Positano’s steep cliffs, colorful buildings, and sparkling waters make it a perfect jumping-off point for cruises and boat tours. Whether you’re after a romantic sunset sail, a private exploration of Capri, or a group adventure along the coast, Positano offers options that fit all styles and budgets. We particularly love the Amalfi Coast Private Boat Tour for its personalized service or the Capri Boat Tours for a full day of island discovery—both offer unforgettable perspectives from the water. If you’re dreaming of swimming in caves and snapping photos of sea stacks, these tours won’t disappoint.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the 14 best cruises and boat tours in Positano. From private luxury experiences to small-group explorations, each offers a different way to enjoy Italy’s most beautiful coastline and nearby Capri. Read on to find the experience that suits your trip best.
1. Amalfi Coast Private Boat Tour from Positano, Praiano or Amalfi
At number 1, this private full-day boat tour is our top pick for its flexibility and personalized service. It’s perfect if you want to avoid crowds and customize your itinerary. Your own skipper takes you along the coast, stopping at highlights like the Emerald Grotto and the Fiordo di Furore swimming cove. You also get about an hour in Amalfi town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to soak in the atmosphere or do some shopping. With 157 reviews rating 5.0/5, this tour earns high praise for its attentive guides and exclusive feel. The cost is $1,511.73 for up to 12 people, making it great value for a private experience.
Bottom line: If privacy, flexibility, and insider knowledge matter most, this tour is hard to beat. It’s ideal for families or groups wanting a bespoke day on the water.
2. Capri Boat Tour | Full Day
At number 2, the Capri Full-Day Boat Tour takes you around the legendary island with the freedom to swim, explore, and relax. Departing from Positano, Mauro, your captain, will share stories and take you to the Faraglioni rocks and the Blue Grotto, with options to stop at hidden coves. This 8-hour private charter offers a flexible, tailored itinerary and includes snacks and drinks. With a perfect 5.0 rating from 84 reviews, travelers praise Mauro for his knowledge and friendliness.
Bottom line: For a luxurious, personalized exploration of Capri, this tour delivers an intimate experience with the option to customize your day.
3. Capri Private Boat Tour from Positano, Praiano or Amalfi
Number 3 on our list is a full-day private tour with a capacity of up to 12 people, priced at $2,089.94. This tour not only visits Capri’s highlights like the Blue Grotto and I Faraglioni, but also allows time to explore the island on land—perhaps the Gardens of Augustus or Villa San Michele. Your captain offers undivided attention and tailored stops, making this a perfect choice for those wanting a more luxurious, exclusive day.
Guests frequently comment on the knowledgeable crew and pristine boats, making the trip both comfortable and informative. Keep in mind, the Blue Grotto entry fee (~15€) is extra.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers seeking a combination of sightseeing and island exploration with a touch of luxury.
4. From Positano: Small Group Boat Tour to Capri Island
Number 4 offers a 6 to 9-hour small-group tour for just $173 per person, making it one of the most affordable ways to visit Capri by boat. This small-group experience ensures personalized attention as you cruise past the Faraglioni, stop to swim in grottoes, and have several hours of free time on Capri to walk and shop. The itinerary includes visits to the White Grotto, Natural Arch, and optional stop at the Blue Grotto (extra fee applies).
Reviewers love the friendly guides and the relaxed pace, with one noting it was “one of our favorite days of the trip.” The focus on small groups guarantees a more intimate experience.
Bottom line: An excellent value for travelers wanting a guided, personalized day trip without breaking the bank.
5. Private Full Day Capri Tour by Boat from Positano
Number 5 is a private mini-cruise designed for groups up to 5, costing $1,152.39. This tour offers the chance to skip the ferry and enjoy a flexible itinerary around Capri, with stops at spots like the Blue Grotto and Faraglioni. The boat allows for swimming, relaxing, and exploring the island’s highlights at your own pace. Towels and drinks are provided, and you can choose to dock in Marina Grande for free time.
Guests emphasize this tour’s customized pace and beautiful boat. The inclusion of snacks and soft drinks adds comfort to the experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for couples or small groups wanting a private, flexible day with plenty of time for swimming and sightseeing.
6. Full Day Capri Island Cruise from Praiano, Positano or Amalfi
At number 6, this full-day cruise is ideal if you want to cover all the main sights. Priced at $179.58 per person for about 8 hours, it includes stops at the White Grotto, Natural Arch, and Faraglioni Rocks, plus free time at Marina Grande. You also have a chance to visit Punta Carena Lighthouse and get a sense of the island’s beauty from the water.
Rated 4.5/5 with many praising the comfortable boat and friendly crew, it’s a solid choice for travelers who prefer a group experience and want to see plenty in a day.
Bottom line: A good balance of sightseeing and free time, suitable for those wanting a comprehensive day trip.
7. Small Group of Amalfi Coast Full Day Boat Tour from Positano
Number 7 features a 7-hour small-group tour at $179.58 per person. It’s perfect for swimming and snorkeling near Fiordo di Furore and Praiano, with about two hours of free time in Amalfi. You’ll enjoy stops at swimming spots and the opportunity to explore the coast’s villages.
