Private full day tour by boat along Positano and Amalfi

If you’re dreaming of discovering the Amalfi Coast without the crowds and with your own personal touch, this private full-day boat tour is worth considering. Offered by Direction Capri, it promises a relaxing, luxurious adventure along Italy’s most iconic coastline. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a compelling picture of what you can expect.

What we really like about this experience is the chance to skip the busy tourist boats and enjoy a more intimate, flexible day with your own captain and guide at the helm. Plus, the stops at beautiful, lesser-known spots—like hidden coves and small beaches only accessible by sea—are a real highlight. However, a key consideration is the price point—at over $1,300 per group, it’s an investment, but one that many seem to agree offers good value for the personalized experience and stunning scenery.

This tour would suit travelers who value privacy, comfort, and the chance to tailor their day on the water. It’s particularly appealing if you’re traveling with family or friends and want a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing in beautiful surroundings. If you’re after a structured, crowded tour, this might not be your best fit—but for those seeking a quiet, scenic escape, it’s a great choice.

Key Points

• Private, customized experience with your own boat and captain
• Access to lesser-known spots and secluded swimming stops
• Comfortable facilities onboard, including a restroom
• Snorkeling gear provided for water activities
• Flexible itinerary tailored to your interests
• Good value for a private tour with multiple stops and personalized service

An Inside Look at the Amalfi Coast Private Boat Tour

If you’re considering this tour, you’ll want to know exactly what to expect. The experience is centered around a seven-hour cruise along the coast, starting from Salerno. The boat itself is a Cranchi 32 motorboat, which is known for comfort and style, and the entire journey is designed to be relaxing and visually spectacular.

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins at Molo Manfredi in Salerno at 9:00 am. From there, you and your group—up to six people—are picked up and taken directly to your private boat. The length of the cruise, around 7 hours, allows plenty of time to explore, swim, and soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary Breakdown

What makes this tour stand out is its carefully curated stops, each offering a unique glimpse of the coast’s natural and cultural beauty.

Vietri sul Mare

Your journey kicks off with a visit to Vietri, famous for its white, green, and light blue ceramics—these colors reflect beautifully in the water, creating a vibrant, artistic backdrop. Historically a small port, Vietri’s charm lies in its narrow lanes, colorful buildings, and ceramic shop signs. The legend of “I due fratelli” (the two brothers) rocks in the sea adds a touch of local legend to the scenery.

Torre Crestarella and Crestarella Beach

Next, you’ll pass a 16th-century tower, Torre Crestarella, built by the Spanish viceroy. The nearby Crestarella beach offers a 120-meter stretch of sand and pebbles, perfect for a quick swim or just lounging and enjoying the view. It’s a busy spot during the summer, but on your boat, you’ll have the advantage of avoiding the crowds.

Cetara

Approaching Cetara, you’ll notice the sparkling reflection of the small houses on the water, creating a scene that feels more like a painting than reality. This town has roots as an ancient Saracen fortress, and it’s famous for its tuna fishing—a key ingredient in the local cuisine.

Spiaggia dei Limoni

One of the more exclusive stops is the Limoni Beach, accessible only by boat, and surrounded by lemon groves. The secluded bay is a great spot for swimming and relaxing in calm, clear waters sheltered from the western breeze.

Tower of Erchie

Further along, the Tower of Erchie is a well-preserved example of coastal fortification. Its enchanting position on the rocks makes it a perfect photo spot, and the tranquility here often makes visitors feel like they’ve stepped into a private paradise.

Visiting Major Towns

Maiori

As the boat glides past, you’ll see Maiori’s historic marine-style architecture. The town is associated with art and cuisine and offers a chance to swim near the Capo d’Orso area. The review from a traveler highlights the comfy boat and all amenities—such as towels, water, snacks, and an aperitif—making it clear this tour aims for a comfortable, all-inclusive experience.

Minori

Next, Minori is known as the “city of flavor”—famous for its limoncello, pasta, and pastries. The organic lemons are a staple of both local cuisine and herbal remedies, adding a sensory element to the visit.

Conca dei Marini and Santa Rosa

Here, you can learn about the sfogliatella di Santa Rosa, a traditional pastry with a storied past. The quiet beauty of this area makes it a relaxing stop.

The Hidden Gems: Fiordo di Furore and Praiano

Fiordo di Furore

A true highlight is the Fiordo di Furore, a narrow fjord with crystal-clear, shallow waters under dramatic cliffs. It’s a favorite spot for swimmers and scuba divers. The steep steps leading down to the beach mean you can explore this spectacular natural formation both by water and land, but the boat gives you a special vantage point.

Praiano and Islet of Galli

Reaching Praiano and the nearby Galli islet, you’ll feel a sense of untouched serenity. Locals say Ulysses avoided the Sirens here, which adds a mythic touch to the place.

Positano: The Iconic Cliffside Town

No trip along the coast is complete without a stop in Positano. The town’s white houses, arches, and domes are iconic, and being on the water gives you a chance to appreciate its beauty from a different perspective. You can enjoy a swim or simply walk along the waterfront, soaking in the lively atmosphere.

Final Stops: Amalfi and Atrani

The tour concludes with visits to Amalfi and Atrani, where the history and charm are palpable. Amalfi’s famous paper-making tradition and lemon-based desserts make it a sweet finale to your day.

What Travelers Say

From reviews, it’s clear that the guides and captain make a big difference. One reviewer praised their hosts as “incredible”, ensuring the day was memorable, while others loved the comfort of the boat and the well-organized stops. The opportunity to swim in pristine waters and see hidden gems was a recurring theme.

A traveler mentioned, “The boat is very comfortable for a group of 5,” highlighting the intimacy and convenience of the experience. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and refreshments adds to the relaxed, all-inclusive vibe.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

While the cost of approximately $1,365 per group might seem steep at first glance, many guests feel it’s justified by the private, personalized nature of the experience. The luxury of skipping crowded boats and having a customized itinerary significantly elevates the value.

Think of it as an investment in a tailor-made day of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing in beautiful surroundings. For anyone looking for a luxury, stress-free way to explore the coast, this tour delivers.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for groups of friends or families who value privacy and comfort. It’s ideal if you want a flexible schedule and enjoy the idea of swimming in secluded spots or taking photos of iconic sights from the sea. It’s also perfect for travelers who appreciate good guides and well-maintained facilities onboard.

If you prefer large tour groups with fixed itineraries, or are on a tighter budget, you might want to explore other options. But if a personalized, scenic, and relaxed day on the water appeals to you, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 7 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the various stops and swimming.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Molo Manfredi in Salerno at 9:00 am and returns to the same point at the end of the day.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private experience—only your group participates, making it more intimate and flexible.

What is included in the price?
You get the boat, a captain and guide, snorkel gear, complimentary soda and water, and a restroom onboard.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there is free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but specific details aren’t provided. It’s suitable for adults and likely safe for older children.

Is food or a meal included?
The review mentions a lunch at a beachfront restaurant as part of the experience, but the main tour price covers the boat and stops. It’s best to check if the lunch is part of your package or an optional add-on.

What should I pack?
Bring light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, and a towel. You might find that the snorkel gear is provided, but check with the provider for what to bring.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, reviews highlight the boat’s comfort, especially for a small group of 5-6 people.

In the end, this private Amalfi Coast boat tour offers a smooth blend of luxury, flexibility, and genuine natural beauty. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy the coast on their terms, away from the crowds, with the added bonus of personalized service and access to some of the coast’s most stunning hidden spots. If that sounds like your kind of day, it’s definitely worth considering.