Boat Tour in Amalfi

One of the best reasons to visit the Amalfi Coast is its wealth of natural wonders. Here you can enjoy iconic Italian sights, from the Faraglioni rocks to cliffside scenic views, sea caves, the natural arch, and the blue Mediterranean Sea. The absolute best way to discover all of this incredible beauty is on a small-group boat tour or a private boat tour. A boat excursion along the Amalfi Coast offers a special experience in sightseeing, from the towns of Amalfi and the towns of Positano to the coastline of Sorrento and the various islets, perhaps with stops for snorkeling and swimming along the way.

Why choose a boat tour

A boat cruise along the Amalfi Coast is unique and unforgettable. On a half-day or full-day tour at sea, you can take in the majestic beauty of the rock formations, hidden coves, and small beaches that aren’t accessible by land. Imagine the thrill of swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters in a secluded area full of natural beauty, away from the tourist crowds in a world that seems made just for you. Whether you rent a luxury boat or a traditional gozzo boat, the experience of seeing the Amalfi Coast from the sea is one of a kind.

Amalfi: the queen of the coast

The town of Amalfi, the symbolic capital of the Amalfi Coast, has a rich history and is blessed with abundant natural beauty. The town’s origins go all the way back to ancient times. In the Middle Ages it was one of the maritime republics of Italy, along with Pisa, Genoa, and Venice. Vestiges of this glorious past as an ancient maritime republic remain visible in the city’s architecture, such as the majestic Cathedral of Sant'Andrea. Amalfi is also famous for its paper factories, where paper is still made by hand using artisanal methods. Given its exceptional natural treasures, the entire Amalfi Coast is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you travel to Amalfi and have some extra time, consider taking a taxi or a bus to Ravello, where you can enjoy its iconic natural terraces overlooking the sea.

The Furore Fjord: a hidden jewel

From Amalfi the boat cruise continues along the coast giving guests a chance to admire the towns of Minori, Maiori, and Conca dei Marini from the sea towards the famous Furore Fjord.

The Furore Fjord is one of the hidden wonders of the Amalfi Coast. This narrow inlet is surrounded by high cliffs and home to a few fishermen's houses. You can reach the town of Furore by going up a long staircase. A boat tour will allow you to admire this, one of the most-photographed corners of the Amalfi Coast, from a very special vantage point.

The Emerald Grotto: an unforgettable experience

The Emerald Grotto is one of the most popular attractions on the Amalfi Coast. This underwater cave is famous for the emerald-green light that reflects on the water, creating a magical atmosphere. The Emerald Grotto is accessed in small groups on board special boats that allow entry to the Grotto.

Positano: the vertical city

As you continue your boat tour along the coast, you’ll arrive at the Li Galli islands, small islets that form the backdrop to myths and legends, located just opposite the village of Positano.

Positano is famous for its colorful cliffside houses that make for a scenic Italian panorama. From the sea, you can view the beach below this pyramid of multi-colored homes, a backdrop like none other.

Punta Campanella and Nerano

Your boat ride sails away from Positano and heads out to the furthest point of the Amalfi Coast, Punta Campanella. This is where the Sorrento Peninsula meets the Amalfi Coast. Right in front is the island of Capri with its Faraglioni rock formations, in a perfect triangle of wonders. The last town on the coast that you come across before Punta Campanella is Nerano, a fishing village in the hamlet of Massa Lubrense, which is famous for its restaurants. We suggest stopping here for a light lunch, and be sure to order the famous spaghetti alla Nerano!

If you have time, your boat tour of the Amalfi Coast could continue towards Capri with a tour of the island and a visit to the Blue Grotto. We suggest, however, that you divide this experience into two days, the first for exploring the Amalfi Coast and the second for the island of Capri, which merits a day trip of its own.

Private tours vs. group tours

Both private boat tours and small-group boat tours offer an amazing experience.

Private tours offer exclusive boat rental with an expert skipper at the helm, or, in the case of larger boats, two or more crew members. A private tour, perhaps on a luxury boat, is a more personalized experience. You’ll be able to customize your itinerary and the pace of your trip, choosing where you stop and for how long.

On board you can enjoy a picnic, a light lunch, or an aperitif; or you can opt to dine off the boat in a seaside restaurant. The cost of the boat tour generally includes fuel, drinks on board (water, soft drinks, Prosecco, beer), and beach towels. You can decide on the departure port that’s most convenient for you.

Small-group boat tours are a less-expensive option and offer the chance to meet other travelers. During group tours the itinerary is predetermined, with one or more stops for swimming and snorkeling as well as the chance to disembark for free time to explore on land. Group boat trips along the Amalfi Coast depart from Amalfi, Positano, or Sorrento. Some tours from Sorrento offer hotel pick-up while others meet directly at the port.

All tours must be booked in advance and offer free cancellation in the event of bad weather.