4 Hours Cruise: Swim and relax on board of the Bellavita 40 – PJ

Exploring the Amalfi Coast by Boat: A Closer Look at the 4-Hour Bellavita 40 Cruise

If you’re dreaming of soaking up the beauty of Italy’s Amalfi Coast from the water, this 4-hour cruise aboard the Bellavita 40 might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it promises a comfortable, scenic, and intimate way to experience some of Italy’s most iconic coastal sights.

What really catches our eye about this tour are two things: the chance to see famous villages like Positano and Amalfi from the sea, and the opportunity to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters around Li Galli Island. Plus, the inclusion of drinks and snacks on board adds a touch of relaxing luxury. On the flip side, a potential downside might be the cost relative to the duration—at around $1,496 for a group of up to 10, it’s not exactly cheap, but the private nature and included amenities can justify it for many travelers. This tour would suit those who value a personalized, scenic experience over a crowded, group tour.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience perfect for couples or small groups.
• Includes snorkeling gear and the chance to swim in beautiful waters.
• Stunning views of villages like Positano, Amalfi, and Li Galli Island.
• Drinks and snacks included, with options for prosecco, soft drinks, and fresh fruits.
• Short duration of around 4 hours makes it ideal for a quick, scenic escape.
• Additional costs apply for some attractions, like the Emerald Grotto entrance.

Why Choose This Amalfi Coast Boat Tour?

Imagine gliding along the coast, the wind in your hair, and the sun casting a glow over cliffside villages that seem to cling to the rocks. That’s exactly what this private boat tour offers – a chance to see Amalfi, Maiori, and Atrani from a perspective you can’t get from land. The leisurely pace means you’ll have plenty of time to snap photos, enjoy the scenery, and relax.

The boat itself, the Bellavita 40, is described as a comfortable vessel with a restroom on board, which is a considerate touch for a 4-hour trip. The professional skipper ensures a smooth ride and navigates through notable sea caves and secret ravines that are only accessible by boat. It’s a curated experience that balances sightseeing with comfort, making it suitable even for travelers who might not be seasoned sailors.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start Point & Panorama Cruise: The tour begins from one of the ports along the Amalfi Coast. The slow navigation at the start is a clever touch—giving everyone a chance to settle in and start soaking up the views. Expect a relaxed cruise with brief stops for photos or a quick swim, which helps keep the experience intimate rather than rushed.

Li Galli Island Stop: This is the highlight for many—a 30-minute swim in waters near Li Galli, a mysterious and less crowded island. You’ll have snorkeling gear at your disposal, so you can explore the underwater world. This spot is praised for its tranquility and the opportunity to see marine life. One reviewer shared, “We loved the way the water was perfect for snorkeling, and the fish we saw beneath the surface made the experience memorable.”

Positano Viewing & Photo Opportunity: After Li Galli, the boat sails back towards Positano, offering an incredible backdrop of cliffside houses—kind of a postcard come to life. You get around 20 minutes here, enough to snap some photos or just soak in the scenery. It’s a fantastic way to appreciate the charm of Positano without the crowds.

Additional Stops & Cave Exploration: While not explicitly detailed in the itinerary, the tour mentions exploring sea caves and secret ravines, which are part of the coast’s natural allure. These hidden spots are often a favorite among travelers for their untouched beauty.

What’s Included & What’s Not?

The tour’s price covers quite a bit: fuel surcharge, a professional skipper, snorkeling equipment, and drinks like soft drinks, beers, prosecco, and fresh fruit. It’s a good value if you’re someone who appreciates having everything taken care of, especially since it’s a private tour, meaning no need to share the boat with strangers.

On the other hand, some extras like champagne, fine wines, or lunch aren’t included, and if you want to visit the Emerald Grotto, there’s an entrance fee of €10 per person. If you’re a big fan of wine or a sit-down meal, you’ll need to arrange those separately, which could add to your overall cost.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

From the reviews, it’s clear that the experience is highly praised for its stunning scenery and relaxed vibe. One traveler who booked a similar tour back in September 2019 describes it as a reasonably priced way to see the coast privately, highlighting that the boat is comfortable and the skipper is professional. She mentions, “We did a lot of research beforehand to find a reasonably priced private boat tour,” which suggests that this option provides a good balance between comfort, privacy, and value.

The included drinks and snacks, especially prosecco and fresh fruits, make the journey feel like a small celebration. The ability to swim and snorkel in the clear waters near Li Galli is particularly mentioned as a highlight. The quiet coves and sea caves are what make this tour stand out—offering a more exclusive and immersive experience than busy land-based sightseeing.

Practical Details & Considerations

The tour lasts roughly 4 hours, making it a manageable addition to your day. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want a taste of the coast’s beauty. The boat’s capacity of up to 10 people ensures an intimate experience, but keep in mind that it’s not a cheap adventure. For around $1,496, you get a private vessel, drinks, and snorkeling gear, which many will find worthwhile if you value privacy and personalized service.

Most travelers can participate, and the experience is suitable for anyone comfortable on a boat. The tour’s cancellation policy is flexible—full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, which adds peace of mind.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re after a personalized, scenic, and relaxing boat ride with some swimming and photo opportunities, this cruise hits the mark. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling in a small group or as a couple, wanting to avoid crowded tours. The private aspect makes it ideal for those celebrating special occasions or just seeking a more exclusive way to enjoy the coast.

While not specifically targeted at families or children, those comfortable on boats and who enjoy a relaxed pace will find it suits them well. Be prepared for the cost, and consider whether a shorter, more budget-friendly trip might fit your plans better if you’re not set on a private experience.

Final Thoughts

This 4-hour private boat cruise along the Amalfi Coast offers a blend of natural beauty, comfort, and exclusivity. You’ll enjoy breathtaking views of villages like Positano and Amalfi, the thrill of swimming in unspoiled waters, and the fun of exploring sea caves— all with a well-stocked boat and a professional skipper guiding the way.

It’s a solid choice for travelers seeking a peaceful, scenic escape from land-based sightseeing. The included drinks and snorkeling gear add to the relaxed vibe, making it feel like a small celebration on the sea. While the price might be a consideration, many will see it as a worthwhile splurge for the intimacy and personalized service it provides.

If you love stunning scenery, small-group adventures, and a bit of luxury, this cruise could become one of your favorite memories of the Amalfi Coast.

FAQs

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 4 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax, swim, and take photos without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
The price includes fuel surcharge, a professional skipper, snorkeling equipment, and drinks such as soft drinks, beers, prosecco, and fresh fruits. Restroom facilities are also on board.

Are drinks and snacks provided?
Yes, you’ll enjoy soda, soft drinks, beers, prosecco, chips, taralli, and fresh fruits during the trip. Champagne and fine wines are not included and can be brought or purchased separately.

Can I snorkel?
Absolutely. Snorkeling gear is provided, and many travelers love swimming in the waters around Li Galli Island to observe marine life.

Is there an additional fee for visiting the Emerald Grotto?
Yes, there’s a €10 entrance fee per person if you choose to visit the Emerald Grotto, which is outside the standard cruise itinerary.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the information doesn’t specify, most travelers comfortable on boats and with basic swimming ability should enjoy it. It’s best suited for those who can handle a 4-hour boat ride and are fine with the limited space onboard.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable, so plan accordingly.

This private boat tour offers a charming way to experience the Amalfi Coast’s beauty in a relaxed, intimate setting. It’s perfect for those who want a scenic, personalized escape with some swim stops, and the comfort of a private vessel with drinks and snacks included.