Salerno to Amalfi and Positano Private Boat Excursion

Exploring the Amalfi Coast by Private Boat: A Practical Review

If you’re dreaming of soaking up the dramatic beauty of Italy’s Amalfi Coast from the water, a private boat excursion from Salerno might be exactly what you need. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, the overwhelmingly positive reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of an experience that’s both flexible and deeply memorable.

What we really appreciate about this option is its fully customizable nature—you can tailor your route to include quiet bays, iconic villages, and natural grottoes, all while traveling in your choice of a luxurious or smaller boat. Plus, the local guides and captains seem to bring a genuine passion for the coast, which makes all the difference when you’re out on the water.

One thing to keep in mind is that, as a premium experience, the price point is a bit higher, at just over $1,100 for up to five people. While that might seem steep, the value is in the privacy, flexibility, and unforgettable views. This tour suits travelers looking for a personalized, relaxed day in one of Italy’s most picturesque settings—perfect for couples, friends, or small groups eager to see the coast from a different perspective.

Key Points

• Fully customizable itinerary means you can choose the villages, stops, and activities that matter most to you.
• Multiple boat options allow groups of different sizes to travel in comfort, from small open boats to larger luxury vessels.
• The tour includes time for swimming, exploring sea caves, and enjoying scenic views from the water.
• Local guides and captains are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience both enjoyable and informative.
• The price reflects a high-end, private experience with all fuel, taxes, and port fees included—adding to its value.
• Weather conditions influence the trip’s success; the captain monitors sea safety closely, and refunds are available if canceled for safety reasons.

Discovering the Amalfi Coast from the Water

Picture starting your day at the bustling Piazza della Concordia in Salerno, where your private boat awaits. From here, your journey along the coast is not just a sightseeing trip but a personalized adventure, with the freedom to decide how long to linger at each spot.

The beauty of this tour lies in its flexibility. Unlike standard group cruises, you’re not bound by a fixed route. The captain and crew are there to craft an experience based on your preferences—whether that’s a slow cruise to take in the view, a series of snorkeling stops, or a leisurely lunch on a seaside restaurant accessible only by boat.

Choosing your boat is an important part of the process. For small groups of up to six, the open wooden boat offers intimacy and a sense of traditional seafaring. Speedboats with shaded seating are ideal for those wanting a mix of speed and comfort, while larger vessels accommodate groups of up to 30 for a more social outing. Regardless of your choice, the reviews highlight the boats’ comfort and nice condition.

The Itinerary: What Stops Make It Special?

The tour’s itinerary includes some of the most iconic spots along the coast, but one of the big advantages is that it’s up to you to decide how long to stay at each location. Here’s a rundown of what you might see and do, based on the detailed descriptions:

Salerno

Your starting point is the lively waterfront of Salerno. It’s a practical meeting spot with good access, especially if you’re arriving by cruise or train. From here, the boat departs, and the real adventure begins.

Vietri sul Mare

Known for its vibrant ceramics, Vietri offers a colorful introduction to the region’s craftsmanship. While you might not stop for long, it’s a great visual cue before heading further along the coast.

Cetara

This tiny village dates back to pirate days and is famous for its tuna and anchovy dishes. It’s a quiet, authentic spot to admire from the boat, and some tours include a stop for a quick swim or fresh seafood.

Erchie and Marmorata

Legend has it Hercules founded Erchie, and it’s regarded as a peaceful place for a swim. Marmorata features a natural waterfall flowing into the sea—an eye-catching natural spectacle that can be admired from the boat or enjoyed with a quick dip during the stop.

Amalfi and Conca dei Marini

The famous Amalfi town itself is a highlight, with its beautiful cathedral and vibrant streets. The tour often passes by, but you can choose to stop for a bit of sightseeing or lunch. The nearby Conca dei Marini boasts a stunning sea cave and the famous ‘Bridge of High Divers’—an Instagram-worthy feature.

Praiano and Marina di Praia

Praiano offers a more tranquil perspective of the coast, and the nearby Marina di Praia is a quiet beach reachable only by boat or a steep path. It’s an ideal spot for a swim in calm waters.

Positano

Few places evoke the charm of Positano like this. The tour usually includes some free time here—perfect for strolls on the beach, visits to the picturesque church, and shopping. The Tordigliano beach, secluded and accessible only by boat or steep trail, is often a favorite for a quiet swim.

