Ferry or train (Naples to Sorrento)

If you are arriving at Naples station it is definitely easier to just follow the signs to the Circumvesuviana. You don't even need to exit the station. Plus, when you get to Sorrento you will be in the heart of town. The ferry dock in Sorrento is down a steep hill from the town (I walked it dozens of times last month). There are buses if you need them. That being said, the ferry across the Bay of Naples is neat (I took it from Sorrento to Naples) and quite enjoyable. The Circumvesuviana seems to take forever to get to Sorrento (many, many stops...even with an express train), and is often crowded and hot. Forget any stories you heard about safety issues: I rode it countless times and never saw a single potential problem. While most people seem to prefer the crowded buses for transportation down the Amalfi Coast to Positano, etc., we used the ferries from Sorrento and thought it worked wonderfully. But again, if you are looking to get from Naples to Sorrento, I'd say the Circumvesuviana is the way to go. You'll be on the platform waiting for a train minutes after detraining from Rome. To get to the Maritime Terminal will take significantly longer.

Linda, My preference would definitely be the train, as it's a much easier connection. Simply walk downstairs in Napoli Centrale and buy a ticket on the Circumvesuviana. Having to transfer to docks at both ends would be a nuisance! The Circumvesuviana leaves a bit to be desired in terms of "appearance" but it will get you to Sorrento. Be sure to wear a Money Belt and watch your belongings! Happy travels!

Allen & Ken: You have convinced me to take the Circumvesuviana from Naples instead of the ferry. Besides having my carryon to deal with transferring from train to bus to ferry, there is the cost. I think it is more expensive to ride the ferry and it is not covered by the Campania ArtCard. I maytake the Sorrento-Naples ferry on my day of exploring Naples & Pompeii. And Ken, yes - I advocate wearing the money belt and keeping my eyes and ears open. Ciao!

I have had occasion to take the ferry from Naples to Positano and from Portovenere to Monterosso al Mare (5 Terre), both some what unexpectedly. I loved both trips. Seeing Italy from the water is an experience everyone should have. Everyone has already had the train experience. So, take the ferry.

I read in several bolgs earlier on that once you arrive by train in Naples, taxi to the docks and take the hydrofoil to Sorrento. Sounds easy to me.

Thank you all for the tips and suggestions. Still mulling this over. Perhaps this is one decision to decide when I m there. Linda