FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions
Where are you based?
HopHop Boats depart from our floating platform, located midway along Passeggiata Morin in La Spezia, Italy.
Nearby, you’ll find a bar, restaurant, and public restrooms, ensuring a comfortable start to your journey.
Our base is even conveniently located just 350 meters from the La Spezia Cruise Terminal, and we also have a sales point inside the terminal for your convenience.
Although the two locations are very close, we recommend that cruise ship passengers allow approximately 15 minutes to reach us. This is because walking is not permitted within the Terminal Area, and passengers must wait for the free shuttle bus, which may occasionally be full, causing slight delays.
What kind of boats do you have?
How many people can fit in your boat?
Our fleet consists of eight brand-new, extra-large Zodiac boats, each designed for maximum comfort. With plush red leather seats and a capacity of 12 passengers per boat, you’ll enjoy a spacious and stylish ride on the water.
For special occasions or Wedding photo shoots, we also offer two stunning 10-meter Ligurian “Gozzo” boats—classic, elegant wooden vessels perfect for creating unforgettable memories in the breathtaking scenery of the Gulf of Poets.
Do I need to book in advance?
We recommend you book in advance for the Cinque Terre Boat Trip to avoid disappointment. For all our other experiences it is possibile to get a seat on our boats without an early booking, but it is not guaranteed. It depends on the demand. Therefore, we highly recommend you prebook during peak season, especially if you are a group.
What time should I arrive on the day of my experience?
For all of our experiences, it is important that you arrive at least 15 minutes in advance. This allows us to check bookings and seat our passengers comfortably before departure.
Please note that there are no restrooms available at our base or on board, so we recommend planning accordingly before your trip.
How do I pay?
Online payment is easy and secure.
You can pay online through our website using the following cards:
Visa
Visa Electron
CartaSi
Postepay
Mastercard
American Express
Paypal
Maestro Internazionale
Can I pay at the floating platform?
Sure! You can pay at our office using cash or one of the following cards:
Visa
Visa Electron
CartaSi
Postepay
Mastercard
American Express
Paypal
Maestro Internazionale
What happens in case of bad weather?
Our tours operate rain or shine, even in light rain. The safety and enjoyment of our passengers is our top priority. Our Captain will assess the weather conditions, sea state, and forecast to determine if it is safe to proceed. If the decision is made to cancel the experience due to unsafe conditions, you will receive a full refund or have the option to reschedule for a new date.
Unforseen circumstances?
What happens if I can’t go because of...?
In the case of a no-show or late arrivals, we don’t issue any refund. However if you notify us at least 5 days in advance, we can organize a new date for you or refund the ticket price.
Do you provide life-jackets?
Your safety is our top priority. All our boats are fully equipped with life jackets, including child-sized life jackets (which are available upon request before departure).
According to Maritime Law, passengers are not required to wear a life jacket on board, as they will be provided in the unlikely event of an emergency (or upon request from our Guests).
Please note that we do not provide windproof jackets or sunscreen or hats, so we recommend bringing your own for protection against the elements.
Can I bring my pet on board?
Of course! All pets are welcomed on HopHop Boats!
Can I bring luggage or a stroller on board?
Due to space limitations, luggage is restricted to smaller items approved by the Captain.
Strollers and foldable wheelchairs are always permitted on board.
Suitcases and other bulky equipment can be safely left at our base before departure for your convenience.
Is it possibile for a disabled person to travel conveniently on your boats?
Our boats are designed for easy wheelchair access, featuring removable seats to accommodate passengers with mobility needs. Our dedicated staff is always happy to assist and ensure a comfortable experience.
At HopHop Boat, we believe in making our tours accessible to everyone, which is why caregivers for disabled passengers travel free of charge.
Please note that not all ports are equipped for wheelchair disembarkation, so we highly recommend choosing our 3 Islands & Portovenere round trip for the best experience.
If you require special assistance, please let us know in advance so we can make the necessary arrangements to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for you.
I need an invoice, how can I request one?
To request an invoice, please contact us before making a purchase or immediately after booking, providing the following details:
- Invoice recipient (company name or individual)
- Full address
- VAT number / Tax Code
- Email address for invoice delivery
You can send your request via email or inform us directly at the time of booking. If you have already made a purchase, please reach out to us as soon as possible so we can issue the invoice correctly.
Our Cancellation Policies
- Guests can cancel free of charge a private boat trip up to 5 days before the scheduled boat tour date.
- Guests can cancel free of charge a shared boat trip up to 3 days before the scheduled boat tour date.
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After this deadline, Guests can reschedule the boat trip for free (subject to availability) in case of unforeseen events, provided they notify us at least 24 hours before departure. No refunds will be issued for no-shows.
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If marine weather conditions make it unsafe to operate the tour, we will be forced to cancel the experience. In this case, guests will receive a full refund or have the option to reschedule with priority.
- Same-day bookings are non-refundable and cannot be canceled for free. However, guests may reschedule the trip(subject to availability).
- Exception for cruise ship passengers: If your cruise ship is unable to dock in La Spezia due to weather conditions, you will be eligible for a full refund, even beyond the standard cancellation terms.
How can I reach HopHop Boat?
🚆 From La Spezia Centrale Train Station
Our base is about 20 minutes on foot from La Spezia Centrale, a nice stroll through the center.
We do not recommend taking a taxi, as they are few and not always reliable. If you prefer not to walk, consider using a local bus instead.
🚗 Where to park your car
If you’re arriving by car, we recommend parking at:
- Porto Mirabello Parking (a paid parking lot, located a 7-minute walk from our base)
- Europa Park (a paid parking lot, located a 6-minute walk from our base)
🚢 For cruise passengers
Our base is just 350 meters from the La Spezia Cruise Terminal, and we also have a sales point inside the terminal. However, please note that walking inside the cruise terminal area is not allowed. You will need to take the free shuttle bus to exit the port. Since shuttles can occasionally be full, we recommend allowing approximately 15 minutes to reach us comfortably.
Are the suggested schedules and itineraries binding?
The service offered consists of the rental of pleasure craft (with skipper) in accordance with the Italian Decree of 1 September 2021, Legislative Decree of 18 July 2005, No. 171, Legislative Decree of 3 November 2017, No. 229, as subsequently amended and supplemented, and all other applicable laws and regulations. The descriptions and itineraries published are provided solely for illustrative and exemplary purposes, referring to services of the same duration as proposed, and do not constitute a binding program, as they may vary based on agreements between the parties and weather and sea conditions. The departure times indicated are provided solely for organizational purposes with regard to this specific promotion/sales channel and may vary depending on availability, reservations received, and other operational factors.
