From Amalfi: Li Galli Islands and Capri Full-Day Boat Tour

A boat trip along the Amalfi Coast to visit Capri and the Li Galli Islands offers a fresh perspective on this stunning corner of Italy. This particular experience, rated 4.6 out of 5 by over 180 travelers, provides a seven-hour adventure on a traditional “gozzo” boat, complete with swimming, sightseeing, and time to explore Capri’s famed sights. It’s a well-loved option for those who want to get off the beaten path, away from crowded streets, and enjoy nature’s beauty at a relaxed pace.

What I particularly appreciate about this tour is the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters at several stops, including the Li Galli islets and Punta Campanella Marine Protected Area. Plus, the onboard atmosphere, with prosecco and snacks, makes it feel like a floating celebration. Another highlight is the two and a half hours of free time on Capri — enough to browse the shops, visit a few landmarks, or simply soak up the lively island vibe. A potential drawback is the limited time on land; with only around 2.5 hours in Capri, you’ll want to plan your sightseeing in advance.

One thing to keep in mind is the tour’s weather dependency and the small group size—if the weather turns uncooperative, your trip might be rescheduled or refunded. Also, the tour doesn’t include a visit to the Blue Grotto, although many guests find this a manageable trade-off since the wait times are long. The experience offers a wonderful blend of scenic cruising, light adventure, and free time, making it a favorite among those who love authentic, active days on the water.

Key points / Takeaways

• Stunning Views and Unique Stops: You’ll get a chance to see the iconic Faraglioni rocks and swim in pristine waters at Li Galli and Punta Campanella Marine Protected Area.
• Expert Guides and Friendly Crew: Travelers frequently mention guides like Guisy, Alexandra, and Delilah, who are praised for their knowledge and hospitality.
• Flexible Free Time in Capri: The 2.5-hour stop on Capri offers enough opportunity to explore sights, shop, or relax, but some reviews suggest it could be slightly longer.
• Value for Money: For around $236, you get a full day’s adventure, snacks, drinks, and multiple swimming opportunities—making it a good deal for a memorable day.
• Snacks and Drinks Included: Prosecco toast, dry snacks, and water are all provided, adding to the leisurely, celebratory feel.
• Weather-Dependent: The tour can be canceled or rescheduled in poor weather, so flexibility is key.

Exploring the Amalfi Coast from the Water

This boat tour offers a rare chance to see the Amalfi Coast’s cliffs and colorful towns from a perspective that’s both relaxing and visually breathtaking. I love how the experience begins with a Prosecco toast aboard a classic “gozzo,” setting a festive tone right from the start. The boat, often described as “world-class” by guests, accommodates a small group, which makes for a cozy, friendly atmosphere and easier access to the water.

The itinerary includes a swim at Punta Campanella, a marine protected area with incredibly clear waters—an absolute highlight for anyone who loves a refreshing dip. The stop at Li Galli islets, famous for their dramatic rock formations and history as the home of mythological sirens, is another memorable moment, especially as you snorkel or just float among these private islands.

The Charm of Capri in a Few Hours

The main draw is, of course, the time spent in Capri. While some reviews mention that three hours feel “so short,” most agree it’s enough to catch a glimpse of the island’s lively streets, famous Faraglioni, and perhaps a quick visit to the main square. The guides, such as Alexandra, are known for their helpful tips, including the best spots to grab a quick bite or take a photo.

Guests have praised the guides for their friendliness and local knowledge. A reviewer named Mohammad describes the guides as “very professional and genuinely happy to host us,” which underscores the friendly vibe onboard. Another reviewer, Jean, appreciated the “nice guide” who shared information and even provided limoncello along with the prosecco, making the experience feel authentic and festive.

The Voyage Back and Surprises

The return journey includes a stop at the Li Galli islets for another swim, often described as “magical” by guests. There’s a surprise from the crew—many mention small touches like water, biscuits, or limoncello—that elevate the experience from simple sightseeing to a true little celebration at sea.

The trip concludes back at Amalfi around 4:45 PM, leaving plenty of time to relax, enjoy dinner, or explore more of the town. The entire day is approximately seven hours, which makes it a full but manageable adventure that balances active moments with leisure.

Practical Aspects and Logistics

The meeting point at the Amalfi dock, right in front of Piazza Flavio Gioia, is straightforward to find, with clear instructions and a list of participants checked by the skipper. The tour price includes the skipper, assistant, snacks, water, and the boat ride itself, but not the €5 destination fee—payable in cash—and not snorkeling gear or beach towels.

It’s worth noting that the tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for those comfortable with boats. However, it’s not ideal if you have mobility issues or prefer a more structured, land-based sightseeing day. Also, the service is weather-dependent; if heavy rain or rough seas threaten safety, the trip could be canceled or rescheduled without penalty.

Who This Tour is Perfect For

This cruise suits travelers who love water, scenic views, and a relaxed pace. If you’re looking for a full day of sun, swimming, and island exploration with some local drinks and good company, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially good for small groups, couples, or families who want an authentic experience without the crowds of big bus tours. Foodies who appreciate a Prosecco toast and snacks will find this particularly enjoyable.

Those with limited time in the Amalfi area will also appreciate that this offers a compact yet comprehensive look at Capri’s highlights from the water. However, if you’re eager to see the Blue Grotto or want more land-based sightseeing, you might want to plan extra time or look for alternative excursions.

FAQs

• What is the meeting point for the tour? You meet at 9:30 AM on the dock in Amalfi, right in front of Piazza Flavio Gioia. The skipper has a list of names and will call you by yours.
• What’s included in the price? The tour includes the boat ride, skipper and assistant, welcome prosecco, dry snacks, and two bottles of water per person.
• Are snorkeling equipment and beach towels included? No, these are not included, so bring your own if you plan to snorkel or sunbathe.
• Can I cancel if the weather is bad? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or reschedule if weather conditions are unfavorable.
• How much time do I get on Capri? About 2 hours and 30 minutes, which is enough for a quick exploration or some sightseeing, but not a full day.
• Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues? It’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to the boat’s nature; children are welcome but should be comfortable on boats.
• Are pets allowed? No, pets are not permitted on this tour.
• What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen are recommended.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour offers a wonderful way to see the Amalfi Coast’s natural beauty from the water. It balances scenic cruising, swimming, and brief land exploration, making it ideal for travelers who want a taste of everything without the hassle of heavy planning. The knowledgeable guides, especially those praised for their friendliness, help make this a memorable day. The inclusion of wine, snacks, and the chance to swim in stunning spots makes the experience feel both relaxed and special.

For those who value authentic, intimate excursions and are comfortable on a boat, this trip provides excellent value. It’s perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion, small groups seeking a fun day out, or anyone eager for a different perspective on one of Italy’s most beautiful coastlines.

If you’re after a flexible, fun, and scenic adventure on the water—especially if swimming and exploring Capri’s beauty are on your list—this tour is a solid choice. Just remember to plan ahead for the limited land time and be prepared for weather conditions that can change quickly at sea.

Enjoy your time on the Amalfi Coast, and don’t forget to bring your camera — the views are worth every snap.