Naples to Amalfi Coast Tour: Boat Trip Review & Guide

Okay, so you’re pondering a day-long adventure from Naples to the stunning Amalfi Coast, and it seems like the boat tours are catching your attention? Good choice. Getting to see this picturesque coastline, not from the road, but from the crystal-clear water can be just amazing. This review, though, gives you an inside peek into what it’s actually like, maybe some cool tips, and some stuff you should keep in mind to get the absolute most out of your tour.

Why Opt for a Boat Tour to the Amalfi Coast?

Well, really consider this. The roads along the Amalfi Coast, though quite scenic, that is when you get a chance to look, are famous, well, infamous maybe, for how crowded they can be. Imagine hairpin turns and traffic jams. A boat trip almost lets you totally bypass that mess. You can just sit back, catch the sun, and enjoy that view. You know? Plus, that vantage point from the water? Hard to beat. You actually get this panorama of colorful houses clinging to cliffs, little hidden beaches, and maybe grottoes you wouldn’t see otherwise. And honestly? Just sailing along the Mediterranean is just a blast of fresh air.

Consider also that, a boat just gives you that unique access to places buses simply can’t reach. Remote coves and grottos along the coast? That is almost exclusive to boat tours. Then you can stop to swim in a quiet bay away from any crowds, making you really feel you’ve discovered some special place.

What to Look for in a Tour Operator

Okay, the choices, I know, they might appear overwhelming, but it doesn’t need to feel this way. Check out what’s included. Stuff like onboard commentary can definitely deepen your understanding of the area. Then find out how many people are on board. Too crowded and it can spoil things. Small groups are just nicer, don’t you think? More personal and relaxed. Oh, and read reviews! Get some honest feedback from people who’ve actually been on that particular tour. Check what people found great and anything they didn’t find quite as fantastic. It could point you to details you might not have thought about. Safety first, as well. Verify their boats seem up to par, safety measures, things like that. I’d want that peace of mind too.

In particular, keep your focus sharp on those key questions before handing over any payment. Are food and beverages part of what you’re paying for, or would that be a “pay as you go” situation once you’re already out on the water? Would you even want their particular sandwich selection to start? Is there a knowledgeable guide who can tell you a few of the cool stories that stretch back centuries along the coast, or do you have to entertain yourself?

My Experience on the “From Naples Amalfi Coast Tour with Boat Excursion”

Okay, so, here is the real deal, how my tour actually played out. That morning began pretty early, that is, to make it to the meeting spot in Naples. Right off the bat, the staff was cheerful, made me feel pretty welcome, and answered all my last-minute questions. The boat? Appeared well looked after and had plenty of room. A big plus in my book.

Setting Sail: Naples to Sorrento

That initial leg, from Naples toward Sorrento, it lets you get a totally different glimpse of the coastline. You’re sailing past places like Vesuvius in the distance. I thought it was pretty photo-worthy. So then, after a bit, we stopped in Sorrento. Now, you may explore that town for an hour, so you can just stroll, maybe grab an espresso, and people-watch. Now, it is definitely worth seeing but just remember that this part eats into your time for exploring the actual Amalfi Coast towns.

Cruising to Positano and Amalfi

Back onboard and, that is when the real magic started. We sailed past these stunning spots along the coast, on the way to Positano. Oh man, I tell you what, that view of Positano from the sea, I am not going to lie, just postcards don’t really do it justice. Then these houses are stacked on that hillside, almost they seem to spill down to the water. Now, we stopped there for, that is like two hours, so it gave you time to wander a little, check out some stores, and maybe grab lunch.

After Positano, it was on to Amalfi, and so more great views. Amalfi’s got kind of more history. Check out its cathedral; that’s what I’d recommend, as a cool little side adventure. Okay, here’s something to keep in mind. These stops, though they were amazing, they did feel pretty short. I would’ve honestly loved some more time in both places.

The Boat Excursion: Caves and Coves

Here, just a bit highlight of the tour? Oh definitely. Now, it included sailing into some of those sea caves. The water, so clear, I just thought the colors were surreal. You could even take a dip. They give you a chance to swim right off the boat in a secluded cove. Yeah, I enjoyed this break from actually sightseeing, big time.

What Could Have Been Better

Well, honestly, this tour I think was awesome, but some stuff could’ve made it better. The commentary? Eh, was a bit hit-or-miss. Parts of the coast, maybe they’d skip talking about, or so I think they kind of hurried through it. It could’ve used more depth. Those stops? Again, seemed pretty rushed. And the boat itself? It was great, but not a lot of shade, so you’ll need that sun protection. All of the above just mentioned are not problems if you find another touring company with better accomodations.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Amalfi Coast Boat Tour

So then, now you need the insights that will help you not make errors while venturing on this amazing boat tour.

• Slather on Sunscreen: Okay, really. I’m not kidding around about this. The sun can be sneaky. Bring a hat and sunglasses, as well, you’ll need them.
• Stay Hydrated: Carry water, I believe, because that sun saps your energy. And keep a refillable bottle with you so it saves on some cash.
• Comfy Shoes are Just Key: Now, that exploring the towns bit involves some walking, maybe up those slopes, I think it’s best to wear some super comfy shoes. Leave the sandals for after the trek.
• Time Management Skills Will be Appreciated: Two hours fly, for real. Get some priorities, know what you want to see, then hit it.
• Cash: A few spots may be cash only, and that is just what it is. It’s good to have some on you. Plus little shops and cafes might only do cash business.
• Seasickness Preparedness: If you tend to feel queasy on boats, it’s wise to take precautions beforehand, or you risk misery.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Overall? Sure, that “From Naples Amalfi Coast Tour with Boat Excursion” is, I think, a really cool way to get a taste of this coast. The views were definitely amazing, the boat trip itself was super fun, and it gave you a decent intro to Positano and Amalfi. But keep in mind what I pointed out. Those stops may be just short for some, and maybe it would’ve been great to have just a little bit better tour guide. If you know that heading in, and just plan a little bit, that you might very well have just a fantastic time. Do I recommend? Honestly I think so.

Other Amalfi Coast Tour Options From Naples

The Naples-to-Amalfi Coast trip that I got the chance to partake in isn’t, surely, the only one. So then, it’s actually a good idea to give a peek at some other tours out there before setting sail, almost because those choices just give flexibility.

Private Boat Tour

Okay so, these are pricier, I think, but you should ask yourself, are they worth it to splurge? Yeah if you really want that personal experience. That means, maybe designing the entire itinerary for you? A boat only your crew is aboard? Oh, these really up the level of things if you can swing the expense.

Small Group Tour

These still let you just get an experience where things are a little more hands-on compared to large packs of people and buses. With the small group tours, that just could lead to getting just that happy spot that fits most people perfectly.

Bus Tours

Bus tours, maybe, you think, are not that special, but maybe reconsider them? Bus tours are awesome if you are very anxious about what you spend? Because the costs are way smaller.

F.A.Q. About Amalfi Coast Boat Tours