Amalfi Coast Escape with Lunch on Board, Swimming and Lots of Fun

Travelers looking to explore one of Italy’s most iconic coastlines often face crowded roads and busy streets. This Amalfi Coast boat tour offers a refreshing alternative — a day on the water that combines scenic beauty, authentic experiences, and a relaxed vibe. Rated a perfect 5.0 from 49 reviews, this trip is a hit among visitors who want the best of Amalfi and Positano without the hassle of land traffic or long bus rides.

One of the real perks of this tour is the customized, small-group experience—capped at just 10 travelers—which means more personal attention from guides and a more intimate feel. The inclusion of lunch on board, organic produce from a local farm, and plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling make it a memorable day.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour is weather-dependent — rain or rough seas can alter plans or shorten stops. Despite this, most reviewers agree that the experience offers excellent value and plenty of opportunities to see and enjoy the coast from a unique perspective. Suitable for couples, friends, families, or anyone eager to skip the land-based crowds, this cruise promises a day of relaxation, sightseeing, and authentic Italian hospitality.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy enhances the experience, with a max of 10 travelers.
• Scenic cruising along the Amalfi Coast offers stunning views from the water.
• Authentic organic lunch with ingredients from a local farm, served onboard.
• Swimming and snorkeling in quiet, pristine coves—ideal for underwater exploration.
• Expert guides like Anna and Kiki deliver engaging commentary and local insights.
• Flexible free time in Amalfi and Positano provides authentic wandering opportunities.

What to Expect from This Amalfi Coast Boat Tour

This tour is designed for travelers who want to experience the Amalfi Coast from a different angle — by boat, away from the hustle and bustle of land traffic. The tour lasts around 8 hours, starting at 8:00 am from Sorrento, with pickup offered from select locations, making the start hassle-free.

Once aboard the boat, you’ll quickly realize that this isn’t a typical large cruise — it’s a small, well-organized group with a maximum of 15 guests. This smaller size allows guides like Anna and Kiki to give more personalized attention and share detailed stories about the coast’s sights, history, and hidden gems.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start point is Trattoria Da Emilia in Sorrento, where you’ll meet your crew and hop onto the boat. From here, the journey along the coast begins with beautiful views of terraced cliffs, colorful villages, and the sparkling sea.

First stop: a quiet coves for swimming and snorkeling. Reviewers mention that the boat offers snorkeling equipment, so you can explore underwater life in the tranquil waters. Some guests note that their swim time was around 30 minutes, which, while appreciated, might feel a bit short for avid swimmers or snorkelers. The water’s cleanliness and calmness are highly praised, making it suitable for families or less experienced swimmers.

Next: the boat docks in Amalfi for about 1.5 hours. Visitors can wander the narrow streets, browse the shops, or enjoy a quick coffee or gelato. Several reviews highlight that this free time is generously timed, allowing for a proper exploration without rushing. Reviewers like Anita and Karen appreciated having enough time to soak in the atmosphere and take photos.

The highlight for many: the scenic sail to Positano, where the boat anchors for another 1.5 hours. Here, you can stroll through the colorful hillside town, visit the beach, or simply watch the world go by from a café. The views of Positano’s iconic cliffside buildings are truly postcard-worthy.

The Organic Lunch Experience

A big part of the tour’s appeal is the lunch served onboard. Reviewers like Anita and Sal rave about the homemade, organic Italian meal consisting of pasta salad, mozzarella di Sorrento with tomatoes, homemade bread, and a caprese cake. Accompanying drinks include Prosecco, limoncello, beers, and soft drinks, all made from ingredients grown in a nearby garden.

The lunch strikes a balance between satisfying and light — enough to energize you for the rest of the day without feeling overly heavy. Many reviewers comment that the lunch exceeded expectations, with one saying it was “the best caprese” they’ve eaten.

Swimming, Snorkeling, and Relaxation

The quiet coves where the boat anchors are great for swimming and snorkeling. Guests can grab the equipment provided and explore underwater ecosystems. Some mention that the 30-minute swim stops are just right, while others feel they could use a little more time, especially in warmer months when the water temperature is inviting.

The boat itself offers shade and covered areas — a key consideration on hot days, as some reviews note that the trip took place in late spring or early summer, with high temperatures. The covered boat is appreciated, especially when the weather turns cloudy or rainy, which, as a few reviewers experienced, can impact the experience.

The Guides and Crew

Reviewers consistently praise guides like Anna, Kiki, and Frank for their knowledge, friendliness, and attentiveness. Anna, in particular, is described as a “delightful hostess” who shares interesting facts about the coast’s history and geography. Kiki is lauded for her engaging storytelling, and Frank is a skilled captain who navigates smoothly through the waters.

Guests appreciate that guides are happy to answer questions, point out landmarks, and help with photos. The crew’s warmth and professionalism elevate what might otherwise be a standard boat trip into a genuinely enjoyable experience.

Is It Worth the Price?

For $161.39 per person, this tour offers exceptional value. The combination of a scenic cruise, free time in two picturesque villages, a delicious organic lunch, and swimming stops makes it a well-rounded experience. Compared to land-based tours that often involve crowded buses and limited time, this boat trip prioritizes comfort, atmosphere, and authentic exploration.

The small size, included snorkeling gear, and personalized service mean you’re not just another passenger — you’re part of a curated experience that balances sightseeing with relaxation. Plus, the pickup option saves time and effort, especially if you’re staying in Sorrento.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic day on the water, especially those who want to avoid land traffic and crowds. It suits couples, small groups of friends, or families with children who can swim. If you love authentic, home-cooked food, the organic lunch will be a highlight.

It’s also perfect for those who enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides and want to see the Amalfi Coast’s beauty from a peaceful vantage point. Be prepared for weather variability — this tour is most enjoyable in good weather, and some stops might be shorter if conditions aren’t ideal.

The Sum Up

The Amalfi Coast Escape with Lunch on Board offers a wonderful mix of scenic beauty, authentic cuisine, and relaxed exploration. The small group format ensures a more personal experience, guided by friendly, knowledgeable hosts. The opportunity to swim in quiet coves, wander Amalfi and Positano at your own pace, and enjoy a homemade Italian lunch makes it a memorable choice.

While the experience heavily depends on good weather, most travelers find it well worth the price — especially if you value off-the-beaten-path perspectives and a more intimate connection with this stunning coastline. It’s best suited for those who want a balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and culture without the chaos often associated with land tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup is offered from select locations, making the start of your day hassle-free.

How long is the cruise?
The entire tour lasts around 8 hours, with the boat departing at 8 am and returning to the starting point.

What are the stops?
You’ll visit two main spots — Amalfi and Positano — with around 1.5 hours free time at each for exploring, shopping, or relaxing.

What’s included in the lunch?
The onboard organic lunch includes pasta salad, mozzarella with tomatoes, homemade bread, and caprese cake, plus drinks like Prosecco, limoncello, beers, and soft drinks.

Can I swim or snorkel?
Absolutely. Snorkeling equipment is provided, and the stops in coves are ideal for a dip or underwater exploration.

What should I bring?
Towels are not included, so bring one if you plan to swim. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are also recommended, especially in summer.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers with children enjoyed the experience, and the boat is accommodating, but always check if your children are comfortable with boats and swimming.

This Amalfi Coast boat tour combines the best of Italy’s coastline — stunning views, authentic food, and relaxed fun — into a day that’s sure to leave you with lasting memories.