Positano & Amalfi Boat Tour from Naples with Light Lunch

If you’re dreaming of the Amalfi Coast but feeling overwhelmed by crowded land-based tours, a boat trip might be exactly what you need. This Positano & Amalfi Boat Tour from Naples promises a full day of stunning scenery, relaxing swimming stops, and charming town visits—all from the comfort of a small group boat. We’ve looked into the experiences, and here’s what you should know before booking.

What we love about this tour? First, the chance to see the coastline from the water offers a totally different perspective—think dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and caves you’d never notice from land. Second, the included light lunch, drinks, and snacks make the day feel relaxed and fuss-free, without constant extra costs.

A potential consideration is the timing and weather dependence; while most days the weather cooperates, bad conditions can lead to cancellations. Also, some reviews mention that the initial transfer from Naples to the port takes a bit of time, but that’s a tradeoff for a smoother start.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic cruising, town exploring at their own pace, and relaxing on a boat rather than rushing through busy streets. If that sounds like your ideal day, keep reading for the full details.

Key Points

• Unique perspective: Seeing the coast from the water highlights sights often missed on land tours.
• Comfortable and organized: Hassle-free transfers and a smaller group size (max 14) mean a more intimate experience.
• All-inclusive experience: Snacks, drinks, and a light lunch ensure you won’t go hungry or thirsty.
• Flexible free time: Ample time in both Amalfi and Positano allows for personalized exploration.
• Weather sensitive: The tour depends on good weather; cancellations are possible but with clear refund or reschedule policies.
• Moderate pace: Slightly long transfer at the start, but the boat ride itself is relaxing with plenty of scenic stops.

The Itinerary in Detail

Morning Pickup and Transfer

Your adventure begins early, with a pickup at 8:45 am from the Star Hotel Terminus near Piazza Garibaldi in Naples. The transfer to the port in Piano di Sorrento is by air-conditioned minivan, which is a nice touch after a night or morning in Naples. This part of the trip can take a little under two hours, but it’s a good chance to enjoy some views of the Bay of Naples and perhaps get your first glimpse of Mount Vesuvius.

Cruising Along the Sorrento Coast

Once at the port, your boat awaits. The initial cruise takes you along the Sorrento coastline, passing charming fishing villages like Marina Grande. This area alone sets the tone for an idyllic day—picture turquoise waters and rugged cliffs.

Key Stops Along the Route

• Bagni Regina Giovanna: A Roman villa ruins near a natural swimming spot. It’s a quick stop, but the scenery here is worth it, and the ruins add a touch of history. As one reviewer put it, “What a fabulous day, the Amalfi coast is beautiful, well worth it.”

• Cala di Mitigliano: This spot features a waterfall flowing from the rocks—a refreshing sight, and a perfect place to snap some photos or enjoy a quick swim.

• Li Galli Islets: These famous little islands are a highlight, with their striking natural beauty. The boat stops here for about 15 minutes, giving you a chance to take in the views and possibly snap some shots of these iconic rocks.

• Nerano and Praiano: These towns are passed on the cruise, giving you a sense of the coast’s varied charm.

• Fiordo di Furore: Known as the “Fjord of Furore,” this narrow inlet carved into the coastline is a must-see. It’s often featured in travel pics for the dramatic cliffs and water.

Main Town Stops

• Amalfi: You’ll have 1 to 2 hours to explore this historic maritime republic. Many travelers appreciate the flexibility here—some wander the streets, others stop for a quick coffee or gelato. A reviewer loved it, saying, “Stopped at Amalfi which was stunning.”

• Positano: Known as the “pearl of the Amalfi Coast,” this colorful town gets about an hour of free time. You can browse shops, admire the pastel buildings, or just soak in the views. As one guest put it, “A lovely way to dip in and out of Amalfi and Positano.”

Lunch and Onboard Relaxation

The boat includes snacks and beverages, including alcoholic options like Prosecco. The light lunch—a sandwich—is a thoughtful touch, especially since many reviews mention the boat’s good service and drinks flowing freely. This laid-back vibe helps you enjoy the scenery without worrying about dining logistics.

