A Complete Guide to the 4-Hour Boat Tour of Capri
Imagine gliding across the sparkling waters around Capri, surrounded by towering cliffs, hidden caves, and photo-worthy rock formations. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned island hopper, this private boat tour offers a unique way to experience the island’s natural beauty. We’ve examined what makes this tour stand out — and whether it’s worth the price — to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your Capri adventure.
One thing we love is how flexible and personalized the experience is, with only your group aboard, plus the chance to relax, swim, and enjoy the scenery without the crowds. We also appreciate the carefully curated stops, especially the chance to see iconic sights like the Faraglioni and the Green Cave up close.
A small consideration is the cost — at roughly $640 for up to five people, it’s not the cheapest option, but the price reflects the private, tailored experience and the opportunities for memorable swims and photography. If you’re after a private, scenic, and authentic perspective of Capri’s coastline, this tour could be a perfect choice. It suits travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and the chance to explore hidden corners of the island at their own pace.
Key Points
- Private Experience: Only your group will be aboard, ensuring a tailored, relaxed outing.
- Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits to caves, iconic rocks, and panoramic spots like Villa Malaparte and the lighthouse.
- Ideal for Swimming: Plenty of opportunities to swim in the crystal-clear waters of Capri.
- Beautiful Photo Spots: The Faraglioni arch, Marina Piccola, and the Green Cave make for stunning pictures.
- Duration and Comfort: Four hours comfortably packed with sightseeing and swimming, in a comfortable boat.
- Weather-Sensitive: The tour depends on good weather; cancellations due to bad weather are fully refundable or rescheduleable.
Setting the Scene: What the Tour Includes and How It Works
This 4-hour private boat tour by Capri Brilliant Sea is designed for a small group—up to five people—making it a cozy and exclusive way to see Capri from the water. Starting from the central Piazza Angelo Ferraro, you’ll meet your captain and set out on a journey that combines sightseeing, swimming, and photo opportunities. The entire experience is self-contained, with your guide navigating around the island’s most famous sites and hidden gems.
The tour features nine stops, each selected to showcase Capri’s natural and architectural beauty. It’s a flexible route, allowing you to linger at certain sites or skip the ones that don’t pique your interest—this is what makes it ideal for travelers seeking a personalized experience.
You’ll be cruising in a comfortable boat, with plenty of space to relax, take in the scenery, or dip into the sea. The tour also includes the chance to stop at some of the caves and coves without additional cost, making it a good value for those interested in exploring beneath the surface.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Capri.
Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary
Stop 1: Gennarino Statue
Your adventure kicks off with passing by the famous statue of Gennarino, a small figure representing a typical Capri youth. It’s a charming local landmark that offers a quick photo opportunity as you begin your sea journey.
Stop 2: Grotta Rossa (Red Cave)
This 15-minute stop at the Red Cave, or Coral Cave, is a highlight for many. The cave’s vibrant red hues and coral formations paint a striking picture. It’s a natural spectacle that’s best appreciated in the sunlight filtering through the water. The admission here is free, so your focus can be on the experience rather than additional costs.
Stop 3: White Grotta
Next, you’ll visit the White Cave, with its bright, luminous interior. A 10-minute stop allows for quick photos and a sense of wonder at this naturally whitewashed chamber—another free sight that showcases Capri’s varied geology.
Stop 4: Villa Malaparte
A quick 10-minute view of Villa Malaparte, perched dramatically overlooking the sea, offers a taste of Capri’s glamorous side. Though you won’t go ashore, getting a close-up view from the boat provides context for this iconic house, often featured in films and photos.
Stop 5: I Faraglioni
One of the most recognizable symbols of Capri, the Faraglioni rocks are best viewed from the water. Passing near the arch, you’ll want to have your camera ready. The 15-minute stop here is ideal for taking those classic photos with the rocks towering around you, making it a highlight for many travelers.
Stop 6: Marina Piccola
This spacious bay is perfect for a leisurely hour of swimming, sunbathing, or simply soaking in the views. It’s a favorite spot, passing by in a way that feels exclusive and relaxed. You can also take photos of the colorful marina and distant cliffs from the boat.
Stop 7: Grotta Verde (Green Cave)
Another 20-minute stop, the Green Cave dazzles with its verdant glow—created by sunlight filtering through underwater openings. Seeing this natural exhibit up close is often considered a highlight, especially if the weather is clear enough to enhance the cave’s color.
Stop 8: Punta Carena Lighthouse
The second oldest lighthouse in Italy, Punta Carena, stands tall and bright. The 40-minute stop here is perfect for swimming, especially at sunset when the light hits the water just right—an experience many say you won’t forget.
Stop 9: Blue Grotto (Optional)
While passing by the Blue Grotto is included, entering requires an extra rowing boat ticket, not included in the tour price. If you’re keen on seeing the famed blue waters inside, you can choose to pay on the spot. Keep in mind that the Blue Grotto’s popularity means lines can sometimes be long, but the view from the outside is still impressive.
Final Stop: Capri Town
Your tour finishes back at the starting point, after a full 4 hours of exploring the island’s coastline. You’ll have time to relax on deck or wander around Capri’s lively streets if you wish.
