Do cruise ships tender into Portofino or Santa Margherita?

Most cruise ships do not dock directly in Portofino due to the small size of the harbour. Instead, ships anchor offshore and passengers are transported into the village using tender boats. The tender ride itself offers fantastic views of the Italian Riviera coastline and the colourful Portofino harbour as you arrive.

Is Santa Margherita worth visiting on its own?

Yes. Santa Margherita has an elegant promenade, working harbour, and relaxed atmosphere about 5 km along the coast from Portofino. It is a rewarding add-on on longer port calls.

Can I visit both in one port day?

Yes, on port calls of seven hours or more. The Small Group Santa Margherita, Camogli & Portofino Shore Excursion covers Santa Margherita, Camogli, and Portofino with coordinated transport from the Portofino harbour.

Which is better for a first visit?

Start in Portofino, where you tender ashore — the iconic piazzetta and harbour are right at the landing. Add Santa Margherita if you have time for a second village on the same port day.

Portofino vs Santa Margherita Ligure

Two Riviera towns, one port day — what each offers when you tender into Portofino and how to choose when your time is limited.

Return to ship on time, cruise passenger friendly

Two towns, one port call

Cruise itineraries list Portofino, and that is where you tender ashore — into the village harbour itself. Santa Margherita Ligure is a separate town approximately 5 km along the coast, often combined with Portofino on longer port days. Many passengers explore Portofino first, then add Santa Margherita if time allows.

Portofino: where you tender ashore

Iconic piazzetta and yacht-filled harbour at the tender landing
Celebrity resort atmosphere — designer boutiques and upscale cafés
Compact — you can walk the village in 30 minutes
Crowded on busy port days
Coastal walks and Castello Brown viewpoints nearby

Santa Margherita Ligure: the nearby Riviera town

Elegant seafront promenade and working harbour
More relaxed, less crowded than Portofino
About 5 km along the coast — reach by excursion transport or local bus
Good restaurants and cafés along the waterfront
Gateway to Camogli and wider Tigullio Gulf excursions

How to choose on a short port day

Under five usable hours ashore: focus on Portofino village. Walk the piazzetta, explore the harbour, and enjoy a waterfront lunch without needing extra transport.

Seven or more hours: combine all three on the Small Group Santa Margherita, Camogli & Portofino tour. Your guide handles transport and return timing.

Plan your Portofino shore excursion

Browse small-group tours designed around your tender schedule, with enough margin to return before all aboard.

View Portofino shore excursions

Frequently asked questions

Do cruise ships tender into Portofino or Santa Margherita?: Most cruise ships do not dock directly in Portofino due to the small size of the harbour. Instead, ships anchor offshore and passengers are transported into the village using tender boats. The tender ride itself offers fantastic views of the Italian Riviera coastline and the colourful Portofino harbour as you arrive.
Is Santa Margherita worth visiting on its own?: Yes. Santa Margherita has an elegant promenade, working harbour, and relaxed atmosphere about 5 km along the coast from Portofino. It is a rewarding add-on on longer port calls.
Can I visit both in one port day?: Yes, on port calls of seven hours or more. The Small Group Santa Margherita, Camogli & Portofino Shore Excursion covers Santa Margherita, Camogli, and Portofino with coordinated transport from the Portofino harbour.
Which is better for a first visit?: Start in Portofino, where you tender ashore — the iconic piazzetta and harbour are right at the landing. Add Santa Margherita if you have time for a second village on the same port day.