The best views of the Amalfi Coast are snapped from the water. The sun shines here 280 days a year and the winds are very mild, which makes it a perfect destination for a yachting trip. This ‘Amalfi Coast by Boat’ 7-day itinerary covers both towns and islands: Pompei, Amalfi, Ischia, Capri and Positano. Sea breeze, mountains, pines, thermal springs, Italian cuisine, la dolce vita, prosecco, and oysters. On top of the ability to see Italy from another angle. Did you know that exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site by boat allows you to discover hidden gems that 80% of land-based tourists miss?
Day 1: Amalfi – Capri
The exploration begins in Amalfi, which named the whole coast. The Romans established it in the 4th century and turned it into a marine republic with one of the main trade centers in Italy (others were Venice, Pisa, and Genova). Arab merchants used to be the most frequent guests. They built a part of the city that resembled their homeland: narrow streets and homes on top of one another. You can see Amalfi in detail as you walk around.
An interesting landmark is an ancient drinking fountain Cape ‘e Ciucci. Its name translates as “Donkey’s Head” because this is where the donkeys drank after returning from fieldwork. Then one wealthy family decorated the fountain with a Nativity Scene. It depicts the birth of Christ, but it does not feature any figurine of Jesus. However, it’s believed that a tiny Jesus appears here during Christmas and no one knows where it comes from or where it disappears after the festivities.
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Supportico Rua is on the left of the fountain. This is the longest passage in Amalfi. The city was built on the rock, so the locals chiseled these narrow corridors to make it easier to get around. Though the Amalfi Cathedral is the foremost landmark. Andrew the Apostle was the protector of this city. His remains are buried here.
Before departing for Capri, the best ways to kill time are to stroll the gardens of the 9th-century Amalfi Cathedral, have lunch in a restaurant overlooking the bay, or visit the central Piazza del Duomo. The journey to Capri takes 1.5 to 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax and soak in the sun.
Day 2: Capri – Ischia
Upon arrival in Capri, dock at Marina Grande. There are 2 major activities: exploring the iconic Blue Grotto or taking a walk along the marina reaching Piazza Umberto I and the botanical garden. Otherwise right from Marina Grande take the funicular up to the Piazzetta, the island’s main square. Spend the afternoon exploring the charming streets, visiting the Gardens of Augustus for stunning views of the Faraglioni rocks.
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The crossing from Capri to Ischia will take 3 hours. Sailing to Ischia, you can observe Li Galli Islands after twenty minutes on the way. As legend has it, 3 mermaids sinking the passing ships lived there. Neptune turned them into rocky islands as a punishment. The largest island even resembles a mermaid.
Like almost every location on the Amalfi Coast, Capri has its own legend. A girl fell in love with a lad from a rich family. Their relatives were against the misalliance. She jumped into the water in despair and became a beautiful Capri Island. The lad could not deal with the loss and turned into an angry volcano on Mount Vesuvius.
Day 3: Ischia
Ischia has a volcanic origin. It’s still considered active, however, the last eruption occurred in 1301. Its warm depths feed lush vegetation, giving Ischia the name of “Green Island”. So this is a great place to relax or explore the numerous ancient Roman ruins, fortresses, and churches. You should start with the Castello Aragonese: a walk from the marina will take about 45 minutes, just enough to see the city. The castle stands on a separate lava island and is connected to Ischia by a dam. It was built in the Middle Ages, and during pirate raids, all the inhabitants of the island hid here – almost 2000 families.
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Head to the La Mortella Gardens, a botanical garden created by Lady Susana Walton, which boasts exotic plants and beautiful water features. If you’re a hiking enthusiast, take a trek up Mount Epomeo, the highest point on the island, for unrivaled views of the Bay of Naples.
The island is famous for its thermal complexes. The rich come to Ischia Island to revitalize. One of the most popular wellness venues is Gardini Poseidon Terme. As legend has it, the Roman god Jupiter buried a giant under this island, who still keeps it warm with his breath. That includes the underground waters that gained healing powers.
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The tourists are boosting their health in the thermal springs. Local thermal water contains dozens of useful microelements and is recommended for treating rheumatism, and stress, and even to slow down aging. Thermal springs are popular mostly with older tourists. It counts about 2 dozens of pools with the temperature varying between 28°C / 82°F and 40°C / 104°F.
Day 4: Ischia – Sorrento
A journey from Ischia to Sorrento will take around 2 to 3 hours. Sorrento is a small ancient town located on top of 50-meter tall cliffs overlooking the Gulf of Naples. As legend has it, these waters were home to sirens – mermaids with alluring voices. They would use their singing to attract ships to their kingdom. And now Sorrento attracts tourists from all over the world like a magnet. Sorrento always attracted aristocrats and the bohemian elite. The rich find these conditions perfect. So many hotels on the coast boast their five stars.
Another landmark of Sorrento is the scenic road leading to the port, Via Luigi de Maio. That street runs through the bottom of a gorge created by a powerful earthquake. The best ways to finish the day would be to sit in the central square of Tasso with a glass of wine, visit the 15th-century Cathedral of St. Anthony, stroll through the garden of Villa Comunale, have dinner in a fish restaurant in the marina, and pay a visit to Sedile Dominova, a historic seat of power now beautifully adorned with frescoes.
Day 5: Sorrento – Pompei – Sorrento
A trip from Sorrento to Pompei by car will only take about an hour. There in 79 AD, the most famous eruption in human history occurred. Today it’s an open-air museum and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through the well-preserved streets, and visit the amphitheater, the Forum, and the Villa of the Mysteries with its stunning frescoes. To get the most out of the experience, consider visiting early in the day to avoid the crowds.
Day 6: Sorrento – Positano
Sailing from Sorrento to Positano will take about an hour. Positano is a small village, but it is the most popular tourist destination on the Amalfi Coast. Tourists flock here on a daily basis. As legend has it, Poseidon founded Positano as a tribute to his beautiful nymph Positea. He chose a small rocky corner on the shore of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The colorful villas cover the entire cliff. Rich Romans began building them in the 1st Century. Nowadays it attracts rich people from everywhere. The view of Positano from the sea is very popular on social networks and postcards!
Day 7: Positano – Salerno
A journey from Positano to Salerno by sea is around 2 hours. The historic center of Salerno is a blend of medieval churches, neon restaurants, souvenir shops, trattorias exuding irresistible food scents, and cozy wine bars. As you stroll along the lively Via dei Mercanti, make sure to visit the Pinacoteca, a free art museum housed in the Pinto Palace. Don’t miss the chance to explore the Abbey of San Benedetto and the imposing Arechi Castle. Visit the Salerno Cathedral, an example of medieval architecture. As well as, Minerva’s Garden, an ancient botanical garden that dates back to the medieval period too.
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Planning A Trip Along the Amalfi Coast by Boat
For those seeking adventure, boat tours often include opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and even enjoying local cuisine right on the water. With various options available — from private charters to small group excursions — there’s something for everyone. Planning a boat trip along the Amalfi Coast the key factors to consider are the best time to visit and how to navigate the stunning coastline. As well as taking into account safety and regulations.
Best Time to Visit
The Sailing season at Amalfi Coast is from late spring to early fall, specifically May to September. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny.
Key Considerations:
- Crowds: July and August are peak tourist months. Expect larger crowds and higher prices.
- Weather: Temperatures can soar in July and August, reaching the mid-80s°F (over 30°C).
- Events: The spring offers beautiful blooms and local festivals, adding charm to the trip.
Traveling in late September or early October can provide a more relaxed experience with milder temperatures.
Navigating the Coastline ☸️
Navigating the coastline of the Amalfi Coast by boat requires careful planning and attention to detail to make the most of your journey. Here’s a specific guide to help you navigate efficiently:
- Choosing the Right Boat 🛥️: Depending on your experience and group size, select a boat that suits your needs. For navigating the Amalfi Coast’s rocky inlets and narrow coves, a boat with a shallow draft is ideal. If you plan on anchoring near shore, a motorboat or a small yacht will offer better maneuverability.
- Docking and Anchoring ⚓️:
- Amalfi: The main harbor is Marina Coppola, where docking fees vary depending on the season and the size of your boat. Advanced reservations are highly recommended during peak season (June to September).
- Positano: There are limited docking facilities, so it’s advisable to use one of the offshore buoys and take a tender to shore. Be mindful of the currents near the cliffs.
- Capri: Marina Grande offers comprehensive services but is often crowded. Arrive early or consider anchoring in Marina Piccola for a more peaceful experience, though it’s less protected.
