Full-Day Private Boat Tour to Gulf of Naples: Ischia & Procida

Exploring the Gulf of Naples: A Private Boat Journey to Ischia & Procida

Imagine gliding across the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Naples, aboard a sleek, private boat, with only your close friends or family sharing the experience. For around $983 per person, you can spend 8 to 9 hours discovering two of Italy’s most charming islands—Procida and Ischia—with a personalized itinerary tailored to your interests. Led by a professional skipper, this trip offers a seamless blend of breathtaking scenery, cultural highlights, and relaxing swims.

What we love about this experience? First, the personalized nature of a private tour means you can choose departure times and stops that suit your pace and preferences. Second, the opportunity to swim in natural hot springs like Sorgeto adds a unique touch of wellness to your adventure. The only caveat? It’s a fairly premium experience, so it’s best suited for travelers who value comfort and exclusivity. Overall, if you’re after an authentic, scenic day at sea with plenty of swimming and cultural highlights, this tour is a superb choice.

Key Points

• Customizable itinerary allows you to tailor your day around your interests.
• Intimate boat experience with a maximum of 6 passengers ensures personal attention.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Sorrento, making logistics hassle-free.
• Stops at Procida’s colorful fishing village and medieval Terra Murata offer authentic local charm.
• Opportunity for swimming and snorkeling, including a hot spring experience in Sorgeto.
• All beverages and snacks included, with a selection of wine, Prosecco, beer, and soft drinks for a relaxed day.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect from This Private Boat Tour

This experience is all about flexibility and personal touches—your skipper will work with you to craft an itinerary that suits your mood and interests. The core journey takes you from the starting point—Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi, or Naples—out into the mesmerizing Gulf of Naples, crossing to the islands of Procida and Ischia.

Starting Point and Departure Options

One of the best parts? You can choose where to start. Whether you’re based in Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi, or Naples, the boat can pick you up directly from your accommodation or a nearby port. This flexibility removes the usual hassle of transportation and maximizes your time on the water.

Procida Island: A Colorful Charm

The first major stop is Procida, a tiny island boasting a reputation for being Italy’s most authentic hidden gem. The boat will cruise across the Gulf, offering spectacular views along the way. Once there, you’ll have around 2 hours to explore, with highlights including Terra Murata, the island’s medieval center crowned by the Palazzo D’Avalos. This area provides a glimpse into traditional island life, with narrow streets and old buildings that tell stories of centuries past.

Your skipper might point out interesting anecdotes about the island’s history and its well-preserved architecture—making the visit more than just a photo opportunity. The Porto di Corricella, with its brightly painted houses and lively fishing boats, is the next stop, perfect for wandering and snapping photos of that quintessential Mediterranean scene.

Vivara: Nature and Snorkeling

Next, the boat heads toward Vivara, a tiny nature reserve connected to Procida by a bridge. The skipper will entertain you with tales of the island’s flora, fauna, and local traditions. During the cruise, you’ll have multiple stops for swimming, possibly diving into the clear waters or snorkeling thanks to the abundance of sheltered spots. You might even get a glimpse of the small sea springs and the pristine coastlines—ideal for relaxing in the sun and cooling off.

Moving on to Ischia: Land and Sea

After exploring Procida, the boat sets sail for Ischia, famous for its lush landscapes and therapeutic hot springs. Once on land in Ischia Porto, you can choose to explore famous attractions such as the Aragonese Castle, Mortella Gardens, or the Sacco Church in Forio. Alternatively, many guests opt for a leisurely lunch in one of the island’s quaint restaurants, indulging in local seafood and Caprese-style dishes.

Sorgeto Hot Springs: Unique Swim Experience

A highlight for many is the stop at Sorgenti Termali di Sorgeto—natural hot springs that cross the sea. During this hour-long stop, you can relax in warm, mineral-rich waters while gazing at the surrounding sea and cliffs. It’s a rare chance to combine thermal therapy with saltwater swimming, making it a memorable moment of pure relaxation.

The Return and Final Toast

As the day winds down, the boat heads back along the coast to Sorrento, stopping for a toast of Prosecco on board. This hour provides time to unwind, enjoy the scenery, and reflect on a day filled with beauty, culture, and leisure.

