From Positano: Amalfi Coast Boat Tour with Swimming Stop

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Italy’s famed Amalfi Coast from a different perspective, a boat tour like this could be just what you need. We’ve looked into this particular tour offered by Positano Boats, and it looks like a fantastic way to see some of the most beautiful spots along the coast without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. It’s especially suited to travelers who love scenic views, enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters, and appreciate the company of a knowledgeable local guide.

What really caught our eye about this trip are the small group size—limiting it to just 12 people—making it feel more personal and relaxed. Also, the variety of stops and scenic highlights like the Emerald Grotto and Fiordo di Furore make it a well-rounded day. But it’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include a guide for Amalfi town itself, which might be a downside if you’re hoping for a full guided experience on land. This tour seems perfect for those wanting a flexible, scenic, and comfortable day out, especially if you’re traveling with friends or a partner who enjoys waterside adventures.

Below, we’ll walk through everything you should know about this Amalfi Coast boat trip — from what’s included, what to expect, and the pros and cons, all based on honest reviews and details from the provider.

Key Points

• Small group size creates a more intimate experience, avoiding the crowds typical of larger tours
• Beautiful scenery and stops for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing, including iconic spots like the Emerald Grotto
• Expert skipper with local knowledge enriches the experience and helps you discover hidden gems
• Flexible timing with 7 hours of exploring, including free time in Amalfi and optional lunch (not included)
• Relaxing and fun atmosphere with drinks onboard, swimming opportunities, and a scenic cruise
• Not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the nature of boat excursions

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s the Itinerary? A Day on the Water

This tour takes you from the moment you set sail from Positano, with a carefully curated route that balances sightseeing, swimming, and land exploration. We’ll walk through the typical day to give you a clear idea of what to expect.

Starting Point at Positano

The adventure begins at Positano Boats, located right on the main beach, Spiaggia Grande (coordinates 40.62786102294922, 14.486763954162598). It’s an easy spot to find, especially if you’re already exploring the lively beach area. The crew greets you under a distinctive blue and white gazebo, and the boat itself looks comfortable and well-maintained.

Scenic Cruising Along Positano and Praiano

Your journey kicks off with about 15 minutes of scenic cruising along the coast towards Praiano. This early part is all about soaking up the stunning views of pastel-colored houses, rugged cliffs, and the sparkling Mediterranean. It’s a gentle way to start, allowing you to settle in and take photos of the iconic coastline.

Fiordo di Furore — The Highlight Stop

Next, you arrive at the Fiordo di Furore, often called the “fjord of Italy,” which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This dramatic, narrow inlet surrounded by towering cliffs is a favorite for many visitors. Here, you’ll spend around 30 minutes for a quick aperitif, taking in the jaw-dropping scenery and listening to your skipper’s stories about this unique geological formation.

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Emerald Grotto and Snorkeling

One of the tour’s major highlights is the chance to explore the Emerald Grotto, a beautiful sea cave lit by sunlight filtering through the water, creating an almost surreal glow. If you’re keen, you can choose to stop and explore; if not, you can simply enjoy the view from the boat. Multiple reviews mention that the grotto is super cool and worth at least a quick visit.

Swimming and snorkeling are encouraged along the route. The boat crew is attentive—guiding you if you want to jump in—and everyone seems to agree that the water clarity and temperature make for great swimming opportunities. Guests often mention the refreshing nature of these stops, with the warm sun and cool water providing a perfect break from sightseeing.

Passing Conca dei Marini and the Natural Arch

Continuing along the coast, you’ll pass through Conca dei Marini, a charming fishing village, and admire the Natural Arch, a striking rock formation that’s become a symbol of the coast. The boat’s vantage point allows for uninterrupted views, and the skipper’s commentary adds context about these natural wonders.

Time in Amalfi Town

Finally, you arrive in Amalfi, where you’re given about 1.5 hours to wander its streets. While the tour doesn’t include a guided tour of Amalfi, it offers plenty of opportunities to explore on your own. You can browse boutiques, sip an espresso, or take photos of the historic cathedral and lively piazza. Travelers often appreciate this free time, though some wish it were a bit longer—just a heads-up that an hour feels quick when you’re eager to soak in the town.

Optional Lunch

Between May 15 and October 5, there’s a chance to have a traditional Italian lunch at a restaurant with a spectacular view (not included in the tour). If you choose to do so, it would be a great way to relax and enjoy regional flavors. If the restaurant isn’t available, the tour adjusts by extending your time in Amalfi, which still works out well.

