From Sorrento: Amalfi Coast Small Group Boat Day Tour

This review covers a popular small-group boat adventure along Italy’s breathtaking Amalfi Coast, departing from Sorrento. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the consistent five-star ratings and detailed reviews suggest it’s a fantastic way to experience the region’s highlights from the water.

What draws us to this tour are the spectacular coastal views, the chance to visit iconic towns like Positano and Amalfi, and the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters. We also appreciate the small-group setting, which promises a more intimate and relaxed experience compared to larger tours.

A potential consideration is the cost, which some may find on the higher side. However, many reviews highlight the value in the personalized service, scenic stops, and all-inclusive drinks that make it worthwhile.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comfortable, scenic, and well-organized day on the water, especially those looking for a balance of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing with a small group.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal views from a spacious boat make this a memorable experience.
• Visit the towns of Amalfi and Positano with free time to explore their charming streets.
• Includes swimming and snorkeling, perfect for cooling off and observing marine life.
• Small-group size (limited to 12 participants) ensures personalized attention.
• All drinks and seasonal fruit are included, keeping you refreshed throughout.
• Professional skipper and friendly assistant create a relaxed, informed atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: An In-Depth Look

An Ideal Way to See the Amalfi Coast

This tour is a scenic escape that combines the best of Italy’s Amalfi Coast with the comfort of a well-equipped boat. Departing from Sorrento’s Piazza Marinai d’Italia, your crew, led by a professional skipper and an English-speaking assistant, will take you along the coast that many consider one of the most beautiful in the world.

The journey lasts around 8 hours, giving you ample time to soak in the views, enjoy the swim stops, and explore the towns. The boat itself is described as spacious and not overcrowded, which is a stark contrast to the often cramped feeling of larger group cruises. This setup allows you to relax, take photos, and really savor the experience without feeling rushed.

The Highlights: Coastal Stops and TownVisits

The tour covers an impressive stretch of coastline, beginning with a gentle cruise past Sorrento, the Punta Campanella marine reserve, and the famous Li Galli Islands, home to the Galli archipelago. You’ll pass by numerous beautiful sites, such as the Bay of Ieranto, Nerano, Praiano, and Furore, each offering stunning vistas and photo opportunities.

One reviewer praised the boat’s size and comfort, describing the journey from Sorrento to Amalfi as smooth with no seasickness issues.

Swim and Snorkel Breaks

A standout feature of this cruise is the time allocated for swimming and snorkeling. The crew will equip you with scuba masks, and you’ll get to see the vibrant marine life beneath the waves. Many guests mention how refreshing and fun it is to jump into the deep blue waters of the Gulf of Salerno.

“Jumping off the boat and swimming in the clear blue sea was so refreshing and fun,” shared a reviewer, emphasizing how these stops add a real sense of adventure to the trip.

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Amalfi and Positano: Two Iconic Coastal Towns

After around 1.5 hours in Amalfi, you’ll have time to walk the lively streets, explore shops, or just sit in a café. Many guests appreciate the balanced amount of free time, allowing a proper taste of each town without feeling rushed.

Next, you’ll visit Positano, with another 1.5 hours to stroll through its iconic streets, admire colorful buildings, and do some shopping. Reviewers love how this combination offers a perfect mix of sightseeing and leisure.

Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere Onboard

On the boat, seasonal fruit, soft drinks, beer, and a bottle of prosecco are included — a thoughtful touch that keeps everyone energized. The crew’s friendly approach creates an inviting atmosphere, often described as both professional and warm.

“Plenty of drinks were provided, and the highlight was the swim stop,” notes one guest. The inclusion of drinks and snacks means you won’t need to worry about finding refreshments during the day.

Practical Details and Comfort

The tour’s starting point is clearly organized — look for a team member wearing a T-shirt with the MBS logo in front of the Marina Piccola Sorrento port. The boat features restrooms, showers, and life jackets, making the journey comfortable and safe.

The small group size, limited to 12 people, enhances the experience, encouraging interaction and personalized attention. With a flexible reservation policy—free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—you can plan with confidence.