- Navigation Tips 🧭:
- Weather Monitoring: The Tyrrhenian Sea can be unpredictable. Always check marine forecasts daily. Afternoon winds (Maestrale) are common, especially between Capri and the mainland.
- Marine Traffic: The Amalfi Coast is busy, particularly in summer. Stick to designated marine routes and be aware of ferry schedules to avoid congestion.
- Tide Considerations: While tides are generally mild, be aware of tidal currents, especially near narrow straits like those around the islands.
- Fuel and Supplies ⛽️:
- Fuel Stops: Refuel in larger ports like Amalfi, Sorrento, or Capri. Smaller harbors may have limited fuel availability.
- Provisions: Stock up on supplies in Amalfi or Sorrento, where there are supermarkets close to the marinas. Freshwater availability is limited in smaller ports, so fill your tanks accordingly.
- Key Points of Interest 🗝️:
- Fiordo di Furore: Navigate carefully into this narrow fjord to avoid rocks. Anchoring is prohibited close to the shore; instead, use a tender to explore.
- Li Galli Islands: Known for their underwater reefs, this area is popular with divers. Approach with caution and avoid anchoring directly over the reefs to protect the marine environment.
Amalfi Coast Anchoring Spots
Amalfi Pier Embarkation: Amalfi Sea Port is a popular embarkation point, strategically located for easy access to various boat tours. One of the benefits of departing from Amalfi is the immediate access to the town’s historic charm, allowing visitors to explore shops and cafes before sailing. The embarkation point provides spectacular views of the surrounding cliffs, enhancing the overall experience as travelers prepare for their adventure.
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Capri: Capri, the famed island, serves as not only a destination but also a notable departure point for the Amalfi Coast. Boats frequently anchor at Marina Grande, the main harbor of Capri.
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Ischia: since Ishia is an island, there’s a good number of anchoring points. Though the most popular one is Castello Aragonese Anchorage or Cala degli Aragonesi
Sorrento: Sorrento serves as a major gateway to the Amalfi Coast, being a frequent anchoring point for boats. The port provides various services.
Positano Launch: The Positano launch site is pivotal for those looking to explore the coast’s stunning beauty. There are several anchoring options at Positano: Marina di Positano Mooring Service, Grassi Junior Positano Mooring Service, and Fornillo Beach.
Salerno: The Salerno port features frequent connections to popular towns like Amalfi and Positano. Visitors can find a variety of services, including ticket offices and rental options, making it convenient for travelers.
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Amalfi Coast Boat Safety Tips
When exploring the Amalfi Coast by boat, there are important safety considerations and regulations to keep in mind. Navigation laws and weather conditions play a crucial role in ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.
Navigational Laws
Navigational laws are essential for boaters operating along the Amalfi Coast. Familiarity with local maritime regulations is crucial. Here are a few key points:
| Licenses | Check if a license is required for boat operation. Certain boats do require a valid boating license, while others can be rented without one. |
| Traffic Rules | Follow established traffic routes to avoid collisions with larger vessels. It’s essential to stay aware of signs and navigation markers. |
| Speed Limits | Adhere to local speed limits to ensure safety for all water users. Excessive speeds can lead to accidents and fines. |
| Anchoring | Be aware of designated anchoring areas to avoid damaging marine life or breaking local regulations. Some areas may restrict anchoring to protect wildlife habitats. |
| Protected Areas | Some parts of the coast, such as the Marine Protected Area around Punta Campanella, have restrictions on anchoring and fishing. Familiarize yourself with these regulations to avoid fines. |
By following these navigational laws, boaters can ensure a smoother, safer experience.
Weather Considerations
Weather plays a vital role in boating safety on the Amalfi Coast. It’s essential to check the forecast before heading out. Here are some points to consider:
- Winds 💨: Naval winds like the “Libeccio” can create unpredictable waves. Monitor wind conditions closely as they can change rapidly.
- Rain ☔️: Sudden thunderstorms are common, particularly in late summer. A quick rainstorm can turn open waters into choppy seas.
- Visibility 👁️: Fog can develop quickly along the coast. Ensure you have proper navigation tools if visibility drops.
- Local Reports 🗞️: Regularly check local weather reports and updates from marine authorities for the latest safety advisories.
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