Amalfi Coast: Private Boat Day Tour from Sorrento

Summary

Private Amalfi Coast boat trip from Sorrento with stops to swim eat and explore Positano and Amalfi villages

You’ll slip away from Sorrento on a private boat with your own skipper, stopping for swims in hidden coves along the Amalfi Coast. Taste fresh seafood in Nerano or Positano, wander through Amalfi’s lively streets at your own pace, and end your day with Prosecco as golden light hits the cliffs. It’s less about ticking sights off a list—more about feeling part of this wild coast for a day.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the sea smelled — not just salty, but almost sweet, like sun-warmed driftwood. We met our skipper at the Sorrento port (he introduced himself as Marco, but said everyone calls him “Il Capitano”—I didn’t ask why). The Gozzo boat was smaller than I pictured, but felt just right once we settled in. When we pulled away from shore, Sorrento’s cliffs looked unreal behind us, all orange and green stacked up against the sky.

I kept thinking I’d seen enough blue for one day, but then we’d round a bend—like near Bagni della Regina Giovanna—and it would shift again, deeper or clearer or suddenly full of silver fish. Marco pointed out a crumbling Roman villa on the rocks. He told stories about old towers and pirates (his English was good but he’d pause sometimes to find words; it made me listen closer). We stopped to swim off Li Galli—he said that’s where sirens used to sing sailors to their doom. The water was cold at first but then perfect, and I could hear someone laughing on another boat nearby.

Lunch happened somewhere near Nerano—I lost track of time after my second glass of white wine. The seafood pasta tasted like it had never left the sea (maybe that sounds cheesy, but honestly). We wandered a bit in Positano later; I tried to order gelato in Italian and got a smile from the shop owner for effort. Walking those tiny streets with wet hair and salt still on my skin felt oddly freeing. Amalfi itself was busier than I expected—lots of voices echoing off stone walls—but there was this quiet spot by the Duomo steps where you could just sit and watch everything swirl by.

On the way back to Sorrento, Marco handed out Prosecco (plastic cups clinking against each other) and let us stretch out on deck towels. The sun was lower now, turning the cliffs gold. It’s funny—I thought the best part would be seeing famous places up close, but what stuck with me most were these little moments between: sea spray on my face, someone humming softly at the bow, that feeling you get when you realize you’re somewhere you’ll probably always remember.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Amalfi Coast private boat tour

• Depart from Sorrento Cruise Port
• Cruise along Sorrento coast and admire ruins
• Visit Bay of Ieranto and Bay of Nerano
• Stop at Li Galli Islets
• Explore Positano at leisure
• Visit Amalfi and enjoy village time
• Swim and snorkel at coastal spots
• Have lunch at local restaurant
• Relax on board with Prosecco
• Return to Sorrento Cruise Port

Top questions

How long is the private Amalfi Coast boat tour from Sorrento?

The day trip typically lasts several hours with flexible timing since it’s private; exact duration depends on your chosen stops.

Does this tour include swimming stops along the Amalfi Coast?

Yes, there are multiple opportunities to swim and snorkel in beautiful spots along the route.

Is lunch included during the boat trip?

No set lunch is included; you can choose where to stop for lunch at one of many coastal restaurants (meals paid separately).

Can we visit both Positano and Amalfi during this day trip?

Yes—you’ll have time to get off the boat and explore both villages at your leisure if you wish.

What kind of boat is used for this private tour?

The tour uses a Gozzo Jeranto 750—a classic wooden boat suitable for up to 6 passengers.

Is hotel pickup included in this Amalfi Coast boat day trip?

Yes—hotel pickup and drop-off are included for convenience.

Are drinks provided on board?

Bottled water, soda, red and white wine, prosecco sparkling wine, beer, and snacks are all included during your cruise.

Is this tour suitable for families with children or infants?

Yes—infants and small children can join safely; prams or strollers are allowed onboard.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Sorrento, an English-speaking skipper who knows every cove along the coast, drinks like local wine or Prosecco plus bottled water and snacks on board. Beach towels are ready for swimming stops—and after exploring Positano or Amalfi at your own pace (lunch not fixed; you pick where), you’ll cruise home as sunset hits those famous cliffs.