Swimming and Snorkeling

Several reviews mention swimming as a highlight—up to three times in some cases. The boat stops for swimming and snorkeling, giving you a break from the towns and a chance to cool off in the clear waters. Be aware, some travelers note that snorkeling equipment is not included, but you can bring your own or buy it onboard for about $15 for a mask and $9 for a snorkel.

Return and Drop-off

The tour wraps up in the evening, with a return to Naples around 8:00-8:15 pm. Keep in mind, this is a full-day trip, so it’s best for those comfortable with a long day on the water and in transit.

What Travelers Say

The reviews paint a pretty positive picture, with many calling it “just brilliant” and “an unforgettable experience.” Guests love the knowledgeable guides, the stunning scenery, and the relaxed pace of the boat—many mention how much easier it is to see the coast from the water than from land.

One frequent praise is for the small-group atmosphere, which makes the experience feel more personal. Guides like Francesco, Romualdo, and Fulvio are singled out for their friendly, informative service, adding a layer of warmth to the day.

The free time in Amalfi and Positano gets glowing reviews, with people feeling they had enough time to explore, shop, and enjoy a drink. The snacks and drinks onboard get high marks for quality and abundance—several emphasize how the Prosecco and music made the trip especially enjoyable.

Of course, not everything is perfect. A few guests mention weather cancellations, which can be disappointing but are understandable, and a couple of reviews note that timing at the start could be tight due to the transfer.

Pricing and Value

At around $201.59 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but considering what’s included—transfers, boat cruise, snacks, drinks, and flexible town time—the value is solid. The small group size makes for a more intimate experience, and the stops are well-paced to avoid feeling rushed.

For many travelers, the unique water perspective, the scenic stops, and the relaxing atmosphere make the cost worthwhile. If you’re looking for a leisurely, well-organized day that combines stunning scenery with the chance to explore at your own pace, this tour delivers.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who want a relaxed yet scenic way to see the Amalfi Coast. It suits travelers comfortable with a long day, open to some variability with weather, and eager to avoid large crowds on land. If you’re into swimming, enjoying good drinks, and want to capture those perfect photos of colorful towns from the water, this is a great pick.

It’s less suited for those with mobility issues or anyone looking for a quick, budget-friendly option. Kids might enjoy the boat and swimming stops, but keep in mind the full-day schedule may be tiring for very young children.

FAQ

How early do I need to book this tour? Most people book about 52 days in advance, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead if you want to secure a spot in peak season.

What’s included in the price? The tour covers transfers from Naples to the port, a professional skipper, snacks, beverages, and a light lunch. Snorkeling gear and the docking fee are extra.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad? Yes, the tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll get a full refund or the option to reschedule.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size? Yes, the maximum is 12-14 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

How long are the stops in Amalfi and Positano? You’ll have about 1 to 2 hours in Amalfi and around 1 hour in Positano—enough to explore, shop, or relax.

Are the stops scenic and worth it? Absolutely. Guests rave about stops like the Li Galli islets, the Roman ruins, and the fjord—viewpoints that are tough to replicate from land.

Is snorkeling available? Not automatically; you can bring your own or purchase gear onboard for about $15 for a mask and $9 for a snorkel.

Does the tour include hotel pickup? No, there’s no hotel pickup. You meet at the Star Hotel Terminus in Naples, but transfers to and from the port are included.

What should I bring? Bring swimwear, sun protection, a hat, camera, and perhaps some extra cash for souvenirs or additional gear.

This boat tour offers a relaxed, scenic way to explore the Amalfi Coast, especially if you prefer being on the water rather than battling crowds on land. The combination of stunning views, friendly guides, and the freedom to explore towns at your own pace makes it a standout choice for many travelers. Just remember, it’s weather-dependent and a full-day commitment, but for those who love a mix of adventure and leisure, it’s a trip worth considering.

Whether you’re celebrating a romantic getaway, traveling with friends, or simply want a different perspective on Italy’s most beautiful coastline, this tour has plenty to offer—and most travelers come away feeling it was a highlight of their trip.