Amalfi Coast: Private Boat Trip with Prosecco and Snorkeling

Imagine gliding along Italy’s most famous coastline in your own private boat, sipping chilled Prosecco and exploring crystal-clear grottoes. That’s exactly what this Amalfi Coast private boat tour offers—a relaxed, personalized way to experience the coast’s highlights away from crowded group excursions.

We’re fans of how this experience combines authentic local flavor, breathtaking scenery, and the comfort of a private vessel. It’s a chance to see the coast’s hidden corners, from secret beaches to legendary grottos, all while enjoying the laid-back pace of a small group. The only caveat? The tour’s price, at over $800 for up to six people, spots it more as a premium experience—great value if you’re looking for intimacy and exclusivity, less so if you’re budget-conscious.

This tour is best suited for travelers craving a personal, immersive experience of the Amalfi coast, especially those who love swimming, photography, or simply relaxing on the water. If you want to avoid tourist traps and enjoy local cuisine in a peaceful setting, this could be your ideal outing.

Contents hide

1 The Experience: What to Expect on Your Private Boat Tour

2 What’s Included and What’s Not

3 The Value and Who Should Consider It

4 Final Thoughts

5 FAQ

Key Points

Private and intimate: Only up to six people, ensuring personalized attention.
Stunning stops: Includes hidden beaches, grottos, and iconic landmarks.
Local flavor: Tastes and scenery away from the usual tourist crowds.
Flexible itinerary: Customized stops like Praiano, Conca dei Marini, and Positano.
Snorkeling included: With masks, snorkels, and floaties for a fun underwater experience.
Costly but valuable: A premium experience offering exclusivity and expert guidance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect on Your Private Boat Tour

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing, all aboard an 8-meter handcrafted Gozzo boat—a traditional vessel from Sorrento. Its size and style lend an authentic Italian feel while providing enough space for comfort and safety. The English-speaking captain adds a layer of local insight, making the journey both educational and fun.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Amalfi.

Departure and Starting Point

The tour begins at Amalfi’s Molo Darsena dock, just behind the large roundabout with a fountain and Flavio Gioia’s statue. It’s an easy landmark, and you’ll want to arrive a bit early to get your bearings. The boats typically depart from Amalfi, heading south along the coast, with detailed safety briefings before setting sail.

The Itinerary: A Coastal Treasure Hunt

The itinerary offers a thoughtful blend of scenic stops and opportunities to swim and snap photos:

Santa Croce and “The Arch of Lovers”: The journey kicks off with a view of this natural rock formation, perfect for a quick swim. The area is known for its beauty and is often less crowded than other spots. The chance to swim next to Sophia Loren’s villa adds a touch of celebrity allure.

Conca dei Marini: This charming fishing village remains faithful to its roots, with small restaurants serving fresh, local seafood. The bay’s calm waters make for an excellent swimming spot, and the view of the Bay of Conca Dei Marini offers a picturesque backdrop. The tour passes by the watchtower, adding historical interest.

Emerald Grotto: A highlight for many, the Grotta dello Smeraldo features striking green light filtering through the water. While tickets aren’t included, stopping here for a quick visit offers a glimpse into the coast’s natural artistry.

Furore Fjord: Known for its dramatic cliffs and the iconic bridge where the annual diving competition takes place, this spot offers a chance to swim in one of the coast’s most photographable locations. The contrast between rugged cliffs and tranquil water makes it unforgettable.

Pirates Grotto in Praiano and the “In and Out Grotto” in Positano: These caves are celebrated for their natural beauty and are often the highlight of this journey. The caves’ unique formations make for dramatic photos, and the experience of swimming into or around them adds a sense of adventure.

Free Time and Optional Extensions

After exploring the grottos, your boat will stop in Positano for some free time—a perfect opportunity to wander the colorful streets, browse shops, or settle in at a seaside restaurant. Alternatively, you can stay on the boat and relax, enjoying local food and drinks on deck.

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Evening Coastal Drive

If you opt for the late return, the tour continues along the coast’s eastern side, passing through Atrani, Minori, and Ravello, where you’ll see the Marmorada Waterfall. This part of the trip offers a different perspective, with softer light and calmer waters, ideal for photography.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The included amenities make this trip feel like a true luxury:

English-speaking captain and crew
Soft drinks, beer, local limoncello, and water
Snorkeling gear, masks, snorkels, floaties for underwater fun
A bottle of local Prosecco to toast the coast
Life jackets for safety

However, some extras are not included:

Tickets for the Emerald Grotto (roughly paid at the site)
Lunch—though many stops feature restaurants with fresh, local cuisine
Alternative pick-up locations—this is primarily a central Amalfi departure

Practicalities and Comfort

The boat is equipped with a bathroom, a comfort that’s often overlooked but genuinely appreciated during longer trips. The tour lasts about 6 hours, with plenty of time for swimming, photos, and relaxing.

Travelers should bring sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, and beachwear. Passports or ID cards are recommended for verification, especially if you’re planning to visit specific grottoes or landmarks.

The Value and Who Should Consider It

While the price of $807.40 for a group up to six might seem steep, the value lies in exclusivity, personalized attention, and access to private spots. Compared to larger group tours, this experience offers more freedom to customize stops and enjoy quieter corners of the coast.

This tour is ideal for couples, families, or friends seeking a more personal adventure, particularly if you love swimming, photography, or simply soaking in stunning views with a glass of bubbly. If you’re someone who values authentic experiences over crowded tourist spots, this private tour will likely satisfy.

Final Thoughts

Our impression is that this Amalfi Coast private boat tour strikes a fine balance between luxury and authenticity. It’s not just a cruise; it’s an opportunity to see hidden beaches, explore grottos, and enjoy local cuisine in a relaxed setting.

You’ll love the knowledgeable guides, the stunning scenery, and the chance to escape the crowds. The tour’s focus on customized stops and genuine local flavor makes it a memorable part of any Amalfi Coast visit.

For travelers who want a personalized, scenic, and fun experience with a good dose of relaxation and adventure, this tour delivers. Just be prepared for the premium price—it’s an investment in unforgettable coastal memories.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, snorkeling gear and floaties are provided, making it family-friendly. Just ensure children can swim or are comfortable in the water.

What’s the best time of day to take this tour?
Most tours depart during the day, and the 6-hour duration gives flexibility. Morning or early afternoon usually offers the best light and calmer waters.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, the guide will tailor the stops based on your interests, within the itinerary’s framework.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but many stops feature local restaurants where you can taste fresh, regional dishes.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy soft drinks, beer, limoncello, and a bottle of Prosecco as part of the experience.

Is there enough shade on the boat?
The boat is open but offers some shaded areas. It’s advisable to bring sun protection.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, as this is a private experience, booking ahead ensures availability, especially during peak season.

Can I be picked up from a location other than Amalfi?
You can inquire about availability for alternative pickup points; however, the main departure is from Amalfi’s Molo Darsena.

To sum it up, this Amalfi Coast private boat trip offers a rare chance to see the coast’s best spots with personalized guidance, authentic sights, and leisurely swimming. Perfect for those seeking a memorable, intimate adventure by sea—just be prepared for the cost, which is an investment in quality and exclusivity.