From Positano/Praiano: Private Amalfi Coast Half-Day Tour

If you’re dreaming of seeing the Amalfi Coast from the water without the crowds or the hassle of big tourist boats, this private half-day tour is worth considering. It’s a way to enjoy the coast’s incredible scenery at your own pace, with a knowledgeable skipper guiding you past iconic spots like the Fjord of Furore and the Emerald Grotto.

What we especially like about this experience? First, the personalized touch. Leaving the route and navigation to a local, English-speaking skipper means you can relax and just soak in the views. Second, the stops for swimming and snorkeling make it more than just a sightseeing cruise — it’s an opportunity to cool off in crystal-clear waters and explore tucked-away beaches.

One thing to keep in mind? The price per group is around $786, which might seem steep, but when you think about the exclusivity, flexibility, and private service, it can be quite good value. This tour is likely best suited for those who want a stress-free, intimate experience with a focus on scenery, swimming, and personalized service rather than a large group tour.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: You won’t share the boat with strangers, and the skipper will tailor the route.
• Great for relaxation: Stops for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying prosecco keep the vibe laid-back.
• Stunning scenery: From Positano’s colorful cliffs to the impressive Fiordo di Furore, the views are unforgettable.
• Includes amenities: Restroom, shower, beach towels, music, and drinks are all provided.
• Flexible departure points: From Positano or Praiano, with easy access for most travelers.
• Weather-dependent: Like all outdoor experiences, it’s subject to good weather, with options for rescheduling or full refund if canceled.

This tour offers a chance to see the Amalfi Coast without the rush and crowds of public boats. Instead, you’ll be on a comfortable, well-chosen boat (like the gozzo Fratelli Aprea), with a captain who’s not just skilled but also attentive to your group’s needs. The experience is ideal for travelers who value comfort, privacy, and spontaneous stops for swimming and pictures.

The reviews highlight how attentive and enthusiastic skippers like Riccardo, Francesco, and Gennaro make all the difference. One reviewer mentioned that their captain took photos for them without being asked, adding a personal touch that makes the trip more memorable.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: Positano or Praiano

You’ll begin your journey in either Positano or Praiano, depending on your choice. Starting in Positano offers the classic postcard view of the vertical town from the water — a stunning sight to kick things off. Praiano’s departure, from La Gavitella Beach or Marina di Praia, makes for a more relaxed, less crowded start.

Praiano and Beach Stops

After leaving the main town, the boat glides past Praiano, a smaller, quiet spot often overlooked by large tour boats. Here, you can take a dip at La Gavitella Beach or explore the Africana Grotto, both perfect for a quick swim or snorkel. One review describes Praiano as a “suggestive small town,” with nice spots to cool down and enjoy the scenery.

Fiordo di Furore

Next, you’ll pass the Fjord of Furore, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its dramatic cliffs plunging into clear waters and the overhanging bridge make it an especially photogenic stop. As one reviewer put it, “taking photos in this dazzling location is a must,” and the cliffs really do look like something out of a movie.

Emerald Grotto (Grotta dello Smeraldo)

One of the most famous attractions, the Emerald Grotto, is accessible by a tiny rowboat. Inside, you’ll see sparkling green waters, stalactites, stalagmites, and a fascinating ceramic Nativity scene submerged in the crystal water. While the entrance fee isn’t included, many find the grotto to be a highlight. Multiple reviews mention how stunning and unique this cave is, with one saying, “inside, it’s possible to admire sparkling, green water and stalactites.”

Conca dei Marini and Capo di Conca

Continuing along, the boat stops in Conca dei Marini, a charming spot great for a swim. From here, you can admire the Capo di Conca promontory and the historic Capo di Conca tower. The scenery here is captivating, with steep cliffs and quiet beaches, making it a favorite among those who love exploring lesser-known parts of the coast.

