Full Day Boat Tour of Amalfi Coast and Capri Island from Positano

Full Day Boat Tour of Amalfi Coast and Capri Island from Positano: An Honest Look

Planning a day out on the water along Italy’s famed Amalfi Coast and visiting Capri sounds incredible, right? Well, this full-day boat tour offers just that — a chance to soak in some of Italy’s most iconic sights from the comfort of a private boat. While it’s not perfect, many travelers find it a memorable experience, especially for the stunning views and the personalized approach.

What truly stands out here is the flexibility of the itinerary and the opportunity to enjoy the coast at your own pace. The boat cruise covers notable spots like the Blue Grotto, Faraglioni rocks, and exclusive Marina Piccola, giving you a taste of Capri’s highlights. Plus, many guests rave about the knowledgeable guides and the scenic beauty that make the day special.

However, there are some considerations. The Blue Grotto, for instance, is only visited on request and not guaranteed, mainly due to long queues and high boat traffic. Also, the experience is quite touristy, and some guests have felt the snacks and drinks could be better, especially given the price. This tour suits travelers who prioritize flexible, scenic cruising and are okay with a bit of variability in the day’s activities.

If you’re looking for a luxurious, personalized day on the water, and you’re ready to embrace the Italian coast’s natural charm, this tour could be a great fit. Just keep your expectations aligned with the fact that some parts may be less exclusive than you might hope, and the experience depends heavily on weather and crowds.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary allows customization of spots like the Blue Grotto and swimming stops.
• Stunning views of the Amalfi Coast and Capri’s iconic landmarks, perfect for photography.
• Knowledgeable guides add a personal touch, making the experience more memorable.
• Included amenities like towels, snorkeling gear, and beverages enhance comfort.
• Price point reflects a private, all-inclusive experience but consider the extra costs for some attractions.
• Variable Blue Grotto visit depending on weather and queue conditions.

Why Consider This Tour?

This boat trip is ideal if you’re after a relaxed day on the water with plenty of chances to admire Italy’s coast from a different perspective. The tour’s standout feature is the customizable route; you can choose to linger at certain spots or focus on the highlights. If you love scenic cruising and want to avoid overly structured group tours, this private experience appeals to many travelers.

The boat itself is described as very nice, and the crew tends to be friendly and accommodating, enhancing the overall experience. Plus, the onboard amenities like towels, snacks, beverages, and snorkeling equipment are thoughtful touches that help you enjoy your day without extra fuss.

That said, it’s worth noting that the Blue Grotto visit is not guaranteed — it’s on request and subject to weather and queues. Some guests mentioned that the skipper skipped the grotto at times to avoid long waiting lines, which could be a letdown if that’s a major highlight for you. Also, the snacks and drinks might be a bit basic or warm, so packing your own snacks or drinks could be a good idea.

Pricing-wise, at over $2,000 for up to seven people, this tour is on the higher end. But considering it’s a private boat with many inclusions, the cost could be justified if you’re seeking exclusivity, comfort, and flexibility.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Fiordo Di Furore

The tour kicks off at the Furore Fjord, a striking natural formation with steep cliffs and a tiny beach. It’s a quick stop, around 30 minutes, giving you a chance to snap photos or dip your toes in the water. No admission fee here, so it’s all about scenery.

Stop 2: Amalfi Coast

Next up is a one-hour cruise along the Amalfi Coast, where you’ll admire the rugged shoreline, colorful towns, and terraced cliffs from the water. This is a favorite part for many guests, as the views are genuinely breathtaking and offer a different perspective from the usual land-based tours.

Stop 3: Punta Campanella Marine Reserve

You’ll pass through this protected marine area for about two hours, enjoying the stunning seaside vistas. The marine reserve is a highlight, and the cruise through this quiet, scenic stretch is a peaceful break from the busier spots.

Stop 4: Blue Grotto (Optional)

On request, you can visit the famous Blue Grotto, a small boat ride into a shimmering sea cave. The light reflection makes the water glow a striking blue, but be aware: it’s often crowded and might be skipped if queues are long. The tour mentions that the grotto can be off-limits if too busy, and the ticket (around 7 euros) isn’t included.

Stop 5: Grotta Verde

The Green Grotto is accessible during the tour, where you can plunge into emerald waters. It’s a quick stop, but many find it worth it for the chance to swim in such vivid surroundings.

