Capri Boat Tour and Blue Grotto Visit

If you’re considering a day trip around Capri, this small-group boat tour promises a comprehensive and intimate experience of the island’s most iconic sights. While we haven’t done this exact trip ourselves, the glowing reviews, detailed itinerary, and high ratings suggest it’s a well-orchestrated adventure that balances natural beauty, culture, and comfort.

Two aspects stand out: first, the expert guidance and warm hospitality offered by the crew, making each stop more meaningful; second, the chance to see Capri’s stunning coastline from the water—an angle that’s often missed with land-based tours.

A key consideration is the Blue Grotto — while it’s one of the main attractions, the tour notes that it may be closed unexpectedly due to long queues or weather. For anyone eager to see this legendary cave, flexibility is advised.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, relaxed experience with plenty of opportunities to swim, enjoy local snacks, and capture spectacular photos. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic moments over crowded bus tours.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Multiple stops provide a full day of exploring Capri’s natural and historical sites.
• Delicious local food and drinks onboard add to the experience’s authentic charm.
• Expert guides make navigation and storytelling engaging and informative.
• Flexibility in itinerary allows for adjustments if certain attractions, like the Blue Grotto, are closed.
• Value for money in terms of inclusions—refreshments, snacks, snorkeling gear, and safety equipment—are all covered in the price.

A Full Review of the Capri Boat Tour and Blue Grotto Experience

Setting the Scene: What’s Included and Who It’s For

This 8-hour boat tour from Positano offers a deep dive into the beauty and essence of Capri from the comfort of a small, well-equipped vessel. Priced at approximately $177 per person, it’s not the cheapest outing, but the value is reflected in the inclusions—drinks, snacks, brunch, snorkeling gear, and a personal guiding service.

The tour is designed for a maximum of 12 travelers, which means you won’t feel lost in a crowd. It suits those who want a more exclusive, relaxed day with plenty of chances to swim, take photos, and enjoy authentic Mediterranean scenery without the rush of larger group tours.

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Stop 1: Spiaggia Marina Grande

Our journey begins at the famous beach of Capri. Expect soft sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for a quick photo or a moment to appreciate the postcard-worthy scene. It’s a peaceful starting point, giving you a glimpse of the lively island life.

Stop 2: Spiaggia Bagni di Tiberio

Just a short paddle away, this historic spot offers a peek into Roman imperial leisure. The Baths of Tiberius are a reminder of Capri’s long history as a summer retreat for emperors. It’s a quiet, picturesque place, ideal for a quick swim or a moment of reflection amid striking cliffs.

Stop 3: The Blue Grotto

No visit to Capri is complete without the Blue Grotto. This natural marvel, with its shimmering blue waters and low entrance, has inspired countless artists. However, it’s important to note that the ticket costs about 18 euros per person and is payable directly on site. The tour mentions the cave might be closed unexpectedly, which we’ve seen echoed in reviews—long lines and weather can affect availability. Still, even the anticipation and brief view from the boat add to the allure.

Stops 4-8: Cala del Rio, Cala del Tombosiello, Punta Carena Lighthouse, Grotta dei Santi, and Grotta Verde

These stops showcase Capri’s diverse coast—from secluded bays and luxurious villas to iconic natural grottoes. The Cala del Rio features a stunning villa belonging to D&G, adding a touch of glamour, while the Punta Carena Lighthouse offers spectacular sunset views, especially since it’s the second most powerful lighthouse in Italy. The Grotta dei Santi and Grotta Verde are highlights, with vibrant waters and formations that make for memorable swims and photos.

Stop 9: Punta Ventroso

This is the perfect spot to relax, enjoy an aperitif of prosecco or limoncello, and watch the sea while nibbling on local snacks. The optional swim here provides a chance to cool off before the final leg of the tour.

Stops 10-16: Sirens Rock, Grotta Albergo dei Marinai, I Faraglioni, Casa Malaparte, Grotta Bianca, Grotta Rossa, and Tiberius’ Leap

These iconic sights are what many travelers come to Capri to see. The Faraglioni rock formations are a must-photograph, with plenty of time to admire their majestic shapes. The Casa Malaparte, a minimalist architectural jewel, provides a striking visual contrast against the natural backdrop. The White and Red Grottos offer colorful underwater scenes, and the Tiberius’ Leap adds a touch of legend to the trip.

The Experience on Board

The crew, including the skipper and steward, garners praise for their friendly professionalism. As one reviewer noted, “Emilia and Antonio made this an experience of a lifetime,” highlighting the importance of knowledgeable guides. They also handle logistics smoothly, with private docks for easy embarkation and disembarkation.

The refreshments onboard elevate the trip—water, soda, beer, prosecco, limoncello, and spritz are all included, along with brunch featuring local delicacies. This not only satisfies hunger but adds a cultural touch, making the experience feel authentic and indulgent.

The boat itself is well-equipped with snorkeling gear, floats, and safety equipment, ensuring comfort and safety during swimming and exploring.

Timing and Flexibility

Starting early in the day, the tour lasts about 8 hours, including travel time between stops. The itinerary is flexible enough to adapt if certain attractions, like the Blue Grotto, are closed. Reviews mention how the crew makes the best of the day, even when certain highlights are unavailable.

Weather can impact the experience—poor conditions might lead to cancellations or alterations, but the company offers full refunds or rescheduling.

What Travelers Say

With a 5.0 rating from 23 reviews, feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Guests appreciate guides who are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, often describing the trip as “an experience of a lifetime.” Several reviews mention that the food and drinks onboard are delicious, and the swimming stops are a highlight.

Some note that long lines and weather can affect the Blue Grotto visit, but flexibility and good company turn this into part of the adventure. One traveler described the day as “a perfect balance of natural beauty, local culture, and relaxing fun.”

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who value small-group intimacy and want a rundown of Capri from the water. It’s perfect for those interested in authentic moments, like swimming in crystal waters or enjoying local snacks with a view.

If you’re after a luxurious yet relaxed day, with the opportunity to take countless photos and learn about Capri’s natural and cultural sites, this tour hits the mark. However, if your priority is visiting the Blue Grotto itself, be prepared for potential delays or closures—consider this when planning your trip.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour offers a thoughtfully curated day of sightseeing, swimming, and tasting that balances the natural beauty of Capri with cultural elements. The combination of spectacular scenery, knowledgeable guides, and inclusive refreshments makes it a compelling choice.

For those seeking a personable, flexible, and engaging way to explore the island without feeling rushed, this experience delivers. It’s especially valuable for travelers who appreciate authentic moments and scenic views above all else.

While the Blue Grotto can be a gamble, the rest of the itinerary makes up for it with stunning stops and memorable encounters. It’s a well-rounded opportunity to see Capri’s highlights from the water, with the comfort of a small-group setting and attentive crew.

FAQ

• How long is the tour?

It lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel and stops.

• What is included in the price?

The price covers the skipper, steward, fuel, guide, onboard bathroom, drinks, snacks, brunch, snorkeling gear, and safety equipment.

• Can I visit the Blue Grotto?

Yes, but note that tickets cost about 18 euros per person and are purchased on site. The visit is subject to weather and queues, so it might be canceled or shortened.

• What if the Blue Grotto is closed?

The itinerary is flexible, and the tour will proceed to other stops if necessary, with no refunds for the Grotto’s closure.

• Is this a shared tour?

Yes, with a maximum of 12 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.

• Are children allowed?

Most travelers can participate, but the minimum drinking age is 18 due to alcohol onboard.

• What should I bring?

Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and perhaps a camera for photos.

• What if the weather is bad?

Tours are weather-dependent; if canceled, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

• What makes this tour special?

The combination of natural beauty, gourmet snacks, and guiding expertise creates a balanced, authentic experience.

• How do I book?

You can reserve via the provided link, and the tour typically confirms within 24 hours unless booked last-minute.

In the end, this boat tour provides a well-rounded, enjoyable way to experience Capri’s highlights from a unique vantage point. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or photo opportunities, it’s a trip that most travelers would find memorable—even with the small chance of the unpredictable Blue Grotto’s availability.