The Ligurian gozzo "Giulin"
our traditional boat in the Cinque Terre
To truly discover the Cinque Terre from the sea, you need the right boat. Our vessel is called Giulin and it is a traditional Ligurian gozzo — the historic boat of the Ligurian coast, used for generations by fishermen and local families. It is not a fast or modern boat in the commercial sense of the word. It is a boat that belongs to the history of this land, and it has been sailing these waters for over 40 years.
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What is a Ligurian gozzo?
The Ligurian gozzo is a traditional wooden boat, typical of Liguria. It was born as a working vessel, used for coastal fishing and for travelling between the seafront villages. Unlike modern boats designed for speed, the gozzo is built for balance and a close, unhurried connection with the water.
The Giulin was built by hand in Levanto by Dino Schiaffino, one of the most respected traditional boat builders on this coast. Like all his creations, no two boats are ever the same — each one is entirely unique. The Giulin is one of a kind.
Sailing on a gozzo means experiencing the sea in a more natural and authentic way. The slow pace, the wood beneath your feet, the sound of the water: it creates a different kind of space — one you won’t find on any modern vessel. You don’t just see the Cinque Terre. You feel it.
It is the boat that accompanies every tour along the Cinque Terre coastline, within the Cinque Terre Marine Protected Area. Its name echoes Ligurian tradition and the bond with these local roots.
Your skipper and crew are locals — born and raised along this coast. For them, this is not just a route. It is home. They will share stories, hidden spots, and insights that you will not find in any guidebook.
It is the boat that accompanies every tour along the Cinque Terre coastline, within the Cinque Terre Marine Protected Area.
Its name echoes Ligurian tradition and the bond with local roots.
On board Giulin:
- The sailing is slow and respectful
- The sea remains the true protagonist
- The distances shorten, but time stretches out
- With a maximum of 12 guests, every tour is personal and relaxed — never crowded, always comfortable
- Guests are free to move around the boat, find their own space, and enjoy the view from every angle
Why we chose a traditional gozzo
We chose a Ligurian gozzo for specific reasons:
It is true to the history of the Cinque Terre
It honours the local maritime tradition
It reduces environmental impact
Thanks to its moderate speed
A more intimate and peaceful experience
A genuine connection with the sea
Giulin and our commitment to sustainability
- We avoid single-use plastic
- Handcrafted ceramic plates from Levanto
- We keep group sizes small
- We comply with environmental regulations
Every choice reflects our commitment to protecting the land we call home.
Experience the Cinque Terre aboard a traditional gozzo
Whether it is a day tour, a sunset tour or a private experience, Giulin is the boat that will accompany you along this coastline. But more than a boat, she is a companion — one that has been part of this coast for over four decades, and that will make your experience of the Cinque Terre something more than sightseeing. Something you will remember.
Giulin is for those who are not looking for just a boat tour, but for a meaningful, authentic, and unforgettable experience.
Frequently asked questions
What is a traditional Ligurian gozzo?
The Ligurian gozzo is a traditional boat typical of the Ligurian coast, used for generations by fishermen and local families for coastal navigation. It is a stable vessel, designed to handle the sea close to the rocky cliffs and to move safely along the coastline. Sailing on a gozzo allows you to experience the Cinque Terre in a more authentic way, in keeping with the maritime tradition of this land.
What type of boat is Giulin?
Giulin is our traditional Ligurian gozzo, the vessel we use for all our tours along the Cinque Terre coastline. It is a stable boat, well-suited for slow sailing close to the rocky cliffs — ideal for taking in the villages from the sea, stopping for a swim and experiencing the land in a more authentic way than fast boats or tourist inflatables.
Where do the Cinque Terre boat tour depart from?
Boat tours depart from either Levanto or Monterosso al Mare.