Return and Swimming Stop

On the way back to Positano, you’ll stop again for a swimming session, often in crystal-clear waters that invite you to cool off after a day of sightseeing. Guests consistently mention how much they enjoyed these refreshing breaks, especially in warm weather. The boat is well-equipped with drinks—wines, beers, soft drinks—and there’s a friendly vibe onboard, making the trip feel laid-back and fun.

What’s Included and What to Bring

This tour includes an expertly led boat cruise with a small group of up to 12 people, making it a cozy experience. The skipper provides local insights, and the boat’s amenities include drinks for onboard relaxation. The 7-hour duration provides ample time for sightseeing, swimming, and a taste of Amalfi.

What to bring:
– Passport or ID
– Sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen for protection
– Swimwear and beachwear for swimming stops
– Camera to capture the views
– Any personal snacks or drinks if desired (although drinks are available onboard)

Note: Lunch is not included, but you have the option to dine at a restaurant in Amalfi if you wish. The tour does not include a land guide for Amalfi town itself, so independent exploration is encouraged.

The Experience Through the Eyes of Travelers

Reviewers consistently rave about the knowledgeable guides and friendly captains. Multiple mentions highlight the captain’s kindness and local expertise, making the ride not just scenic but also engaging. Many say that the swimming stops are the best part, with crystal-clear waters and frequent opportunities to jump in and relax.

One guest notes, “Luigi was great, with good music, and the swimming opportunities—snacks and prosecco—made it a perfect day.” Others emphasize the scenery, calling it “beautiful,” “peaceful,” and “scenic,” with some wishing for more time in Amalfi but still feeling satisfied overall.

The small group size is a clear advantage, with travelers mentioning how it made the experience more relaxed and personal. Several reviews also praise the cost-value ratio, considering the variety of stops, views, swimming, and drinks included.

Drawbacks and Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, a few points are worth noting. Some travelers mention that one hour in Amalfi can feel a bit rushed, though it’s generally enough to explore a bit and grab a gelato or coffee. Others wish for more time in Amalfi or additional stops, but that’s often a trade-off with the tour’s route and timing.

A small number of guests find that the guide’s commentary could be more detailed, especially about the history or local culture. Also, mobility issues make this tour unsuitable for those with limited mobility, as walking and getting in/out of the boat can be challenging.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Amalfi Coast boat trip shines as a relaxed, scenic, and flexible way to explore the coast from the water. It’s ideal for travelers who love beautiful views, swimming, and small-group vibes. If you enjoy attentive guides who know the area well and are comfortable with a bit of independence during free time, you’ll likely find this tour very satisfying.

It offers excellent value for money, with a comfortable boat, drinks onboard, and the chance to visit multiple scenic spots without the hassle of managing transportation or crowds. If you’re looking for a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and land exploration, this could be a highlight of your trip. Just keep in mind that it’s not a guided tour of Amalfi town, so if you want a detailed historical tour, you might want to pair this with another experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with boat trips. The experience involves swimming and some walking in Amalfi, but it’s generally family-friendly if children are comfortable on boats and enjoy water activities.

How long do we spend in Amalfi?
Approximately 1.5 hours, which is enough to explore the streets and grab a quick bite or drink, though some guests wished for more time.

Are drinks included?
Yes, a wide selection of drinks including soft drinks, wines, and beers are available onboard to enjoy during the trip.

What if I don’t want to swim?
You’re not required to swim; you can relax on the boat and enjoy the scenery. However, swimming is highly encouraged and enjoyed by most guests.

Can this tour be private?
Yes, private group options are available if you’re looking for a more exclusive experience.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, swimwear, sunglasses, hat, camera, and personal ID are recommended. Towels and beachwear are also useful for swimming stops.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included in the tour price, but there is a restaurant option available in Amalfi from May 15 to October 5.

What language is the tour conducted in?
English and Italian are spoken, with knowledgeable guides who can accommodate different language speakers.

In the end, if you’re craving a laid-back, scenic day on the water with plenty of swimming, this tour from Positano delivers. It’s especially good for those who prefer small groups, friendly guides, and a mix of sightseeing and relaxation. Just be prepared for a day that’s about enjoying the coast at your own pace, with stunning views and memorable moments along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: