The Complete Yacht Charter Guide to the Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is the Mediterranean's most iconic stretch of coastline — a 50-kilometre ribbon of pastel-coloured villages clinging to near-vertical cliffs above waters that shift from cobalt to turquoise with every turn. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997, the Amalfi Coast encompasses the legendary towns of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, the glamorous island of Capri, and the less-visited Sorrento Peninsula and Li Galli islands. Chartering a yacht is unquestionably the finest way to experience this coastline: the dramatic cliff-face villages are best appreciated from the sea, the hidden grottoes are accessible only by boat, and Capri — with its Blue Grotto, Faraglioni rocks, and legendary dolce vita atmosphere — is a yacht charter destination without equal.
Why Charter a Yacht on the Amalfi Coast?
The Amalfi Coast presents a paradox: it is one of the world's most beautiful coastlines, yet experiencing it by land can be frustrating. The single coastal road (SS163) is narrow, winding, and congested in summer. A yacht charter eliminates these challenges entirely, transforming the journey into the destination. From the water, the full grandeur reveals itself — Positano's cascade of pink and terracotta buildings, the medieval watchtowers, the lemon terraces of Ravello, and the hidden coves invisible from the road. The compact geography means a single day charter can encompass the coast's greatest highlights — Li Galli islands, Positano, Capri's Blue Grotto, and a sunset cruise along the illuminated coastline.
Best Marinas and Departure Points
Marina Grande, Sorrento — The most popular departure point, 10 nautical miles from Capri. Marina Grande, Capri — Start your charter on the island itself. Amalfi Harbour — The historic harbour of the Amalfi Republic. Marina di Stabia, Castellammare — The largest full-service marina in the Gulf of Naples. Other options include Naples' Marina Mergellina, Salerno, and Positano (anchor pickup by tender).
Best Anchorages on the Amalfi Coast
Marina Piccola, Capri — Beneath the famous Faraglioni rocks. Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra) — The world's most famous sea cave. Li Galli Islands — Once owned by Rudolf Nureyev, a marine reserve. Baia di Ieranto — A protected bay facing Capri. Marina di Praia — A tiny fjord-like inlet between Praiano and Furore. Nerano Bay — Famous for Lo Scoglio's spaghetti alla Nerano.
Types of Yacht Charter Available
Day Charter (8–10 hours) — Capri circumnavigation, Blue Grotto, Li Galli, Positano. Half-Day Charter (4–5 hours) — Capri-focused or Amalfi Coast highlights. Sunset Charter (2–3 hours) — Evening cruise with prosecco and the golden light of an Italian sunset. Term Charter (3–7 nights) — Gulf of Naples exploration including Capri, Ischia, Procida, and Pompeii. Event Charter — Weddings at Villa Rufolo in Ravello with reception on board.
How Much Does a Yacht Charter Cost?
Day charters: €2,000–€15,000 depending on yacht size and season. Half-day from €1,200. Sunset charters from €1,000. Weekly term charters from €18,000 to €250,000 for superyachts. Day charter prices typically include captain, crew, fuel, and basic refreshments. Mooring fees in Capri and Positano are among the highest in Italy — budget €500–€2,000 per night.
When Is the Best Time to Charter?
April–May: Lemon trees in bloom, manageable crowds, lower prices. June: The perfect balance — warm water, long days, restaurants in full swing. July–August: Peak glamour, Capri's Piazzetta at its most vibrant, book 6–12 months ahead. September–October: The connoisseur's choice — summer warmth, fewer crowds, exceptional light.
Recommended Itineraries
Classic Day Charter: Capri & Positano: Sorrento → Capri (Faraglioni, Blue Grotto, Marina Piccola) → Li Galli → Positano → Sorrento (35 nm). Amalfi Coast Explorer: Amalfi → Conca dei Marini → Praiano → Positano → Li Galli → Nerano Bay (25 nm). One-Week Gulf of Naples: Naples → Procida → Ischia → Capri → Positano → Amalfi → Nerano → Sorrento (120 nm). Sunset Charter: Positano → Li Galli → Praiano → return under the stars (2.5 hours).
Bluebnc Yachting: Your Amalfi Coast Experts
Bluebnc Yachting offers a curated selection of motor yachts and sailing yachts for charter in the Gulf of Naples. Our charter advisors have personal knowledge of every anchorage, restaurant, and hidden cove. As part of the Isle of Mallorca Group, we combine Amalfi Coast charters with our other Mediterranean destinations — the Balearic Islands, the French Riviera, and Sardinia & Corsica.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to the Amalfi Coast for a yacht charter?
Naples International Airport (NAP) is the main gateway. Sorrento is 60–75 minutes by car or 45 minutes by hydrofoil. Helicopter transfers to Capri or Positano take 15–20 minutes.
Can I visit the Blue Grotto on a yacht charter?
Yes. Yachts anchor outside, and you transfer to small rowing boats for the cave entrance. Best visited early morning before 10:00 to avoid queues. Closed in rough seas.
Is the Amalfi Coast suitable for a family yacht charter?
Absolutely. Calm waters, shallow swimming spots at Nerano Bay and Marina Piccola, and fascinating excursions (Pompeii, Blue Grotto, Procida) make it excellent for families.
Where can I eat on a yacht charter along the Amalfi Coast?
Top recommendations: Da Adolfo (Positano, boat access only), Lo Scoglio (Nerano), Il Riccio (Capri, Michelin-starred), La Fontelina (Capri, beneath the Faraglioni), and Ristorante La Praia (Praiano).
Can I combine an Amalfi Coast charter with Capri?
Capri is integral to virtually every Amalfi Coast charter. The island is just 10 nautical miles from Sorrento, reachable in 30–60 minutes.
What is the best yacht size for the Amalfi Coast?
For day charters, 12–18m is ideal. For term charters, 20–30m provides excellent living space. Superyachts (40m+) may need to anchor further offshore at smaller stops.
Book Your Charter
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Contact Bluebnc Yachting to start planning your charter. Email: [email protected] | Phone: +34 871 045 850