We were specifically told this tour included two swimming stops. The brochure we received also says "Where we take you" and directly underneath "The areas of navigation," listing places such as Positano, Praiano, Furore, Amalfi, Maiori and Minori.
I am attaching a photo of the brochure so people can judge the wording for themselves.
My issue is simple: "Where we take you" and "areas of navigation" are not the same thing. One describes where a boat operates or passes; the other reasonably suggests places that are part of the experience. If these are simply areas the boat passes from a distance, the brochure should say that clearly.
Because we were promised two swimming stops, I reasonably expected them to be in protected coastal areas or similar locations suitable for swimming.
Instead, the boat stopped in deep, exposed open water while the sea was very rough. The boat was rocking aggressively. Staying onboard was making us increasingly seasick, so we ultimately entered the water despite conditions that I personally considered inappropriate for a recreational swimming stop.
I owned boats for many years and have considerable boating experience. I understand that sea conditions can change, but I personally would never have placed my passengers into the water under the conditions we experienced that day.
When I later asked why they did not use more protected areas such as Furore or Praiano, I was told their boats could not enter there. However, I had visited those areas by land and personally observed other tour boats backing into the buoyed areas, allowing passengers to swim and later picking them up.
I understand different vessels, permits or rules may apply. My complaint is not that they were obligated to stop specifically at Furore or Praiano. My concern is that if you advertise swimming stops, those stops should be reasonably appropriate and safe for swimming under the conditions of that day.
What was even more disappointing happened when I went to the counter afterward.
I tried to respectfully explain my concerns. Instead, three staff members laughed at me and told me I needed to "learn English." I asked to speak with a supervisor or manager and was told nobody was available.
That was offensive and completely unprofessional.
I clearly explained that "Where we take you" and "Area of navigation" communicate two different things. Instead of discussing that concern professionally, they mocked me.
The Amalfi Coast is beautiful, but beautiful scenery does not excuse confusing marketing, questionable swimming locations, or disrespectful treatment of customers.
For the record, I speak both English and Spanish very clearly. My English was never the problem. read more