Reviewers highlight the personalized attention and snorkeling opportunities, calling it a “great way to explore the Amalfi Coast by water.” The small group size ensures a relaxed and intimate experience.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who want to combine swimming, sightseeing, and local village visits in one day.
8. Full Day Private Boat Tour to Capri from Positano
Number 8 offers a luxury private tour for groups up to 7 at $1,530.30. This seven-to-eight-hour trip includes Punta Campanella, Blue Grotto (extra fee), and a swim stop. You’ll also enjoy lunch at Capri’s Marina Piccola, with free time on the island for exploration.
Guests praise the comfortable boat and professional crew. The route is flexible, with options like visiting the Blue Grotto if weather permits. It’s a premium experience but offers excellent value for privacy and comfort.
Bottom line: For travelers seeking a high-end, private day with all the sights and a relaxed pace, this tour is ideal.
9. Capri all inclusive Private boat Tour with City Visit
Number 9 ranks as a luxury option with up to 5 people paying $3,448.40. It combines a private boat tour with onshore visits to Capri’s most famous spots like the Blue Grotto and Marina Grande. You’ll enjoy snorkeling, lunch options, and customized itineraries.
Guests rave about the luxury and personalized service, making it ideal for honeymooners or special celebrations. The tour is long but very comprehensive.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers wanting the most exclusive and customized experience of Capri.
10. Capri & Blue Grotto Small Group Full-Day Boat Tour from Positano
Number 10 features an 8-hour small-group tour costing $150.94 per person. It’s good for those who want flexibility with visits to the Blue Grotto, White Grotto, Natural Arch, and free time on Capri. The small group ensures a relaxed, intimate atmosphere, with Prosecco and drinks on board.
Reviewers enjoy the friendly guides and beautiful scenery, highlighting the efficiency of the route and the personalized touches.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for travelers wanting a well-paced, intimate boat experience with plenty of swimming and sightseeing.
11. From Positano: Amalfi Coast and Emerald Grotto Group Cruise
At number 11, this group cruise lasts about 7 hours and costs vary by date. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed tour with stops at sea caves, charming towns like Atrani and Maiori, and free time in Amalfi. You’ll enjoy Prosecco and soft drinks while taking in the coast’s beauty.
Rated 4.6/5, travelers appreciate the informative captain and beautiful swimming spots.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who prefer a less private but still personal and scenic experience.
12. Half-Day Private Boat Tour of the Amalfi Coast
Number 12 is a 4-hour private tour for up to five people at $913.86. It’s a condensed, private experience focusing on Furore Fjord, Emerald Grotto, and scenic coastlines. It’s especially suited for those short on time but wanting a tailored, intimate trip.
Guests love the responsive host and beautiful scenery, especially the Furore Fjord, which is highly Instagrammable.
Bottom line: An efficient, private option for a quick but personalized Amalfi Coast experience.
13. Sunset tour by private boat from Positano, Praiano or Amalfi
Number 13 offers a 1 hour 40-minute sunset cruise at $451 per group. It’s perfect for romantic moments—think proposals or a special date. You’ll gently glide past Positano, Praiano, and Furore, sipping aperitifs as the sun dips below the horizon.
Reviewers highlight the magical sunset views and the romantic atmosphere. It’s a short but meaningful experience for those celebrating or simply wanting to end their day with a special touch.
Bottom line: An intimate, romantic option ideal for couples or celebrating special occasions.
14. Capri boat tour from Positano with Light Lunch, Drinks & Swim
Finally, number 14 offers a full-day trip at about $178.81 per person, including lunch, drinks, and stops to swim and explore Capri’s caves. It’s a small-group tour designed for easy, enjoyable exploration, with snacks and limoncello tasting included.
Travelers love the seamless transfer from Positano and the balance of guided sightseeing and free time on land. The boat visits Cala di Mitigliano, White Grotto, and Green Grotto, with the chance to relax.
Bottom line: Great for travelers wanting a comprehensive, relaxed day on a comfortable boat with some luxury touches.
How to Choose Your Perfect Boat Tour in Positano
When selecting among these tours, consider your budget, group size, and what experiences matter most—private versus group, onshore exploration versus water-based sightseeing. For a romantic escape, the Sunset Tour offers a magical end to the day. If you want ultimate privacy, then the luxury private tours fit best. For those on a budget or traveling solo, the small-group options provide excellent value and personal attention. Remember, some tours include extra fees like Blue Grotto entry (~15€), so plan accordingly.
Booking early is advisable, especially for high season in summer when spots fill quickly. Check reviews to see which captain’s style suits your vibe—many emphasize knowledgeable, friendly guides who make your day memorable.
Final Thoughts
Positano’s crystal-clear waters and dramatic coastlines make it an ideal destination for cruises and boat tours. Whether you want a private luxury experience or a small-group adventure, options abound. For a special treat, consider a sunset cruise or a full-day Capri exploration. If you’re traveling with family or a romantic partner, there’s a boat tour tailored for that too.
No matter which tour you pick, booking early is your best bet for securing your spot—these trips are popular for good reason. Now, all that’s left is to hop aboard and enjoy the stunning views of Italy’s most photogenic coastline.