The Amalfi Coast is famous for its stunning cliffs, colorful villages, and sparkling sea. It’s one of Italy’s most photogenic spots, and what better way to experience it than from the water? Whether you’re arriving on a cruise ship or staying nearby, boat tours offer a unique perspective and access to hidden corners inaccessible by land. Our favorites include the private full-day shore excursion from Salerno, which lets you explore Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello at your own pace, and the Sorrento-based boat trip that combines scenic cruising with free time in Positano and Amalfi. For travelers coming from Naples, the full-day boat tour of Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello offers a comprehensive experience, while those seeking a luxurious day on Capri will love the coast and Capri boat trip with Limoncello tasting. Each offers something special, from intimate private arrangements to full-day sightseeing, helping you find the perfect match for your style and schedule.
Below, we’ve listed four excellent boat tours, each with its own character. Whether you’re after a private adventure, a scenic day cruise, or a trip that combines land and sea, you’ll find options that fit your travel plans and interests.
1. Best of Amalfi Coast Full Day Private Shore Excursion from Salerno Cruise Port
At number one, this full-day private shore excursion is perfect if you want maximum flexibility without the hassle. Starting from the Salerno cruise port, a private minivan whisks you along the coast, giving you the freedom to explore at your pace. The tour includes visits to Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello, three of the coast’s most iconic towns, with plenty of time for sightseeing, shopping, or just soaking in the views.
What sets this tour apart is its personalized approach—no rigid schedule like the big coach tours. The driver is your guide for the day, stopping at scenic viewpoints and helping you tailor your visit. The scenic drive along the winding coastal road is a highlight, with opportunities to take photos of the cliffs and turquoise waters. Guests consistently praise the ease of pickup and organized logistics, making this a hassle-free way to experience the coast.
It’s ideal for cruise passengers wanting to maximize their land time without feeling rushed. The cost is around $472.98 per person, which reflects the exclusive, private nature of the experience. Expect a 7-hour day filled with photo stops and free time in each town.
Bottom Line: This private shore excursion offers the most flexibility and comfort, perfect if you want to explore the Amalfi Coast without the constraints of group tours or crowded buses.
2. Amalfi, Positano & Ravello: Boat Tour from Sorrento
For around 7.5 hours, this comprehensive boat tour from Sorrento combines scenic cruising with time on land. The tour begins with a boat cruise along the Gulf of Naples, giving you stunning views of Mount Vesuvius and the coast. The cruise continues with stops at Baths of Queen Giovanna, Punta Campanella, and the Gulf of Salerno, each offering memorable scenery and photo opportunities.
What makes this tour special is the opportunity to see the Amalfi and Sorrento coasts from the water, with multiple stops for sightseeing. You’ll visit Amalfi, Ravello, and Positano, with free time in each town—you can shop for ceramics in Amalfi, wander the narrow streets of Positano, or visit Villa Rufolo in Ravello. The itinerary includes several short boat cruises around the coast, giving a diverse perspective that land-based tours can’t match.
Guests love the balanced mix of cruising and free time, and the chance to see Mount Vesuvius from the sea. The tour departs from a designated meeting point in Sorrento and takes about 7.5 hours in total.
Value for money is excellent considering the multiple stops, and the boat’s comfortable seating makes it a relaxing day. It suits travelers who want to see everything from the sea but also enjoy some free time on land.
Bottom Line: If you want a full-day, sea-based experience that covers key towns with scenic cruising, this tour offers a rich, multi-faceted perspective of the Amalfi Coast.
3. From Naples: Boat Tour of Amalfi, Positano and Ravello
Travelers staying in Naples will appreciate this full-day boat tour, which combines the ease of transportation with the stunning scenery of the Amalfi Coast. Starting from Naples, this tour includes a boat cruise of the Gulf of Naples, with highlights like Baths of Queen Giovanna and views of Mount Vesuvius.
The tour offers free time in Positano and Amalfi, allowing for independent exploring, shopping, or relaxing. The highlight is reaching Ravello by minibus, where you’ll be overwhelmed by its spectacular vistas and charming streets. This tour balances sea and land experiences, with the boat cruise providing a relaxed way to see the coastline, and the minibuses allowing access to Ravello’s elevated views.
Guests comment on how well-organized the logistics are, with 10 hours of varied activities. The price isn’t specified but is competitive given the value of combining both boat and land explorations. It’s perfect for those who prefer a mix of cruising and land-based sightseeing with a longer day to soak in the scenery.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers based in Naples who want a comprehensive day trip that includes boat cruising and a visit to Ravello’s stunning heights.
4. Sorrento: Coast and Capri Boat Trip with Limoncello Tasting
Finally, for a luxurious yet relaxed experience, this boat trip to Capri from Sorrento is hard to beat. Starting from Sorrento, you’ll enjoy a 35-minute cruise across the Gulf of Naples, with free time on Capri for about 6 hours. The trip includes stops at Marina Grande, the Faraglioni, and the Grotta Verde, with multiple scenic boat rides around the island.
What makes this tour special is the Limoncello tasting onboard, giving you a taste of local flavor. During your free time on Capri, you can explore at your own pace—visit the Blue Grotto, shop in Capri town, or relax at a cafe. The boat itself provides comfortable viewing and a chance to enjoy the coastline’s beauty from the sea.
This tour is ideal for those wanting a half-day in Capri with a touch of luxury, perfect for travelers with limited time but who want to get a true sense of the island’s charm. The scenic boat rides and the tasting add a memorable flavor, and it’s a great way to beat the crowds on land.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a day of relaxed exploration with a taste of local Limoncello, ideal for travelers seeking both scenery and a bit of indulgence.
How to Choose Your Perfect Amalfi Coast Boat Tour
When selecting a boat tour, consider your priorities: do you want flexibility and privacy, or a well-organized group experience? If you prefer a private, customized day, the Best of Amalfi Coast Private Shore Excursion from Salerno is unmatched. For those who want a sea-based overview with some free time, the Sorrento boat tour offers a balanced itinerary.
Travelers based in Naples should look into the full-day tour from Naples for a seamless combination of boat and land. If you’re short on time but want a luxury experience with a taste of Capri, the Capri boat trip with limoncello is ideal.
Booking early is a good idea, especially in high season (spring through fall), as boat tours tend to fill quickly. Always check for updated schedules and whether you prefer a private or group experience.
Final Thoughts
The Amalfi Coast simply shines from the water. Whether you opt for a private land-based tour, a full-day cruise along the coast, or an excursion to Capri, each offers a unique window into this beautiful region. For travelers who love personalized experiences, the private Salerno excursion delivers that, while the Sorrento-based tours provide a more social, scenic adventure. Naples travelers will appreciate the ease of combining land and boat, and Capri lovers will find the boat and limoncello combo charming and memorable.
No matter which option you choose, remember that early booking and flexible planning will help you make the most of your time on this spectacular stretch of coast. All these tours promise unforgettable views and authentic moments—so pick the one that best fits your style and schedule, and get ready for a truly memorable voyage along the Amalfi waters.
