THE Mediterranean delivers an extravaganza of cruising opportunities for any avid cruise
enthusiast, and I would suggest that for those who still think cruising is not for them, the
Mediterranean is a great place to test your sea legs, as most cruises in this area have you enjoying
a fascinating and dynamic port of call every single day with minimal time at sea. By day, every
morning offers new adventures ashore, and by night your floating hotel/resort/luxury home offers
all that you could ever need.
There are many big, historically powerful cities lying on the Mediterranean Sea, but for many
travellers it’s the smaller, perfect walking towns that appeal. Porto Venere is just one of these
smaller towns on the stunning Ligurian coast & gateway to the famous Cinque Terre (Five Villages).
Your ship anchors just off shore and tenders quickly get you to town where you’ll be right in
amongst it all. The town sits on a promontory with a commanding view across the Gulf of Poets,
meaning there’s a plethora of pleasant cafes and restaurants to watch the world go by. Try some
of the area’s famous Pesto…bellissimo! Beyond the waterfront, where you can swim with the
local Italians, I suggest a stroll into the rabbit-warren of cobbled streets of the town. Inside, you’ll
immediately sense that the outer buildings were built not only to shelter people, but also as
defensive walls. This little town is not short on history, dating back to Roman times.
Your ship will most likely offer a tour to the Cinque Terre, five villages clinging effortlessly to
steep cliffs leading to the sea. This is a must do tour for most cruise travellers, but if you’re an
independent soul, then it’s also easy to get there on your own. Take the local bus from Porto
Venere to La Spezia, where a short walk will bring you to the railway station. Buy a day ticket
allowing you to take the train to all five villages of the Cinque Terre and return. Or there are local
boats directly from Porto Venere to the Cinque Terre. You should also walk between some of the
villages (another must do). There’s loads of shopping and some incredible restaurants.
Roger’s Quick Tips
Best Months: May – September
Don’t Miss: The Cinque Terre, Ligurian Trofie al Pesto
Tour or Not: On your own, but a little Italian helps
Sightseeing: Simply stroll Porto Venere; Cinque Terre
Food: Trofie with pesto or walnut sauce; seafood
Language: Italian
Currency: Euro
Shopping: Local produce = wine, olive oil, pesto
Cash or Card: Credit Card and Euro
By Roger Condon, cruise sales manager, Discover the World Marketing – with 15 years at sea.
