Amalfi Coast: Private Boat Tour with Swimming & Grottos

Private Amalfi Coast boat day with swimming stops grottos & snacks

You’ll slip away from busy streets onto a private boat along the Amalfi Coast, swimming in hidden coves and exploring the glowing Emerald Grotto with a local captain. Enjoy simple snacks and drinks onboard as you drift past fishing villages and UNESCO-listed cliffs—expect laughter, fresh sea air, and moments you’ll want to hold onto long after you’re dry.

Step-by-step itinerary

• Start at designated meeting point
• Visit Emerald Grotto (extra fee)
• Pass by ancient fisher village fjord
• Explore Amalfi city UNESCO Heritage site
• Stop for swimming and snorkeling

The Experience

The morning didn’t start smooth — I managed to drop my sunglasses between the dock planks in Positano while trying to untangle my bag strap. Our captain, Luca, just grinned and said something about “good luck for the sea.” We set off anyway, sun already warming the boat deck, and I tried not to think about my lost shades as we left the pastel houses behind. The Amalfi Coast really does look different from the water — cliffs feel taller, colors sharper. And there’s this salty smell mixed with something sweet from lemon groves up above.

Luca pointed out little coves where old fishermen still mend nets (I saw one waving from his tiny blue boat). When we reached the Emerald Grotto — which costs a bit extra to enter, heads-up — I hesitated at first. But going inside was worth it; the light glows green against your skin, almost eerie but beautiful. My partner tried to pronounce “Grotta dello Smeraldo” and Luca burst out laughing — apparently we butchered it. We swam near Praiano after that, water cool and clear enough to see every pebble below. It’s strange how quiet it gets when you float away from the engine for a minute.

Snacks were simple but hit the spot: taralli crackers and cold drinks, nothing fancy but somehow perfect after swimming. I wrapped myself in one of their towels (they’re soft, not scratchy like hotel ones) and just watched sunlight flicker on the rocks. There’s something about being on a private boat tour along Amalfi that makes time feel slower — or maybe that was just me trying not to think about emails back home. Either way, I still think about that view as we rounded into Amalfi itself — church bells echoing faintly over the water.

What’s included

• Your day includes pickup at Positano, Praiano or Amalfi port.
• bottled water.
• snacks.
• drinks.
• use of snorkeling equipment.
• towels.
• plus time for swimming stops and entry options like the Emerald Grotto (entrance fee extra). There’s even a shower onboard so you can rinse off before heading back ashore.

Good to know

Easy physical levelWheelchair accessibleStroller friendlyPets welcome

Operated by Blue Star Positano

Traveler reviews

4.99★★★★★★★★★★

252 verified traveler reviews

5 ★249

4 ★3

3 ★0

2 ★0

1 ★0

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

Is entrance to the Emerald Grotto included in this Amalfi Coast private boat tour?

No, entrance to the Emerald Grotto is extra (about 6€ per person).

Where does this private boat tour of Amalfi Coast start?

You can start from Positano, Praiano or Amalfi.

Are snacks and drinks provided during this Amalfi Coast boat trip?

Yes, snacks and beverages are included onboard.

Is snorkeling equipment available on this private boat tour?

Yes, use of snorkeling gear is included for all guests.

Is this Amalfi Coast boat excursion suitable for families with infants?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller.

Can vegetarians be accommodated on this private Amalfi tour?

Yes, vegetarian options are available if requested at booking.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

How long is the typical day trip along the Amalfi Coast by private boat?

The exact duration isn’t listed but expect a full day on the water with several stops.