Amalfi Coast: Private Boat Tour from Sorrento & Positano

Summary

Private boat journey along Amalfi Coast with swimming stops and local stories

You’ll set out from Sorrento or Positano by private boat with a local captain, stopping to swim at places like Li Galli islands and Queen Giovanna’s Baths. Hear stories about ancient villas and tiny fishing villages, try snorkeling in turquoise coves, and relax with drinks on deck as Italian pop plays in the background — it’s less about sightseeing than soaking up every salty-sweet moment along the Amalfi Coast.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember the first jolt of sea air as we left Sorrento’s port — not that gentle breeze you expect, but something sharper, almost salty-sweet. Our captain, Luca, was already grinning like he knew all the best secrets. He asked if we wanted music (we did), so suddenly there was old Italian pop bouncing off the cliffs. I’d never realized how much more alive the Amalfi Coast looks from the water — all those lemon groves clinging to impossible slopes, little fishing boats bobbing where you’d think only seagulls could land.

Our first stop was the Baths of Queen Giovanna. Luca told us about the ancient villa ruins just above the rocks — apparently some queen used to swim here, though I kept picturing her in a swimsuit which made everyone laugh. The water was that kind of blue you don’t get on postcards. Cold at first, then perfect once you’re in. There was this weirdly sweet smell from wildflowers drifting down; I think it mixed with sunscreen and something else I couldn’t place — maybe pine?

Punta Campanella came next, right where Sorrento ends and Amalfi begins. You really feel it too — suddenly everything opens up wider, even the light changes a bit. We cruised past tiny villages clinging to stone and stopped again near a fishing village where kids were jumping off a dock like it was nothing. Snorkeling there felt unreal; schools of silver fish zipped around my ankles and for a minute I forgot about everything else.

Later we drifted past Positano’s cliffs (took way too many photos) before heading out toward Li Galli islands. Luca told us some story about sirens singing sailors to their doom — he winked when he said it so who knows if it’s true. Last swim of the day there; water cool and deep and just quiet except for someone laughing on another boat nearby. We had cold beers and tried to guess how far Capri was (I guessed wrong). Still think about that light as we headed back — gold on water, everyone a little sunburnt and happy.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Amalfi Coast private boat tour

• Cruise to Baths of Queen Giovanna
• Sail past Punta Campanella lighthouse
• Swim in oldest fishing village waters
• Swim and snorkel at beautiful beach
• Cruise below cliff town and explore
• Snorkel near Li Galli islands

Top questions

How long is the Amalfi Coast private boat tour?

The total duration includes travel time but isn’t specified exactly; expect a full day on the water.

Does the tour include swimming or snorkeling stops?

Yes, you’ll have several chances to swim and snorkel at places like Li Galli islands and Queen Giovanna’s Baths.

Is lunch included on this private boat tour?

No lunch is included but soft drinks, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages are provided onboard.

Where does the tour start—Sorrento or Positano?

You can embark from either Sorrento or Positano depending on your preference.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is included for use during swimming stops.

Are port fees covered in Sorrento & Positano?

Yes, port fees for both Sorrento and Positano are included in your booking.

Can infants join this Amalfi Coast boat tour?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap or ride in a pram or stroller.

Is this private boat tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?

No, it’s not recommended for people with mobility issues or certain health conditions.

What’s included

Your day includes private boat transport with a bilingual captain from either Sorrento or Positano, all port fees covered at both ends, soft drinks and bottled water plus some beers onboard (no lunch though), insurance throughout your journey, fuel surcharge taken care of so no surprises there, and snorkeling equipment ready for every stop along those turquoise coves before heading back sun-kissed in the afternoon.