Cinque Terre Kayak: Monterosso to Vernazza from a guide’s prospective

In this article we interview Simone our Kayak guide in Monterosso, Cinque Terre.  Every day he guides people from all over the world with passion and competence, including Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia and occasionally Manarola and Riomaggiore. Simone will tell us about his experience and his emotions.

Tell us about the emotions of your first time in the Cinque Terre by kayak:

The first time I paddled in the Cinque Terre was winter, i was following an excursion with a large group. I was joined to the group only as an observer and in my heart I knew that if I wanted to become a kayak guide I would have to work hard. I immediately fell in love with the wonderful limestone cliffs, shaped by the wind and the salt. The wonders of the coast are discovered one after the other, at a slow pace. I remember the amazement the first time I saw the cave between Monterosso and Vernazza, an imposing arch, a mysterious and fascinating kingdom created by the sea which, eroding the limestone like a sculptor, created an arabesque of sharp stone.

What is your favorite spot in Cinque Terre?

My favorite place is undoubtedly the “Acquapendente” waterfall (west of Vernazza, reachable only by the sea: click here to discover how), fresh water that plunges into the crystal clear sea, inside a small bay sheltered by the rocks. I always like to look at our guests in the face when we enter, to see their amazement and wonder. That’s probably the moment I prefer during the tour.

Kayaking in Cinque Terre is awesome. What fascinates you most about this pearl of Liguria?

The historical aspect of the Cinque Terre. From the exchanges of goods and wine in ancient Rome to the attacks of Saracen pirates and the screams of people on the coast, ready to repel them. Sometimes I imagine the ships from ancient Genova and Pisa facing them in a deadly dance, competing for control of the sea. They are stories of fishermen, battles, legends, treasures and wine, especially wine, a great protagonist in the collective imagination of the place. (This is the organic wine we offer on our Cinque Terre Sunset Kayak Tours)

You are now an experienced kayak guide. Tell us about yourself and your path to become a member of the Outdoor Portofino team.

Becoming a kayak guide has been an educational and personal journey that is not yet finished. My paddling skills are good, but not yet perfect, and I still have to work hard on myself. The aspect of safety and preparation  make the difference between a guide and a tourist, it should never be underestimated. Having your own material is essential to gradually grow and climb the steps that lead to excellence. By merit and luck I am doing the most beautiful job in the world in one of the most beautiful places on the planet, so it is essential to do it to the best of my ability.

I am an emotional person and giving emotions to others, accompanying them to discover the wonders of our land, is one of the greatest satisfactions of my life!

Want to join Simone for one of his unforgettable tours? Click here to discover more