Top Boat Charter Destinations in Italy

Italy's coastline is a beautiful tapestry of islands and charming villages, making it an ideal spot for memorable boat charters. With so many stunning locations to choose from—Capri, Ischia, Procida, the Amalfi Coast, Positano, Nerano, and beyond —deciding where to go can be challenging. This guide will help you explore the unique offerings of each destination, making your decision easier.

Capri: The Jewel of the Bay

Capri is celebrated for its striking cliffs and vibrant blue waters. A boat tour around the island reveals breathtaking landmarks like the Faraglioni rocks, towering up to 100 meters above the sea, and world famous grottoes including the Blue Grotto, a cavern that dazzles with its ethereal blue light.

If you’re traveling in peak summer months, you will have a much more relaxing experience on a boat tour compared to taking the ferry. The island can get very, very busy, especially from June to August, with thousands of visitors crowding onto public transport daily. While you can't avoid people completely, especially during time on land, a boat charter allows you to enjoy the spectacular sights in comfort and relative privacy. Capri is a great choice for romantic couples, and families with kids who feel comfortable in deeper water, swimming off the boat.

Top tip:

• If you're on a private charter, the best boat companies will be able to recommend beautiful waterfront restaurants for you to enjoy lunch. These restaurants have a tender service that can collect you directly from your boat, meaning you also avoid the busy Marina Grande area and it's €100 disembarkation fee for private boats!

• For families with children, some restaurants also have a little beach areas that make great places to play.

• If you're on a shared tour, you will get about 3-4 hours free time on land, and may be dropped at Marina Piccola. Check our blog post for our suggestions about the best way to spend this time.

Capri's turquoise waters at Marina Piccola

Amalfi Coast: A Coastal Paradise

The Amalfi Coast is famed for its dramatic vistas and charming cliffside villages. A boat charter here delivers breathtaking views and access to remarkable sights like Li Galli islands, Furore Fjord, Praiano, Marina del Cantone, Conca dei Marini and more.

A popular boat tour itinerary includes longer stops on land at Positano and Amalfi, where you can spend time exploring, shopping for handmade items in small boutiques, sampling the street food and admiring Amalfi's famous Duomo. This destination beautifully blends the joys of a boat charter with rich cultural experiences and is perfect for adults and kids alike.

Top tip:

• A shared boat tour will give you about 1.5 hours in each of Amalfi and Positano; check our blog post for top tips on how to spend this time.

• Private charters allow you to structure your itinerary. There are some amazing waterfront restaurants on the coast that will be a highlight of your day! Check our blog post for details.

• A common request is a stop in Ravello, however this is an inland village high in the mountains, and can't be accessed by boat - instead, you'll need a road transfer from Amalfi and back. Little Prince Charters has worked with guests to include Ravello in their boat day itinerary; contact to us to find out more.

  
  

Positano: The Cliffside Marvel

Positano stands out with its vibrant, cascading villas, picturesque beach and delightful shopping. A private boat charter here allows for stunning panoramic views that are unmatched on land, as well as access to coves and islands that you can only reach by boat.

When traveling with family, look for a boat that offers kid-friendly amenities. Consider one with snorkeling gear to keep children engaged and excited during the trip, ensuring everyone enjoys both the journey and the destination.

Top tips:

• Ask to see Li Galli islands, located offshore from Positano - it's a gorgeous, mystical place filled with history and legend, and is ideal for a swim stop!

• On a private boat charter from Sorrento, you can combine two iconic destinations in one incredible day, with a trip to Positano and Capri. Due to the distances, you might not get time on land in both places, so be sure to talk to your charter company about your preferences.

Nerano: Gourmet and Serenity

Nerano is a lesser-known beauty spot at the northern end of the Amalfi Coast. It offer an unspoilt, picturesque bay and top quality dining options, making it a haven for food lovers. Boat charters often include stops here for swimming and lunch at high quality restaurants in Marina del Cantone or the neighbouring bay of Recommone, where you can enjoy an unrivalled atmosphere and delicious regional dishes, like the famous spaghetti alla Nerano, made with zucchini.

Top tip:

• Be sure to choose a charter that provides a flexible itinerary, allowing you to explore spontaneous dining options and local hidden gems.

Ischia: The Thermal Island

Ischia offers a more serene experience compared to Capri, and is famous for its thermal spas, lush botanical gardens and long sandy beaches. Visitors can enjoy historical sights like the famous Aragonese Castle, and pretty villages like Sant'Angelo with amazing local gastromony. The island is very large, but Ischia's tranquil shores and secluded coves make it an excellent choice for relaxation.

Boat charters often take you to hidden spots where you can immerse yourself in thermal waters heated by volcanic activity. At around four times the size of Capri with far fewer day-trippers, Ischia remains a peaceful retreat for those wanting to escape the tourist hustle and enjoy a more local experience.

Top tip:

• The small village of Sant'Angelo is a lovely spot to stop for lunch and is reminiscent of the Greek islands, with white and blue architecture and a very pretty little port.

Procida: The Colourful Enclave

Procida might be Italy's best-kept secret, boasting pastel-coloured houses and a friendly fishing village vibe. Chartering a boat to explore its coastline allows you to visit local beauty spots, such as the bustling Marina di Corricella, a seventeenth century port known for its fresh seafood and small village charm.

Families will find Procida especially welcoming, with easily accessible beaches like Chiaia and Lingua, perfect for children to safely play and swim. The island's slower pace and rich natural beauty makes it a relaxing spot for all ages.

Top tip:

• Procida and Ischia sit side by side in the Bay of Naples. For this reason, they can be combined into one longer boat day or enjoyed on their own aboard a full day charter from Sorrento or Positano.

Ponza and surrounds: Untamed Beauty

Ponza, Ventotene and Palmarola are notable for their rugged beauty, featuring stunning sea caves and clear waters. These relatively less-developed islands are close to each-other, and are perfect for those seeking adventure further afield, with opportunities for activities such as snorkeling and swimming.

Top tips:

• Ponza, Ventotene and Palmarola are the charter destinations of choice for A-listers like Margot Robbie, wishing to get off the beaten track

• Families will appreciate Ponza's variety of outdoor experiences. Adventure activities, like kayaking and exploring rocky beaches, allow kids to be active in a fun and safe environment.

• The islands are quite a distance from Sorrento, but Ponza can be reached in one longer charter day, or better yet, choose a multi-day experience and visit all three.

Choosing Your Perfect Boat Charter Destination

Choosing between these magnificent boat charter destinations is based on what you want from your trip. Whether you desire relaxation, culinary exploration, or adventure, each spot provides something unique. Little Prince Charters can help you plan your boat tour carefully, considering your group’s needs and interests, to create unforgettable memories along Italy's stunning coastlines.

Remember, no matter where you set your anchor, the enchanting culture and beautiful scenery of Italy will inspire and captivate you. Make your choice and embark on a fantastic boat day!