Full day private boat excursion on the Amalfi Coast

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If you’re dreaming of a day spent cruising along Italy’s famous Amalfi Coast, this private boat tour might just be your ticket to a memorable adventure. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary suggest it’s a well-organized way to see some of Italy’s most photogenic sights from the comfort of a private vessel.

What we love about this experience is its personalized nature—a dedicated skipper and a small group (up to 8 people) means you can tailor the day to your interests, with plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and soak up the scenery. The boat itself, a sleek Fiart 32, looks comfortable and well-maintained, promising a smooth ride over the waves.

One potential consideration is the price point, which is around $1,796 per group. For many, this is a significant investment, but when you think about the all-inclusive services—fuel, snacks, drinks, towels, snorkeling masks, and even limoncello—it’s clear that you’re paying for a hassle-free, luxury experience rather than just transportation. This tour is best suited to travelers who value comfort, privacy, and unique, off-the-beaten-path views of the coast.

Key Points

  • Private and personalized experience with a dedicated skipper
  • All-inclusive services make for a worry-free day on the water
  • Swim and snorkel at some of the most beautiful coves and beaches
  • Stunning scenery including famous villages, caves, and islands
  • A full 8-hour itinerary offers comprehensive exploration
  • Suitable for small groups up to eight, creating an intimate atmosphere

The Whole Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Departure

The tour begins in Salerno, at Lungomare dei Cavalieri di S. Giovanni di Gerusalemme, with a pickup option. Starting around 9:30 am, you’ll meet your skipper, who will give a brief overview of the day’s plans and some tips for enjoying your time on the boat. This initial briefing sets the tone for a relaxed, fun-filled day.

The Charm of Amalfi

Your journey kicks off with a taste of Amalfi’s enchanting coast, with the boat leaving the bustling harbor behind. The first few minutes are spent getting comfortable on the Fiart 32, a vessel that promises both elegance and stability. From the water, you’ll see Amalfi’s colorful buildings and historic cathedral, a sight that justifies the early start.

Exploring Il Duoglio Spiaggia and the Natural Arch

Next, you’ll head towards the beaches of Duoglio and Santa Croce, both accessible only by sea, making them feel like secret hideaways. The highlight here is the famous natural arch, often called the “Arch of Love,” a perfect backdrop for photos. With about 40 minutes at this stop, you’ll have plenty of time to swim in the crystal waters and snorkel with provided masks—an activity loved by travelers. One reviewer shared, “our boat was perfect—clean, comfortable, exactly as pictures show,” emphasizing the quality of the boat and the experience.

Conca dei Marini and Historic Villas

Continuing along the coast, the boat visits Conca dei Marini, home to the villa of Sofia Loren and the historic “Il Saraceno” hotel. The stop here lasts about 45 minutes, allowing a good opportunity to appreciate the luxury villas and scenic views. The waters here are perfect for relaxing and taking photos, especially of the historic and celebrity-filled surroundings.

The Fjord of Furore

One of the coast’s most dramatic sights is the Fjord of Furore, a deep gorge carved into the coast with steep cliffs on either side. The boat stops here for around 40 minutes, giving you time to admire and photograph the narrow fjord. Just past this is the Africana cave near Praiano, a striking natural feature that adds to the sense of discovery. Reviews note that the views here are truly unforgettable—”a very evocative spot”—and perfect for capturing on your camera.

Praiano and Snorkeling Opportunities

Next, the boat visits Praiano, with its Tritone bay, a favorite spot for snorkeling and swimming. The calm and clear waters here make it ideal for a quick dip before heading to the famous Positano.

The Iconic Positano

No Amalfi Coast boat tour is complete without a visit to Positano. The boat approaches the Marina Grande area, giving you a stunning view of the colorful hillside town. The stop here lasts about two hours—ample time to explore, relax at a beachside café, or simply enjoy the scenery. Positano is often described as the jewel of the coast, and from the water, you get the perfect perspective.

