Independent
Independent Explorer Shore Excursion
Train to Santa Margherita or self-paced Camogli — independence with a safety net.
The Independent Explorer product supports DIY Riviera days — train schedules to Santa Margherita, ferry timetables to Portofino and optional meet-and-guide hours — for passengers who accept timing responsibility without a full coach tour.
Typical pattern: taxi to Piazza Principe, regional train to Santa Margherita, ferry or bus to Portofino, return train mid-afternoon, taxi to terminal 90 minutes before all-aboard.
Alternative: train to Camogli for harbour walk — closer, cheaper and easier to recover if connections slip. Camogli suits shorter calls and first-time independents.
No ship delay guarantee — you manage timing alone. Ideal for experienced Mediterranean cruisers.
Highlights
- Train and taxi logistics explained
- Ferry timetables to Portofino
- Village route maps
- Return buffer checklist
What a good tour includes
- Route planning and timetables
- Optional meet-and-walk guide
- Taxi booking assistance where stated
Getting there from the cruise port
Ships dock at Genoa Stazione Marittime in Porto Antico. Allow 15–25 minutes taxi to Genova Piazza Principe or Brignole for trains, or meet your coach at the terminal exit. Confirm all-aboard and keep a 60–90 minute buffer — summer coastal road traffic returning from Portofino can delay returns by 20–30 minutes.
Tips for cruise passengers
- Confirm ferry sailings before leaving the ship
- Validate train tickets before boarding
- Carry euros for taxis and food
Related excursions
Independent Explorer Shore Excursion — FAQs
Is DIY safe from Genoa?▼
Yes for confident travellers — see DIY vs guided comparison for risk assessment.
Train or coach?▼
Coach for first-timers; train for solo budget travellers with confirmed connections.