If you ask us what the finest luxury in Campania is, we answer without hesitation: a day on a private boat. Seeing Capri, Positano and the Amalfi Coast from the sea, stopping wherever you like, swimming in waters you can't reach from the road. It changes the way you see these places. Here is how to organise it.
The classic routes
- Around Capri: from Marina Grande to the Faraglioni, the Natural Arch seen from the sea, the caves along the coast and coves for swimming. With calm seas and the right timing you can also try the Blue Grotto.
- Amalfi Coast: from Positano towards Praiano, the fjord of Furore, the Emerald Grotto at Conca dei Marini and Amalfi.
- Sorrento peninsula: from Sorrento and Massa Lubrense towards Punta Campanella and the Bay of Ieranto, a marine protected area.
- Capri and Positano in one day: the most requested combination, crossing between the island and the coast.
Which boat to choose
The wooden Sorrento gozzo is the traditional boat: comfortable, stable, elegant. A motorboat is faster and allows longer routes. For groups or multi-day trips there are yachts and catamarans with crew. The skipper is almost always included: they know the spots, the currents and the rules of the protected areas.
When to go
From May to October. In June and September the sea is warm and there is less boat traffic than in August. Leave early in the morning: the sea is calmer and the coves still empty.
How much it costs
Prices vary widely by boat, season and duration. Half a day on a gozzo costs much less than a full day on a yacht. Always ask what is included: fuel, skipper, drinks, lunch, snorkelling gear.
Our tips
- Book ahead in high season, especially for July and August.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, a towel, a light jacket for the way back and some cash.
- Lunch: ask the skipper to stop at a seaside restaurant reachable by boat, or to arrange lunch on board with local produce.
- Respect the sea: no plastic, care in protected areas and around swimmers.
Looking for a boat hire with skipper? See Rentals in our directory, and read our luxury guide.
