Positano and Li Galli Archipelago Boat Tour from Amalfi

Sailing along the Amalfi Coast on a traditional gozzo sorrentino, this boat tour offers a captivating way to experience one of Italy’s most photographed stretches of coastline. Perfectly designed for those who love scenic views, charming towns, and a splash of legend, this approximately 3.5-hour journey takes you from Amalfi to Positano, the enchanted Li Galli islands, and back.

What truly stands out about this experience is how it combines stunning vistas with authentic coastal charm—plus a relaxed pace that leaves plenty of room to soak in the scenery. However, a potential consideration is the timing — with just around 1 to 1.5 hours at each stop, it’s more of a taste than a deep dive. Still, if you’re after a snapshot of the coast with some added comfort and fun, this tour hits the mark.

This cruise is ideal for travelers craving a short, scenic escape from the usual sightseeing hustle, especially those who appreciate a good story (Li Galli’s legends are intriguing!) or simply want to float in crystal-clear waters. It’s also a fantastic choice for couples or small groups wanting a relaxed, guided adventure with plenty of photo opportunities.

Key Points

• Authentic vessel: Tour on a traditional gozzo sorrentino, giving you a classic Amalfi Coast experience.
• Balanced itinerary: Short but sweet stops in Positano and Li Galli, with a gentle return to Amalfi.
• Expert skipper: Friendly, professional guides ensure smooth sailing and local insights.
• Inclusive snacks & drinks: Enjoy dry snacks, fresh fruit, alcoholic beverages, and water that keep you refreshed.
• Limited group size: A cozy group of up to 12 travelers offers a more personal experience.
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance provides peace of mind.

Setting Sail: What to Expect from the Tour

Starting at Amalfi Port around 11:10 am, you’ll board a charming gozzo sorrentino, a vessel with a distinct, traditional look that instantly transports you to the coastal lifestyle. The tour is designed to give you a panoramic view of the coast, with your skipper selecting picturesque spots for optimal sightseeing and photo ops.

Exploring the Amalfi Coast by Water

Sailing along the coastline, you’ll marvel at cliffs that seemingly plunge into the sea, with small coves and grottos often hidden from view from land. The boat’s open design means you can lean over the rails and snap photos of waterfalls cascading down the cliffs or observe local fishing boats bobbing nearby. The experience is relaxed, with a focus on scenic beauty and comfort.

Stop 1: Positano

After about an hour sailing, you’ll arrive in Positano, one of Italy’s most iconic towns. Here, you’ll have roughly an hour to explore its colorful, narrow streets, lined with boutiques, cafes, and art galleries. The reviewer mentions enjoying wandering the cobbled streets, filled with traditional crafts, and soaking in the vibrant, lively atmosphere of Positano’s hillside charm. The town’s pastel-colored buildings cascading down the slope make for incredible photos.

This stop is perfect for those who love to browse local shops or just sit at a café with a limoncello in hand, watching the world go by. For many, the highlight is simply absorbing the visual feast of Positano’s postcard-perfect scenery.

Stop 2: Li Galli Islands

Next, the boat heads toward the Li Galli archipelago, famous for its legends and stunning natural beauty. Comprises three main islands—Gallo Lungo, La Rotonda, and Dei Briganti—this little group of islands has long fascinated visitors and locals alike.

Here, you’ll have around an hour to marvel at the enchanting scenery—the islands are often described as almost mythical, with stories of sirens and ancient legends that add a layer of mystery. The reviewer notes that many see Li Galli as an “enchanted place inhabited by legends,” which is a perfect way to describe the atmosphere.

While no specific snorkeling gear is included, the waters are clear enough to consider bringing your own if you wish to swim or snorkel. The experience here is about appreciating the peaceful, almost mystical environment, with plenty of opportunities for photos and quiet reflection.

Final Leg: Return to Amalfi

After a full hour exploring the islands, the boat heads back toward Amalfi for a gentle 30-minute ride. The return journey offers a different perspective of the coast, often more tranquil as the boat glides past familiar sights. The tour wraps up around 3 pm, offering a well-paced, satisfying half-day adventure.

The Details That Make or Break the Experience

Pricing at approximately $131 per person for a roughly 3.5-hour tour is reasonable, especially when you consider what’s included—a professional skipper, snacks, drinks, and a traditional boat. The fact that the tour is limited to 12 travelers ensures a comfortable, intimate setting, allowing for better interaction with your guide.

You’ll want to factor in the $10 destination fee paid onboard, which contributes to local port charges or conservation efforts. For snorkelers, bringing your own gear or purchasing it onboard (for around €9-15) can be worthwhile if you want to explore the waters more closely.

The meeting point at Amalfi’s Darsena is central and accessible, making this an easy choice for those staying nearby. The timing of 11:15 am start suits travelers who prefer a mid-morning departure, giving plenty of daytime hours for other activities afterward.

The Experience of the Skipper

The review mentions Francesco, the guide, as a standout. His enthusiasm and local knowledge seem to elevate the whole trip, especially by pointing out hidden waterfalls, caves, or other sights that photos alone can’t capture.

Is This Tour Worth It?

When weighing the value, this tour offers a lot of charm and authentic immersion at a fair price point. The combination of scenic sailing, charming stops, and an experienced guide makes it one of the better options for those seeking a relaxed, picturesque overview of the Amalfi Coast.

It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a taste of Positano and Li Galli without an all-day commitment or hefty expenses. The inclusion of snacks and drinks adds to the feeling of a well-catered experience.

Who Would Love This?

This tour is perfect for small groups, couples, or solo travelers who love a scenic cruise with a touch of local legend. It’s also great if you’re looking for a photo-rich, leisurely outing that provides a different perspective from land-based tours.

On the flip side, those seeking more time at each destination or adventures like snorkeling might find the limited stop time less satisfying. Nonetheless, for a short, scenic highlight reel of the coast, it hits the sweet spot.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this Positano and Li Galli boat tour delivers an authentic, scenic taste of the Amalfi Coast aboard a classic vessel. The experience balances stunning views, engaging local stories, and comfortable amenities—making it a worthwhile choice for those who want to see the coast from the water without feeling rushed.

The tour’s intimate size and friendly skipper ensure a personal touch, while the beautiful stops provide plenty of chances for memorable photos and relaxing exploration. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable way to enrich your Amalfi experience, especially if you’re short on time but craving a genuine coastal adventure.

For travelers who prioritize authenticity, comfort, and scenic beauty, this tour offers a pleasant, well-organized way to connect with the soul of the Amalfi Coast.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, starting around 11:15 am and returning to Amalfi around 3 pm.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll get a professional skipper, snacks (dry snacks and fresh fruit), alcoholic beverages, bottled water, and soda.

Are snorkeling gear provided?
Snorkeling gear isn’t included, but you can bring your own or buy masks (€15) and tubes (€9) onboard if you want to explore underwater.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, with a maximum group size of 12, making it ideal for those who prefer a more intimate experience.

How do I pay the destination fee?
The €10 per person destination fee is paid on board.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—perfect if your plans change unexpectedly.

In sum, this boat tour balances scenic beauty, authentic charm, and comfort, making it a top choice for a memorable Amalfi Coast experience.