While the "Mamma Mia" scenery is a dream, driving the SS163 coastal road can quickly turn into a logistical headache. That is why for most travelers, the absolute best way of visiting the Amalfi Coast is by sea - check out our guide to help plan your trip!
Why the Ferry Beats the Bus (Every Single Time)
The primary alternative to the water is the SITA bus. While the bus is definitely cheap, it comes with a few catches. During the busy summer months, you might find yourself waiting in long lines only to realize the bus is already full. Plus, those winding roads are not exactly friendly if you are prone to motion sickness.
By choosing a boat trip, you skip the traffic jams that can turn a forty minute drive into a three hour crawl. Ferries are generally more reliable, stick to their schedules, and offer plenty of fresh air and sunshine on the top deck.
Where to Start Your Journey
The ferry network is like a floating highway that connects all the major towns. Depending on where you are staying, you will likely start at one of these four hubs.
Salerno
If you are arriving by high-speed train from Rome or Naples, Salerno is your best friend. The port at Piazza Concordia is located right across the street from the train station. Ferries from here are frequent, slightly cheaper than those from Sorrento, and they hit all the eastern gems like Vietri sul Mare and Cetara before reaching Amalfi.
Sorrento
Sorrento is the most popular base for first-timers. The port, Marina Piccola, is tucked at the bottom of the cliffs and can be reached by a public elevator or a scenic set of stone stairs from Piazza Tasso. It is the primary jumping-off point for high-speed hydrofoils to Capri and quick hops over to Positano.
Amalfi
Amalfi is the heart of the maritime map. Every major ferry line converges at Molo Pennello, which is right in the center of town. If you want to visit the smaller towns or take a bus up to the gardens of Ravello, this is where you will likely make your connection .
Positano
Positano does not have a protected harbor, just a small pier at Spiaggia Grande . Because the town is built vertically, arriving by ferry means you land at the lowest point. If your hotel is high up the cliff, be prepared for a lot of stairs, though you can hire luggage porters at the pier to do the heavy lifting for you.
Must-See Amalfi Coast Attractions by Ferry
The beauty of the ferry is that it lets you "town hop" easily. Here are the spots you shouldn't miss.
The Hidden Gems: Cetara and Vietri sul Mare
If you want to escape the crowds, head east. Cetara is a traditional fishing village famous for its anchovies (try the colatura di alici), while Vietri sul Mare is the world capital of colorful handmade ceramics . These towns feel much more authentic and local compared to the tourist centers.
Ravello: The View from Above
While you cannot take a ferry directly to Ravello because it sits 350 meters above sea level, you can take a ferry to Amalfi and then hop on a quick shuttle bus or taxi . The views from the Terrace of Infinity at Villa Cimbrone are widely considered the best in Italy.
Check out out guide on 6 Places Like Italy's Amalfi Coast But With Less Tourists if you're looking for a quieter experience!
Choosing the Right Ferry Company
Not all boats are created equal. Depending on your vibe, you will choose between a few main operators.
- Travelmar: These are the local heroes for inter-coastal travel. Their boats have large open decks, which are perfect for snapping photos of the coastline.
- NLG (Navigazione Libera del Golfo): If you need to get somewhere fast, NLG runs high-speed hydrofoils. Most of the seating is indoors and air-conditioned, so it is more about efficiency than sightseeing.
- Alilauro and Alicost: These operators are great for specialized routes, such as heading to the islands of Capri or Ischia.
Things to Remember Before You Board
The ferry season generally runs from early April (around Easter) through the end of October . During the winter, most routes stop running entirely due to rough seas. Even in the summer, sailings can be canceled if the water is too choppy, so always check the weather forecast before heading to the pier .
For the best experience, try to book your tickets online in advance during July and August to avoid sold-out sailings.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Ride
To make your trip go smoothly, keep these insider tips in mind.
Pick the Right Side for Views
To see the actual coastline and not just open blue water, you need to be on the side of the boat facing the cliffs. If you are traveling from Sorrento toward Amalfi, sit on the left side. If you are heading from Salerno toward Positano, sit on the right.
Hiking with the "Sentiero Link"
If you want to hike the famous Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) but find the bus logistics confusing, look for the Travelmar "Sentiero Link." This is a combined ticket that includes a ferry to Amalfi and a dedicated shuttle bus that takes you straight to the trailhead in Bomerano.
Mind Your Luggage and Pets
Most ferry tickets include one small piece of hand luggage for free. If you have a large suitcase, expect to pay an extra fee of around €2 to €6 per bag . Small pets are usually allowed in carriers, while larger dogs need a leash and a muzzle
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