Shared Boat Tour Amalfi Coast from Sorrento

A Complete Guide to the Shared Boat Tour of the Amalfi Coast from Sorrento

Exploring the Amalfi Coast by boat offers a fresh, unobstructed view of its stunning cliffs, colorful towns, and pristine waters. This shared boat tour, organized by Mag Charter boat tours, promises an immersive day out with swimming stops, visits to iconic towns like Amalfi and Positano, and plenty of time to soak in the scenery. It’s a popular choice for travelers eager to avoid the traffic and chaos of land travel while experiencing the coast’s natural beauty from the water.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the careful balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and culture. The chance to swim off the Li Galli islands adds a fun and personal touch to the experience. However, some travelers note that the timing at each stop can feel a bit tight, especially during the busy season. This tour suits those who love scenic cruising, want to cover multiple highlights in a day, and value comfort and convenience—especially if you’re traveling with a group or family.

Key Points

Stunning Views and Unique Perspective: Traveling by boat offers a different outlook on the Amalfi Coast’s dramatic cliffs and colorful towns.
Convenience and Comfort: Includes hotel pickup and a small group (max 12), which enhances the experience and minimizes hassles.
Flexible Itinerary: Combines swimming, sightseeing, and free time at Amalfi and Positano, allowing for both exploration and relaxation.
Value for Money: For around $172, you gain access to a scenic cruise, multiple stops, snacks, and drinks—an all-in-one coastal adventure.
Authentic Experience: Swimming in the Li Galli islands and wandering through iconic towns makes this more than just a tour—it’s a taste of the coast’s true essence.
Weather Dependence: Like all outdoor activities, this tour relies on good weather; cancellations are possible if conditions are poor.

An In-Depth Look at the Amalfi Coast Boat Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at the Parcheggio Comunale Achille Lauro in Sorrento, a central location accessible by public transport. The inclusion of free shuttle bus pickup makes your morning seamless, especially if you’re staying in Sorrento. The tour departs in the morning, with times varying slightly depending on the season, but generally between 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM. A small group of up to 12 travelers ensures a more intimate experience, giving everyone space to enjoy the scenery and ask questions.

The Day’s Itinerary Breakdown

Li Galli Islands – The Swim Stop

The first stop is at the Li Galli islands, a jewel in the sea with a mythological allure—legend says sirens lived here, luring sailors with their songs. After a scenic cruise, you’ll jump into the clear waters for about an hour. The reviewers highlight how the swim here is the perfect way to start the day, and the calm, inviting waters make it ideal for all levels of swimmers. The lack of an entrance fee makes this a highlight for many, as it offers a chance to cool off and enjoy nature intimately.

Amalfi Town – UNESCO Heritage Site

Disembarking in Amalfi, you get about an hour and a half to explore. The town’s dramatic coastline, bustling piazza, and impressive Duomo di Amalfi are highlights. Many travelers mention that they enjoyed walking along the seafront, browsing local shops, and soaking in the lively atmosphere. The view from the port’s tip is breathtaking, offering perfect photo opportunities. Although the free time is somewhat limited, some mention that it’s enough to tick off key sights and grab a quick gelato before reboarding.

Positano – The Iconic Postcard Town

Next, the boat drops anchor at Positano, famed for its colorful houses that tumble down towards the sea. With around 1.5 hours here, visitors often take the opportunity to stroll down its narrow staircases, admire the vibrant facades, and feel the essence of “la dolce vita”. Reviewers note that Positano is more than just a photo op; it’s an experience, with many suggesting that the town lives up to its reputation for charm and beauty. The limited time might mean a quick walk through its shops and streets rather than a full exploration, but that’s part of the charm—a taste of Positano’s magic.

Transport and Comfort

Traveling on a boat is a significant upside. It bypasses the coast’s notorious traffic, especially during high season, and offers a relaxing, scenic ride with plenty of opportunities for photos and conversations. The vessel used by Mag Charter is comfortable, and snacks, including beer, coke, water, prosecco, and limoncello, are included—ideal for breaking up the day and feeling properly Italian.

Authentic Experiences and Insider Tips from Reviews

According to one reviewer, Mariana, the guide, was attentive and provided interesting highlights, making the journey both fun and informative. The ability to swim off the islands is a fan favorite, described as “the perfect way to visit Amalfi and Positano, with no traffic.” Many emphasize the value of avoiding the sometimes overwhelming land traffic, especially if you want a peaceful, scenic experience. The tour’s small size adds to this intimacy, making it easier to ask questions and enjoy personalized attention.

What’s Not Included and Additional Costs

While the tour covers most essentials, it doesn’t include transfer to hotels outside the Sorrento Peninsula, so you may need to arrange that separately. Entrance fees for attractions in Amalfi or Positano are also not included, but most travelers find their time sufficient for quick visits. It’s worth considering whether you’d like to spend extra time exploring these towns beyond the provided free time.

Pricing and Overall Value

At approximately $172 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded coastal experience. When you factor in the boat ride, swimming, visits to two iconic towns, snacks, and drinks, the price reflects good value—especially considering the small group size and the convenience of hotel pickup. If you’re someone who appreciates a balance between guided insight and free exploration, this tour hits the mark.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers wanting a hassle-free, scenic way to explore the Amalfi Coast. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but want to see the highlights from the water, combined with a refreshing swim. It’s also great for those who dislike crowded land routes or want a more relaxed, intimate setting to experience the coast’s beauty. Families, small groups, or couples will appreciate the personalized atmosphere and the chance to enjoy authentic Italian scenery without the stress of navigating busy roads.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour from Sorrento offers a genuine, enjoyable way to see the Amalfi Coast from a different perspective. Its combination of scenic cruising, swimming, and brief visits to Amalfi and Positano means you get to experience the coast’s best without feeling rushed. The inclusions of snacks and drinks, along with the small group size, make it a comfortable and memorable day out.

While the schedule is tight, especially during peak season, the clear waters, stunning views, and charming towns make up for it. It’s a lovely choice for those seeking a relaxed, authentic experience that balances sightseeing with leisure. If you don’t mind some short stops and want to avoid land traffic, this tour could be one of your favorite days in Italy.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers a complimentary shuttle bus or pickup from your hotel or meeting point in Sorrento.

How long is the boat trip?
The total duration is approximately 8 hours, including stops, swimming, and travel time.

Can I swim during the tour?
Absolutely. The first stop at the Li Galli islands is specifically for swimming, lasting about an hour.

What towns will I visit?
You’ll disembark in Amalfi and Positano, spending about 1.5 hours at each location.

Are drinks included?
Yes, snacks, beer, coke, water, prosecco, and limoncello are all provided during the trip.

Is this suitable for families?
Most travelers can participate, and the small group size makes it family-friendly, though young children should be comfortable with boat rides and short walks.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, a maximum of 12 travelers ensures a more personalized experience.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 87 days ahead, so early reservation is recommended, especially for peak season.

This shared boat tour from Sorrento captures the essence of the Amalfi Coast—stunning vistas, charming towns, and relaxed seaside vibes—all from the comfort of a small, scenic vessel. It’s perfect for travelers looking to combine adventure with comfort, and it offers an authentic taste of Italy’s most beloved coastline.