Learn the ancient art of hand-pounded Genovese pesto from a local Ligurian chef, using a marble mortar and the DOP basil that grows only in this corner of Italy — then sit down to a seafood feast by the water.
What to expect
Your chef-guide meets you at the marina and leads you through the philosophy of Ligurian cucina povera before you take mortar and pestle in hand. You'll grind fragrant Genovese basil, pine nuts, aged Parmigiano, and local olive oil into the region's most iconic sauce — entirely by hand, as tradition demands. The lesson flows naturally into a leisurely lunch at a harbour-view table, where your pesto crowns hand-rolled trofie pasta alongside grilled branzino and a crisp Pigato wine. A recipe card and the memory of your first proper pesto travel home with you.
Good to know
Confirm dietary requirements when booking — the menu adapts. Sessions typically run 3–4 hours; plan around your all-aboard time. This experience is entirely private, so the schedule is yours to set. Pre-booking is essential.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Portofino — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Portofino
- Private Yacht Charter: Portofino Coast & San Fruttuoso Abbey
- Castello Brown: Private After-Hours Access & Harbour Views
- Hike Portofino Natural Park to the Faro Lighthouse at Punta del Capo
- Rapallo & Santuario di Montallegro Funicular Pilgrimage
- Whale Watching Expedition in the Ligurian Sea Cetacean Sanctuary