Sorrento: Private Amalfi Coast Boating Tour

Imagine gliding along the shimmering waters of Italy’s famed Amalfi Coast, surrounded by dramatic cliffs, charming towns, and secret beaches. That’s exactly what this private boat tour offers—an intimate way to soak in some of the most beautiful scenery in Campania. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve spent plenty of time exploring the coast and talking with travelers who have, and the feedback is pretty consistent: it’s a memorable experience, especially for those who love the water and want to see the coast from a different angle.

What I particularly like is how personalized this trip feels—since it’s a private group, you get more flexibility and room for spontaneous stops. Plus, the itinerary includes both famous spots like Positano and Amalfi, as well as some lesser-known gems. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite full of sights and stops; if you prefer a very relaxed pace or more free time in each town, this might feel a bit hectic. This tour is a solid pick for those wanting a comprehensive, scenic day on the water, especially if you’re traveling with a partner, friends, or family who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and swimming.

Key Points

• Private Experience: You’ll be traveling with your own group, which means more flexibility and better attention from your guide.
• Diverse Stops: From Roman ruins and private beaches to Positano’s charming streets and Amalfi’s historic sites, the itinerary covers a lot.
• Water Activities: Expect swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on secluded beaches—perfect for water lovers.
• Scenic Views: The coastline, islands, and cliffs provide plenty of photo opportunities and memorable vistas.
• Convenience: Pickup and return are included, making it easier to focus on enjoying your day rather than organizing transport.
• Duration: With 8 hours on the water and exploring, it’s a full-day experience that balances travel and sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Sail in Sorrento: What to Expect

This tour kicks off with a convenient pickup from your accommodation—whether you’re staying in Sorrento, Sant’Agnello, Piano di Sorrento, Meta, or nearby. The private vehicle whisks you straight to the port, saving you the hassle of figuring out logistics. Once aboard the Sparviero 700, your captain sets course toward the coast, and the scenery begins to unfold.

The first part of the journey involves cruising past the Campanella Headland, where you can admire the Roman Villa Pollio Felice, or what’s left of an ancient Roman domus. This site, known as Villa Pollio Felice or Ruina della Regina Giovanna, is a fascinating glimpse into the past, and you’ll have the chance to take a dip on a private beach nearby. We loved the way this adds a sense of history and tranquility to the day.

As you continue sailing, your captain guides you towards the Bay of Ieranto, stopping at the Bell-Tower Marine Park in the Bay of Ieranto, a pristine cove with crystal-clear waters—ideal for swimming and relaxing. The tour includes a welcome drink here, which is a nice touch after some time in the sun. From there, your journey takes you past Crapolla Bay and the Li Galli Islands—a breathtaking group of islands that are often called the “Goddess Islands.” Here, a stop is planned for later, giving you a chance to soak in the scenery and snap some photos.

Visiting Positano: The Pearl of the Coast

One of the real highlights is the two-hour stop in Positano. This town, often called the “Pearl of the Coast,” is as picturesque as you’ve seen in photos. Walking around the narrow, winding streets is an experience in itself—each corner offers charming boutiques, cafes, and vibrant flowers spilling from balconies. We loved that the guides suggest walking along the streets to truly get a feel for the town, rather than just sticking to the main waterfront.

You’ll have free time to explore, shop for local crafts, or just relax at a cafe. Many reviews mention how Positano’s colorful homes and steep streets make for fantastic photo moments. The limited time means you need to prioritize what you want to see, but with guide suggestions, you’ll make the most of your visit.

Exploring Amalfi: The Historic Heart

After Positano, the boat heads to Amalfi, once a powerful maritime republic. Despite its small size, Amalfi is packed with sights—most notably the cathedral and its crypt, which are historical treasures. The Amalfi Paper Museum is another interesting stop for those curious about local craftsmanship.

Here, you get another couple of hours for walking around, shopping, or enjoying a quick bite. The tour hints at tasting the local Santa Rosa sfoglia and limoncello, which many travelers find delightful. The charm of Amalfi lies in its narrow streets, lively piazzas, and the fascinating blend of history and local life.

Last Stops: The Emerald Grotto, Fiordo di Furore, and Li Galli

Back on the boat, the journey continues with visits to the Emerald Grotto, a stunning sea cave famous for its shimmering green light, and the Fjord of Furore, a dramatic, fjord-like inlet perfect for a quick swim or photo. These spots are less crowded and offer a different kind of scenic beauty.

The final stop is Li Galli, a small group of islands with clear waters ideal for snorkeling. Many travelers say the snorkeling here is worth the trip, with plenty of fish and rocky formations to explore. As the tour wraps up, the captain sails back to port, where your private vehicle is ready to take you back to your accommodation.

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The Value of This Tour

In terms of value, this private tour packs quite a punch—eight hours of sailing, multiple stops, and a personalized experience. The inclusion of pickup and drop-off means you avoid the hassle of finding your own way, and the small group size creates an intimate atmosphere. It’s priced accordingly, but considering the convenience and the variety of experiences packed into one day, many travelers find it worthwhile.

You do need to be comfortable with a full day on the water and some walking in towns, but the water-based activities like swimming and snorkeling add a fun, refreshing element that many reviews highlight as a favorite part. It’s also a flexible experience—your captain and guide are there to help you get the most out of each stop.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience is well-suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, scenic day on the water, with the convenience of private transportation and a guide. It’s a good fit if you enjoy a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural exploration without feeling rushed. Families with older children who can handle a full day on the boat and walking may enjoy it, but it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users.

Overall, if you’re looking for a hassle-free, well-rounded boat trip that takes you to the must-see spots of the Amalfi Coast while allowing time for swimming and exploring, this tour ticks most boxes.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, children who can handle a full day on the water and walking in towns may enjoy it. It’s best suited for families with older kids.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, and biodegradable sunscreen to enjoy the water activities comfortably.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s a private group, so you’ll be sailing with your own family or friends, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible.

How long is the boat ride?
The total experience lasts around 8 hours, including transfers, stops, and sightseeing.

Are there opportunities for swimming and snorkeling?
Absolutely. Expect several stops for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on beaches along the route.

Can I visit Positano and Amalfi on foot?
Yes, both towns are explored on foot during your scheduled free time, with suggestions from guides on what to see and do.

What is the boat like?
You’ll be cruising on a Sparviero 700, a sleek, modern vessel that offers comfort and good visibility for sightseeing.

Is lunch included?
The tour includes a welcome drink and stops for refreshments, but it doesn’t specify a full meal—plan accordingly.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve with Sorrento Trips, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a scenic, water-focused adventure along Italy’s stunning coast that combines history, natural beauty, and a touch of luxury, this private Amalfi Coast boating tour could be just what you’re looking for. It’s a great way to see the highlights without the crowds, especially if you value personalized service and a flexible itinerary.

Ideal for those who want a curated experience with plenty of opportunities for swimming and taking photos, this tour offers a practical balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural highlights. Just prepare for a full day and bring your sun protection!

For travelers craving a hassle-free, scenic day on Italy’s iconic coast, this experience is definitely worth considering.

Additional Info

Provider: Sorrento Trips
Rating: 4.7/5
Duration: 8 hours
Price: Varies, but worth considering given the inclusiveness of the experience
Languages: English, Italian
Group Size: Private group only
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
Pickup & Drop-off: Included from select locations in Campania

This tour really strikes a good balance between sightseeing, relaxation, and convenience. It’s especially appealing if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the coast at your own pace—on your terms, from the sea.

You can check availability for your dates here: