Private Boat Tour of Amalfi Coast and Capri by Jeanneau Leader

Exploring the Amalfi Coast and Capri by Sea: A Comprehensive Review of the Private Jeanneau Boat Tour

Taking to the water along Italy’s famed Amalfi Coast and the nearby island of Capri offers a perspective few land-based travelers get to enjoy. This private boat tour by Amalfi Marine, featuring a sleek Jeanneau Leader 805, promises a seven-hour voyage filled with stunning scenery, personalized stops, and the luxury of having your own skipper. It’s a way to escape the busy land routes and see some of Italy’s most iconic sights from a more intimate vantage point.

What truly sets this experience apart is its flexibility—since it’s private, you can tailor the itinerary to your interests, whether that’s swimming in secluded coves or exploring charming towns at your own pace. The boat itself, equipped with modern comforts like a cabin, shower, and refrigerator, ensures you stay comfortable while enjoying the spectacular views.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour doesn’t include certain entrance fees, like the Blue Grotto or Emerald Cave, which require separate tickets. Also, at around $2,017 for a group of up to five, it’s an investment, but one that many reviewers find well worth it considering the exclusivity and the personalized experience.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a luxurious, flexible day on the water with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and even dining independently. It’s especially suited for those who want to avoid the crowded land tours and prefer a more relaxed, private adventure.

Key Points

• Flexibility: You set your own itinerary and pace with a private skipper, making your day uniquely yours.
• Luxury and Comfort: The boat provides all the comforts of home—shower, bathroom, fridge, and music, ensuring a relaxing experience.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking views of the coast, hidden coves, grottos, and iconic landmarks like the Faraglioni.
• Multiple Stops: The route includes several scenic points, with optional visits to caves, beaches, and historic sites—some at your discretion.
• Value for Price: While the cost might seem high, the exclusivity and customization, along with included amenities, offer good value.
• Authentic Experience: Many reviewers highlight the professionalism and welcoming nature of the skipper, Antonio, and the boat’s cleanliness.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Overall Setup

The journey begins at the Amalfi port, a convenient starting point for travelers staying in or near Amalfi. The meeting is straightforward, and most travelers find the process smooth, especially with the added comfort of a private, pre-booked experience. The boat, a Jeanneau Leader 805, is notably sleek and well-maintained, as described by a reviewer who called it “sparkling clean.” The boat’s amenities—cabin, shower, refrigerator, and music system—are thoughtful touches that transform a day at sea into a true luxury experience.

The Itinerary and Stops

What makes this tour special is its highly adaptable itinerary. Here’s a breakdown of what you might encounter and why each stop matters:

Conca dei Marini: This quiet fishing village offers picturesque views at the start of your journey. It’s a quick 15-minute stop that’s perfect for snapping photos of colorful houses and the coastline.

Grotta dello Smeraldo (Emerald Cave): One of the standout attractions; the cave is famous for its stalactites, stalagmites, and the water’s luminous green color. Visiting the cave is optional and incurs an extra fee, but many guests find it worth the small additional cost for the experience of seeing this natural marvel.

Fjord of Furore: A hidden gem, this fjord’s dramatic cliffs and secluded beach make for an unforgettable stop. It’s only about 10 minutes, but it’s an Instagram-worthy scene that offers a break from the more tourist-heavy spots.

Praiano and Nearby Beaches: Guests have the freedom to hop off and explore beaches such as Marina di Praia or Gavitella. These spots are less crowded and perfect for some relaxation or a quick swim.

Positano: The famed cliffside town is a highlight, and you have around an hour to enjoy it. Some travelers choose to disembark here to explore the colorful streets, boutique shops, and cafes, or simply take in the postcard-perfect views from the boat.

Li Galli Islets: Known for their crystal-clear waters, these islets are a favorite for swimming and photo ops. The scenic contour of the rocks and islets like the Long Rooster and Castelluccia are especially striking from the boat.

Spiaggia di Tordigliano and Marina del Cantone: These lesser-known beaches are quiet treasures. Marina del Cantone, in particular, is praised for its tranquility and delicious seafood options, which you can access if you wish to extend your experience with a land-based stop.

Capri: The finale of the tour is a two-hour exploration of Capri, including a visit to the famous Blue Grotto (entrance not included), the Faraglioni, Villa Malaparte, and other landmarks like the Green Cave and Punta Carena Lighthouse. Travelers often find this part of the trip to be the most memorable, with many appreciating the chance to see the island’s legendary sites from the water.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price covers the boat, fuel, soft drinks, prosecco, towels, and the services of a professional skipper—most notably Antonio, who earns compliments for his friendly and knowledgeable approach. The onboard amenities make the experience comfortable, whether you’re lounging in the cabin or enjoying music while cruising.

However, remember that entrance fees to caves and the Blue Grotto are extra, which is a common setup for tours in this region. Also, if you wish to disembark and explore Capri’s land attractions, that incurs additional costs.

The Experience According to Reviewers

One reviewer raved about their day, saying it was “hands down [their] favorite” part of two weeks in Italy. They appreciated the boat’s cleanliness and Antonio’s skillful navigation. Others mention that the boat’s comfort makes the long day feel leisurely rather than rushed. The freedom to stop at different spots and swim in the clear waters is highly valued, especially because you can choose whether to stay onboard or hop off and explore.

Timing and Booking

Most bookings are made about 84 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The tour runs from spring through fall, with operating hours from 10 am to 5 pm most days, aligning perfectly with daylight hours for sightseeing and swimming.

Practical Considerations

Given that the tour is private, your group size is limited to five people, making it ideal for small groups, families, or romantic getaways. The price per group might seem steep, but considering this is a full day of personalized service, luxury, and exclusive access, many find it offers excellent value. It’s worth noting that booking early is recommended, especially if you’re set on specific stops or want to ensure availability.

Why This Experience Is Worth It

In many ways, this boat tour offers a more authentic and relaxing way to experience the Amalfi Coast and Capri. You avoid the crowded bus tours and instead enjoy a tailored journey with your own skipper, who can adapt the stops based on your interests. The boat’s luxurious amenities mean you can unwind in comfort, whether that’s sunbathing on deck or cooling off with a swim.

The combination of stunning coastal views, opportunities to explore charming towns, and the chance to see iconic landmarks like the Faraglioni or the Emerald Cave makes this tour stand out. It’s especially appealing to travelers who value flexibility, privacy, and a touch of luxury.

While the cost is higher than some group tours, the personalized service and ability to customize your day provide a level of quality that many find worth the investment. Plus, the reviews consistently mention the welcoming, professional attitude of the crew, which adds to the overall enjoyment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for couples, small groups, or families seeking an exclusive, hassle-free way to see the coast. It’s ideal if you want to avoid large tour groups and prefer a flexible itinerary. Travelers who love swimming and exploring at their own pace will appreciate the stops, while those interested in iconic sights will find the itinerary packed with photo-worthy moments. It’s also well-suited for honeymooners or special occasion travelers looking for a memorable, luxurious day on the water.

FAQs

Is this a private tour? Yes, only your group will participate, providing a personalized experience.

How long does the tour last? The trip is approximately 7 hours, including stops and sightseeing.

What’s included in the price? The boat, fuel, soft drinks, prosecco, towels, and a skipper are included.

Are there any extra costs? Yes, entrance tickets to caves like the Blue Grotto and Emerald Cave are not included, and disembarking in Capri for sightseeing involves additional fees.

Can I customize the itinerary? Absolutely. Since it’s a private tour, you can choose or skip stops based on your preferences.

What should I bring? Bring swimwear, sun protection, and perhaps some snacks if you wish, though drinks are provided.

Is the boat comfortable? Yes, the Jeanneau Leader 805 features a cabin, shower, refrigerator, and sound system, making it ideal for a full-day cruise.

Can I swim in the waters? Yes, many stops are at beaches and coves perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

What’s the best time to book? Most guests book about 84 days in advance; the season runs from spring to fall.

Is this suitable for kids? Yes, the tour is family-friendly, especially for those comfortable on boats and interested in sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour of the Amalfi Coast and Capri offers a unique, luxurious way to experience Italy’s stunning coastline. With the chance to customize your stops, enjoy modern amenities, and skip the crowds, it’s ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed yet memorable day at sea. Whether you’re into swimming, sightseeing, or simply soaking up incredible views, this trip delivers on all fronts.

The professionalism of the crew, particularly Captain Antonio, and the pristine condition of the boat make this a standout choice for discerning travelers. Though the price is on the higher end, the exclusivity and personalized approach create a sense of value that many guests find well worth it. If you’re after a relaxed, flexible, and utterly scenic day exploring Italy’s legendary coast, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Note: Always consider booking early, especially in peak seasons, and be prepared for additional costs if you plan to visit caves or disembark in Capri. With the right expectations, this experience promises a magical day on the water that you’ll cherish long after your trip ends.