Amalfi Coast by Sea: Day Trip from Naples

Picture yourself cruising along Italy’s legendary coastline, with the wind in your hair and postcard-worthy views unfolding before you. That’s exactly what this Amalfi Coast by Sea day trip from Naples offers — a chance to explore some of Italy’s most iconic towns from a perspective that’s both scenic and relaxed.

We love its combination of comfortable transport, stunning vistas, and authentic stops. The sightseeing along the Gulf of Naples, the free time in Amalfi to soak up the town’s charm, and the vibrant Positano with its steep alleys and ceramics are real highlights. Plus, the expert guides and smooth boat rides make for a well-organized day.

One thing to consider is the limited time in each destination — just a few hours in Amalfi and Positano — which might not satisfy those wanting an in-depth exploration. Still, for anyone looking to sample the coast’s beauty with ease, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to enjoy scenic views without the hassle of arranging transport or dealing with the logistics themselves. It suits those who love a mix of sightseeing, relaxed wandering, and sea-air refreshment.

Scenic boat cruise offers panoramic views of Naples, Sorrento, and the coast.
Comfortable hydrofoil transportation ensures smooth sailing between towns.
Ample free time in Amalfi and Positano allows for personal exploration.
Expert guides share interesting anecdotes and helpful tips.
All boat fees included with no hidden costs.
Limited time in each destination might feel rushed for some travelers.

Contents show

The Journey Begins: From Naples to the Coast

Your adventure kicks off with a convenient pickup from a central Naples location, like Molo Beverello or one of several hotel options. From there, a short bus ride takes you to the boarding point, where you’ll hop onto a comfortable NLG hydrofoil. This high-speed boat is key to covering a lot of ground efficiently, while providing a smooth ride across the waters — something that travelers with seasickness concerns may want to consider.

Once aboard, the boat departs, and the real magic begins. Expect panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples, including Posillipo Hill, Castel dell’Ovo, and Mount Vesuvius looming in the background. The guide shares snippets of history and stories about the area, making the journey as informative as it is beautiful.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Scenery and Landmarks from the Sea

As you glide towards Sorrento, you’ll get a glimpse of Li Galli, a small private island known for its dramatic cliffs and celebrity allure. The boat’s vantage point offers the perfect opportunity to appreciate Italy’s coast from a different angle — with photo-worthy scenery at every turn. For those who prioritize views, sitting on the left side of the boat for the Capri stop can enhance your experience, as you’ll get a better look at the island’s stunning cliffs.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Naples

Amalfi: The Historic Town Break

Once you arrive in Amalfi, you’ll have about three hours to explore at your own pace. The town’s highlight is undoubtedly the Cathedral of Saint Andrew, a striking medieval structure with a stunning staircase and ornate façade. Many visitors, like Iliana in her review, wish they had more time here — just an hour isn’t enough to soak in the atmosphere or visit the shops and cafes.

Amalfi’s narrow streets are perfect for wandering, with local boutiques selling handmade ceramics, lemon products, and artisanal foods. You might find yourself lost in the charming alleyways or sitting at a café with a limoncello. The free time is ideal for those wanting to explore without a fixed schedule, but keep in mind the clock — the return boat departs promptly.

Positano: The Cliffside Gem

Next, a 30-minute ferry ride takes you to Positano, the postcard town famous for its steep, colorful streets, boutique shops, and vibrant ceramics. Here, you get about two hours to enjoy the town’s charm. Many, like Iliana, noted that one hour in Positano isn’t enough — the town’s beauty begs for longer strolls and leisurely coffees.

We loved how the guide emphasized the steep alleyways and told us about local artisans making ceramics and fashion boutiques lining the streets. It’s a place to relax, photograph, or simply watch the world go by with a gelato in hand.

Sorrento and the Return

After Positano, the boat heads back to Sorrento for an intermediate stop, though no disembarkation occurs here unless you’ve purchased a different ticket. The views of cliffs and coastal villas are impressive from the boat, especially if you sit on the right side.

The final segment is a one-hour cruise back towards Naples, with plenty of opportunities for photos and reflection on the day’s scenic highlights.

This tour is well-structured, with timely transfers and clear instructions. The entire day lasts around nine hours, which includes transportation, sightseeing, and free time. The fast hydrofoil ensures you cover large distances quickly, making it a great option for those with limited time but wanting a comprehensive coastal experience.

The group size is generally suited for around 15 participants, which strikes a balance between intimacy and social vibe. The guides are experienced and multilingual, sharing stories and answering questions along the way, enriching the experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

What to Bring and What to Expect

Travelers should pack comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera for capturing the incredible views. Since the boat ride can be bumpy, those prone to seasickness might want to take precautions. The tour explicitly restricts large luggage and baby strollers, focusing on a relaxed, manageable group experience.

Meals are not included, so bringing snacks or a light lunch is advisable if you want something more substantial during your free time. Water is recommended to stay hydrated, especially under the Italian sun.

Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides as a major asset. One reviewer appreciated the guide’s stories and anecdotes, which added depth to the scenic cruise. The stunning vistas from the boat were also repeatedly praised, with many noting that sitting on specific sides of the boat enhanced the experience.

A common suggestion was to allocate more time in Positano, as one hour was perceived as too brief to truly enjoy the town’s charm. The well-organized logistics and smooth transfers received high marks, especially for those unfamiliar with navigating Italy’s coastal transport.

This trip is ideal for travelers short on time who want a taste of Italy’s most iconic coastal towns without the hassle of separate bookings or complicated arrangements. It’s perfect if you enjoy scenic boat rides, picturesque towns, and guided commentary.

Those looking for in-depth exploration might find the allocated free time too brief, but the tour’s focus on scenic views and relaxed stops makes it a good fit for casual travelers or families. Keep in mind, it’s not suitable for anyone prone to seasickness or those carrying large luggage.

The Amalfi Coast by Sea day trip from Naples offers an efficient way to experience the region’s natural beauty and charming towns in just a day. From the comfortable hydrofoil rides to the timed explorations at Amalfi and Positano, everything is designed to maximize sightseeing without rushing.

The expert guides and stunning panoramic views make this a worthwhile choice for those wanting a hassle-free experience that combines sea, land, and local culture. While the limited time in each town might feel rushed for some, it’s a fantastic way to see the highlights with minimal stress.

In short, this tour provides a balanced blend of comfort, scenery, and authentic Italian coastal charm — perfect for travelers who want to check out the Amalfi Coast with ease and style.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts around 9 hours, including transportation, boat rides, and free time in Amalfi and Positano.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers pickup from Naples, panoramic boat rides, boat fees, and guides. Meals and personal expenses are not included.

Can I disembark at Capri or Sorrento?
No, during this tour, there is no disembarkation at Capri or Sorrento. Stops at these locations are only for sightseeing from the boat.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, camera, and water. Large luggage and baby strollers are not allowed.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but keep in mind the boat ride may be bumpy and the schedule tight. Children prone to seasickness should be cautious.

What is the best side of the boat to sit on?
For Capri views, sit on the left side before arriving at Amalfi. For Sorrento scenery, sit on the right side during the return.

How many people are in the tour group?
The tour generally groups around 15 participants, offering a balance of intimacy and social atmosphere.

What happens if I arrive late from my cruise?
You need to specify your cruise ship name so the tour provider can monitor your timing. Missing the pickup means missing the tour.

Is this tour cancelable?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This comprehensive review aims to help you decide if the Amalfi Coast by Sea tour from Naples matches your travel style. Whether you’re after stunning views, hassle-free logistics, or a taste of Italy’s coastal charm, this experience offers a memorable way to see the region’s highlights.