How the Itinerary Flows

• The tour kicks off with a brief meet-up at Piazza Marinai d’Italia.
• You’ll cruise past Sorrento’s coastline, with highlights including Punta Campanella and Crapolla.
• The first stop is Amalfi, where you get a chance to explore and relax.
• Next is Positano, with its famously colorful houses and lively streets.
• You’ll enjoy a swim stop along the Amalfi coast, with refreshments and snorkeling gear provided.
• The return journey offers another scenic cruise back to Sorrento, closing a full, rewarding day.

What Reviewers Say About This Tour

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and crew, with many mentioning how Elena and Vincenzo made the experience memorable. As one reviewer notes, “They explained everything about our trip and took us to the best spots.” The feeling of being well-looked-after and informed adds to the overall enjoyment.

The value for money also gets high marks, especially considering the inclusions: drinks, fruit, snorkeling gear, and the chance to visit two iconic towns. However, some mention that it’s a bit pricey, but many agree that the overall experience justifies the cost.

The swim breaks, in particular, stand out—“jumping off the boat into the blue waters was a highlight,” says one guest. This active, refreshing element makes the trip more than just a sightseeing cruise.

Pricing & Value

While the tour might seem on the higher end price-wise, it includes many thoughtful touches: professional staff, drinks, snacks, snorkeling gear, and small-group intimacy. This combination offers a luxury feel at a reasonable rate when compared to the cost of private transfers or multiple land-based excursions.

Consider that you’re paying for not only transportation but also a curated experience that combines sightseeing, relaxation, and fun in one package. The one-on-one attention from guides and the flexibility of the itinerary further boost the value.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a comfortable, scenic, and social experience on the water, this tour is a fantastic pick. It suits travelers who enjoy moderate activity, such as swimming and walking around towns, but prefer to skip the long hikes or crowded buses.

Those who value authentic coastal scenery and want to avoid the hassle of organizing their own boat trips will find this especially appealing. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or families with older children who can enjoy the water and walking tours.

Final Thoughts

This small-group boat tour from Sorrento to the Amalfi Coast offers a well-balanced mix of scenic cruising, town visits, and swimming. The intimate setting, knowledgeable guides, and inclusive drinks make it a memorable way to experience Italy’s stunning coastline.

While it’s not the cheapest option around, many feel the quality and personalized service justify the price. The opportunity to explore Amalfi and Positano from the water, coupled with the chance to cool off with a swim, makes this a standout day trip.

If you’re a traveler who loves a blend of relaxation, sightseeing, and authentic coastal charm, this tour should be on your radar.

FAQs

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, with specific start times available upon booking.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Piazza Marinai d’Italia, 33 in Sorrento, with a team member waiting in front of the Restaurant Ruccio wearing an MBS logo T-shirt.

What is included in the price?
You get a professional skipper, an English-speaking assistant, a bottle of prosecco, soft drinks, water, beer, seasonal fruit, snorkeling masks, restroom and shower facilities, life jackets, and fuel.

Can I swim or snorkel during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes swimming and snorkeling stops with provided scuba masks—many guests rave about how fun and refreshing it is.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is not specifically geared for unaccompanied minors, but families with older kids who enjoy water activities will likely enjoy it.

What should I bring?
Sun protection essentials like sunglasses, sun hats, sunscreen, swimwear, towels, and comfortable shoes for the Town walks.

Could the tour be canceled?
Yes, bad weather could lead to cancellation, in which case an alternative date or full refund will be offered.

How many people are on the boat?
The small-group size limits participation to just 12 guests, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is there free time in Amalfi and Positano?
Yes, approximately 1.5 hours in each town allows for walking, shopping, and sightseeing at your own pace.

In the end, this Amalfi Coast boat tour offers a relaxed, scenic, and well-organized way to enjoy some of Italy’s most stunning views. It’s best suited for those who appreciate comfort, small-group intimacy, and the chance to combine sightseeing with swimming in the gorgeous waters of the Gulf of Salerno.

You can check availability for your dates here: