Amalfi Coast Tour by Boat (Late departure)

A Day on the Water Along the Amalfi Coast: An Honest Review

Imagine cruising along Italy’s most iconic coastline on a spacious boat, with the crisp sea breeze in your hair and spectacular views all around. This Amalfi Coast boat tour, starting from Sorrento, offers a full day of sightseeing, relaxation, and the chance to explore charming seaside towns like Positano and Amalfi. For around $103 per person, you get nearly a full day’s worth of scenery, with a stop in Positano—often called the “pearl of the Amalfi”—and a deeper visit to Amalfi’s historic sites.

What we love most is the stunning coastal vistas you get from the water—cliffs, grottoes, and tiny fishing villages that look like they belong in a postcard. Plus, the leisurely stops give you time to stroll through narrow streets, shop for local crafts, or simply relax on the sand. The guided commentary adds context, making the scenery even more meaningful.

A possible consideration? The duration and group size might not suit everyone. The tour runs about 8 to 9 hours, so it’s a long day, and the boat can be crowded, especially during high season. If you’re looking for a more intimate or flexible experience, you might find this tour somewhat structured.

This tour appeals most to travelers who want a visually stunning, relaxed day with plenty of time to explore each stop. It’s ideal if you enjoy boat rides, want to see the coast from the water, and appreciate a good overview of the region’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transportation or multiple tickets.

Key Points

• Scenic boat ride: Enjoy panoramic views of cliffs, grottoes, and the Li Galli islands from the water.
• Leisurely stops: Plenty of free time in Positano and Amalfi to explore, shop, or relax.
• Guided insights: Learn about local legends and history through onboard commentary.
• All-in-one experience: Pickup, drop-off, and boat ride included for convenience.
• Limited site entry: Entrance fees to sites like Amalfi’s cathedral are not included.
• Long day: Expect 8-9 hours, which can be tiring but rewarding.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Departure from Sorrento’s Marina del Cantone

The adventure begins in the late morning, at around 11:00 am, after a pickup from your hotel or designated meeting point in Sorrento. The boat itself is a motor vessel with onboard toilets and crew members eager to assist. This setup is a convenience, especially after a morning of travel, allowing you to settle in comfortably before setting out.

First Stop: Amalfi (3-4 hours)

Arriving in Amalfi around 11:00 am, you’ll have roughly three to four hours to enjoy this historic town. The highlight here is the Cathedral of Sant’Andrea, a striking structure with a stunning cloister—the so-called Cloister of Paradise. While entrance tickets are not included, the exterior and surrounding streets are worth wandering. The town’s narrow alleys are filled with cafes, shops, and small piazzas. We loved the chance to see a real working Italian town, not just a tourist set.

One reviewer, Ian_G, mentioned that the first stop was “really nice and enjoyable,” noting how the boat trip itself offered points and places of interest. However, he did find Positano “disappointing” due to the crowds and small beach, which is worth noting if quiet solitude is your goal.

Scenic Passage to Positano

Leaving Amalfi, you’ll sail past Praiano and the “Fiord of Furore,” a hidden gem for those interested in lesser-known spots. The boat ride itself is a highlight, offering excellent views of sea cliffs and distinctive coastal features.

Second Stop: Positano (2 hours)

Arriving in Positano, often considered the most picturesque of the towns, you’ll have two hours to explore. The town’s vertical streets are full of boutique shops, craft stores, and quaint cafes. Many travelers, like Kerrie_G, enjoyed the beautiful beach and the chance to wander around the narrow, colorful alleyways.

One reviewer, Kerrie_G, pointed out that the price for beach chairs and umbrellas was steep—about $50 per person for only an hour and a half—so if lounging is your goal, be prepared for extra costs.

A Note on Experience Quality

While many travelers praise the guides’ knowledge—with Kerri_B calling her guide “extremely informative”—others find the commentary difficult to understand due to poor sound systems, as Theresa_S experienced. This inconsistency highlights the importance of setting expectations; guides can make or break the experience.

Return and Reflection

After the stops, the boat returns to Sorrento in the late afternoon or early evening, completing an 8 to 9-hour journey. The overall experience leaves most with a lasting impression of the coastline’s rugged beauty and the charm of its villages.

Is This Tour Worth It?

The value hinges on your expectations. If you’re after stunning views and leisurely exploration, this trip delivers. The full-day boat ride provides a relaxing way to see the coast from a different perspective—something you simply cannot get from land alone. Plus, the included free time in Positano and Amalfi allows for personal discovery.

However, some reviews noted that the second stop — Positano — can feel overpriced, especially if you pay extra for beach chairs or umbrellas. Others felt the boat could be crowded, and the guidance might not always be clear or engaging.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, are okay with a structured schedule, and want to avoid the hassle of organizing multiple transport modes. If you prefer more intimate, flexible experiences or are sensitive to crowds, you might want to consider other options.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring essentials: swimsuit, towel, hat, sunscreen, and seasick medicine if needed.
• Be aware of timing: the tour starts at 11:00 am, so plan your morning accordingly.
• Prepare for extra costs: entrance fees, lunch, drinks, and umbrellas are not included.
• Dress comfortably: the tour involves walking through towns and perhaps some uneven surfaces.
• Expect a long day: pace yourself, especially if traveling with children or those sensitive to long durations.

The Sum Up

This Amalfi Coast boat tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, relaxed exploration, and cultural highlights. Its main strength is the spectacular views and the opportunity to see the coast from the water, which is truly breathtaking. The free time in Positano and Amalfi allows travelers to soak in the atmosphere at their own pace, making it more than just a quick sightseeing cruise.

It’s especially suited for those who value stunning vistas and appreciate guided commentary, but are comfortable with crowds and a structured schedule. The value for money is fair, considering the convenience of transportation, the guided insights, and the stops included.

If you’re looking for an authentic, picturesque experience with plenty of free time to explore, this tour delivers. But if you prefer small groups, personalized guides, or a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, you might want to explore other options.

FAQ

What is included in this tour?
Pickup and drop-off in Sorrento, onboard crew assistance, and free time in Positano and Amalfi are included. Toilets are available on board. Entrance fees and meals are not included.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting at 11:00 am and returning in the late afternoon or early evening.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, entrance tickets to sites like Amalfi’s cathedral are not included. Extra costs may also apply for lunch, drinks, and beach amenities.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, hat, sunscreen, personal seasick medicine, and possibly a camera. Remember, the tour involves walking and time outdoors.

How crowded does the boat get?
The boat can hold up to 100 travelers, so expect a relatively full vessel, especially during peak season. Some reviews noted that seating could be tight.

Is the commentary helpful?
Most found the guides knowledgeable, but some experienced technical issues with sound systems. A few found the commentary difficult to hear or understand.

Who would enjoy this tour most?
Travelers who love scenic boat rides, want a rundown of the coast, and are comfortable with structured, full-day excursions will find this tour rewarding. It’s ideal for those who enjoy sightseeing from the water and exploring at a relaxed pace.