seemed to carry the weight of its own reputation. The bustling cafes and chic boutiques were a stark contrast to the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape. It was a reminder that sometimes, the journey itself holds more allure than the destination.

After a leisurely hour spent exploring, I returned to the boat, eager to continue our coastal adventure. The next leg of our journey promised the discovery of hidden bays and the chance to dive into the crystal-clear waters, a prospect that filled me with childlike excitement.

Embracing the Serenity of Camogli

Our final stop was the enchanting village of Camogli, a place that seemed to have been frozen in time. As we approached, the colorful buildings lining the waterfront greeted us like old friends, their vibrant hues a testament to the village’s rich maritime history.

Disembarking, I took a moment to breathe in the salty air, savoring the simple pleasure of being by the sea. With an hour to explore, I wandered through the cobbled streets, stopping to sample local delicacies that spoke of the region’s culinary heritage.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the water, I found myself reflecting on the day’s journey. Much like the train travels I hold dear, this boat tour had been a reminder of the beauty of slow travel, where each moment is savored and every wave tells a story. It was an experience that would remain etched in my heart, a testament to the timeless allure of the Ligurian coast.

As we made our way back to Genoa, the gentle rocking of the boat lulled me into a state of contentment, a fitting end to a day spent exploring the hidden treasures of Santa Margherita Ligure’s bays. For those who, like me, cherish the romance of travel, this journey is one not to be missed.