Sea Caves & Grottos

The Emerald Grotto, known for its stunning green water, is a popular optional stop (entrance fee not included). Many reviews mention how magical these spots are, providing unique photographic opportunities.

What to Expect During the Day

A typical day begins with meeting your skipper at the Salerno port, where you’ll choose your boat type and discuss your preferred route. The crew is generally praised for their friendliness and knowledge—many reviewers mention how they tailored the experience to their interests, from swimming and sightseeing to lunch stops.

Swimming and snorkeling are common highlights, and the boat provides snorkel masks for exploring the underwater scenes. The scenic spots—like the waterfall at Marmorata or the caves—offer a refreshing break from sightseeing.

Lunch can be arranged at a seaside restaurant accessible by boat. Many travelers are delighted by the chance to enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes afloat or onshore, adding a genuine taste of Amalfi to the day.

Stops for free time in places like Minori and Positano give you the option to explore or relax, depending on your mood. Some reviews mention treasures like Sal de Riso bakery in Minori for a sweet treat.

The Experience of the Guides and Skippers

Numerous reviews praise the guides and captains—describing them as friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to ensure everyone has a good time. One reviewer called their skipper “wonderful,” quoting how the crew went above and beyond to make their trip memorable.

Many mention that the captain keeps a close eye on the weather, which is crucial given the unpredictable nature of sea conditions. Refunds are only issued if weather conditions are deemed unsafe, so this aspect requires a bit of flexibility.

Value for Money: Is It Worth It?

At just over $1,100 for a group of up to five, this is definitely a premium experience. But when you consider that it covers fuel, taxes, port fees, snorkel masks, water, soda, and even some alcohol, it begins to look more reasonable.

Reviewers who highly recommend this tour often highlight the quality of the boat and the personalized attention. Many say they’d happily do it again or even pay more because of the memorable moments—swimming in secluded coves, enjoying a local lunch, and seeing the coast from an unbeatable vantage point.

That said, it’s not the type of trip that includes a formal guide or a structured sightseeing schedule. If you’re looking for a heavily curated or educational tour, this might not be the perfect fit. But if you want to relax, enjoy the scenery, and have the flexibility to shape your day, this stands out as a solid choice.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This private boat tour is best suited for couples, small groups, or families who value privacy and customization. It works well for travelers who appreciate beautiful scenery, spontaneous swimming opportunities, and a relaxed pace.

If you’re coming from a cruise and want a straightforward, hassle-free way to see the coast without the crowds, you’ll find this an appealing option. However, if you have very specific plans or prefer guided tours with fixed itineraries, you might want to consider other options.

FAQs

Can I choose my departure time?
Yes, you can pick a departure between 9 am and 10 am, giving you flexibility to plan your day as best suits your schedule.

What boat options are available?
You can select from four types of boats, including open wooden boats for small groups, speedboats with shaded seating, luxury speedboats, or larger vessels for up to 30 passengers.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is not included but can be arranged at seaside restaurants along the coast. The boat can pull into a spot where you can enjoy a meal featuring local specialties.

Are there swimming stops?
Absolutely. Stops are often made at scenic bays, natural grottos, or riverside waterfalls—perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The captain monitors sea conditions closely. If the weather is unsafe, the tour will be canceled or rescheduled, and you’ll get a full refund.

Can I bring children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, it’s suitable for travelers of most ages who enjoy boat trips and scenic views. Just consider the sea conditions and boat size when booking.

How do I meet the crew?
The meeting point is at Piazza della Concordia in Salerno, easily accessible and well-known. Be sure to confirm your contact details and meet the crew on time.

Final Thoughts

For those eager to see the Amalfi Coast from a fresh angle, this private boat tour offers a relaxed, customizable experience that combines stunning scenery with the comfort of privacy. The high praise from past travelers underlines the quality of the guides, the gorgeous locations, and the overall value—especially if you’re seeking a day of flexibility and personalized adventure.

While it’s a pricier option, the highlights—swimming in hidden coves, enjoying the coast’s views from the water, and having the freedom to tailor your day—make it worthwhile. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want to skip the crowds and have a memorable, bespoke experience in one of Italy’s most beautiful regions.

In the end, this tour is a versatile way to experience the Amalfi Coast that’s as much about relaxed discovery as it is about stunning sights. If you’re after a personalized day on the water with excellent service, it’s worth considering.