alternatives to the bus on the Amalfi Coast?

I've always used the bus with no problems. It's inexpensive and probably won't be too crowded in mid-April. If using the bus to go to Positano, get off at the 2nd stop which is at the bottom of town. A co-worker and her friend hired Carmello Monetti to drive them along the Amalfi coast. She was very happy with the service, but it was expensive. You can find details about him in Rick's Italy guidebook. Boats are a possible option, but it's doubtful they'll be running as early as mid-April (if at all in 2009 due to cancellation of government subsidies).

For a 2008 discussion of this subject on this board, click here

I have seen Rick's video of the Amalfi drive and I too thought it might be a bit hair raising. We were there this past July. Hired a private car and driver to do the drive. Best money we have ever spent. The traffic was nothing like I thought it would be. I think that with the downturn in the economy and the sinking $ to the Euro, tourist travel was down. That will probably be the case again this year. Also April is early in the season. Either take the bus or hire a driver. The views are worth it. Enjoy your trip! I love Italy and I am jealous :)

Debby

Kristin, The best splurge of our trip to Sorrento/Amalfi Coast was to hire a driver for the day through Rick's recommended Monetti Family tours. In 2007 it was 200 euros for about 7-8 hours to go where ever we wanted and make as many stops as we liked. Much more flexible and romantic than the bus. Our English speaking driver grew up there and had delightful anecdotes and loads of history to share. He picked us up at our hotel and returned us at the end of the day. We actually met another couple that we split the car and the cost with. He drove a comfortable small Mercedes minivan, I believe. I would not drive the roads myself. They are quite treacherous and those busses are extremely intimidating when they pass. Plus, how can you enjoy a glass of limoncello or 2 if you have to worry about being designated driver?

Well, Kristin, I don't know about you, but I'm convinced one should hire the driver! Thanks for the input everyone (and your question, Kristin).

C'mon folks - my wife and I are planning to rent a scooter for the drive!!

My daughter and I spent 7 days on the Amalfi Coast. We were based in Amalfi. We travelled the length of the coast on the SITA bus from Sorrento to Salerno and Ravello and all points in between all the time. I would chose this method of transport without any hesitation. Think of the money you will save, which you can spend in some of the amazing eateries in this area. You will be so enthralled by the amazing scenery, the bus ride will pale into insignificance!!!!
You simply must go to Ravello. I would take Ravello over Positano any day.

I recommend the private driver/guide, too. It sure isn't cheap, but you can go where you want when you want, with an intelligent and friendly English-speaking guide, and maximize your time on this beautiful coast. We took a ten-hour tour including the hills above Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi Town, and the ancient Greek ruins at Paestum. Total was e300 for the day, but a day we'll never forget. We used the Monetti family, recommended by Steves: www.monettitaxi17.it; monettitaxi17@libero.it.