Why Travelers Rave About This Experience
The only review we found praises the “excellent knowledge of the island” and the “fantastic” captain, Francesco, highlighting how personalized attention and expert navigation elevate the experience. The boat’s comfort was also noted, making the journey pleasant even during the warmest part of the day.
Many appreciate the opportunity to swim and take photos at iconic spots like Marina Piccola and Punta Carena. The stops at the caves are often described as “stunning,” and the chance to see Capri’s famous rocks up close is a strong selling point.
The tour’s flexibility is another plus—being a private experience means you can tailor your stops or spend more time in your favorite spots. This personalized approach is especially valuable for those who want to avoid crowded boat tours and enjoy the island from a more intimate perspective.
Practical Details and Tips for Making the Most of Your Tour
Transport and Meeting: Starting from Piazza Angelo Ferraro, the meeting process is straightforward, and the private nature means less waiting or mingling with large groups.
Price and Value: At $640.55 for a group of five, this isn’t the cheapest way to see Capri, but the private aspect adds a level of luxury and exclusivity. For couples or small groups wanting a custom experience, the cost averages out to about $128 per person—comparable to some group tours but with far more privacy and comfort.
Timing and Weather: Since the experience depends on good weather, it’s wise to book with some flexibility. If your day is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll either get a full refund or be able to reschedule.
What to Bring: Bring sun protection, swimsuits, waterproof camera or phone cases, and perhaps a light snack or drink. Most importantly, wear comfortable clothes suitable for being on a boat.
Additional Costs: You can pay for entry to the Blue Grotto separately, and some stops like the Blue Grotto itself are optional but highly recommended if you’re interested in the famous blue waters.
Final Thoughts
This private boat tour of Capri is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, scenic, and relaxed way to enjoy the island’s stunning coastline. It’s especially suited for those who value comfort, flexibility, and authentic photo opportunities without the crowds. The stops at caves and iconic rocks are memorable, and the chance to swim in Capri’s clear waters adds a refreshing touch to the trip.
While the cost may seem high, the private setting, expert captain, and tailored itinerary can make this experience a highlight of your Capri visit. It’s truly a chance to see the island from a perspective that many don’t get—up close, personal, and utterly breathtaking.
If you’re after an intimate, scenic, and easy-going day on the water, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable way to explore Capri’s coast.
FAQ
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a private boat for up to five people, stops at nine scenic points, and time for swimming and photos. Entry to caves like Grotta Rossa, White Grotta, and Grotta Verde is free.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund if the weather is poor or if you prefer to reschedule.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, which includes all stops, sightseeing, and swimming time.
Is the Blue Grotto included?
No. The Blue Grotto’s entry fee is not included, and you can choose whether to enter it with a small rowing boat.
Where do we meet?
The meeting point is Piazza Angelo Ferraro in Capri. The tour ends back at the same spot.
Is this tour suitable for children or service animals?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed.
What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, swimsuits, waterproof cameras, and comfortable clothes suitable for being on a boat.
Can we customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the captain, making it adaptable to your interests.
How much does it cost?
The price is $640.55 per group of up to five people, which averages out to about $128 per person.
Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The scenic spots like Faraglioni, Marina Piccola, and the caves are perfect for capturing stunning photos.
In summary, this private 4-hour boat tour provides a well-rounded, comfortable, and scenic way to see Capri’s most famous sights and hidden corners. It suits those seeking a flexible, intimate experience with plenty of opportunities to swim, photograph, and relax in a picture-perfect setting.
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Capri
More Tours in Capri
- From Sorrento: Capri Boat Tour with Blue Grotto Optional
- From Sorrento: Full-Day Boat Tour to Capri with Drinks
- From Sorrento: Capri Small Group Boat Tour with 8 people
- From Capri: Highlights Tour with Chairlift Ticket
- Capri: Faraglioni and Grottoes with Guided Island Tour
- Capri: Caves and Beaches Paddle Board Tour. Photos included
More Tour Reviews in Capri
- From Sorrento: Capri Boat Tour with Blue Grotto Optional
- Naples: Sunset Cruise Naples Bay
- From Sorrento: Full-Day Boat Tour to Capri with Drinks
- From Sorrento: Capri Small Group Boat Tour with 8 people
- From Pompeii/Castellammare/Vico Equense: Capri Day Cruise
- From Capri: Highlights Tour with Chairlift Ticket
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Capri we have reviewed
- 4-Hour Boat Tour of Capri
- From Sorrento: Capri Boat Tour with Blue Grotto Optional
- Naples: Sunset Cruise Naples Bay
- From Sorrento: Full-Day Boat Tour to Capri with Drinks
- From Sorrento: Capri Small Group Boat Tour with 8 people
- From Pompeii/Castellammare/Vico Equense: Capri Day Cruise
- From Capri: Highlights Tour with Chairlift Ticket
- Capri: eFoil Lesson. GoPro photos included.
- Capri: Walk through the streets of the center
- Capri: Faraglioni and Grottoes with Guided Island Tour
- Capri: Caves and Beaches Paddle Board Tour. Photos included
- Capri : 2 Hours Private Boat from Capri
