Tours for Cruise Passengers and Cruise Ships in Salerno, Amalfi and Positano

Picture yourself cruising along the scenic Amalfi Coast, feeling the wind in your hair, and soaking in some of Italy’s most iconic sights from the comfort of a private boat. This tour, offered by Amalficoast Lovers, promises an intimate, flexible experience tailored to cruise passengers eager to see the coast’s best without the hassle of crowded tours. With a focus on authentic villages, swimming spots, and free time in vibrant Positano, it’s a journey that balances adventure with leisure.

What we love about this experience? First, the flexibility of the skipper, who can adjust the itinerary based on your interests — whether that’s stopping for a swim, exploring Amalfi independently, or soaking in scenic views. Second, the small group size ensures a personalized approach, making the day feel like a private outing rather than a crowded tour bus on water.

A possible consideration? The price point of around $625 for up to five people might seem steep, but when you factor in the inclusions—fuel, snacks, and exclusive stops—it starts to look more like a good value for a day on the coast with so much flexibility.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace, enjoy exploring at their own speed, and want to experience the coast’s smaller villages that often get overlooked on larger group excursions. It’s perfect for couples, small families, or friends looking for a personalized, memorable day at sea.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary allows customization based on weather and personal preferences.
• Includes snacks and drinks for a casual, onboard refreshment.
• Stops at numerous charming villages like Vietri sul Mare, Cetara, and Conca dei Marini.
• Swimming opportunities at Marmorata waterfall and other secluded spots.
• Time in Positano provides ample freedom for independent exploration.
• Private tour with up to 5 guests ensures a more intimate experience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This boat trip offers a refreshing alternative to crowded bus or large-group tours. For about 6 to 8 hours, you’ll enjoy the freedom of a private vessel — a significant advantage when navigating the winding, scenic coast. The skipper’s discretion means your day can shift with weather or your mood, providing a tailored adventure that you wouldn’t get on a fixed schedule.

From the start in Salerno, the tour headliners are the picturesque villages and coves, which we found to be particularly charming. The experience begins with a quick sail from Salerno towards Vietri sul Mare, renowned for its hand-painted ceramics. The 15-minute ride gives you a gentle introduction to the coast’s colorful towns, and the fact that no admission fee is required here keeps it budget-friendly.

Next, the boat moves along to Cetara — a quiet fishing village that’s largely untouched by mass tourism. Here, you can buy local products like the famed anchovy sauce, or simply enjoy the view of a still authentic seaside town. The 10-minute stop offers a rare peek into a community that’s kept its traditional charm alive.

The tour continues with short visits to smaller villages like Erchie and then passes by Maiori and Minori, where Roman summer residences and local pastry shops add a touch of history and flavor. The highlight for many is the opportunity to swim beneath the Marmorata waterfall — a unique, refreshing pause in the middle of the coast’s rugged landscape. This swimming stop is appreciated by travelers who love a bit of adventure in their leisure time, as one reviewer noted, “stopping to swim was a great addition.”

A major part of this journey is exploring Amalfi town itself. You’ll get a one-hour window to wander independently, taking in its historic cathedral and charming streets. It’s enough time to get a feel for this lively town without feeling rushed.

The boat then visits Conca dei Marini, a tiny fishing village where you can opt for a dip or enjoy a laid-back lunch at a seaside restaurant. The small stop at the Fiordo di Furore provides a perfect photo opportunity — the fjord’s dramatic cliffs and clear waters are often featured in travel magazines.

As the tour moves along to Praiano and finally Positano, you’ll notice the contrast between the quiet villages and the bustling, colorful streets of Positano, the “pearl of the Amalfi Coast.” Here, a 1.5-hour free period allows plenty of time for independent exploration, shopping, or simply soaking in the view.

The return journey offers a 30-minute cruise back to Salerno, giving you time to reflect on a day filled with stunning scenery, charming villages, and a taste of authentic coastal life.

The Experience and Practicalities

The price of $624.68 per group covers a lot of ground. Fuel, landing, and facility fees are included, which means there are fewer surprises along the way. Snacks and sodas on board keep you refreshed as you soak in the views. Not included are ports or buoys, so if you want to stop at a particular spot for longer, that’s up to your skipper’s discretion.

One of the most appealing features is the ability to modify the itinerary during navigation, according to your requests. This flexibility makes a significant difference, especially if weather conditions or your interests change mid-day. The reviewer JoAnne once mentioned “having to transfer from our boat to another boat for lunch” due to a thunderstorm, which shows how the tour can adapt to weather challenges.

The tour is designed with small groups in mind, ensuring a more relaxed and intimate experience than large cruise excursions. Since most travelers book about 87 days in advance, it’s clear this is a popular choice for cruise passengers planning ahead.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking personalized service and flexibility on the Amalfi Coast. If you value independent exploration combined with the comfort of a private boat, this is a fine choice. It’s well-suited for those who want to visit traditional villages, enjoy swimming spots away from crowded beaches, and spend ample time in Positano without feeling hurried.

It’s also perfect for small groups or families who want a more exclusive, tailored day. The cost may seem high, but when you consider the inclusion of snacks, fuel, and the convenience of a private vessel, many find it offers good value for a relaxing, authentic experience.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour along the Amalfi Coast from Salerno offers an excellent way to see the coast’s highlights while maintaining a relaxed, flexible pace. The ability to customize stops, enjoy scenic villages, and take refreshing swims makes it stand out from larger group excursions. The small group size and private boat mean you won’t be squeezed among dozens of strangers — instead, you’ll experience the coast as it’s meant to be seen: at your own pace, with plenty of personal touches.

If you’re a traveler who appreciates authentic charm, small-town atmospheres, and the freedom to explore, this trip is worth considering. It’s a wonderful way to turn a day into a memorable adventure, especially if you’re visiting via cruise and want to maximize your time along the coast.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the boat’s flexible nature makes it suitable for families, couples, or friends. Just be aware of the swimming stops if traveling with very young children.

How long is the entire tour?
The total experience lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, including travel time, stops, and free exploration periods.

What’s included in the price?
Fuel, landing and facility fees, snacks, and sodas are included. No extra charges for the stops, but ports or buoys are not covered.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the skipper can modify the route during navigation according to your requests, allowing for a personalized experience.

Is there enough time in Positano?
Yes, you’ll have about 1 hour and 30 minutes for independent exploration, shopping, or relaxing in Positano’s vibrant setting.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

This Amalfi Coast boat tour offers a balanced mix of scenic cruising, charming village stops, and free time in Positano — perfect if you want a personalized, authentic experience on Italy’s most famous coast.