Positano by Boat: Li Galli, Caves and Coves

Why see Positano from the sea

From the road, Positano reveals itself in fragments, between bends, stairs and terraces. From the sea, you see it all at once: the majolica-tiled dome of Santa Maria Assunta, the houses climbing the hillside and Spiaggia Grande closing the picture at the bottom.

It is also the simplest way to understand how this coast is shaped: steep cliffs, small inlets and places where the mountain drops straight into the water.

Li Galli, the archipelago of the Sirens

Off Positano rise Li Galli, a small group of rocky islets, also called the Sirens' islands because of their link to Homeric myth. The main islets are Gallo Lungo, La Castelluccia and La Rotonda.

Gallo Lungo is the largest and is home to a tower and a villa, linked in the twentieth century to famous names in dance. The island is private property and landing is not allowed. For this reason the islets are usually admired from the water, circling them slowly when sea conditions allow.

The area falls within the marine protection zone of Punta Campanella: before setting out, check the official channels of the marine protected area for the rules on navigation, anchoring and swimming.

Coves and beaches seen from the water

From the sea you can also appreciate the beaches that are harder to reach on foot.

Out on the water, timetables and shuttle availability change with the season: always check beforehand.

Caves and cliffs: look with caution

Along this stretch of coast the limestone rock is marked by recesses, arches and small hollows carved by the sea. They are evocative sights, especially in the low light of morning or late afternoon.

Getting close requires care: waves bounce off the cliffs, the seabed changes quickly and there may be rocks just below the surface along the shore. Let whoever is operating the boat decide how far to go, and never enter the hollows if the sea is not calm.

Which type of outing to choose

There are three common options.

• The shuttle boat in season, useful for getting between Positano and the more isolated beaches.
• The guided excursion, with a coastal tour that includes Li Galli and stops for a swim.
• Boat rental, with or without a skipper: without one, you need to meet the legal requirements and know the area well.

For a first approach, an outing with a local crew is the most relaxed choice: they know the sheltered spots and when the sea allows a closer approach to the islands.

When to go and what to bring

The calmest sea is often in the morning; as the hours pass, wind and boat traffic can pick up. In the evening the light warms the rock and the houses, but always check the day's weather and marine forecasts.

Bring with you:

• sun protection, a hat and sunglasses;
• water and a light snack;
• non-slip shoes for getting on and off the boat;
• a towel or a dry change of clothes;
• a light jacket, because the air can get cooler out on the water.

The sea as a connecting route

In season, ferries connect Positano with Amalfi, Capri and Sorrento. Although they are not a boat trip in the true sense, they offer a lovely view of the coast from the deck. Timetables and runs vary with the season and weather and sea conditions, so always consult the official sources of the companies and the harbor authority before planning your day.