Amalfi Town

The tour’s highlight is the town of Amalfi, with its impressive history and dramatic coastline. You can choose to step ashore and walk the narrow streets, or simply admire the town’s beauty from the water. One reviewer describes Amalfi as “a fascinating town full of history,” and many appreciate how seeing it from the boat offers a different perspective.

Returning to Positano or Praiano

After Amalfi, you’ll head back, often passing by Atrani, a tiny, picturesque town. The final stretch provides a different view of the coast’s cliffs and colorful settlements, perfect for last photos before returning to your starting point. Many reviewers comment on how beautiful the coast looks from this vantage point, and some mention the satisfaction of having avoided the crowded tourist spots.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes a professional, bilingual skipper, water, soft drinks, prosecco, beach towels, music, and access to amenities like a restroom and shower. Life jackets are provided for both children and adults, which is reassuring for families or less confident swimmers.

Not included are entrance tickets for the Emerald Grotto (if you choose to visit) and transportation to and from your hotel. Since it’s a private tour, you won’t be sharing the boat with strangers, giving you full control over the itinerary and pace.

Is It Worth the Price?

While $786 may seem a lot upfront, this is for a private experience that can comfortably accommodate up to six people. You’re paying for exclusivity, flexibility, and the chance to customize your stops. The reviews frequently mention how attentive and enthusiastic the skippers are, making the experience more personal and memorable.

Some reviewers have described it as “more than expected for the cost,” highlighting the value of personalized service and stunning scenery. Plus, with options to swim, snorkel, and relax with drinks, it offers a well-rounded, luxurious way to explore the coast.

Practical Tips for Booking

• Book a few weeks in advance — the tour tends to be booked 31 days ahead on average.
• Check the weather forecast — this experience is weather-dependent, with a full refund or rescheduling if canceled due to bad weather.
• Bring essentials — sunscreen, bathing suit, sunglasses, hat, flip-flops, and a light jacket for cooler moments.
• Arrive prepared for a 4-hour experience, which is enough to see key spots without feeling rushed.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

If you’re looking for a relaxing, private way to see the coast with personalized stops for swimming and photos, this tour suits you. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or small families who want a comfy, intimate outing without the crowds.

Travelers who value knowledgeable hosts and stunning views will appreciate the positive reviews about the skippers’ enthusiasm and local knowledge. If your priority is a flexible, scenic experience with a touch of luxury, this boat tour checks many boxes.

In the end, this private Amalfi Coast half-day tour offers a fantastic way to enjoy the coast’s most breathtaking spots without the chaos of larger tours. You’re paying for a tailored experience, top-notch service, and access to some of the most photogenic and charming locations along this UNESCO-listed shoreline.

It’s ideal if you want to avoid busy tourist boats and prefer a more relaxed, personal adventure. The combination of scenic stops, swimming opportunities, and a dedicated skipper creates a memorable day that’s well worth the investment — especially if you’re traveling with a small group or family.

For anyone craving a peaceful, picture-perfect slice of Italy’s coast, this private boat tour delivers on all those fronts and more.

How long is the tour?
It’s approximately 4 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy several stops and take in the scenery without feeling rushed.

What are the departure points?
You can choose to start from Positano or Praiano, with the latter departing from La Gavitella Beach or Marina di Praia.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, life jackets are provided for both children and adults, making it family-friendly, especially if your kids enjoy swimming and boat rides.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes a bilingual skipper, water, soft drinks, prosecco, beach towels, music, and access to amenities like a restroom and shower.

Can I visit the Emerald Grotto?
The grotto is accessible via a small rowboat, and entry tickets are purchased onsite. The grotto visit is not included in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, bathing suit, sunglasses, hat, flip-flops, and a light jacket, especially if the weather cools later in the day.

Is it weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour relies on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

How much does it cost?
The price is around $786.64 per group, which suits small groups up to six people.

Can I customize the route?
Yes, the itinerary is flexible and led by your skipper, who will consider your preferences and weather conditions.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

If you’re after a relaxing, scenic, and exclusive way to see the Amalfi Coast, this private boat tour might just be the highlight of your trip.