Positano: Amalfi Coast & Emerald Grotto Private Boat Tour

If you’re dreaming of exploring Italy’s most iconic coastline, a private boat tour along the Amalfi Coast might just be the highlight of your trip. This Positano-based adventure offers a personalized glimpse into the region’s stunning scenery, charming villages, and hidden gems—all from the comfort of a private boat.

We love how this experience combines the thrill of sailing with the chance to see lesser-visited spots like Praiano and the Fjord of Furore, plus the awe-inspiring Emerald Grotto. The flexible itinerary means you can tailor your day to your interests—whether that’s snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, exploring quaint villages, or simply soaking in the views with a glass of prosecco.

One thing to keep in mind: this tour is a full-day affair, around 8 hours, and involves some boat time, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable on the water and looking for an immersive experience. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and personalized way to see the Amalfi Coast, this private tour could be perfect for you.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: The private boat offers flexibility to customize your route and stops.
• Stunning Coastal Views: Expect unforgettable vistas of colorful cliffs, fishing villages, and sea caves.
• Authentic Small Villages: Praiano and other hidden spots reveal the charm of local life away from the crowds.
• Snorkeling & Water Activities: Dive into clear waters and see the marine life around Scoglio dell’Isca.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding of the area’s natural beauty and local stories.
• Includes Drinks & Snacks: Prosecco, Limoncello, juice, and snacks keep you refreshed throughout the day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Out from Positano

Your day begins at the port of Positano, a picturesque town known for its pastel-colored houses cascading down steep cliffs. Your private boat awaits, ready to whisk you along the shimmering waters of the Amalfi Coast. The comfort and size of the vessel are designed to give a smooth ride, allowing you to focus on the scenery rather than the motion.

Cruising Along the Coast

As you leave the harbor, you’ll quickly notice the vibrant hues of the coast—white cliffs, lush greenery, and the deep blue sea. The boat’s route is flexible, but generally, you’ll enjoy views of Montepertuso, Arienzo, Nocelle, and Vettica Maggiore from the water. These are towns and neighborhoods that cling to the cliffs, each with its own character and charm.

The highlight for many is the chance to see the Fjord of Furore, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, a river meets the sea in a narrow, dramatic gorge—perfect for photos and a sense of the coast’s wild beauty.

Visiting the Emerald Grotto

Next, the boat will bring you to the Emerald Grotto, famous for its luminous green waters caused by sunlight filtering through an underwater opening. The grotto’s stalagmites and stalactites create a surreal landscape. You can opt for a tour inside, which costs about 7 EUR per person, if you wish to go inside and explore this natural wonder.

More Great Tours Nearby

Snorkeling and Marine Life

One of the tour’s most appreciated features is the opportunity to snorkel near Scoglio dell’Isca—a spot known for its clear waters and abundant fish. You’ll be provided with snorkeling gear, making it easy to dip into the water and see the lively underwater world. This adds a playful, adventurous element that many travelers find memorable.

Exploring Praiano

After the water-based activities, you’ll drift into Praiano, a quiet fishing village that feels untouched by mass tourism. Here, you’ll have time to walk through its small historic center and visit the Church of San Gennaro, a peaceful spot with a romantic vibe. The village is renowned for its authentic feel and spectacular views.

The Fjord of Furore

Before heading back, the boat stops at the Fjord of Furore, a scenic inlet where the river meets the sea. It’s a stunning place to take photos and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this UNESCO site.

Sunset and Relaxation

As the day winds down, you’ll have the chance to relax on deck with a drink—prosecco or Limoncello—while watching the sun set over the coast. Many reviews mention how peaceful and beautiful this moment is, making it a perfect finale for your day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour’s main appeal is its ability to combine natural beauty with personalized service. The expert guides we’ve read about make the journey especially engaging—they share insights about the area’s geography, history, and hidden stories, transforming a boat ride into a genuine learning experience.

The flexible itinerary allows for spontaneous stops or extra time at favorite spots, which adds to the feeling of a tailored adventure rather than a cookie-cutter cruise. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment and the availability of drinks and snacks onboard keep you comfortable and refreshed, so the focus remains on enjoying the scenery.

Authentic and Intimate Experience

Unlike larger group tours or crowded excursions, this private boat experience offers intimacy and a sense of discovery. The vessel can be tailored to your pace, and the guides are attentive to your interests, whether that’s taking extra photographs or lingering longer at a particular spot.

The Value for the Cost

While private tours tend to be pricier than group excursions, many reviewers find the value justified by the personalized service, flexibility, and access to secluded spots. The boat, guide, drinks, and snorkeling gear are all included, making it a relatively straightforward way to enjoy a full day of coast-hopping without worrying about additional costs.

Practical Considerations

The tour lasts about 8 hours, starting anytime between 9:30 a.m. and 4 p.m., depending on your booking. This flexibility is nice for fitting into your travel schedule. The tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as getting on and off the boat and navigating small villages might be challenging.

You’ll want to bring comfortable shoes for walking in Praiano or other stops, as well as sunscreen to protect against the sun’s reflection off the water and cliffs.

The meeting point may vary depending on your option, but the tour ends back at the same spot, making logistics straightforward. The cancellation policy allows for full refunds if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, adding some peace of mind.

Authentic Reviews from Travelers

Many past participants rave about the guides and the scenery. One reviewer called it “the highlight of our trip,” praising captain Aniello for his charm and friendliness. Another described the day as “like a dream,” thanks to the insightful guidance and stunning views. The feedback confirms that knowledgeable guides and gorgeous scenery are what elevate this tour.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private boat trip is an excellent choice for those who want a personalized, relaxed way to see the Amalfi Coast without the hustle of crowded tours. It’s perfect for travelers who value authentic small-scale experiences, enjoy water activities like snorkeling, and want to explore beyond the typical tourist spots.

It’s particularly well-suited for couples, small groups, or families who appreciate flexible itineraries and value the chance to tailor their day. If you’re interested in combining scenic beauty, charming villages, and marine adventures all in one day, this tour offers a memorable way to experience the coast.

However, if you prefer a very structured schedule or have mobility issues, you might want to consider other options. Still, for nearly anyone seeking a genuine, scenic, and intimate look at Italy’s Amalfi Coast from the water, this private tour hits the sweet spot.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, it lasts about 8 hours, with flexible starting times between 9:30 a.m. and 4 p.m.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes the private boat, guide, fuel, beach towels, snorkeling equipment, drinks (juice, soft drinks, mineral water, dry snacks), prosecco, and Limoncello.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the entrance fee for Emerald Grotto is 7 EUR per person if you choose to explore inside.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour is described as flexible and tailored to your interests, so ask your guide about special stops or additional time at certain spots.

Is snorkeling safe?
Snorkeling gear is provided, and swimming is done in designated spots known for clear, calm waters. Always follow guide instructions for safety.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and your camera. Remember, towels and snacks are provided.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it’s generally family-friendly, it’s best for children comfortable on boats and able to enjoy water activities. Not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at a designated meeting point in Positano and returns there at the end of the day—specific details depend on your booking.

In all, this Positano: Amalfi Coast & Emerald Grotto Private Boat Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic, and beautiful way to experience Italy’s famed coastline. Whether you’re after scenic photos, tranquil waters, or charming villages, this excursion makes for a memorable day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: