An Amalfi Coast yacht charter promises the ultimate Mediterranean vacation and a true taste of life in Italy. Dotted along the coast, the towns of Positano, Sorrento, Ravello and the island of Capri are located in close proximity to one another, making them easy to incorporate into a short-hop charter itinerary. Since the Amalfi Coast has limited on-land routes, a luxury yacht charter is the ultimate way to fall in love with this stunning slice of West Italy in summer 2020.
Known for its dramatic cliffs and picture-perfect towns, the Amalfi Coast sits in the Campania region of Italy bordered by the Tyrrhenian sea. It is shouldered by the Bay of Naples to the north and the Salerno Gulf to the south. Also known as the Sorrentine Peninsula, the region covers around 50 kilometers of coast, and all of it is best explored by boat. The region is expected to be one of the most popular cruising regions for summer 2020 and beyond, with hundreds of people traveling from around the globe to rent a yacht and explore these UNESCO-listed shores and deep blue cruising grounds.
Luxury yacht charters on the Amalfi Coast generally begin in Naples, or Napoli in Italian, and approach the Amalfi Coast from the north. However, it is equally possible for you to begin your yachting adventure in Salerno, and cruise along the south-facing side of the peninsula first.
Whatever route you choose, you can be sure you won’t miss the highlights; the Amalfi Coast is comparatively smaller than other Mediterranean hotspots, so you incorporate everything you want to see into a shorter itinerary.
If you are considering a yacht charter vacation in the Mediterranean for summer 2020 / 2021 and onwards, we recommend the Amalfi Coast for anyone looking for mesmerizing scenery, romantic towns, mouthwatering Italian food and ancient landmarks.
The Amalfi Coast, known in Italian as Costiera Amalfitana, has become synonymous with history, romance and natural beauty. A World Heritage Site, the region's craggy cliffs encompass towns such as lemon-scented Sorrento, Medieval Ravello and pretty pastel-colored Positano; but there are plenty of small lesser-known towns such as Praiano, Maiori and Conca dei Marini which have their own unique charm.
Offshore, the region offers a selection of islands which can be explored on a yacht; the buzzing island of Capri is set just a few kilometers adrift from the mainland, while the smaller, undeveloped island string called ‘La Sirenuses’, also known as Li Galli, is located in close proximity to Positano. Further north, charterers also have the opportunity to discover the Phlegraean Islands archipelago, which includes Ischia, Procida and Vivara.
Scattered along the Amalfi Coast there are numerous upmarket restaurants, chic hotels and bijou beaches at your disposal. On top of this, this part of Campania, near Pompeii, offers a wide range of cultural highlights that volunteer a fascinating insight into Neapolitan history.
With mesmerizing views at every corner and no shortage of things to see and do, the Amalfi Coast has become a playground for superyachts and a pilgrimage for the Hollywood elite. However, the region has clung on to its rustic charm, and is an extremely sought-after vacation spot among Italians visiting from other parts of the country.
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, a rich culture trip or party vibes with friends, the Amalfi Coast is primed for a variety of different superyacht vacations. From sipping coffee at Piazza Tasso in Sorrento to taking in the beauty of Santa Maria Assunta chapel in Positano, the region offers something for every type of charter guest.
The best time for a yachting vacation on the Amalfi Coast is between May and August; although warm weather extends into April and September. The seas are generally calm between these months, with lots of sunshine, cloudless skies and temperatures soaring into the nineties. Those looking to escape the heat should avoid visiting in June, July and August, when the mercury is at its peak.
The Amalfi Coast has a very low average rainfall during the summer months, meaning you don't need to worry about showers spoiling your on-deck fun. What’s more, the Sorrentine Peninsula enjoys shelter from the winds on both its north and south sides, so you can rest easy knowing your cruising experience will likely be smooth sailing.
Most yacht charters on the Amalfi Coast typically begin in Naples. It's simple and straightforward to fly into Naples International Airport (NAP), which operates non-stop flights from the USA, Russia and the Middle East during the peak season.
The port of Naples is an international gateway to other parts of Italy and wider Europe, and charter yachts are easily able to find a berth at one of the many marinas here.
Marina di Stabia is one of the most popular places to begin a yacht charter on the Amalfi Coast. It's located midway between Naples and Salerno on the north-western side of the Amalfi Coast, and boasts luxury facilities and the capacity to host yachts measuring up to 100m. It is conveniently situated just thirty minutes' drive from Naples airport.
Marina Molo Louise is another favorite option for starting a yacht charter in Naples, and caters to yachts measuring up to 110m. It is located just over twenty minutes' away from the airport.
In Salerno, there is an equally good selection of marinas available to you. The most popular is Marina d'Arechi, which has 1,000 berths with a maximum capacity of 130m.
There is a limited number of marinas along the Amalfi Coast, and as a result, the berthing costs in this region are among the highest in the Mediterranean. Slips are also in high demand, as many smaller yachts are unable to sit out at anchor as the water is too deep.
If you would like to spend a night in port, then be sure to make this clear to your crew or your charter broker well in advance, so that they can book it. It's advisable to spend a few nights of your charter docked in a marina, as there are plenty of restaurants and bars that are great for evening entertainment on the Amalfi Coast, and being berthed in a marina will give you easy access to the town centre.
The marinas that do exist along the Amalfi Coast typically cater to smaller yachts, so be sure to bear this mind. In the town of Amalfi, Coppola Marina has 90 berths with a maximum length of 35m
Marina Piccola in Sorrento has 280 berths which cater to yachts measuring up to 40m. In Positano, Grassi Junior offers 30 berths for yachts with a maximum length of 30m.
Capri is another popular addition to an Amalfi Coast superyacht vacation, but the cost of a slip for one night is the highest in the Mediterranean, so be aware of this before you book in. There is a total of 300 berths, with a maximum length of 60m.
Berthing is something that will add an extra cost to your yacht charter vacation, so it's important to be realistic about your budget and factor these expenses in before you book your charter.
If you are spending more time chartering a yacht, you may be tempted to head to Sicily, Sardinia or the Italian Riviera as part of your Amalfi Coast superyacht charter. All of these destinations can be accessed within a night cruise, and visiting them is a great way to explore another side of Italy.
With so many alluring towns and villages on the Amalfi Coast and the surrounding region, you may wish to finish your crewed yacht charter in a new destination. However, you could also finish your vacation where you started, and there are plenty of itineraries that incorporate a round trip.
Wherever you choose to disembark your yacht, finding an airport to take you back home won't be a problem. The Amalfi Coast and surrounding areas are well-connected by air, and you will enjoy a seamless transfer to an airport of your choice. Helicopter transfers can also be arranged; Sorrento, Capri, Sicily and Sardinia all have private heliports.
The Amalfi Coast is a hugely popular yacht charter destination, and there are hundreds of different crewed yachts in the local fleet to choose from. You will be spoilt for choice!
Your yacht charter broker will be able to best advise you. Their job is to find the perfect yacht that suits the needs of you and your charter party. No matter what your criteria, there will be a superyacht that matches it; just be sure to book well in advance, as yachts in the region are always in extremely high demand during the summer season.
Motor yacht charter
Motor yacht charter is the most popular for those looking to zip between destinations without having to worry about a dip in the wind. Whether you're looking for a speedy sport yacht for slicing through the seas, or you'd rather have a luxury megayacht with all of the state-of-the-art amenities at your fingertips, your yacht charter broker will be able to find you a motor yacht that ticks all the right boxes. Be aware that not many marinas along the coast cater to larger yachts, so be sure to factor this in when discussing your options with your broker.
Sailing yacht charter
Sailing yacht charter is popular as well, and this type of yachting vacation is perfect for those wanting to feel even closer to the ocean. Sailing conditions on the Amalfi Coast are typically very favorable, with light winds and calm seas. There are plenty of catamarans, monohulls and racer sailers available, so it won't be hard to find a charter sailing yacht to suit your needs.
The Amalfi Coast is good for all types of yacht charter vacation. The region is great for fun with the family, with lots of culture and history to keep children entertained, as well as a variety of restaurants to suit every palate and occasion.
However, be aware that the waters of the Tyrrhenian sea are deep and the area doesn't have an excess of beaches where little ones can play.
The region is primed for a see-and-be-seen luxury yacht charter. The glitzy restaurants and celebrity-approved beach clubs and bars mean that there is plenty for those to enjoy as part of a yacht charter with friends.
Sorrento is the first stop on an Amalfi Coast private yacht charter which begins in Napoli. Formerly called Sorrentum, this town was famous in Roman years for its production of lemons. There is a small marina that allows you to disembark and explore this ancient town, with its elegant baroque-style architecture carving out the cobbled streets.
The town is best-known for the buzzy main square of Piazza Tasso, where you can sit and sip espresso while people-watching as the locals go about their days. It also has a naturally-occurring lagoon known as the Baths of Queen Giovanna, and the clear waters make a lovely spot for a refreshing dip or kayak session. While in Sorrento, be sure to spend time out at sea, where the Tyrrhenian waters are filled with marine life; expect to see plenty of loggerhead turtles during peak season.
Located just a few kilometres adrift from the Amalfi Coast, Capri is a must-visit for anyone with a love of luxury living. Superyachts head to Capri every year to explore the island’s picturesque beaches, impressive fashion houses and incredible cuisine.
The island is split into Capri and Anacapri; Capri is more cosmopolitan and glamorous, and plays host to a central marina- Marina Grande- which can usually be found filled with shiny motor yachts. The best way to see all of Capri is by taking a hike through the island's interior. Check out Villa Jovis, a former emperor's palace now lying in crumbled ruins on the east side, and Villa Lysis, an elegant palazzo flanked by columns and dedicated to the 'Youth of Love'.
Neighboring Anacapri still has an undeveloped authenticity- it’s here you will find the towering Mount Solaro with the famous Villa San Michele art museum perched midway up the mountain. Nearby lies the iconic Blue Grotto, a naturally-occurring phenomenon which has become a must-visit when visiting Capri by yacht. The semi-submerged cave is filled with seawater that refracts light from outside, causing the water to appear bright blue, as if illuminated.
Positano is one of the most popular destinations for crewed yacht charters on the Amalfi Coast, and this iconic little town is an impressive sight for those arriving by superyacht. There is a marina, but it's small, and it's easier to take a tender straight up the shore.
Clinging to the side of the cliff, Positano is home to rainbow-hued buildings and winding streets lined with gelaterias, coffee shops and mouthwatering seafood restaurants. It's famous for its majolica tile production, and you'll find countless little boutiques selling homespun, hand-painted crockery emblazoned with traditional Italian art.
There is a central beach, but it’s usually crowded, and it’s best to visit one of the quieter beaches on the edges of the town. There are a handful of laid-back beach clubs where you can stretch out, top up your tan and soak up the party vibes as the sun starts to set.
The Amalfi Coast has become a playground for superyachts and a pilgrimage for the Hollywood elite.
Food-lovers would be remiss not to add Nerano to their itinerary. This tiny commune is a gourmet hotspot, with not one, but two, world-class restaurants on its shores; Lo Scoglio and La Conca del Sogno. It'll be a hard decision choosing between the two, but you can expect incredible flavours and a convivial atmosphere at both.
The town of Amalfi is steeped in culture and history, with the famous Cathedral and Paper-Making Museum offering an insightful look into the rich heritage of this area of Italy. There are plenty of pretty chapels and authentic Mediterranean restaurants dotted throughout the town, making it great for a day of exploring. There is also a large marina, so it's a good destination to stop over for a night during your yacht charter.
Further along the Amalfi Coast, Ravello is an enticing option for charter guests looking for a taste of la dolce vita. Set slightly inland, reaching Ravello requires a tender transfer to the coast and transport into the town; but the views are easily worth it. Ravello is perched on a cliff at dizzying heights above the sea, offering sweeping vistas that are incomparable to anywhere else in the Mediterranean.
The village is best known for its cascading gardens. Villa Rufolo dates back to the 13th century when it was owned by the wealthy Rufolo dynasty. Today is home to hundreds of colourful plant species and plays host to the famous Ravello Festival every year. Neighboring Villa Cimbrone is equally beautiful and is filled with statues and interesting pieces of Greek-style architecture.
- Fantastic restaurants and beach clubs
- Breathtaking views
- Countless towns and villages to explore
- Steeped in history and ancient architecture
- Great dive sites
- Islands off the coast
- Buzzing atmosphere, with plenty to see and do
The Amalfi Coast has a long and successful history as a maritime powerhouse and a tourist destination. Between the 10th and 11th century, the region enjoyed privileged trade routes with Sardinia, Turkey and the wider West Mediterranean, and the region began introducing hotels comparatively earlier than the rest of Europe.
The Amalfi Coast has a romantic allure that has draws in plenty of artists, musicians and writers over the years; and this also makes it a prime candidate for a honeymoon yacht charter vacations. For more information, you can read our Amalfi Coast luxury yacht charter guide.
Those on a superyacht vacation on the Amalfi Coast can discover plenty of other areas in this pocket of Italy. The region is located in close proximity to Salerno, Naples and the islands of Ischia and Procida, which are hidden gems of this part of West Italy.
The Italian Riviera is not far from the Amalfi Coast, and here the city of Rome, the region of Tuscany and beautiful towns including Portofino and Cinque Terre can be easily accessed. Across the Tyrrhenian sea, meanwhile, Sardinia and Corsica await, offering a wealth of secluded sand-coated beaches and sleepy fishing villages.
- The Ravello Festival, a classical music festival that takes place yearly in the gardens of Ravello and welcomes world-famous composers and musicians.
- Il San Pietro di Positano, a beautiful hotel with a terrace bar overlooking the sparkling lights of Positano and the deep blue Tyrrhenian sea.
- The Blue Grotto in Capri, a partially submerged cave that gives the illusion of being filled with bright blue water thanks to sunlight filtering in through the seawater.
- Amalfi Cathedral, a 9th-century masterpiece with lofty, ornate interiors which hold the crypt of Saint Andrew.
- The Path of Gods, a hiking trail that is so-called because it’s so high above the ground, walkers feel they’re closer to the heavens than the earth.
- Lo Scoglio, a family-run restaurant and celebrity-approved beach club in Nerano overlooking the ocean.
- Fontelina Beach Club in Capri, is located opposite the iconic La Faraglioni Rock Formation, and has attracted the likes of Hollywood stars Bridget Bardot and Sophie Loren.
- Villa Ruffalo, an Arabic-style garden with immaculate flowerbeds, sea views and an ancient villa.
- La Sirenuses, a string of mostly undeveloped islands that are perfect for exploring by yacht.
