From Sorrento: Amalfi Coast Small Group Boat Day Tour

Experience the Beauty of the Amalfi Coast with a Small Group Boat Tour from Sorrento

Imagine floating along the shimmering waters of Italy’s most famous coast, with dramatic cliffs, charming towns, and spectacular views all around. That’s exactly what this Amalfi Coast Small Group Boat Day Tour offers — a chance to see the coast from a different angle, away from crowded streets and busy buses.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are three main points: the personalized small-group atmosphere, the chance to explore both Amalfi and Positano at your own pace, and the opportunity to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. The tour’s price of around $168 per person includes many extras, like seasonal fruit and drinks, which add to the sense of value. One thing to keep in mind is that it doesn’t include lunch, so you might want to plan for that. This experience suits travelers who love scenic boat rides, authentic coastal towns, and a more intimate adventure than a big tour bus.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Small group size (limited to 12 participants) for a more personal experience
• Expert skippers and guides who know the coast well
• Includes drinks, seasonal fruit, and snorkeling gear at no extra cost
• Visit both Amalfi and Positano, with free time for exploration and shopping
• Swim and snorkel in the Gulf of Salerno, with clear blue waters
• Limited to weather conditions, so cancellations happen in bad weather but alternatives are offered

A Deep Dive into the Amalfi Coast Small Group Boat Tour

This tour promises a day filled with scenic beauty, charming villages, and relaxing moments on the water. Starting from Sorrento, you’ll hop aboard a spacious boat with a knowledgeable skipper and an English-speaking assistant. The small-group setting ensures a more personalized experience — fewer crowds, more attention, and the chance to ask questions about the coastline’s history and secrets.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Start Point and Departure
The journey begins at Piazza Marinai d’Italia, right in front of the Restaurant Ruccio in Sorrento’s Marina Piccola. Expect a brief meet-and-greet as the crew gets you ready for the day. The tour lasts about 8 hours, with the exact start time depending on availability.

First Leg: Cruising Along the Coast
The boat departs and immediately offers stunning views of Sorrento’s coast and the surrounding Lattari Mountains. The first stretch covers Vervece Island, a small but scenic islet, and the Punta Campanella marine reserve, which is renowned for its protected waters and vibrant marine life. Reviewers mention how the guide stopped at a blue cave on the way back, allowing for a quick boat peek into its shimmering depths—a highlight according to Amy: “stunning!”

Visits to Amalfi and Positano
You’ll have about 1.5 hours at each of these iconic towns. In Amalfi, you’re free to explore its historic center, with its narrow alleys and local shops, or simply relax along the waterfront. Reviewers like Melissa praise the free time: “Loved loved loved it,” she says, emphasizing how this break allowed her to soak up the town’s charm.

Positano is often considered the jewel of the coast, with colorful cliffside houses and boutique stores. You can stroll along its lively streets, snap photos of the panoramic views, or relax at a cafe. The guided part is just enough to orient you; the real joy is in wandering at your own pace.

Swimming and Snorkeling
The second swimming stop is a major highlight. Reviewers mention how the waters are incredibly clear and inviting, ideal for a refreshing dip. The boat provides snorkel masks, so you can explore underwater life, adding an extra layer of adventure. According to Amy, “fresh fruit, beers, Prosecco, and plenty of water” are available onboard, supporting energy for swims and exploration.

Return Journey
After a leisurely 45-minute session of swimming and celebrating with drinks, the boat heads back along the coast. The crew sometimes stops at additional sites, like the Fiordo di Furore or Conca dei Marini, giving you glimpses of the coast’s dramatic cliffs and hidden coves.

The Experience on Board

The boat itself is spacious, with shaded areas for those who want relief from the sun. Since there’s limited shade unless you go downstairs, reviewers suggest bringing a sun hat and light clothes. The crew is attentive, offering soft drinks, beer, and seasonal fruit throughout the day, which helps keep everyone refreshed.

The tour includes a restroom and a shower on board, making it comfortable, especially after swimming. Life jackets are available, and the small group size enhances safety and interaction.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Value of the Tour

At roughly $168, this tour offers excellent value for a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and exploring two of Italy’s most celebrated towns. The inclusion of drinks, fruit, and snorkeling gear means you’re not paying extra for these moments, which often add up on other tours.

While lunch isn’t included, the free time at Amalfi and Positano allows you to hunt down a pastry, sit at a seaside trattoria, or pick up souvenirs. The guide’s local insights, combined with the boat’s convenience, make it a hassle-free way to experience the coast’s highlights.

Authenticity and Criticisms

Reviewers like Zach note that the weather can impact the trip: “Our trip was great! Only thing that could have made it better was warmer weather and less wind.” It’s worth planning for sunny days, as strong winds or rain could lead to cancellations or less enjoyable conditions.

Some travelers mention that the boat doesn’t offer much shade, so sun protection is advisable. Also, since hotel pickup isn’t included, you’ll need to get to the meeting point yourself. The activity is not suitable for wheelchair users, so consider mobility needs beforehand.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxing, scenic experience with the chance to swim and explore iconic towns without the hassle of driving or crowded tours. It’s perfect for small groups wanting personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere. If you’re a lover of beautiful coastal vistas, authentic local towns, and water activities, this tour ticks all those boxes.

It’s especially suited for those who want to maximize their time, combining sightseeing with leisure, and don’t mind a full day on the water. However, if you prefer guided tours with structured sightseeing or are looking for a food-inclusive experience, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts

This Amalfi Coast boat tour offers a vivid, flexible way to enjoy one of Italy’s most stunning coastlines. The small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and the opportunity to swim in pristine waters make it a memorable choice. The mix of sightseeing, free time at Positano and Amalfi, and a relaxed boat experience ensure that you’ll leave with plenty of photos, stories, and perhaps a little sun-kissed glow.

While weather can influence the day, the overall experience promises a blend of scenic beauty, local charm, and leisure. It exceeds expectations for those wanting to see the coast from the water in a comfortable, personal setting.

This tour is best for travelers who value quality over quantity, love authentic coastal towns, and want a hassle-free day out on the sea. If you’re after a taste of Italy’s most celebrated coast with a touch of adventure, this boat trip delivers on all fronts.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off; you need to meet at the designated starting point in Sorrento.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen to stay comfortable and protected during the day.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour can be canceled in case of bad weather, and you’ll be offered a reschedule or a full refund.

Are children allowed?
Children must be accompanied by an adult; unaccompanied minors are not permitted.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included. You will have free time at Amalfi and Positano to choose your own meal.

How long is each town stop?
You’ll have about 1.5 hours for each town, enough to explore, shop, or relax.

What’s included in the price?
A professional skipper, an assistant, drinks (including Prosecco, water, soft drinks, beer), seasonal fruit, snorkeling masks, restroom and shower facilities, life jackets, and fuel.

To sum it up, this Amalfi Coast boat tour from Sorrento offers an authentic, relaxed way to explore Italy’s coastal gems. It balances scenic cruising, charming towns, and water fun, all within a small group setting. Perfect for those who want to enjoy the coast with comfort, expert guidance, and a splash of adventure — this experience is truly a highlight.

You can check if your dates are available here: