Amalfi Coast Boat Tour: Sorrento to Positano & Amalfi Swim

Summary

Sorrento to Amalfi & Positano by sea with secret swim stops

You’ll float along the Amalfi Coast from Sorrento with a small group, stopping for swims near Li Galli island and tasting local limoncello on deck. There’s free time in both Amalfi and Positano—wander old streets or grab pastries—before cruising back as sunset hits those famous cliffs. It’s relaxed, scenic, sometimes silly… exactly what you hope for here.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t realize how different the Amalfi Coast looks from the water — it’s like seeing a familiar face from a new angle. We got picked up right in Sorrento (no stress about finding the dock), and our guide Mario was already cracking jokes before we even left the marina. The boat felt cozy, not crowded, and the air had that salty tang that clings to your skin. I kept watching the cliffs slide past — all those pastel houses stacked up like someone just kept adding more floors whenever they ran out of space.

We stopped near Li Galli island for a swim. The water was colder than I expected but so clear you could see your toes waving below. Mario handed out snorkels and pointed out where the “sirens” supposedly sang — he said it half-serious, half-smiling, like maybe he believed it himself. There was this quiet moment floating there, just hearing distant gulls and feeling sun on my face. Then someone popped open limoncello (I think I made a weird face at my first sip — it’s stronger than lemonade, you know?).

Amalfi itself was busier than I thought but somehow still easygoing; we wandered narrow lanes with laundry flapping overhead and found a bakery selling sfogliatella that was still warm inside. After two hours exploring, we hopped back on board for Positano. That approach — seeing all those pink and white houses tumbling down toward the beach — is something I still think about. It almost doesn’t look real until you’re right there dodging people with gelato cones and hearing kids shout in Italian.

The ride back felt slower, in a good way. Sunburned shoulders, salty hair, everyone a little quieter than before. If you want to skip the traffic jams and actually feel what makes this coast special, this day trip from Sorrento to Amalfi and Positano by boat is probably the way to do it… just don’t expect to pronounce “sfogliatella” right on your first try.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour along Amalfi Coast

• Pickup from Sorrento hotel
• Start cruise around Salerno bay
• Pass Nerano and Li Galli island
• Swim and snorkel in secluded spots
• Stop in Amalfi for free time
• Continue to Positano for free time
• Return to Sorrento hotel

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Amalfi Coast boat tour?

Yes, pickup from centrally located Sorrento hotels or meeting points is included.

How long is the day trip from Sorrento to Amalfi & Positano?

The tour lasts about 8 hours total.

Do you stop for swimming or snorkeling during the tour?

Yes, there are stops for swimming and snorkeling in places not reachable by land.

How much free time do you get in Amalfi?

You have about 2 hours of free time to explore Amalfi on your own.

Is lunch included on this boat tour?

A light snack and beverages are included but not a full lunch.

Is limoncello tasting part of this experience?

Yes, there’s a limoncello tasting offered onboard.

Are infants or children allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants can ride in a pram or stroller; children must be accompanied by an adult.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off at your Sorrento hotel or meeting point, all boat transport along the coast with WiFi onboard, stops for swimming and snorkeling near Li Galli island, beverages plus a light snack on deck, and a limoncello tasting before returning home salty-haired and sun-kissed.