Salerno to Amalfi and Positano Private Boat Excursion

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Italy’s stunning Amalfi Coast from the water, a private boat excursion departing from Salerno might just be your perfect ticket. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect: a flexible, intimate way to explore picturesque villages, hidden coves, and dramatic cliffs — all on your own terms.

What we love most about this experience is its customizable nature—you can tailor the route to your interests—and the quality of the guides and boats. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable skippers make the day smooth and memorable, and the boats themselves are described as beautiful, comfortable, and well-equipped. The possibility to include stops for swimming, lunch, or exploring seaside villages adds a layer of flexibility and fun that large group tours often lack.

One possible consideration is the price tag—at over a thousand dollars for up to five people, this isn’t the cheapest way to see the coast. However, when you compare the privacy, luxury, and personalized service you receive, many feel the value is justified. This tour is especially well-suited for couples, families, or small groups who want to savor the coast without the hustle of crowded buses or shared tours, and who appreciate a bit of luxury and flexibility.

Key Points

• Fully customizable route allows for a personalized experience along the coast.
• Luxurious boats and knowledgeable skippers provide comfort, safety, and local insights.
• Ideal for small groups or families seeking intimacy, flexibility, and a touch of luxury.
• Includes water, snacks, towels, and snorkel masks—a good value for a full-day private tour.
• Swim, sightsee, and dine at charming seaside restaurants or beaches.
• Weather-dependent, with a full refund policy if conditions are unsafe.

Why Choose a Private Boat Tour?

A private boat from Salerno offers a unique perspective of the Amalfi Coast—seeing the coastline from the water reveals details you might miss on land. We loved the way the itinerary is flexible enough to include stops at beautiful villages like Vietri sul Mare, Cetara, or Minori, depending on your interests. The ability to swim in scenic bays and explore caves is a highlight, especially since many reviews praised the quality of swimming spots, including the famous Pandora’s Grotto and the bay near Sophia Loren’s former villa.

The boats themselves range from open wooden models perfect for intimate groups to larger vessels capable of accommodating up to 30 passengers. The smaller speedboats are praised for their shaded seating, making long sunny stretches comfortable, while larger boats allow groups to mingle without sacrificing privacy.

The Itinerary: What Makes Each Stop Special

Meeting Point and Departure

Your day begins at Piazza della Concordia in Salerno, a lively hub near the waterfront. From there, the journey on the water starts, with the captain ready to customize your route. Many reviews mention how smooth the check-in process is, and how the captain’s local knowledge sets the tone for an enjoyable day.

Vietri sul Mare

Known for its brightly colored ceramics, Vietri is an excellent first stop. Here, you can admire the craftsmanship that has made the town famous, and for those interested, explore some shops or take photos of the vibrant streets.

Cetara

This charming fishing village was historically a pirate base and remains renowned for its tuna and anchovy dishes. Many guests enjoy stopping here for a quick walk and a taste of authentic coastal cuisine, or simply to appreciate the calm, traditional atmosphere.

Erchie and Marmorata Waterfall

The legend says Erchie was founded by Hercules, and it’s a peaceful spot to swim or relax before heading on. The nearby Marmorata waterfall, flowing from the cliffs into the sea, is a stunning natural feature and a favorite swimming spot for many.

Minori and Ravello

Many tour descriptions highlight the option for free time in Minori, where you can visit Roman ruins or enjoy a pastry from Sal de Riso bakery—an Instagram-ready sweet spot. Ravello, even if just viewed from the boat, impresses with its cliff-top villas and lush gardens.

Grottos and Secret Coves

The tour often includes visits to Pandora’s Grotto, a natural sea cave with mesmerizing waters, and other sea caves along the coast. While entrance fees are not included, many reviews recommend these stops as unforgettable highlights. The emerald-green waters of the Grotta dello Smeraldo are often praised for their clarity and beauty.

Positano

The small, cliffside town of Positano is a major highlight. You might stop for free time to stroll its winding streets, visit its iconic church, or shop for local crafts. The secluded Tordigliano beach, only reachable by boat or a steep path, is perfect for a quiet swim—many reviewers say it’s a serene spot to relax after a busy morning.

