Planning a day on Italy’s Amalfi Coast that combines adventure, nature, and a touch of the extraordinary? This 4-hour transparent kayak tour to Jeranto promises just that. Starting from Marina del Cantone, you’ll paddle in see-through kayaks, glide past dramatic cliffs, discover secret caves, and take refreshing swims in the clean, shimmering Mediterranean waters. It’s a chance to see the coast from a truly unique perspective — through the bottom of your kayak.
What really makes this experience stand out are two things I find particularly appealing. First, the stunning coastal scenery from a kayak gives you a level of intimacy with the landscape that photos or boat rides simply don’t match. Second, the guided exploration of hidden caves like the Cave of the Nativity and Mermaid’s Cove adds an element of discovery and adventure that’s hard to beat.
One consideration to keep in mind is that this tour is not suitable for everyone. If you’re prone to seasickness, have mobility issues, or are traveling with very young children, you might want to explore the other options available. The tour also involves physical activity, so a basic level of fitness will make your experience more enjoyable.
Key points / Takeaways
- Unique perspective: Kayaking in transparent boats offers a clear view of the sea floor and marine life beneath you.
- Intimate exploration: The small group size (limited to 9 participants) allows for personalized guidance and a more relaxed experience.
- Sightseeing and swimming: The tour includes stops at picturesque beaches like Nuns’ Beach, with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
- Natural reserve access: Visiting Jeranto, a protected area where only a few boats are permitted, means fewer crowds and a tranquil environment.
- Cultural sights: Along the coast, you’ll paddle past notable caves and scenic spots like Tuna’s Cave and the Mermaid’s Cove.
- Practical tips: The tour runs in the morning and requires suitable gear like swimwear, sun protection, and water shoes.
The Experience from Start to Finish
The adventure begins at the Chasing Syrens desk, conveniently located on the beach at Marina del Cantone—an ideal starting point for exploring the Amalfi Coast by water. Upon arrival, you’ll meet your guide, who provides a safety briefing and a quick overview of the day’s plan. Expect a friendly, professional guide who’s familiar with the area — possibly someone like Diego or Alessio, whose reviews highlight the “bellissima escursione” and describe it as “unique and unforgettable.”
Once everyone is briefed, you’ll settle into your transparent kayak, which is surprisingly stable and easy to handle, even for beginners. The initial paddle takes you along the coast, offering sweeping views of Capri and the cliffs that plunge into the sea. The best part? You can look down and see the sea life and underwater rocks beneath you, making the experience feel almost surreal.
The first stops are at the Cave of the Nativity and Mermaid’s Cove, where your guide will tell stories (or maybe just point out the interesting features) as you glide past. Crossing the bay of Marina del Cantone, you’ll then paddle along the coastline for about 30 minutes, with the stunning sight of Capri straight ahead. This stretch offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy the sea breeze and snap photos of the rugged coastline.
Entering the Bay of Jeranto, the landscape shifts to protected waters, where the crowds thin out and nature feels more untouched. Here, you’ll explore caves (sea conditions permitting), marvel at the sea cliffs, and have time to relax at the beach. The 30-minute break is a highlight — swim in the crystal-clear waters, snorkel to glimpse marine life, or just soak up the sun on the sand.
On the return trip, you’ll paddle along the coast, passing Tuna’s Cave and other scenic spots, before reaching the Nuns’ Beach, where another 30-minute stop allows for more swimming and relaxing. The final stretch back to Marina del Cantone offers a last chance to enjoy the coastline’s rugged beauty from your kayak.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Marina Del Cantone
What’s Included and What to Bring
For $147.27 per person, this tour includes the kayak, a dry bag for your valuables, and lifejackets. You’ll want to bring essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, towel, snacks, water, and water shoes. Many reviewers recommend packing a change of clothes and a little extra snack, especially if you plan to spend lots of time swimming. Snorkeling gear is optional but advisable if you have your own.
Note that the tour does not include snorkeling masks or food and drinks, so bringing your own gear and supplies will enhance your experience.
Who This Tour Is Perfect For
This adventure is best suited for adventurous spirits who enjoy being active outdoors and love discovering natural spots. It’s ideal for those who appreciate scenic beauty and want a more intimate experience than a boat tour offers. Non-swimmers should be cautious; while you can stay near the shore, comfort in the water is important for fully enjoying the swims.
People who value small-group intimacy will appreciate the limited size, ensuring personalized guidance and fewer crowds. The morning schedule makes it a great way to start your day with fresh air and stunning views without the afternoon heat.
Price and Value
At just under $150, this tour offers an engaging and scenic way to explore the Amalfi Coast’s hidden corners. Compared to boat tours that might cost more and offer less personal interaction, this kayaking experience provides a closer connection with nature and a quiet, contemplative view of the coastline. The inclusion of all necessary gear and the small group size makes it a solid value for a half-day adventure.
Who Should Consider This Experience
If you’re looking for a unique, active way to experience the Amalfi Coast’s natural beauty and enjoy the water in an eco-friendly way, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s great for nature lovers, adventurers, or anyone wanting to escape the crowds and explore secret caves and quiet beaches.
However, if you prefer luxury comfort over physical activity or are traveling with very young children or people with mobility issues, you might find other options more suitable. The tour’s dependency on sea conditions also means it might not run in rough weather, so flexibility is key.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
Absolutely. This transparent kayak tour hits the sweet spot between adventure and tranquility. It offers a rare chance to see the Amalfi Coast’s stunning coastline from the water, with the added thrill of exploring caves and swimming in pristine waters. The small group size, professional guides, and stunning scenery make it a memorable experience — perfect for those who want to combine active exploration with natural beauty.
If you’re comfortable with basic physical activity and enjoy being on the water, this tour promises a rewarding day. It’s an authentic way to see a famous stretch of Italy’s coast in a way that few other experiences can match.
FAQs
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, starting around 9 AM, with time for stops, swimming, and exploring.
What should I bring?
Bring essentials like swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, water, snacks, water shoes, a sun hat, and a change of clothes. Snorkeling gear and personal items should go into the provided dry bag.
Is it suitable for children?
No, this tour is not suitable for children under 10, nor for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or those prone to seasickness.
What happens if the sea is too rough?
If sea conditions are unsuitable for transparent kayaks, the operator can provide a tour in regular sit-on-top kayaks instead.
How many people are in each group?
The experience is limited to small groups of up to 9 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
Do I need to know how to kayak?
No previous experience is necessary; the kayaks are stable and easy to handle with guidance from your instructor.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible to suit your travel schedule.
In the end, this transparent kayak tour is a fantastic way to add some active, scenic fun to your trip along the Amalfi Coast. It’s especially well-suited for travelers craving a deeper connection to the coast’s natural beauty, away from the hustle and bustle of busier boat tours. Whether you’re a solo explorer, a couple, or part of a small group, the stunning views, secret caves, and clear waters are likely to leave you with lasting memories — and some great stories.