Stop 6: Marina Piccola

This elegant beach and marina area is a favorite of visitors. You’ll have about three hours here — enough time for a meal, some shopping, or just relaxing by the water. The tour makes it easy to explore the town of Capri, which is just a five-minute walk away.

Stop 7: Faraglioni Rocks

An iconic Capri sight, the Faraglioni rocks are majestic and dominate the landscape. The boat only stops briefly here, around 15 minutes, but that’s enough for photos and taking in the grandeur of these towering formations.

Stop 8: White Grotto

Finally, you’ll visit the White Grotto, another photogenic spot where you can admire the unique coloration of the cave walls. The stop is brief, about 15 minutes, but it’s a lovely close to the day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes many thoughtful touches: beach towels, snorkeling gear, water, soda, snacks, and alcohol such as Prosecco, beers, and Aperol Spritz. There’s also a restroom onboard — a big plus for comfort during a full day out.

However, keep in mind that the Blue Grotto ticket ($7) is not included, nor is the port fee in Capri ($100) if you choose to disembark there. These extras can add up but are relatively minor compared to the overall experience.

What Past Travelers Say

One guest gushed about their experience: “Giuseppe was so kind and truly made the trip unforgettable.” The guide’s knowledge and friendly attitude clearly made a difference for many. Conversely, another reviewer felt the experience didn’t quite meet expectations, citing that the crew skipped the Blue Grotto due to long lines and that snacks were warm — a reminder that some parts of the experience are outside the tour’s control.

It’s good to note that the tour’s reviews are mixed, with a 4/5 rating based on only 2 reviews. While one guest raved about the guide and the scenery, the other pointed out that some promised sights weren’t visited and drinks could be better. This highlights the importance of managing expectations, especially regarding the Blue Grotto and onboard amenities.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour departs promptly at 9:00 am from Positano and lasts roughly 8 hours. It’s a private tour, meaning your group will be the only ones on the boat, which allows for a more relaxed and customizable experience. The maximum group size is 7, making it intimate but also potentially more expensive per person.

Pricing is around $2,035.40 per group, which is on the higher side but includes many extras and exclusivity. If you’re traveling with a few friends or family, it might be a worthwhile splurge, especially if you value privacy and flexibility.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, but note the restrictions: not recommended for those over 80 or with weights above 170 kg, and alcohol consumption is limited to adults 18+. Weather plays a role — poor conditions could lead to cancellation or a different experience, with a full refund offered if that happens.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour offers a way to see some of Italy’s most beautiful sights from the water, with the benefit of a flexible itinerary and personalized attention. It’s perfect if you want a luxurious, scenic day and enjoy the comfort of a private boat. The views of Capri’s rocks, grottoes, and coastlines are genuinely unforgettable, especially with a knowledgeable guide to point out key features.

The experience’s main draws are the stunning scenery and the chance to customize your day. However, the potential for the Blue Grotto to be skipped and the basic onboard snacks might be downsides if those are must-haves for you. It’s a good option for travelers who prioritize scenery, privacy, and flexibility over a perfectly curated schedule.

If you’re prepared for some variability and want to enjoy a relaxed day on the water with fewer crowds, this tour could be just what you’re looking for — especially if you’re traveling with a small group seeking a personalized adventure.

FAQ

Is the Blue Grotto guaranteed to be visited?
No, it’s only on request and can be skipped if there are long queues or bad weather. The tour mentions that the grotto may be skipped to avoid long lines.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes towels, snorkeling equipment, bottled water, soda, snacks, and alcohol options like Prosecco and Aperol Spritz. Restroom facilities are on board as well.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, the Blue Grotto ticket (around 7 euros) and the port fee for disembarking in Capri (100 euros) are not included and are paid separately.

How long is the total tour?
About 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to the meeting point in Positano. It’s a private experience, so timing can be flexible.

Can children join this tour?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but alcohol consumption is only for adults 18 and above.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, your camera, and perhaps an extra snack or drink if you’re particular about onboard offerings. Also, consider packing a towel and swimwear for swimming stops.

Is it worth the price?
That depends on what you value. If privacy, flexibility, and stunning coastal views are your priorities, many find it worthwhile. Just be prepared for some components, like the grotto visits, to be weather-dependent.

All in all, this boat tour offers a personalized way to experience the Amalfi Coast and Capri — a mix of scenic stops, iconic sights, and relaxing moments on the water. It’s well-suited for those wanting a private, hassle-free day, provided they’re comfortable with some variability and extra costs.