Return and Reflection

As the boat heads back to Salerno, many guests comment on how the scenery continues to impress. The towering limestone cliffs dotted with colorful villas create a stunning backdrop, and the relaxed pace of the day allows plenty of time for photos and soaking in the views.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour covers all the basics: bottled water, soda, beer, Prosecco, towels, snorkel masks, and the expertise of a local captain. Fuel, taxes, and port fees are also part of the package, making the overall pricing more straightforward.

An important note from reviews is that lunch is not included, but the boat can pull into seaside restaurants for a local meal—many guests report enjoying fresh seafood and pasta at these family-owned eateries. Emerald Grotto visits are optional, with a small entrance fee, but most find the boat’s stops and swim breaks to be the real draw.

From the Reviews: What Travelers Say

• “Beautiful boat, beautiful country… perfect spots to swim, perfect for lunch,” says one guest.
• Several reviewers mention how skippers like Luigi and Francesco go above and beyond to make the experience memorable.
• Many comment on the amazing views from the boat, praising the chance to see the coast’s cliffs, villages, and caves from a unique angle.
• The value for money is often highlighted—many say it’s worth the price for the privacy, comfort, and customized experience.
• Slight downsides include the need to contact the provider beforehand for final details and that weather can impact the trip—a common consideration with any boat tour.

How to Make the Most of This Experience

Plan your departure time between 9am and 10am to maximize daylight. Communicate your interests beforehand—whether swimming, sightseeing, or dining—to ensure your skipper tailors the day. Bring your camera, swimwear, and perhaps a hat, as you’ll be spending plenty of time outdoors.

If you’re a cruise passenger, note that the boat departs from Salerno, not the cruise port, but you can arrange transport or walk along the waterfront. Contact the organizer the day before for final details, especially if you have specific requests.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This private boat trip is perfect for small groups seeking a personalized, luxurious way to explore the Amalfi Coast without the crowds. It’s suited for couples, families, or friends who want to customize their day and enjoy swimming and scenic stops at their pace. The experience also appeals to those who value local knowledge and comfort, as many guides are praised for their friendliness and insight.

Keep in mind that this is a costly but highly tailored experience—best for travelers who see value in exclusivity and bespoke service over large group tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I choose my departure time?
Yes, you can select a departure time between 9am and 10am, allowing flexibility based on your schedule.

What types of boats are available?
Options include open wooden boats for up to six people, shaded speedboats for up to eight, luxury speedboats for ten, and larger vessels that can hold up to 30 passengers.

Is food included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. However, the boat can stop at seaside restaurants for a meal, or you can bring snacks onboard (though note that snacks are not available on open-deck boats).

Are drinks provided?
Bottled water, soda, beer, and Prosecco are included. You can also bring your own beverages if desired.

What about swimming and caves?
Swimming is a key part of the experience, with stops at scenic bays and caves like Pandora’s Grotto. Snorkel masks are provided.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially small groups and families who enjoy being on the water and exploring at their own pace. Just consider the boat size based on your group.

How is the weather?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are unsafe, the trip can be canceled for a full refund or rescheduling.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, a camera, and perhaps a light jacket if you’re sensitive to wind. Towels are provided.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before will not be refunded.

Final Thoughts

A private boat tour along the Amalfi Coast from Salerno offers a superb way to escape the crowds and see this iconic region from a unique vantage point. The flexibility to customize your route, the quality of the boats and guides, and the chance to swim, relax, and enjoy authentic seaside villages make this experience stand out. While it’s a pricier option, many guests agree it delivers excellent value, especially if you’re seeking intimacy and personal service.

Ideal for travelers who value comfort, exclusivity, and a tailored itinerary, this tour can turn your Amalfi Coast visit into a truly memorable adventure — one that’s worth every euro for the right group. Be sure to plan ahead, communicate your preferences, and prepare for a day of breathtaking views and relaxing swims.