Private 40hp Boat Tour of the Amalfi Coast and Positano

Exploring the Amalfi Coast by Boat: A Practical and Enjoyable Experience

If you’re dreaming of seeing the Amalfi Coast from a new perspective, a private boat tour might just be the way to go. This particular experience, offered by Amalfi Coast Lovers, promises a full day of cruising along Italy’s most picturesque shoreline, with stops at charming towns, hidden coves, and iconic sites. While I haven’t done this exact trip myself, I’ve gone over plenty of reviews and details, and it sounds like a pretty solid choice for travelers looking for a flexible, scenic, and personalized way to explore.

What I really like about this tour? First, the customizable departure point makes it flexible and convenient, letting you start your day exactly where suits you best. Second, the expert skipper guides you through some of the most beautiful and less crowded spots, giving you insider access that you won’t get from a larger, more structured group tour. The one potential snag? Fuel costs aren’t included, which can add a bit to your final bill and might mean some extra planning if budget matters.

This trip would work well for those who love the sea, appreciate having a private experience, or want to combine sightseeing with some relaxing dips in the Mediterranean. It’s not a tour for anyone looking for a highly guided, structured itinerary — it’s more about enjoying the moment, the views, and the sea with your own group.

Key Points

• Flexible departure points allow you to choose where to start your journey along the coast.
• A private boat means more intimacy and the ability to customize stops or add personal touches, like lunch at a local restaurant.
• Multiple stops include charming towns like Amalfi, Positano, and lesser-known gems like Cetara and Conca dei Marini.
• Authentic experiences such as swimming under waterfalls and exploring picturesque fishing villages make the day special.
• Skipper expertise is highly praised, with many reviews highlighting knowledgeable guides who share interesting insights about each location.
• Value for money appears strong, especially considering the personalized nature and the stunning scenery you’ll encounter.

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

When considering a boat tour like this, it’s worth thinking about what makes it stand out. The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, which gives you enough time to enjoy multiple stops without feeling rushed. For just over $300 per group (up to 6 people), the price is reasonable, especially given the private setting and the boat features like fresh water, an igloo with ice, and a comfortable environment to relax in. The fact that it’s booked about 45 days in advance indicates it’s popular, and for good reason.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The day kicks off with a sailing passage to Marina di Vietri sul Mare, famous for its beautiful ceramics. You’ll get a quick 15-minute ride, which sets the tone with scenic views of this colorful town. The next stop, Cetara, is known for its traditional fishing roots and the famous anchovy sauce. Here, you might want to pause to browse local products or simply take in the quiet seaside charm. Reviews mention that Cetara remains less affected by mass tourism, which makes it a genuine snapshot of local life.

Following Cetara, the boat continues along the coast with a brief stop at a small village—likely a chance for some peaceful downtime. Then, the boat passes by Maiori, a sizable town with a long stretch of shoreline, offering splendid views from the water. The next highlight is a 15-minute stop at Marmorata, famous for its waterfall. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to swim under the falls, a favorite among many travelers. The water is free to enjoy, and several reviews rave about how refreshing and scenic this spot is.

Moving on, you’ll arrive in Amalfi itself, a place bursting with history and charm. You’re given about an hour to stroll independently—perfect for grabbing a coffee, shopping, or just soaking in the atmosphere. Many guests say that walking through Amalfi’s narrow streets and piazzas feels like stepping back in time.

From Amalfi, the boat heads to Conca dei Marini, a tiny fishing village ideal for a swim or a relaxed lunch. Some reviewers mention the local restaurants as a highlight, offering authentic seafood and fresh local fare, perfect after a swim. Next up is the Fiordo di Furore, a small fjord and photographic gem—offering that quintessential Amalfi shot with its rugged cliffs and turquoise waters. You’ll get around 10 minutes here for photos.

The cruise then passes by Marina di Praiano, another scenic spot, before heading to Positano, the “pearl of the coast”. You’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore on your own — enough time for a leisurely walk, shopping for ceramics, or just enjoying the view from the beach. Multiple reviews point out how special Positano feels when seen from the water, often describing it as a highlight.

Finally, the boat stops at Erchie, a lesser-known fishing village, for a final swim before heading back to Salerno after about 30 minutes of cruising.

What the Tour Offers for Travelers

The stops are well-chosen to combine iconic spots with authentic local villages. The ability to swim, snorkel, and relax at each location makes this a flexible, laid-back experience. The presence of fresh water and ice onboard keeps you comfortable, especially on hot days, while the expert skipper enhances the experience with local insights.

The lunch stop at Conca dei Marini is an optional highlight—some reviews mention that it’s a great way to sample local flavors in a traditional setting. Keep in mind, the fuel isn’t included, so the final bill will include that, which is calculated at the end. This is typical for such tours, but it’s good to be aware.

The Insider Perspective

Many reviews highlight the quality of the guides and skippers. One reviewer specifically recommends requesting an English-speaking skipper for better communication. The skippers are described as helpful, friendly, and knowledgeable, making the entire day more enjoyable. Whether pointing out secret coves, sharing stories about each town, or helping with swimming, they add a lot of value.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private boat trip is ideal for small groups seeking a personalized, flexible way to experience the Amalfi Coast. It’s especially suited for those who love the water, want to avoid the crowds, and enjoy a relaxed pace. It’s also a good choice if you want to combine sightseeing with swimming and local food stops. If you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate scenic beauty and authentic experiences, this should fit the bill quite well.

Final Thoughts

Overall, a private boat tour like this offers an intimate look at the Amalfi Coast that large tours often can’t match. You get the freedom to customize your day, explore at your own pace, and enjoy the most beautiful spots from a unique vantage point. The combination of scenic stops, swimming opportunities, and local flavor makes it an experience many travelers cherish.

That said, be prepared for the extra cost of fuel and the fact that the tour is more about enjoying the coast at leisure than ticking off every possible site. If you’re after a laid-back, scenic, and personalized day on the water, this tour might be just what you’re looking for.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the tour’s relaxed pace and swimming opportunities could appeal to families with older children. However, keep in mind that the itinerary involves some swimming and water activities, so children should be comfortable in the sea.

Can I choose where to start the tour?
Yes, the departure point is customizable, allowing you to pick the most convenient location along the Amalfi Coast or Salerno.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swimsuits, towels, sun protection, and possibly snacks or additional drinks if you prefer. The boat provides bottled water and ice onboard.

Is lunch included?
No, but there’s an opportunity to stop at a local restaurant in Conca dei Marini for an authentic meal, which many reviews praise.

How long is the entire tour?
Approximately 8 hours, including travel time, stops, and cruising between locations.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, if the weather is poor, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund in such cases.

Are drinks and food provided?
Only bottled water, ice, and a comfortable onboard environment are included. Food and additional drinks are not part of the package.

How many people can join?
This is a private tour for up to 6 people, making it ideal for small groups or families.

What makes this tour different from a group cruise?
The private setting means you can customize your stops and enjoy a more intimate experience without the crowds of larger tours.

Is the guide or skipper English-speaking?
Most reviews suggest that skippers are knowledgeable, and you can request an English-speaking skipper for better communication. Some reviews highlight the importance of this for a smoother experience.

If you’re after a day filled with scenic views, swimming, and personalized exploration of the Amalfi Coast, this private boat tour could be your perfect match. It balances relaxation with adventure, offering a memorable way to see Italy’s stunning coastline from the water.