Full Day Private Boat Tour of Amalfi Coast from Positano

If you’re planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast and want to see it from a perspective few get — the sea — this private boat tour from Positano might just be your best bet. Priced at around $1,200 for up to seven guests, this full-day adventure lasts roughly 7 to 8 hours, offering a personalized, relaxed exploration of Italy’s stunning coastline. The boat itself is brand new (built in 2024), ensuring comfort and style as you glide past picturesque villages, ancient towers, and glittering caves. I’ve seen numerous glowing reviews, many from travelers who called it “the best boat tour on the Amalfi coast,” praising guides like Captain Simon for making the experience both informative and fun.

What I really like about this tour is the flexibility it offers. You can choose your stops — whether it’s a quick swim in crystal-clear waters, a visit to the colorful Amalfi historic center, or a paddle into Pandora cave. Plus, it’s a private experience, so you’re not stuck with a big group — ideal if you love intimate, personalized adventures. The crew provides snacks, drinks (including prosecco and limoncello), snorkeling gear, and towels, making it easy to relax and soak in the scenery without fuss. However, keep in mind that some attractions, like the Emerald Grotto, require additional tickets (around 7 euros), and certain stops depend on weather conditions, sometimes limiting access.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience for a tailored day on the water.
• Impeccably maintained, brand-new boat, ensuring comfort and safety.
• Knowledgeable guides, with many reviews highlighting Captain Simon’s friendliness and expertise.
• Multiple scenic stops, including Pandora cave, Furore Fjord, and Amalfi town, with time for swimming and sightseeing.
• Excellent value when you consider the personalized service and inclusions like snacks, beverages, and snorkeling equipment.
• Weather-dependent visits to sites like Emerald Grotto, which may be canceled if conditions aren’t ideal.

A Natural, Authentic Look at the Amalfi Coast from the Water

This private boat tour offers a stunning way to experience the Amalfi Coast, a stretch of Italy famed for dramatic cliffs, colorful towns, and crystal-clear waters. What sets this tour apart is its intimacy and flexibility. The boat, built in 2024 and about 26 feet long, is new, clean, and equipped with all you might need — from restrooms to snorkeling gear. With just your group, up to seven people, you gain the freedom to craft your ideal day, whether jam-packing it with sightseeing or taking your time to relax.

The tour begins at 10 a.m. in Positano, a perfect starting point for such an adventure. The itinerary offers plenty of special moments, like sailing past Furore Fjord, a tiny, striking inlet with fishing houses and a bridge that seem to cling to the rocks. You’ll go inside the fjord, with plenty of time to admire the views and maybe snap some photos. Many reviews mention the thrill of seeing hidden gems like Pandora cave and the Emerald Grotto, where sunlight filters through underwater openings, creating a sparkling, emerald glow that photographers and nature lovers alike adore.

One of my favorite parts? The stops for swimming. Over the course of the day, you’ll anchor in several spots along the coast, giving you chances to dive into the refreshing water, snorkel around underwater formations, or simply relax on the boat with snacks. The crew provides alcohol (prosecco, limoncello, beers, Aperol Spritz), which makes floating in the sea all the more delightful.

The Detailed Itinerary and Its Charm

Scenic Sailing Along the Coast (3 hours)

The day kicks off with a leisurely sail along the Amalfi coast, which I find to be one of the most spectacular ways to appreciate the area’s beauty. You’ll pass by luxurious hotels and villas perched on cliffs, the ancient defensive towers, and smaller towns like Praiano, Conca dei Marini, Atrani, Maiori, and Minori. The reviews frequently emphasize how unforgettable these views are, with one traveler calling it “unbelievable” and “the best scenery you could hope for.”

Furore Fjord & Pandora Cave (1 hour)

Next, you’ll head into Furore Fjord, a tiny but iconic site. The fjord is famous for its fishing houses, old wooden bridges, and a small beach. Going inside feels like entering a secret cove, and many travelers mention how special it is to see a place so tucked away from the usual tourist trail.

The visit to Pandora Cave can include swimming and snorkeling — a highlight for many because of the chance to float in water where sunlight creates shimmering patterns on the cave walls. Be aware that access to the Emerald Grotto is weather-dependent, and you may need to pay an entry fee of about 7 euros.

Culture & History in Amalfi (1 hour)

A stop in Amalfi offers a taste of Italy’s historic maritime city. Here, visitors can walk through narrow streets, visit the famous cathedral, and shop in small boutiques. The reviews love the mix of sightseeing and leisure, often noting how the town’s narrow alleys are full of character.

Lunch & Beach Time in Conca dei Marini (2 hours)

The middle of the day is perfect for a waterfront lunch at Conca dei Marini. Many reviews highlight how the crew often stops here for a relaxed break with local dishes, which adds a culinary dimension to the trip. The setting, with views of the boats and cliffs, makes it a quintessential Amalfi moment.

Optional Visit to Emerald Grotto (1 hour)

Discovered in 1932, the Emerald Grotto is a marvel—if weather permits. Sunlight dancing through underwater openings turns the cave into a glowing emerald chamber. Keep in mind, access depends on weather conditions, and there’s a small entry fee.

Return & Reflection

The tour concludes back in Positano, giving you the chance to soak in the last views and perhaps plan your evening or next day on the coast. Many reviews mention how Captain Simon and the crew make the day memorable, blending professional guidance with warm friendliness.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re seeking a personalized, relaxed, and scenic way to explore the Amalfi coast from the sea, this tour is a strong choice. It’s especially suited for groups of friends or families (up to 7), who value comfort, a flexible schedule, and insider tips from knowledgeable guides. It’s ideal if you want to swim in beautiful spots and experience some of the coast’s most iconic sights without the hassle of crowded tours. Keep in mind, it’s most enjoyable in good weather, and for those who appreciate a touch of luxury and good company.

Considerations Before Booking

While this experience offers excellent value for a private, customized day, consider the price point — around $1,200 — as an investment in a memorable day with loved ones. It’s worth it if you’re looking for exclusivity, comfort, and a chance to see the coast from a genuinely unique perspective. Weather can affect access to some sites, like the Emerald Grotto, so flexibility with your plans can enhance your experience.

FAQs

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour offers a customizable route, so you can prioritize the stops and sights most interesting to your group.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat rental, snacks, alcoholic beverages (prosecco, limoncello, beers, Aperol Spritz), snorkeling equipment, towels, and restroom facilities on board.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, a ticket for the Emerald Grotto costs about 7 euros per person if you choose to visit. Lunch at a waterfront restaurant is not included, but there are plenty of options during the stops.

What’s the typical duration of the tour?
Expect around 7 to 8 hours, starting at 10 a.m. in Positano and ending back at the same meeting point.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
While designed for adults, older travelers should consider physical limitations, as the tour involves some walking at stops. It’s most suitable for those comfortable around water and boat rides.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and your camera. The crew supplies towels and snorkeling gear, but you might want extra for comfort.

In the end, this private Amalfi Coast boat tour combines scenic beauty, personalized service, and the chance to create special memories — exactly the kind of experience that leaves a lasting impression. If you love the idea of exploring Italy’s stunning coastline from the water with expert guides and a flexible itinerary, this cruise is definitely worth considering.