Excursions by sea on the Amalfi Coast

There is no better way to witness the Amalfi Coast's gravity-defying, vertical towns, or the infinite shades of blue of the sea which laps its shores... and no better moment in which to enjoy an unforgettable swim... in paradise.

Where can I rent a boat?

All of the Amalfi Coast's seaside towns provide boat rental services. Boats of various dimensions are available for rent with or without crew.

Exposed to strong Southern winds and lacking in safe places to land in the case of adverse weather conditions, the sea surrounding the Amalfi Coast has, on more than one occasion, proven to be an insidious one. In the summer, the volume of boats, many of which are in the hands of novice sailors, can make sailing the waters off this stretch of the Italian coast without the assistance of an expert crew hazardous.

• A Guide to boat rentals and charters in Positano and the Amalfi Coast

• A Guide to boat rentals on Capri

Even if you're traveling on a limited budget, you may well find you can still afford to treat yourself to a mini-sea excursion. From the beaches of all the principal towns on the Amalfi Coast, you can take a "taxi boat" to the area's secluded beaches, from which you can arrange to be collected afterwards, at a time of your choice.

For those eager to witness the dramatic beauty of the Amalfi Coast in all its glory, the boat trip from Vietri sul Mare to Punta Campanella and around the island of Capri, where smaller boats can pass through the arch in the central Faraglione, is an absolute must.

A boat trip to the islets of Li Galli

Legend has it that it was on the Li Galli, the tiny islets which can be seen rising up out of the water directly opposite Positano, that the Sirens attempted to seduce Ulysses. On the largest of the three islands, there is the villa where Rudolf Nureyev spent the last years of his life.

Although you will be unable to land on the islands, all of which are privately owned, as you circumnavigate the archipelago, you'll catch unforgettable glimpses of the villa which was constructed according to the designs of the great Le Corbusier.