Anchorage

Santa Margherita Ligure

4.7Italy

Shelter: N, NE, SW, W, NW
Seabed: sand
Anchoring: Allowed

Anchorage in the Gulf of Tigullio, Liguria, about 3 miles from Portofino. Sand bottom, sheltered from north and west winds, open to the east and south.

Beach

Guide

Approach and anchoring

Anchor east of the marina, outside the red buoys of the bathing area, off the Hotel Metropole. Sand and mud in 4 to 9 m, with good holding. An ordinance bans anchoring in the ferry channel to the landing stage. In April 2026 the coastguard moved and fined a boat lying in it. Ferry and tour boat wash rolls through by day and stops in the evening. An anchor fouled an old chain here in May 2026.

Practical

Tenders can tie up at the town end of the pontoon used by the Portofino shuttles. In July 2026 tenders could use the ferry passenger pier from 19:00 to 9:00. The harbour office has let tenders lie inside the harbour free of charge on request. A paddle was stolen from the quay in May 2026. A dinghy left on the beach was tampered with in July 2026.

Ashore

Shops, bars and restaurants line the waterfront, with a walk along the seafront. The Yellow Boat, a family fishing boat in the marina, sells shrimp to take away. Shuttle boats run from the landing stage to Portofino.

Key facts

Type: Anchorage
Coordinates: 44.33405, 9.21624 (44°20.04'N 9°12.97'E)
Country: Italy
Shelter: Sheltered from north, north-east, south-west, west, north-west winds
Seabed: sand
Anchoring: Allowed
Services: Beach
Boaters' rating: 4.7/5
Updated: October 15, 2026