Full-Day Amalfi Coast Private Boat Tour from Sorrento or Positano

A Complete Guide to the Full-Day Amalfi Coast Private Boat Tour

Taking a boat tour along Italy’s famed Amalfi Coast is a dream for many travelers, and this full-day private boat experience offers a luxurious way to explore this scenic stretch of coastline. From the comfort of a classic Gozzo F.lli Aprea 32, you’ll cruise past historic ruins, colorful villages, and dramatic cliffs—all with the flexibility to tailor your day. While it comes with a fairly premium price tag, the experience promises intimacy, expert guidance, and access to some of Italy’s most beautiful spots.

What we love most about this tour is the personalized approach. Unlike group excursions, this private trip ensures you and your companions get undivided attention from your English-speaking skipper, who doubles as a guide, storyteller, and bartender at times. The boat’s capacity of just 12 passengers keeps things cozy, allowing for a relaxed yet exclusive feeling. One possible consideration is the cost, which may seem steep for some, but the value lies in the customization, privacy, and the chance to enjoy the coast without crowds.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a blend of scenery, culture, and comfort—perfect for couples seeking romance, families wanting a special day, or friends eager for a unique adventure. It’s especially appealing if you prefer the flexibility to pick your stops and activities, rather than sticking to a rigid schedule.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience tailored to your preferences.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Sorrento (or port pickup at Positano).
• Stunning stops include Positano, Amalfi, Li Galli Islets, Baia di Ieranto, and the Sorrento coast.
• Expert skipper provides insights, fun commentary, and drinks.
• Comfortable vessel with space for up to 12 people, ensuring privacy and intimacy.
• Excellent value for those seeking a personalized luxury experience on the coast.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

This tour’s flexibility is one of its strongest points. It’s designed as a private experience, meaning you can choose your departure time and location—either from Sorrento or Positano. The itinerary includes six main stops, each offering its own unique charm and photo opportunities, with plenty of time for swimming, relaxing, and exploring on land.

Sorrento Coast

The journey begins with a cruise along the Sorrento coast, which is rich in visual delights. You’ll pass the ruins of a Roman villa near Bagni Della Regina Giovanna, a site that hints at ancient history and luxury. The Punta Campanella Marine Reserve offers pristine waters and protected marine life, perfect for a quick snorkel or dip. The Saracen tower and the bays of Puolo and Massalubrense add to the scenic backdrop.

Reviewers mention that this stretch offers “beautiful views and plenty of photo opportunities,” and the 45-minute cruise allows enough time to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. The free admission to these sights means you’re mainly paying for the boat and guide, making this a good value.

Baia di Ieranto

Next, the boat stops at the Bay of Ieranto and the Bay of Nerano, often described as one of the coast’s most striking gulfs. The tiny coves and towering cliffs make for a jaw-dropping landscape. With no entrance fees, this spot is ideal for a quick swim or just marveling at the natural beauty.

One reviewer comments that the “breathtaking cliffs and crystal-clear waters” make this stop a highlight. The 30-minute window here is perfect for a short dip or a few photos, after which you can relax on the boat and enjoy the sea breeze.

Positano

No trip to the Amalfi Coast is complete without a visit to Positano. The guide notes that this is the “hub of chic shops and glamour,” and you can easily see why—its pastel-colored houses tumble down the hillside to meet the beach. With about two hours allocated, you’ll have time to stroll along the narrow streets, browse boutique stores, or relax at a cafe.

One reviewer highlights how Positano’s charm lies in its vibrant streets and stunning views, making it a perfect place for a leisurely lunch or some shopping. The tour does not include entry fees, so you can choose whether to visit churches, shops, or simply enjoy the scene.

Li Galli Islands

The Li Galli archipelago is a fairy-tale setting, with legends linking it to sirens and mermaids. The tiny islands are just a short stop, but the views are impressive enough to linger in your memory. The 30-minute stop allows for photo sessions and a quick exploration, with no entrance fees involved.

A review mentions the “legend of the Sirens and the rocky beauty of the islands”, adding a romantic and mystical layer to the scenery, perfect for those who enjoy stories and legends intertwined with natural beauty.