Authentic Experiences and the Value You Receive

What truly elevates this tour is the personalized approach. Being a private experience, it’s designed around your interests, whether that’s swimming in secret coves, exploring historic sites, or simply soaking up the views. The small boat size (max 6 passengers) ensures intimate service, personalized storytelling, and flexibility that larger tours simply can’t match.

The tour also includes practical amenities like hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward. You’ll be treated to snacks, alcoholic beverages, and beach towels, all included in the price. These little touches mean you won’t need to worry about sourcing refreshments or packing towels—just bring your swimsuit and a sense of adventure.

The Guides: Knowledgeable and Friendly

From the reviews, it’s clear that the hosts are more than just skilled sailors—they’re storytellers and local experts. One reviewer praised Ronaldo for being a “great entertainer, storyteller, and conversationalist,” highlighting how guides can make the day memorable beyond just the scenery.

The Scenery and Water

The views are consistently described as spectacular, with crystal-clear waters, colorful villages, and rugged coastlines. The opportunity to snorkel and swim in beautiful spots, including the famous Sorgeto hot springs, makes this tour not just a sightseeing cruise but an active day at sea.

Food and Drink

Many travelers appreciated the selection of wines and Prosecco, which elevated the relaxed, celebratory vibe of the trip. The availability of snacks and soft drinks ensures you stay refreshed as you take in the scenery. The quality of these amenities aligns well with the premium price point, offering good value for a day of comfort and discovery.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This experience is best suited for couples, small groups, or families who want a private, customized day on the water. It’s especially appealing to those who appreciate authentic local culture, scenic beauty, and relaxing swims. If you’re comfortable with a premium price for a tailored experience, this tour will deliver a memorable, personalized adventure.

Those looking for a more active, adventurous day—with snorkeling, exploring islands, and hot springs—will find it particularly appealing. It’s also an excellent choice for travelers who prefer comfort and convenience, thanks to hotel pickups and all-inclusive amenities.

Final Thoughts: Why Choose This Experience?

This private boat tour offers a unique, intimate window into the Gulf of Naples’s most charming islands. You’re not just on a sightseeing cruise—you’re on a curated adventure where your preferences matter. The chance to visit Procida’s colorful streets, sail around Ischia’s lush coastlines, and soak in natural thermal waters makes for a rich, relaxing day.

For anyone wanting a blend of cultural exploration, scenic beauty, and personal comfort, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s especially suitable for travelers who value authentic experiences and expert guides who can bring the local stories alive.

If you’re seeking a luxurious yet authentic day at sea, with tailored stops and insider tips, this private boat trip to Ischia and Procida is a standout choice.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, depending on your customization and preferences.

Where can I start the tour?
You can choose to depart from Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi, or Naples. The boat can pick you up directly from your hotel in Sorrento or meet you at the port if you’re staying elsewhere.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off (for Sorrento hotels), a professional English-speaking skipper, snacks, alcoholic beverages (including wine, Prosecco, beer), soft drinks, bottled water, and beach towels. Fuel is also included.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, since this is a private tour, you can choose departure times and stops. The itinerary is flexible to prioritize the sights and activities you prefer.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Not included but available for purchase on board—masks are €15, snorkels are €9. You can also bring your own.

How many people can join?
The boat accommodates a maximum of 6 passengers, ensuring an intimate experience.

Are meals included?
Not a full meal, but snacks and drinks are provided throughout the day. You can also opt to have lunch on land during your stop in Ischia.

What are the main sights to see?
Highlights include Procida’s medieval Terra Murata, Porto di Corricella, the nature reserve of Vivara, Ischia’s coast, Sorgeto’s hot springs, and optional excursions to landmarks like Aragonese Castle or Mortella Gardens.

Is this suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate; however, the small boat size and water activities are best suited for older children comfortable with boat travel and swimming.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable, and weather cancellations are fully covered with a reschedule or refund.

This private boat trip to Ischia and Procida offers a rare blend of luxury, authenticity, and personalized service. If you crave a flexible, scenic day exploring the islands with expert guides and plenty of swimming, this journey could be your highlight of the Amalfi Coast or Naples area.