Fornillo and Tordigliano Beaches

From Positano, the tour continues to Fornillo and Tordigliano beaches, where the Lovers’ Arch adds a romantic touch. With about 40 minutes at these stops, travelers often snorkel again, appreciating the calm, transparent waters. One traveler remarked, “The waters here are beautiful, and snorkel gear was provided, making it easy to explore.”

Nerano and Marina del Cantone

The boat then proceeds to Nerano, known for its wide pebble beaches and clear waters. A quick 20-minute stop allows for swimming and relaxing. The final stop before returning to Amalfi is the Li Galli Islands, a small archipelago famous for its wild beauty and legendary siren tales. Spending about an hour here, you’ll experience some of the most striking scenery on the trip.

The Return and Final Views

As you make your way back towards Amalfi, the boat stops at Li Galli, giving you a last chance to take in the coast’s rugged beauty. Travelers have described this finale as both “magical” and “wild,” a fitting way to end a day of exploration.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The all-inclusive service is a major perk. Apart from the boat, your fare covers fuel, onboard services, soft drinks, snacks, prosecco, limoncello, towels, and snorkeling masks. This means you can relax without worrying about extra costs or logistics, focusing instead on enjoying the scenery and the company.

The smaller group size creates an intimate atmosphere, allowing for personalized attention and flexibility. Whether you want to spend more time swimming or exploring, your skipper can adapt the itinerary accordingly.

The itinerary’s breadth is impressive. Covering beaches, caves, scenic villages, and islands in one day provides a comprehensive experience of the coast’s highlights, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and photos.

The Value and Who It’s For

While the price tag might seem high, the value lies in the convenience and comfort of a private, all-inclusive experience. This isn’t a quick, rushed tour—it’s a full eight hours of relaxed cruising, sightseeing, and swimming in some of Italy’s most beautiful waters. For travelers who appreciate privacy, personalized service, and a mix of scenic beauty and cultural landmarks, this tour offers a lot.

It’s particularly suited for small groups, families, or couples who want a tailored day without the crowds. If you’re looking for an authentic, leisurely way to experience the Amalfi Coast’s natural splendor, this cruise delivers.

The Sum Up

This private boat excursion on the Amalfi Coast offers a luxurious yet practical way to enjoy the coast’s most stunning sights. From the famous villages to secluded coves, the tour balances sightseeing with plenty of swim and snorkel stops. The all-inclusive setup means you can relax and focus on the scenery without extra worries, making it ideal for travelers who prioritize comfort and personalized experiences.

The itinerary’s mix of natural beauty, historic villas, and legendary caves makes this a compelling choice—especially for those wanting to see the coast from a unique vantage point. The small-group format keeps the experience intimate and flexible, perfect for making the most of a day at sea.

If breathtaking views, swimming in crystal waters, and exploring iconic spots sound like your ideal vacation day, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

What is included in the all-inclusive package?
The package covers fuel, onboard services, soft drinks, snacks, prosecco, limoncello, towels, and snorkeling masks.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am and returning to the starting point.

What are the main stops during the tour?
Stops include Amalfi, Il Duoglio Spiaggia, Conca dei Marini, Fjord of Furore, Praiano, Positano, Fornillo and Tordigliano beaches, Nerano, and Li Galli Islands.

Can I swim and snorkel during the tour?
Yes, plenty of stops are dedicated to swimming and snorkeling in the clear waters of the coast’s most beautiful coves.

Is it suitable for children or families?
Most travelers can participate, and the experience’s relaxed pace makes it suitable for families, though parents should consider age-appropriate swimming.

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

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Lungomare dei Cavalieri di S. Giovanni di Gerusalemme, 46 in Amalfi and ends back at the same spot.

How many people can join?
The boat accommodates up to 8 guests, making for an intimate and personalized experience.

This private boat tour on the Amalfi Coast promises a day filled with stunning views, refreshing swims, and the chance to enjoy Italy’s famed coastline in style.