Palio Marinaro del Tigullio 2026 — The Gulf’s Historic Boat Race

The Palio Marinaro del Tigullio returns in 2026, bringing the historic maritime rivalry of the Ligurian coast back to life. Seven towns—Santa Margherita Ligure, San Michele di Pagana, Rapallo, Zoagli, Chiavari, Lavagna, and Sestri Levante—compete in traditional wooden gozzi for bragging rights on the Golfo del Tigullio.

A Maritime Tradition Rooted in History

The Palio Marinaro isn’t just a race—it’s a celebration of the deep seafaring identity of the Tigullio coast. Each town fields a crew in a traditional gozzo, the wooden fishing boat that has plied these waters for centuries. The races are held close to shore, so spectators on the lungomare can follow every oar stroke and tactical maneuver as the boats round the buoys.

Santa Margherita Ligure typically hosts one leg of the palio, with its wide bay providing an ideal natural arena. The event draws locals who have followed the rivalry for generations, alongside visitors discovering this authentic slice of Ligurian culture.

What to Expect on Race Day

The day begins with a parade of crews through town, each wearing their contrada colors. After an opening ceremony at the port, the races start mid-morning. Heats are typically 4–6 boats at a time, with the final showdown in the early afternoon. The winning town receives the palio banner, displayed proudly until next year’s challenge.

Between races, the waterfront fills with food stalls selling focaccia genovese, farinata, and local Vermentino. In the evening, the winning town celebrates with music and fireworks over the gulf.

Practical Tips for Spectators

• Best viewing: The Santa Margherita lungomare between the port and Parco del Flauto offers unobstructed views of the race course.
• Getting there: Santa Margherita Ligure is on the Genoa–La Spezia train line, 30 minutes from Genoa. The town is walkable from the station.
• Arrive early: The best viewing spots fill up by 9:30. Bring a hat and sunscreen—there’s limited shade along the waterfront.
• Combine with: Make a day of it by exploring Santa Margherita’s centro storico and the nearby towns before the post-race festivities.

Read our Rapallo Travel Guide for more about the towns of the Tigullio Gulf, or browse more things to do in Liguria.