Small group tour of the Amalfi Coast

Small group tour of the Amalfi Coast offers a balanced blend of sightseeing, relaxing, and authentic seaside experiences. Priced at around $263.67 per person, this approximately 6 to 8-hour excursion departs from Salerno and takes you along Italy’s most picturesque coastline. Led by an expert skipper in a cozy boat (size varies depending on group size), this tour promises a personalized touch that larger cruise ships simply can’t match.

Two features we particularly love are the stops in iconic villages like Amalfi and Positano — where you can explore freely — and the chance to swim in secluded coves inaccessible from land. These moments of quiet beauty and personal exploration stand out. A possible drawback is that, as with all outdoor activities, weather can influence the experience. But if you’re prepared for a flexible, intimate adventure, this tour delivers.

This experience suits travelers who value authentic local encounters, scenic beauty, and the joy of discovering hidden spots by sea. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a less crowded, more personal Amalfi Coast experience, this trip is crafted for you.

Key Points

• Personalized small-group experience with a maximum of 12 travelers ensures attentive service.
• Comprehensive itinerary visits charming villages, stunning coves, and historic sites.
• Free time for swimming and exploring allows a relaxed pace and immersive moments.
• Expert skipper provides insightful commentary and navigates the best spots.
• Cost includes bottled water, snacks, snorkeling gear, and fuel — great value for a full-day boat adventure.
• Flexible boat size adapts to group size, balancing comfort and intimacy.

Discover the Beauty of the Amalfi Coast by Sea

If you’re dreaming of the Amalfi Coast, a small group boat tour offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic charm. Starting from Salerno, this trip whisks you along the coastline to visit some of the most iconic villages, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the breathtaking scenery and crystal-clear waters.

The tour begins at 9:30 am in Salerno, where you’ll meet your knowledgeable skipper and hop aboard a boat that varies in size from 5 to 12 meters depending on the group. The journey is designed to maximize the experience — offering stunning views, relaxing stops, and the chance to swim in secluded bays. The itinerary includes visits to places like Vietri sul Mare, famous for its ceramics, and Cetara, a charming fishing village known for its anchovy sauce, providing a taste of authentic local culture away from mass tourism.

The Highlighted Stops: Village-by-Village

Vietri sul Mare is the first stop, renowned for its vibrant ceramics. We loved the way these colorful, hand-painted pieces reflect the town’s craftsmanship and charm. It’s a perfect photo op or a chance to pick up a unique souvenir. The tour then continues to Cetara, a quaint fishing village where you can see traditional activities still thriving. Here, the focus on fishing and local food adds a genuine touch to the experience — many reviews emphasize how Cetara retains its authentic feel, untouched by large tourist groups.

Next, the boat pauses for a possible 15-minute stop at a Roman summer residence, where you might get a quick chance to taste local specialties from Sal De Riso, a famed pastry shop. While brief, this tasting provides a delicious snippet of regional culinary pride.

The Iconic Villages

No visit to the Amalfi Coast is complete without spending time in Amalfi and Positano. The tour includes about an hour in each, allowing you to stroll their streets, browse boutiques, or simply soak in the views. As one reviewer noted, “Ancora grazie ad Antonio, persona simpatica disponibile e gentile, per averci fatto trascorrere una fantastica giornata” — highlighting how the guides’ friendliness enhances the experience.

Amalfi itself is packed with history, and you’ll likely see the stunning Cathedral of Saint Andrew. Its blend of medieval and baroque architecture makes it a visual highlight. Positano, often called the “pearl of the Amalfi Coast,” is famous for its colorful houses cascading down the hillside. Its charming streets are perfect for shopping or just wandering.

Swimming and Hidden Coves

One of the tour’s greatest perks is the stop in Conca dei Marini, where you can take a dip in crystal-clear waters. Many reviews praise the chance to swim in calette inaccessible from land, describing it as “bellissima esperienza” — a truly beautiful and unique aspect of this tour. You can also explore other bays and fjords, with the opportunity to rent snorkeling equipment and discover underwater life.

Practical Details and Value

The price includes bottled water, snacks, soda, and fuel surcharge, which adds up to good value considering the full day of sightseeing, swimming, and exploring. The boat is equipped with a restroom and snorkeling gear, making it comfortable and convenient. For an extra €5, you can rent a beach towel, though many reviews highlight the comfort and cleanliness of the boat itself.

The tour is limited to 12 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and an intimate atmosphere. This small-group setup allows for flexible stops and the chance to ask questions, making it ideal for those who want to learn more about the coast from their skipper.

The Experience from Travelers

Multiple reviewers praised the knowledgeable guides and friendly staff. One called the crew “fantastic,” emphasizing how they were attentive to needs and made everyone feel at ease. Others shared how the beautiful scenery combined with expert navigation created a worry-free, memorable day.

One reviewer summed it up by saying, “Niente di più meraviglioso,” meaning “nothing more wonderful,” which captures the essence of this trip. Even those celebrating special occasions, like an addio al nubilato (bachelor party), found it an unforgettable outing thanks to the captain’s hospitality.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, small-group experience aboard a boat rather than a large cruise. If you love scenic views, swimming in secluded coves, and exploring charming villages at your own pace, it’s a perfect choice. Those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and an authentic atmosphere will find this trip especially rewarding.

However, keep in mind that weather conditions can influence the day, and the tour is designed for those comfortable with a moderate amount of outdoor activity and flexibility. The price point reflects the personalized nature and inclusions, making it a worthwhile investment for those craving a unique Amalfi Coast perspective.

FAQs

• What is included in the tour?
  The tour includes boat navigation along the Amalfi Coast, stops in Amalfi and Positano, free time for swimming and exploring bays, bottled water, snacks, soda, snorkeling equipment, and fuel surcharge.

• How long does the tour last?
  The experience is approximately 6 to 8 hours, departing at 9:30 am and returning to the starting point in Salerno.

• Is the boat size fixed?
  No, the type of boat used will be chosen based on the number of participants, ranging from 5 to 12 meters, ensuring comfort and intimacy.

• Can I visit Amalfi and Positano independently?
  Yes. The itinerary provides dedicated free time in each village so you can explore, shop, or relax at your own pace.

• What should I bring?
  While bottled water, snacks, and snorkeling gear are provided, it’s wise to bring a towel, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and perhaps a camera for the stunning views.

• Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
  Most travelers can participate, including service animals. However, those with mobility issues should check with the provider, as some stops involve walking.

To sum it up, this small-group boat tour delivers a well-rounded, authentic Amalfi Coast experience. It combines scenic navigation with cultural stops and time for personal exploration. If you’re after a more intimate, flexible, and scenic adventure — especially if you love swimming in secluded spots and soaking up Italy’s coastal charm — this outing is a smart pick. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value knowledgeable guides, timeless villages, and the freedom to relax and explore at their own pace. For those seeking a memorable, less crowded way to enjoy the coast’s magic, this tour offers an excellent balance of comfort, value, and authenticity.