Private boat tour of the Amalfi Coast from Sorrento

Imagine gliding along the shimmering waters of the Amalfi Coast, with the sun warming your face and the scenic coastline unfolding before you. That’s the promise of this private boat tour from Sorrento—a chance to see one of Italy’s most iconic regions from the comfort of a customized vessel. It’s one of those experiences that can turn a trip into a collection of lifelong memories, especially if you’re craving a mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and a splash of adventure.

What we really like about this tour is its flexibility. The itinerary offers a good balance of time at each stop, plus the chance to swim off the Li Galli islands—an authentic highlight. We also appreciate how it’s designed to avoid the crowds, giving you a more intimate experience with breathtaking scenery. On the flip side, the price is not small, and the trip is pretty tightly scheduled—so if you’re seeking a leisurely, unstructured day, this might feel a bit rushed.

This tour tends to suit travelers who want a high-quality, personalized experience that takes in the best of the Amalfi Coast without the hassle of crowded buses or guided groups. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate the freedom to swim, explore at their own pace, and indulge in some local treats along the way.

Key Points

• Private & Personalized: Only your group participates, making for a more tailored experience.
• Scenic Stops: Includes swimming at Li Galli Islands, a UNESCO site, plus visits to Amalfi and Positano.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, saving you time and hassle.
• Food & Drink: Snacks, beers, prosecco, and limoncello are part of the package.
• Flexible Timing: The itinerary balances sightseeing with free time to relax and explore.
• Cost & Value: At around $1,454 for up to 6 people, it’s a premium experience but offers exclusivity and comfort that many find worth the splurge.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Stop 1: Li Galli Islands — Swim and Soak Up Mythology

Your day kicks off with a visit to the Li Galli islands, a spot famous not only for their stunning beauty but also for their mythic connections—according to legend, sirens lived here, enchanting sailors with their songs. You’ll have about two hours to swim off the islands, which is a fantastic way to start the day, especially with clear waters perfect for a refreshing dip. The reviews highlight how enjoyable this stop is, with one traveler noting, “We especially enjoyed swimming in the green cave.” The island stop is free of charge, making it a valuable highlight that feels both exclusive and authentic.

Stop 2: Amalfi — Charm & Culture

Next, you’ll drop anchor in Amalfi, the town that lends its name to the coast. With about 1.5 hours to explore, you’ll be able to stroll along the seafront, admire the striking Duomo, and soak in the scenic views from the port’s tip. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s clear why—brightly colored buildings, lively streets, and a vibrant atmosphere make it a worthwhile visit. Most travelers find this stop offers just enough time to get a taste of Amalfi’s charm without feeling rushed.

Stop 3: Positano — The Iconic Cliffside Village

The final stop is Positano, arguably the most photogenic town on the coast. With another 1.5 hours, you’ll have time to wander its stairways, browse local boutiques, or simply sit back and take in the view of the colorful houses cascading down the hillside. As one reviewer puts it, “Positano’s postcard scenery is famous throughout the world,” and experiencing it by boat adds a unique perspective. The free time allows for a relaxed exploration—ideal if you want to soak in the vibrant vibe of this legendary spot.

What’s Included & What to Keep in Mind

The tour includes hotel pickup, which means you won’t have to worry about finding the meeting point. The boat ride itself is private, offering exclusivity and flexibility. Snacks, beverages, and limoncello are included, which adds a touch of indulgence—perfect after a swim or while enjoying the coast’s views.

However, keep in mind that landing and boarding fees at Amalfi and Positano aren’t included in the base price, so you might want to budget for those extra costs. The tour lasts about 7 hours, with most of that time spent moving between stops and enjoying free time. It’s a fairly full schedule, so if you prefer a more leisurely, unstructured day, it’s something to consider.

Comfort & Convenience

The boat is a private vessel, and the tour is designed for groups up to six, making it ideal if you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a romantic duo. The mobility and comfort of the boat add to the experience—no crowded buses, no waiting in lines, just smooth sailing along the coast.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly captains, who go out of their way to make the experience memorable. One traveler shared how the crew was great at customizing the tour and helping everyone enjoy swimming at the caves, describing it as a “great experience.” Others appreciated the “professional captains” who showed them the top sights without rushing, and notably found the boat’s route included a hidden gem restaurant in Positano accessible only by boat—an insider tip that adds extra value.

The overall sentiment is that this is a luxurious, memorable way to experience the coast, especially if you’re looking for a more exclusive alternative to crowded tour buses.

Analyzing the Price

At around $1,454 for the whole group, the cost might seem steep, but it reflects the private, personalized nature of the tour. It’s comparable to other high-end experiences, especially considering the included snacks, drinks, and the convenience of hotel pickup. For those wanting a unique, intimate perspective of the Amalfi Coast, many consider it good value—particularly when the alternative involves multiple guided tours or crowded boat trips.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for small groups seeking a luxurious, flexible day on the water. It’s well-suited for couples, friends, or families who want a personalized adventure without the hustle of larger tours. If you love swimming, exploring picturesque towns at your own pace, and enjoying scenic vistas from the water, this tour checks all those boxes.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, unstructured day with ample free time, or are traveling solo, you might want to explore other options. The price point also suggests it’s best suited for those willing to indulge in a premium experience.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel or a meeting point via a free shuttle bus, making logistics easier.

How long is the entire tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, including travel time, stops, and free exploration.

What’s the group size?
This is a private experience for up to 6 people, ensuring intimacy and personalized attention.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes, snacks, beer, coke, water, prosecco, and limoncello are all included in the package.

Is there an extra fee for Amalfi or Positano?
Landing and boarding fees at these stops are not included in the base price, so expect to pay those separately.

Can I customize the stops or schedule?
The tour is designed to follow a set itinerary, but the reviews suggest captains are flexible and accommodating, especially for swimming or taking photos.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a luxury, intimate way to experience the Amalfi Coast, this private boat tour offers a blend of scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and personal comfort. The ability to swim off the islands and explore Amalfi and Positano at your own pace makes it a standout option for those who value quality over quantity.

While it’s a significant investment, the exclusivity, convenience, and memorable views make it worthwhile for travelers who want more than just a quick look at the coast. It’s especially suited for those celebrating a special occasion or looking to treat themselves to a unique, stress-free adventure on the water.

For anyone who dreams of seeing the Amalfi Coast from a private boat, soaking up the sun, and enjoying picturesque towns without the crowds, this tour is likely to deliver that experience beautifully.