Taking to the waves along Italy’s Amalfi Coast offers a unique perspective on its breathtaking scenery. While many visitors opt for land-based excursions, this 7-hour boat tour with Amalfi Cruises promises a relaxed, intimate way to see the coast’s most iconic sights, away from the crowds and noise. Based on reviews and detailed itinerary insights, here’s what you can expect from this adventure.
What we love about this tour:
- The chance to visit hidden beaches and caves inaccessible by land
- A relaxed, small-group atmosphere with personalized attention
- The inclusion of snorkeling, swimming, and scenic stops that suit all ages
A possible consideration: The tour doesn’t include lunch, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. Also, because it’s limited to eight travelers, booking early is advisable to secure your spot.
Who is this best for?
Travelers seeking a laid-back, scenic day on the water—perfect for families, couples, or friends wanting a genuine Amalfi experience with plenty of time for swimming, photos, and enjoying the coast’s beauty.
Good To Know
- Intimate small-group experience enhances personal attention and flexibility
- Multiple scenic stops including beaches, caves, and towns provide variety
- All-day boat trip with options for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing
- Cost-effective considering the included amenities and personalized experience
- No lunch included, so plan to bring snacks or dine ashore during longer stops
- Booking flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
The Itinerary in Detail
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Starting Point and First Stop: Santa Croce Beach and the Lovers’ Arch
The day kicks off at the Cruise & Snorkel Amalfi Coast departure point in Amalfi town. As the boat pulls away from the port around 10 am, your first stop is Santa Croce Beach. Here, you’ll get a quick glimpse of the natural arch called the Lovers’ Arch, a romantic and striking geological formation. Expect a brief but scenic pass-by that sets the tone for the day—an opportunity to snap some photos and soak in the views.
The fact that admission is free at this stop means you’re free to admire the natural beauty without needing to shell out extra cash, making it a great introductory moment.
Conca dei Marini: A Quaint Fishing Village
Next, the boat glides through the waters toward Conca dei Marini, a charming, less touristy village famous for its simple beauty and history. The guide offers a short explanation of the area’s villas, giving you a taste of local lore and architecture. This stop isn’t long, but it’s enough to appreciate the authenticity of a real fishing hamlet—without the crowds of Positano or Amalfi.
The Famoso Fiordo di Furore
One of the most striking sights is the Fjord of Furore, a tiny inlet with a bridge that’s often featured in photos of the coast. The boat passes underneath the bridge, offering a perfect photo opportunity of one of Italy’s smallest fjords. Reviewers often mention how evocative this spot is, and how it’s a highlight of the trip.
Praiano and the Pirate’s Cave Swim
Arriving in Praiano, the boat anchors for about 20 minutes at the Pirate’s Cave—a popular swimming spot where you can cool off in the clear waters. This stop offers a relaxed break for swimming or simply lounging on deck. You might find, as one reviewer noted, that the swim spots were a highlight, and the guide’s brief explanations added to the experience.
The Long Stop in Positano
Perhaps the most anticipated part of the trip is the long stop in Positano, lasting about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Here, you’re free to explore the town’s narrow streets, browse boutique shops, or grab a bite overlooking the sea. Many travelers appreciate having this amount of time to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and enjoy a leisurely lunch.
Optional Lunch or a Return to Conca dei Marini
If you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to savor local cuisine, you can choose to return to Conca dei Marini for a longer 2-hour lunch in a traditional restaurant. This flexibility allows you to enjoy authentic Amalfi Coast fare, which many guests describe as delicious and worth the extra effort.
Passing Through Atrani and Visiting Ravello
After lunch, the boat gently passes by Atrani, Italy’s smallest town, giving you a fleeting look at its charming streets. The highlight of the post-lunch stretch is a 40-minute swim at the Marmorata Waterfall near Ravello, a scenic spot perfect for a quick dip before heading back.
End of the Tour
The boat returns to Amalfi Harbor in the late afternoon, wrapping up a day filled with stunning scenery, cultural insights, and plenty of opportunities for swimming and relaxing.
What Does the Experience Include?
This tour offers a lot of thoughtful touches that enhance your day:
- Towels and bottled water to keep you refreshed
- Fuel surcharge, ensuring seamless operation
- Restroom onboard for convenience
- Soda and non-alcoholic drinks to enjoy during the trip
- Use of scuba equipment for those interested in snorkeling
While lunch isn’t included, the tour’s flexible stops allow you to explore local eateries or pack a picnic. The availability of photographic equipment like cameras and action cams is a nice perk, ensuring you don’t miss capturing the coast’s stunning vistas.
The Real-World Experience
Reviewers mention that the small group size (max 8 travelers) makes the experience more personal and flexible. One guest highlighted the friendly guide Carmine, who took his time to explain each stop and played music during the cruise, creating a relaxed atmosphere. They appreciated the multiple swim spots and that the lunch location was exquisite, emphasizing the value of the tour’s combination of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and comfort.
Another reviewer noted that the boat ride was a perfect way to escape the chaos of beaches, and that the option to snorkel or sunbathe made the day versatile. The tour’s timing, starting at 10 am, means you beat some of the larger crowds but still enjoy a full day on the water.
Price and Value
At $162.12 per person, the tour offers a reasonable price considering the personalized experience, multiple scenic stops, and included amenities like towels and drinks. It’s a good deal for those wanting an authentic, scenic day without the hassle of navigating alone or overly crowded tours.
Practical Tips for Booking and Participation
- Book early: With only 8 spots available, this tour fills up quickly.
- Bring sunscreen, hats, or sunglasses: The sun is strong on the water.
- Prepare for a full day: Wear comfortable clothing, and consider bringing snacks for the longer stops.
- Check the weather: The experience is weather-dependent, and tours will be canceled or rescheduled if conditions are poor.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This boat tour is ideal for travelers who value authentic scenic experiences, want to see the coast from a different perspective, and enjoy swimming and relaxing in beautiful settings. It’s perfect for small groups or families seeking a balance of exploration and leisure, and those who prefer a personalized, intimate atmosphere over large bus excursions.
FAQs
Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included, but there are stops where you can enjoy local food or bring your own.
What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a cozy, personalized experience.
What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, hats, swimwear, and possibly snacks or extra water since only bottled water and drinks are provided.
Can children join this tour?
Most travelers can participate, and children can enjoy swimming and snorkeling, making it suitable for family outings.
What amenities are available onboard?
You’ll find towels, restroom facilities, bottled water, soda, and access to scuba and snorkeling gear.
What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 10 am and concluding back at the same point.
What if the weather is poor?
Tours are weather-dependent; if canceled due to bad conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
To sum it up, this Amalfi Coast boat tour offers a relaxed and scenic way to experience this iconic stretch of Italy’s coastline. With its small-group setup, multiple scenic stops, and flexible options, it’s suited for travelers wanting an authentic, memorable day on the water. Expect stunning views, refreshing swims, and a genuine taste of local charm — all at a reasonable price for such a personalized adventure.
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