From Sorrento/Nerano: Amalfi and Positano Boat Tour

Experience the stunning Amalfi Coast on a full-day boat tour that departs from Nerano or Sorrento, visiting Amalfi and Positano. For around 8 hours, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views, explore charming towns, and snorkel or relax along pristine beaches. Prices are reasonable considering the length and scope, and the tour is highly rated for its organization and knowledgeable guides.

Two things we love most about this experience: first, the chance to sail past iconic sites like the Li Galli islands and the Fjords of Furore—it’s a perspective only the sea can give. Second, the time in Amalfi and Positano feels just right: enough to explore, shop, or simply soak up the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

One point to consider: the tour doesn’t include meals or entry to attractions, so you’ll want to bring snacks, or plan to dine in these towns. This makes it ideal for those who prefer flexibility and authentic local experiences over a packaged lunch.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive day combining scenic boat rides with independent exploration of Amalfi and Positano—perfect if you’re short on time but want to see the highlights from a different perspective.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: See the coast, Li Galli islands, and the Fjords of Furore from the water for truly memorable photos.
• Flexible Free Time: Enjoy 3-3.5 hours in Amalfi and 1.5-2 hours in Positano for shopping, sightseeing, or relaxing.
• Comfortable Transportation: The tour includes a boat, shuttle, and sometimes bus transfers, with options for pickup from Sorrento.
• Expert Guides: As many reviews point out, guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and add value with interesting facts.
• Ideal for Short Visits: Perfect if you’re limited on time but want a full coastal experience.
• No Food Included: Bring your own snacks or plan to eat in town, as the tour does not include meals or entrance fees.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical and Authentic Way to Experience the Amalfi Coast

When we think of the Amalfi Coast, images of steep cliffs, colorful towns, and sparkling waters come to mind. This boat tour offers a different vantage point—sailing along the coast, where you’ll spot the famous Li Galli islands, associated with Ulysses and the Sirens myth. Starting early around 9:00am from Marina del Cantone, the journey takes you past dramatic cliffs and hidden coves, giving you a sense of the scale and beauty of this legendary shoreline.

The real charm lies in the combination of scenic sailing and free time in two of Italy’s most picturesque towns. Once docked in Amalfi, you’ll have about 3 to 3.5 hours to explore at your leisure. You can visit the Cathedral of Saint Andrew with its impressive Arab-Norman architecture, stroll through narrow alleys, or relax on the pebble beach. Many reviews mention the Cloister of Paradise as a highlight, and some even note the chance to sample local limoncello and lemons, famous products of the area.

Then, a short boat ride takes you to Positano—arguably the coast’s most photogenic town, with its colorful houses spilling down the hillside. You’ll have about 1.5 to 2 hours to wander the streets, shop for handcrafted goods, or enjoy a lemon sorbet from a local café. As one reviewer put it, the views from Positano are simply stunning, and the leisurely stop allows you to take your time soaking them in.

The return journey includes visits to Furore and Crapolla Fjords—hidden natural wonders—and the Islet d’Isca, owned by Eduardo de Filippo, adding a touch of local lore to your day. Back at the port around 5:15 PM, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel or accommodation—an efficient end to a busy but rewarding day.

The Breakdown of the Itinerary

The tour begins with a shuttle or transport from your hotel (if you choose this option), making the experience accessible even if you’re not staying directly near the coast. Once at Marina del Cantone, you’ll board your boat, which is described as comfortable, with life jackets provided, and capacity that isn’t overcrowded—something many reviews appreciated.

The boat departs promptly at 9:00am, sailing first around Li Galli islands—a highlight for their mythic associations and dramatic scenery. From there, the boat heads toward Amalfi, with interesting stops along the way like the Sirenuse Photo Stop—a quick chance to snap some shots of the rugged coastline.

In Amalfi, you’ll have around 3.5 hours. Many travelers find this enough time for sightseeing, shopping, or relaxing. The Cathedral and Cloister of Paradise are recommended highlights, and some reviews mention the Lemon Lemon shop as a must-visit for local lemon products.

The boat then takes you to Positano, with about 105 minutes onshore. This is enough to see the sea-facing streets, take photos of the colorful houses, and perhaps pick up a souvenir. The scenic views from the boat en route are often praised, with many reviewers noting how the boat ride itself is a memorable part of the day.

The trip concludes with visits to Furore Fjord and Islet d’Isca before returning to Marina del Cantone and finally back to your hotel or meeting point. The entire experience is designed to balance sightseeing with free time, giving you the flexibility to explore or relax.

The Experience on the Water

Travelers consistently highlight the quality and atmosphere of the boat—not overcrowded, with ample space to find a seat or venture outside for better views. The guides, many of whom are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, add context to what you’re seeing, making the trip educational as well as scenic.

The scenic aspect is undeniably the star here. From the boat, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views of cliffs, caves, and the famous Li Galli islands—a photo opportunity that sticks with you long after the trip ends. Several reviews emphasize how the boat cruise transforms the typical land-based sightseeing into a more immersive experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is especially well suited for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of the Amalfi Coast without the hassle of driving or navigating multiple ferries. It’s ideal for those who enjoy scenic boat rides, are comfortable with some walking and independent exploring, and value authentic local towns over purely guided tours.

It’s also perfect for visitors who appreciate good organization and want a reliable, well-reviewed experience. If you’re short on time but want to see the coast from the water and in town, this tour balances those needs well.

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FAQs

Does this tour include transportation from Sorrento?
Yes, there’s an optional transfer service from Sorrento or Massa Lubrense, but the main departure point is Marina del Cantone. If you’re staying outside the shuttle area, you can opt for the pickup from Sorrento train station when booking.

What’s included in the price?
The tour covers the boat cruise along the Amalfi Coast, crew assistance, and the designated time in Amalfi and Positano. Life jackets are provided, and pickup/drop-off are included if selected.

Are meals provided?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to eat in Amalfi or Positano, where many local cafes and shops offer delicious options.

How long are the stops in each town?
In Amalfi, you’ll have about 3 to 3.5 hours, allowing for sightseeing, shopping, or relaxing. Positano has an estimated 1.5 to 2 hours for similar activities.

Can I swim or relax on the beaches?
Yes, in Amalfi, some travelers simply relax on the pebble beach or take a dip in the water. The boat ride itself offers opportunities to swim or enjoy the scenery from outside.

Is the boat comfortable?
According to reviews, yes. The boat is described as having enough space and being well-maintained, with both covered and open-air seating options.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and motion sickness remedies are recommended. Remember, the tour runs in the sun and in the open sea, so protection is key.

What if I don’t want to do the scheduled stops?
Since the tour provides free time, you can explore on your own or relax on the boat, making it flexible to your interests.

Final Thoughts

This Amalfi and Positano boat tour offers a well-balanced way to see some of Italy’s most iconic coastlines and towns in one day. The combination of scenic sailing, expert guides, and plenty of free time in Amalfi and Positano makes it a strong choice for travelers who want an authentic, manageable, and visually stunning experience.

The reviews clearly show that many find this tour a highlight of their trip—thanks to the beautiful views, professional organization, and the friendly guides who bring the coast’s stories to life. While it doesn’t include meals or entrance fees, the flexibility to explore independently means you can tailor your day to your preferences, making it a good value for your money.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to enjoy the coast’s highlights from the water with plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere, this tour is worth considering. Perfect for those who enjoy scenic travel, comfortable boats, and authentic town visits, it’s a memorable way to experience the Amalfi Coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: