Blue Grotto and Capri by Private Boat Tour

If you’re dreaming of exploring Capri’s stunning coastline with a flexible, personalized touch, this private boat tour might just be your perfect match. While we haven’t personally set sail on this exact tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a memorable half-day journey that captures the essence of the island’s beauty. This isn’t a crowded, rushed experience; it’s an intimate cruise packed with breathtaking sights, local flavor, and a sense of adventure.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are the variety of stops that showcase Capri’s natural and cultural treasures and the inclusion of local food and drinks, which makes it feel more like a celebration of the island rather than just a sightseeing trip. A possible drawback? The tour’s success partly depends on weather conditions — the famous Blue Grotto can be closed if the sea is too rough, which might disappoint those eager to see this iconic spot. Still, the tour compensates with plenty of other unforgettable sights and experiences. It’s ideal for travelers who want a relaxed yet active day with plenty of photo opportunities, snorkeling, and a taste of Capri’s legendary scenery.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience for up to 12 people.
• Diverse itinerary includes famous sights and hidden gems alike.
• Includes local food, drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Great value for the price, especially given the inclusions.
• Flexible stops for swimming and snorkeling.
• Weather-dependent Blue Grotto visit — be prepared for potential changes.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour: What to Expect

This 3-hour private boat tour around Capri is designed for those who want to see the island from its best vantage point — the sea. Starting from a private dock, you’ll board a well-equipped vessel with your own crew, featuring a skipper, hostess, and all safety gear. The intimacy of a private boat means you’re not just a number; you can relax, chat, and customize the experience to some degree.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Spiaggia Marina Grande:
Your journey begins at Capri’s main beach, a lively spot with fine sand and clear waters. It’s the ideal place to stretch your legs and snap some initial photos of the bustling harbor. Many reviews mention how the scenery here is simply stunning, and it’s a peaceful way to start your adventure.

Next, to Spiaggia Bagni di Tiberio:
This small stretch of coastline is historically significant — Roman emperors Augustus and Tiberius once bathed here. It offers a glimpse into Capri’s ancient allure. It’s a short stop, but one that adds a layer of cultural richness to your cruise.

The highlight, the Blue Grotto:
No trip to Capri is complete without a visit to this world-famous natural wonder. Entering the Grotto involves a small boat ride through a narrow opening into an underground chamber illuminated by a magical blue light. However, reviews and tour details acknowledge that the Grotto might be closed if the weather is rough. When open, it’s a surreal experience, with sunlight filtering in to create that signature glow. The tour’s 1-hour duration for this stop is enough to appreciate its beauty, though many travelers say it’s worth the wait or the effort if it’s open.

Hidden and scenic coves:
From Cala del Rio with its luxe villa of Dolce & Gabbana, to Cala del Tombosiello’s calm, secluded waters, these stops offer opportunities for swimming and relaxing. The “Heart Cave” at Cala del Rio adds a romantic touch, especially for Instagram shots.

Punta Carena Lighthouse:
A peaceful spot, perfect for sunset views or simply enjoying the sea breeze. It’s the second-largest lighthouse in Italy and a quiet contrast to the busy tourist spots.

Grottas and rock formations:
The Saints Grotto, the Green Grotto, and the White Grotto showcase Capri’s natural artistry. The Green Grotto’s emerald glow and the Red Grotto’s warm tones are particularly striking, offering unforgettable photo ops and moments of reflection.

Cultural and legendary sites:
The infamous Tiberius’ Leap — a sheer cliff with dark legends — and the Gennarino Scugnizzo statue highlight Capri’s rich stories. The latter is a cheerful symbol of the island’s maritime spirit.

The iconic Faraglioni:
No visit is complete without a close-up view of these towering rock stacks. Many reviewers mention how exhilarating it is to see them up close and capture stunning photos. The tour pauses here for about 10 minutes, a perfect chance to snap some shots before moving on.

Casa Malaparte:
The minimalist red villa perched above the sea, famous from films, offers a striking visual and a taste of Capri’s artistic heritage. While you won’t go inside, viewing it from the boat is inspiring.

Final stops:
The White and Red Grottas, each with distinct colors and atmospheres, are highlights for natural beauty lovers. The legend-rich Tiberius’ Leap completes the tour with a dose of history and myth.

The Experience of Food, Drinks, and Relaxation

One of the most praised aspects in reviews is the delicious brunch featuring local specialties and the aperitivo with Prosecco and Limoncello. The tour provides a relaxed atmosphere to sip, snack, and enjoy the views. The inclusion of water, soda, beer, and spirits, along with beach towels and snorkeling gear, adds great value. Many find this a perfect balance between active exploration and leisure.

The Value Proposition

At roughly $1,250 for a group of up to 12, this private tour offers a more personalized, intimate experience than standard group excursions. Considering the inclusions — food, drinks, snorkeling equipment, private transfers, and the boat itself — the cost is reasonable for a luxury, customized day out on Capri. The reviews emphasize how the knowledgeable guides make the experience richer, adding insider tips and stories that you wouldn’t get on larger tours.

The Reviews Speak Volumes

Travelers consistently praise the expertise of the crew — “Andrea and Valerio were absolutely amazing,” says one reviewer. They also appreciate the stunning scenery and how smoothly the tour runs, even with some adjustments due to weather or other circumstances. The fact that many recommend it as the highlight of their trip or “hands-down the best experience” speaks highly of its value and authenticity.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is best suited for those seeking a flexible, personalized experience with a small group or private party. It’s ideal for travelers who value photo opportunities, scenic beauty, and local cuisine, and are comfortable with a bit of weather variability (Blue Grotto closures can happen). Families, couples, or friends wanting a memorable, laid-back day on the water will find it particularly rewarding.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour offers a wonderful way to experience Capri’s natural charm and legendary sights without the crowds or rushed schedules of larger group tours. The combination of breathtaking vistas, cultural insights, snorkeling, and local food creates a well-rounded day that’s both relaxing and adventurous.

While weather can sometimes impact the Blue Grotto visit, the tour’s variety of stops and scenic spots ensure you’ll still leave with plenty of memorable moments. The attention to detail, from snorkeling gear to onboard snacks, makes it clear that the providers aim to make your experience special.

For anyone who wants to enjoy Capri from a sea-level perspective, soaking up scenic views, and feeling the vibe of this unique island, this private boat tour is a top choice — a blend of comfort, customization, and genuine island magic.

FAQ

Is this tour private?
Yes, the boat is exclusively for your group of up to 12 people, making for a personalized experience.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 3 hours, including travel time between stops.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the boat, skipper, hostess, fuel, safety equipment, water, soda, beer, Prosecco, Limoncello, the brunch, snorkeling gear, towels, and private pick-up/drop-off.

Can I swim and snorkel?
Absolutely. The tour includes stops at several scenic spots for swimming and snorkeling with provided equipment.

What about the Blue Grotto?
The Blue Grotto ticket costs an additional €18 per person and is not included. Also, note that it might be closed due to weather, which is a common occurrence.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the minimum drinking age is 18, and some stops may involve short walks or jumping into the water.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are unsafe. If canceled, you receive a full refund.

How do I find the departure dock?
You’ll have assisted private pick-up and drop-off at the dock, with clear instructions provided upon booking.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the itinerary is fixed, the private nature allows some flexibility to focus on your interests, weather permitting.

This private boat tour around Capri offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty, cultural stories, and leisure, perfect for those looking to enjoy the island on their own terms. With attentive guides and a well-curated route, it’s a memorable way to see Capri beyond the crowded streets and bustling piazzas.