From Positano/Praiano: Private Amalfi Coast Half-Day Tour

A private half-day boat tour along the Amalfi Coast offers a personalized way to explore Italy’s most stunning coastline. Starting from Positano or Praiano, for about four hours, you’ll glide past famous landmarks like the Fjord of Furore, the Emerald Grotto, and the charming towns of Amalfi and Praiano. For a price of around $786, this experience is designed for small groups—up to six people—who want to enjoy the coast without the crowds and noise of tourist boats.

What we love most about this tour is the personalized attention from a bilingual skipper who knows the area intimately, and the chance to stop and swim in some truly special spots, like the caves and secluded beaches. Plus, there’s the relaxed vibe of sipping prosecco, soft drinks, and listening to music as you soak in the scenery.

However, a consideration to keep in mind is that entrance tickets for some attractions, like the Emerald Grotto, are not included, so you’ll need to plan for that if you want to visit inside. This tour really suits travelers who value comfort, authentic glimpses of local life, and a flexible, intimate experience rather than just ticking off sights from a bus window.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small group (up to six people) with dedicated bilingual skipper.
• Flexible Stops: Swim, snorkel, and explore hidden beaches and caves at your pace.
• Stunning Scenery: Pass by iconic coastal landmarks, including the Furore Fjord and Amalfi’s colorful townscape.
• Comfort & Convenience: Restroom with shower, beach towels, music, drinks, and life jackets are provided.
• Great Value: Includes fuel, taxes, and mooring, making it a transparent upfront cost.
• Weather Dependent: Tour is subject to good weather; cancellations for poor conditions are fully refundable or reschedulable.

The Experience: A Detailed Look at the Itinerary and What You’ll Encounter

Starting Point: Positano or Praiano

Most tours launch from Positano, offering breathtaking views of its dramatic, vertical buildings from the water. If you opt for Praiano, the experience is similar, with the added bonus of gathering at La Gavitella Beach or Marina di Praia. Either way, you’re immediately immersed in the setting that makes the Amalfi Coast so famous. From the water, Positano’s colorful houses seem to cling to the cliffs, and you’ll appreciate the town’s charm far more than from the crowded streets.

Stop 1: Praiano and Nearby Beaches

The boat will glide past Praiano, a quieter, more relaxed spot than Positano, with lovely swimming spots like La Gavitella Beach and the Africana Grotto. This is a prime time for cooling off and snapping photos of the colorful houses from the sea. Reviewers mention how the captain took multiple photos for them without even being asked, making this a memorable keepsake.

Stop 2: Fjord of Furore

Next, the boat will cruise into the Fjord of Furore, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you’ll see towering cliffs plunging into crystal-clear waters and a remarkable overhanging bridge. This stretch is perfect for photographs—“really suggestive,” as one reviewer put it. The dramatic cliffs and narrow inlet make Furore one of the coast’s most striking sights. Expect about 15 minutes here, giving ample time to absorb the scenery and snap a few photos.

Stop 3: Emerald Grotto

A highlight for many travelers is the Emerald Grotto. Accessed by a tiny rowboat, this sea cave boasts glowing green waters and stalactites, stalagmites, and even a stunning nativity scene made of ceramic statues underwater. Entrance tickets are paid separately at the site, but inside, the view of the sparkling water and formations is unforgettable. The boat tour typically spends around 30 minutes here, enough to enjoy the spectacle and take photos. Reviewers often describe this as “magical” and “enchanting.”

Stop 4: Conca dei Marini

Further along, the boat will stop at Conca dei Marini, a peaceful spot to swim or just relax on the boat. The promontory of Capo di Conca is particularly dramatic, and you’ll have a chance to view the Capo di Conca tower, a historic lookout. This stop usually lasts around 20 minutes, giving you time to cool off and take in the scenery.

Stop 5: Amalfi Town

The tour’s highlight is often a visit to Amalfi itself, the historic maritime republic. You can choose to stay aboard and enjoy panoramic views or step ashore to explore the lively town center, with its piazzas, cathedral, and shops. The boat will give you approximately 45 minutes here—long enough for a leisurely walk, a coffee, or simply soaking up the atmosphere from the water.

