Alilauro

Who they are

Alilauro is an Italian hydrofoil and fast-ferry operator with deep roots in the Bay of Naples. The company name is synonymous with the aliscafi (hydrofoils) that have carried Neapolitans and tourists across the bay for decades. While the fleet has evolved to include modern fast catamarans alongside traditional hydrofoils, the company's identity remains tied to the romantic image of a sleek craft lifting out of the water as it skims toward Ischia or rounds the Sorrentine Peninsula.

Alilauro's Amalfi Coast service is the company's most scenic offering, threading along one of Europe's most celebrated coastlines from Sorrento through Positano and Amalfi to Salerno. For visitors to the area, the ferry is often the most pleasant way to move along this coast — certainly more relaxing than the famous coastal road.

Network and routes

In the Bay of Naples, Alilauro connects Naples (Molo Beverello) to Sorrento and to the island of Ischia, with fast crossings that serve both commuters and day-trippers. The Sorrento run is particularly popular as a starting point for the Amalfi Coast or as a day trip from Naples; the city's clifftop setting and views back across the bay make the approach by sea one of the best arrivals in Italy.

The Amalfi Coast corridor is the standout route: from Sorrento the hydrofoil calls at Positano, Amalfi and continues to Salerno, with the ability to hop on and off at individual stops. This makes it practical for building an itinerary along the coast entirely by sea. Some summer services extend to Capri, linking the Bay of Naples island circuit into the Amalfi Coast network.

Fleet and on board

Alilauro's fleet combines traditional foilborne hydrofoils with modern high-speed catamarans. Hydrofoils are enclosed and air-conditioned, with the distinctive noise and vibration of foil-borne travel at high speed. Catamarans are slightly larger and smoother-riding, with more deck space.

Both vessel types are passenger-only — no vehicles are carried. Seating is assigned or open depending on the service. Journeys are short enough (Sorrento to Positano is under 30 minutes; Naples to Ischia around 45–55 minutes) that in-voyage catering is minimal. The views from the deck or large windows are the main attraction.

Booking and tips

Alilauro tickets can be purchased at the port ticket offices or online. The Amalfi Coast services are heavily used in July and August — book ahead for departures from Positano and Amalfi, which can fill on summer mornings. Sorrento's small marina fills fast too; arrive 15–20 minutes before departure.

The Amalfi Coast ferry is best combined with one or two stops rather than a return same day. Positano to Amalfi by sea, then return by local bus (SITA), is a classic itinerary. Avoid the coastal road entirely if you can — the ferry removes the biggest stress from visiting one of Italy's busiest tourist corridors.

Services are weather-dependent. A strong Libeccio or Sirocco wind can affect Bay of Naples departures; the Amalfi Coast, more exposed to southerly swell, may see cancellations on rough days. Always check the Alilauro website or social channels for service updates before heading to the port.