Sorrento & Amalfi Coast: Small Group Boat Tour with Swim Stops

Summary

Sail sorrento to amalfi coast by boat with swim stops and free time in positano

You’ll drift along Sorrento’s dramatic coastline by boat, pausing for swims in clear blue coves and passing ancient ruins near Bagni della Regina Giovanna. Explore Amalfi’s cathedral and artisan alleys at your own pace before strolling Positano’s beachside lanes—all with a local skipper guiding your way. It’s salty air, laughter, and spontaneous moments you’ll remember long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the sunlight hit the water—like someone scattered silver coins all over the Gulf of Sorrento. We climbed aboard near Marina Grande, where the boats bobbed lazily against each other and you could smell coffee drifting from somewhere up the hill. Our skipper, Salvatore, had that easy grin you only see on people who spend their lives at sea. He pointed out Bagni della Regina Giovanna as we passed—just a tumble of old stone walls above turquoise water. I tried to imagine Romans swimming there centuries ago; honestly, it’s not hard when you’re looking at it from a boat like this.

We glided past Punta Campanella and Salvatore told us about Athena’s temple—he said fishermen still toss coins for luck before heading out. The air changed as we rounded toward Li Galli Island; suddenly it smelled saltier, sharper, almost electric. Someone asked about the Sirens and he laughed: “If you hear singing now, it’s just me.” I dipped my hand in the water—colder than I expected—and then we stopped for a swim. The blue here isn’t just blue; it’s something else entirely. My friend Lucia tried to say “Sirens” in Italian and got it wrong—Salvatore corrected her gently but kept grinning.

I didn’t expect Amalfi town to feel so lived-in, even with all the visitors wandering around. The cathedral bells echoed off those narrow alleys lined with lemon-scented shops. We grabbed street food (arancini—still warm) and sat on the steps watching locals weave through crowds like they’d done it forever. Later in Positano, there was this moment on the pebbly beach when everything felt suspended—the sun low behind those pastel houses stacked up like dominoes about to fall. I still think about that view sometimes.

On the way back to Sorrento, someone popped open prosecco (included—nice touch), and we shared fruit while salt dried on our skin. There was music playing softly from someone’s phone but mostly just wind and laughter. It wasn’t perfect—my towel blew into the sea at one point—but honestly? That made it better somehow.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour along Amalfi Coast

• Sail along Sorrento coastline
• Pass Marina Grande fishing village
• Pass ancient Roman ruins
• Admire marine reserve and Athena temple
• Pass Bay of Ieranto
• Pass Li Galli archipelago
• Navigate to Amalfi Coast
• Explore Amalfi inlet
• Dock in Amalfi for free time
• Dock in Positano for free time
• Swim in Amalfi Coast waters
• Return to Sorrento and disembark

Top questions

How long is the Sorrento to Amalfi Coast boat tour?

The tour lasts around 8 hours, departing in the morning from Sorrento and returning by about 4:00 pm.

Is swimming included during the Amalfi Coast boat day trip?

Yes, there are stops for swimming in the blue waters along the Amalfi Coast during the tour.

Are drinks provided on board?

Soft drinks, water, beer, a bottle of prosecco per boat, and seasonal fruit are included on board.

Do we have free time in Amalfi or Positano?

Yes, you'll have free time to explore both Amalfi and Positano independently during your day trip.

What sites do we see from the boat between Sorrento & Amalfi?

You’ll pass Marina Grande fishing village, Roman ruins at Bagni della Regina Giovanna, Punta Campanella marine reserve, Li Galli Islands (Sirenuse), Nerano, Praiano, Fiordo di Furore bay.

Is hotel pickup included for this small group boat tour?

The tour includes pickup arrangements; check details when booking for specific locations.

Are there restrooms available on board?

Yes, there is a restroom available on board during your cruise along the coast.

Can infants join this Sorrento & Amalfi Coast day trip?

Infants can join; small children can ride in a pram or stroller but must sit on an adult's lap if needed.

What’s included

Your day covers pickup from nearby points in Sorrento before setting off with a professional skipper at the helm; life jackets and scuba masks are ready for swim stops; soft drinks, water, beer plus a bottle of prosecco per boat keep things relaxed; seasonal fruit is shared around after swims; there’s a shower with fresh water onboard if you want it—and yes—a restroom too before you dock back late afternoon.