Amalfi Town

The “pearl of the coast,” Amalfi is famous for its stunning cathedral, historic squares, and lively atmosphere. The 2-hour stop offers ample time to explore at your own pace—grab some gelato, visit the cathedral, or simply sit and enjoy the view.

Several reviews praise Amalfi’s “picturesque streets and delicious local cuisine,” making it an excellent spot for a relaxing on-shore break. The free entry to the town means your main expense here is food and souvenirs.

Swimming, Snorkeling, and Lunch

Throughout the day, you’ll have multiple opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in the coast’s clearest waters. The tour provides beach towels, and you can bring your own snorkeling gear or purchase it on board for €15 for a mask or €9 for a snorkel.

A highlight is the local lunch and drinks offered onboard, including wines, prosecco, beer, and sodas. Reviewers rave about the “delicious food and excellent wine selection,” which adds a layer of indulgence to the day. You also get to relax on the boat or on land, making the experience balanced between activity and leisure.

Return and Sunset Sipping

As the day winds down, your skipper will take you back along the coast, offering a glass of Prosecco on the way back to Sorrento. The 1-hour return cruise wraps up the experience with a relaxing toast, often accompanied by stunning sunset views, if timing allows.

Practical Details: What to Expect and How to Prepare

This 8-hour tour is well-paced, with enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling hurried. The boat’s maximum capacity of 12 passengers ensures that you get personalized attention, while the inclusion of hotel pickup in Sorrento (or port pickup at Positano) simplifies logistics. The tour’s flexibility means you can choose departure times based on your plans—perfect for those who enjoy a leisurely start or late morning.

The boat is equipped for comfort, and the crew, as per reviews, is both fun and professional, adding to the overall enjoyment. The snacks, drinks, and beach towels provided mean you only need your swimwear, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a requirement that service animals are allowed and that most can participate. Weather can impact the experience, with a full refund offered if canceled due to poor conditions—a reassuring safety net.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private boat experience is best suited for travelers craving personalized exploration, scenic beauty, and luxury. It’s ideal if you want to avoid the crowds, enjoy flexible stops, and have a dedicated skipper sharing stories and recommendations. Perfect for romantic getaways, small groups of friends, or families wanting a special day on the water.

While it is a premium experience, the included hotel transfers, drinks, and the exclusivity of a private boat make it a value-packed option for those seeking a seamless, memorable day along the coast.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if your accommodation is in Sorrento. For Positano, the skipper waits at the port for your arrival.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, you have the freedom to tailor the stops and timing to your preferences, making it a unique experience each time.

What are the main stops?
The highlights include Sorrento coast, Baia di Ieranto, Positano, Li Galli Islands, Amalfi, swimming spots, and the return cruise.

Is food and drinks included?
Yes, snacks and alcoholic beverages like wine, prosecco, beer, and sodas are provided onboard, along with beach towels.

How long is each stop?
Stops vary from 30 minutes (Ieranto, Li Galli) to 2 hours (Positano and Amalfi), allowing ample time for exploration and relaxation.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels (provided), sunscreen, and snorkeling gear if desired. Optional purchases on board include masks and snorkels.

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

Final Thoughts

This full-day private boat tour of the Amalfi Coast combines luxurious comfort, personalized service, and breathtaking scenery. It’s perfect for those who want to see the coast without the crowds, with the flexibility to craft their perfect day. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a memorable escape, this experience delivers a taste of Italy’s coastal magic.

While it’s a higher-priced adventure, the exclusivity, expert guiding, and beautiful stops make it a worthwhile splurge for those who value quality and authenticity. If you’re after a seamless, luxurious way to discover the Amalfi Coast’s best bits—hidden coves, picture-perfect towns, legendary islands—this is a choice worth considering.

In summary, this private boat tour offers a luxurious, flexible, and scenic way to experience the Amalfi Coast, especially suited for travelers craving privacy, personalized attention, and a taste of Italy’s coastal elegance. Ideal for small groups or couples looking for a memorable, stress-free day on the water.