Final Stop: Back to Positano or Praiano

As the tour wraps up, you’ll sail back along the coast, with the chance to see Atrani, another tiny, picturesque town, from a different perspective. This final stretch often leaves travelers with a sense of gratitude for having experienced the coast from such an intimate vantage point.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides. Many mention how their captains, like Gennaro and Francesco, were “kind,” “enthusiastic,” and “helpful,” going above and beyond to make the experience memorable. The ability to swim and snorkel in different spots is a huge plus, and the inclusion of soft drinks, prosecco, music, and towels adds a touch of luxury.

Several travelers note how the scenery from the boat is far more impressive than from land—the coastline’s dramatic cliffs, colorful seaside villages, and secluded coves become even more striking from the water. The value for the price is often highlighted, especially considering the private, intimate nature of the outing and the included amenities.

One reviewer summed up the sentiment: “This was my favorite vacation activity ever,” emphasizing how the personalized service and scenic stops made the trip unforgettable.

A Few Caveats

Some reviews mention the additional cost of tickets for the Emerald Grotto and other attractions, which are not included in the base price. If visiting inside the grotto is a priority, be prepared to spend extra. Plus, the tour is weather-dependent; poor conditions could lead to cancellation or rescheduling, which travelers appreciate is handled professionally and with flexibility.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for small groups or families seeking a quieter, more personalized way to see the Amalfi Coast. If you’re someone who values authentic, scenic moments over busy crowds, you’ll find this tour a perfect fit. It’s also well-suited for those who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing with drinks in hand, with knowledgeable guides providing insights along the way.

Travelers who want a luxurious yet authentic experience—away from the chaos of public boats—will appreciate the comfort, privacy, and flexibility of this tour. It’s a fantastic choice for romantic getaways, family outings, or friends wanting a memorable day on the water.

The Bottom Line

A private Amalfi Coast boat tour from Positano or Praiano offers a superb balance of comfort, authenticity, and scenic beauty. You’re not just ticking off landmarks; you’re experiencing them from the water—an angle that reveals the coast’s true charm. The tour’s small-group setting ensures personalized attention, and the captain’s local knowledge adds layers of insight you won’t get on larger group excursions.

While the price may seem steep at first glance, the value becomes clear when you consider the inclusive amenities, private setting, and extraordinary views. Plus, the opportunity to swim in caves and secluded spots makes this a memorable experience for those who cherish genuine, relaxed adventures.

If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic, and personalized way to explore the Amalfi Coast, this tour is a great pick. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the coast from a different perspective, savor drinks and music onboard, and avoid the mass tourism of overcrowded boats.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The cost covers the private boat, your bilingual skipper, water, soft drinks, prosecco, beach towels, music, shower, WC, and life jackets for all ages. Fuel, taxes, and mooring are also included.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the entrance ticket for the Emerald Grotto is purchased separately at the site and is not included in the tour price.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, providing ample time to enjoy multiple stops, swim, and relax.

Can I swim and snorkel during the tour?
Absolutely. Stops are made for swimming and snorkeling, letting you cool off in some of the coast’s most beautiful spots.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to good weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, bathing suit, sunglasses, hat, a light jacket, and flip-flops. The boat supplies towels and other amenities.

How many people can join?
This is a private tour for up to six people, ensuring plenty of space and personalized service.

Where does the tour depart from?
Most tours start from Positano, but Praiano departures are also available, with transportation back included in the itinerary.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, life jackets are provided for both children and adults, making it family-friendly.

To sum it up, if you’re after an authentic, relaxed, and scenic escape along the Amalfi Coast with the comfort and attention of a private guide, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for those who want to savor the coast’s highlights from a unique vantage point—on the water—while enjoying some drinks, good company, and the chance to swim in spectacular spots. It’s a memorable, boutique experience that’s worth considering for your Amalfi adventure.