From Sorrento: Positano and Amalfi Day Cruise

A Day on the Water: Positano and Amalfi from Sorrento

Imagine cruising along the famous Amalfi Coast in a comfortable motorboat, with the salty breeze in your hair and breathtaking cliffs on either side. For about $60, you can spend around 8 hours exploring two of Italy’s most iconic seaside villages—Positano and Amalfi—without the hassle of driving or crowded buses. The trip departs from different ports, including Castellammare di Stabia, Seiano, and Sorrento, with the main pick-up from Sorrento at 10:10 am.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it combines spectacular scenery with flexible self-guided exploration. You have ample time in each town—about 2 hours in Positano and 2.5 hours in Amalfi—to wander at your own pace, whether that’s strolling narrow streets, lounging on rocky beaches, or snapping photos of colorful houses clinging to cliffs. Plus, the boat ride itself offers a unique perspective of the coast, with views you simply can’t get from land.

One possible downside is the chaotic boarding process. Several reviews mention that getting tickets and finding the correct boat can be confusing, especially when trying to navigate queues or locate the ticket office. Also, since there’s no guide included, you’ll want to do a little homework beforehand on what to see and where to eat, especially if you’re not familiar with these towns.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy independent adventures and want to experience the coast from the water without the expense of private guides or organized land tours. It’s perfect for those comfortable with a degree of self-direction, and for anyone eager to see Positano and Amalfi at a relaxed pace with plenty of free time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Flexible exploration: Self-guided stops give you control over your time and what to see.
• Stunning scenery: The boat ride offers sweeping views of cliffs, colorful houses, and the coastline.
• Good value: At around $60, it includes roundtrip boat transport and stops at two major villages.
• Ease of access: Multiple departure points provide flexibility, with Sorrento being the most popular.
• Authentic experience: No guided tour means more genuine free exploration and personal discovery.
• Potential logistical hiccups: Expect some confusion at boarding and ticketing, so plan to arrive early.

The Experience in Detail

Departure and Arrival

Your day begins early, with departures from ports like Castellammare di Stabia at 9:00 am, Seiano at 9:20 am, or Sorrento at 10:10 am. We appreciated the early start, especially if you choose the Castellammare departure, because it means arriving in Positano by 11:20 am—just before the crowds arrive. The boat, operated by SeReMar Sailing, is comfortable enough, though reviews mention that it can get crowded, especially on busy days or in warmer weather.

The Cruise Across the Coast

Once underway, you’ll love the views of the coastline—cliffs rising sharply from the sea, houses painted in pastel hues, and the shimmering blue of the Mediterranean. The journey itself is an attraction, providing photo opportunities at every turn. The boat ride is about 1 hour and 10 minutes from Sorrento to Positano, and slightly longer to Amalfi, giving plenty of time to settle in and enjoy the scenery.

More Great Tours Nearby

Positano: The Cliffside Charm

Your first stop, Positano, is a fairy-tale village. With about 2 hours of free time, you can stroll along the rocky beaches, walk narrow alleys lined with boutiques, or grab a quick coffee and gelato. Reviewers love the “wonderful trip” and describe Positano as a “fantastic way to visit” the coast. Walking along the steep streets, you’ll see colorful houses stacked on cliffs, offering perfect photo ops. Some mention the “beautiful” scenery and appreciate the chance to wander freely, discovering hidden cafes or boutique shops.

Amalfi: The Historic Gem

Your next stop, Amalfi, offers a different vibe—more historical, with a dramatic setting of cliffs and more extensive architecture. You’ll have about 2.5 hours here to visit the Byzantine cathedral, explore lively squares, or sit down at a local restaurant (at your own expense). Several reviews highlight the “dramatic scenery” and “colorful houses” that cling to the cliffs. Tourists often mention that the walk through Amalfi’s streets is an authentic experience, with opportunities to browse local shops or relax by the waterfront.

Timing and Free Exploration

The stops are timed to give enough breathing room without feeling rushed. For instance, some travelers wish they had more time, as one review notes, “We felt we didn’t get enough time at each destination.” Still, with about 2 hours in Positano and 2.5 hours in Amalfi, you’ll be able to see the highlights and soak in the atmosphere.

Practical Tips on Logistics

Boarding can be tricky, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the port area. Several reviews mention the hidden ticket office or long queues, so arriving early with your tickets in hand helps. The ticketing process is straightforward once you find the right spot, but the initial confusion can cause missed departures. It’s worth noting that the tour is purely transportation and free time—there’s no guide, so some prep beforehand on what attractions appeal to you is useful.

Cost and Value

At $60.35 per person, including roundtrip boat transportation, this tour offers excellent value compared to private charters or organized land trips that can be significantly more expensive. You are paying mainly for transportation and the experience of being on the water, with the freedom to explore on your own. Many travelers say the smooth operation and punctuality make it worth the price, and the stunning scenery makes it a worthwhile investment.

The Reviews Speak

The feedback is quite positive. Travelers praise the spectacular views, the timely ferries, and the quality of the experience. Some mention that the boat can feel crowded, especially in peak seasons, so early arrival and choosing seats on the upper deck can improve comfort. The lack of a guide is not a flaw for those seeking independence; instead, it’s a feature for those wanting flexibility.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for travelers who value scenic views and want to explore at their own pace. If you enjoy self-guided wandering and are comfortable with a bit of organization, you’ll appreciate the freedom to choose what to see and do. It’s also perfect for those seeking value for money without sacrificing the experience of the Amalfi Coast’s iconic towns. However, if you prefer guided commentary or want a more structured tour, you might find this format less satisfying.

Final Thoughts

If your goal is to experience Positano’s charm and Amalfi’s history from the water, at a reasonable price, this cruise delivers. The scenic boat ride alone is worth the trip, providing a different perspective on the coast’s stunning cliffs and colorful architecture. The free time allows for individual exploration, which many travelers find more meaningful than a guided tour.

Be prepared for some logistical moments—arriving early, finding the ticket office, and managing crowds—so a little planning goes a long way. This experience suits travelers who don’t mind doing a bit of homework beforehand and who appreciate independent discovery amid breathtaking scenery. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day without the hassle of land transport, this cruise is well worth considering.

FAQs

How do I find the meeting point?
The meeting point varies depending on your chosen departure port, but most travelers find it near the ticketing area or ferry dock. Arrive early to find the ticket office and confirm your departure point.

Is there a guide on the boat?
No, this is a self-guided experience. You’ll enjoy the ride and explore at your own pace once you arrive in Positano and Amalfi.

How much time do I have in each town?
Typically, about 2 hours in Positano and 2.5 hours in Amalfi, giving you enough time for a walk, some photos, and a quick meal if you wish.

Can I buy snacks or drinks on board?
Yes, the boat has a small shop where you can purchase drinks and snacks during the trip.

Are the boats crowded?
Reviews indicate that boats can get crowded, especially in peak seasons or if you travel on a busy day. Seating on the upper deck can offer better views and more space.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, families comfortable with independent exploration and boat rides will find this a flexible day trip, but keep an eye on the duration and your children’s patience.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing some peace of mind for flexible planning.

Whether you’re after breathtaking scenery, authentic towns, or just a relaxing day on the water, this Positano and Amalfi cruise from Sorrento offers a practical and scenic way to enjoy the Amalfi Coast at your own pace.

You can check availability for your dates here: