Capri Private Boat Tour from Positano or Praiano

Our review of this private boat tour offers a practical look at one of the most popular ways to experience the stunning Amalfi Coast and the legendary island of Capri. While we haven’t personally set sail, the glowing reviews, detailed itinerary, and thoughtful features make it clear this tour delivers a memorable day on the water. It’s designed for travelers who want more than just sightseeing — they want to feel the coast, swim in crystal waters, and enjoy personalized service.

Two things that truly stand out about this experience are the expert guidance from friendly captains like Sandro, who seem to know every hidden nook, and the opportunity for quality swimming and snorkeling in Capri’s famous waters. On the flip side, some travelers might find the cost a bit steep. At over $2,000 for a group of four, it’s an investment, but one that often pays off in unforgettable views and personalized service.

This tour is best suited for those who value luxury, comfort, and authentic access to Capri’s most iconic sights, especially if you’re looking for a flexible day that combines sightseeing, swimming, and a bit of leisure time. Families, couples, or small groups who want hassle-free exploration with a knowledgeable guide will find this particularly appealing.

Key Points

Personalized Experience: Only your group participates, ensuring a tailored day on the water.
Iconic Sights: See the Faraglioni, Blue Grotto, and the Natural Arch, with opportunities for swimming and photos.
Flexible Itinerary: Options to stop for lunch, explore Capri town, or just relax in the boat’s comfort.
Expert Guides: Friendly captains like Sandro receive high praise for their local knowledge and attentive service.
Value for Money: All the included snacks, drinks, towels, and snorkeling gear add to the experience, making it a well-rounded package.
Weather-Dependent: The Blue Grotto visit can be affected by weather, so flexibility is crucial.

The Experience: What to Expect

Starting the Day in Positano or Praiano

The tour kicks off early at 8:30 am, with a private boat awaiting your group — up to four people for the listed price of just over $2,000. While the cost seems high at first glance, consider that the boat is exclusively yours, and the itinerary is fully customizable. You’ll be greeted by your captain, who is typically praised for his friendly approach and extensive local knowledge.

Navigating to the Faraglioni and the Romantic Arch

The first highlight is the world-famous Faraglioni rocks— towering sea stacks that are signature sights of Capri. The boat will cross the romantic arch of love, a narrow passage that makes for fantastic photos and a fun experience. Expect about 10 minutes at this spot, with a chance to swim and snorkel in the sparkling waters. Reviewers describe this as a “highlight” of their trip, often citing the beauty of the scenery and the clear, inviting water for swimming.

Visiting Marina Grande Beach and Capri Town

Next, the boat stops at Marina Grande, Capri’s main harbor. Here, you have 2 hours to walk around, do some shopping, or simply relax on the beach. The flexibility here is appreciated — many travelers use this time to explore the town, grab a gelato, or browse local shops. The lunch stop is optional and can be arranged in nearby restaurants, so you can choose whether to indulge in the island’s culinary delights or stay aboard.

The Blue Grotto Adventure

One of the most talked-about parts of the tour is the Blue Grotto. The captain will ask if you want to go in, but be aware that this involves changing boats into a small rowing craft — about 2 meters long — and waiting in line. The entrance is tiny, and during the busy months of June through August, wait times can stretch from 30 minutes to an hour. Once inside, you’ll get a quick 5-10 minute glimpse of the glowing blue waters that give the grotto its reputation.

Many reviews mention that the Blue Grotto is a bit of a gamble — worth doing if the line isn’t too long, but not the main reason to book this tour. It’s an experience that adds to the adventure, but the real value is in the overall scenic cruise and the stops for swimming.

Exploring Marina Piccola and the Coast

Your boat will also visit Marina Piccola, the second port of Capri, known for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic sea stacks. Here, you can enjoy some downtime, jump into the water again, or snap more photos of Capri’s rugged coastline.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers a lot of extras that enhance the value. Bottled water, soda, beer, prosecco, and even sweet red wine are included, along with snacks, beach towels, snorkelling gear, and WC facilities onboard. These small touches make a big difference, especially on a long day at sea.

However, lunch and Blue Grotto tickets are not included. The Blue Grotto ticket costs about €18 per person, payable separately. Many travelers choose to bring their own snacks and drinks, although some opt for the optional champagne or wine upgrades, which are available upon request.

The Verdict: Is It Worth It?

Considering the reviews, the experience appears to deliver excellent value for those seeking a flexible, intimate, and scenic day in Capri. Travelers praise the friendly, knowledgeable captains like Sandro, who go out of their way to make the day special. The boat itself is described as spacious and well-maintained, making it comfortable even for longer stretches.

The price reflects the exclusivity and personalized nature of the tour. It’s a premium experience, but many agree it’s worth the cost when you factor in the private setting, quality drinks, and the chance to swim in some of the most beautiful waters in Italy.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideally suited for small groups, families, or couples who want a private, flexible day exploring Capri’s sights at their own pace. If you’re the type who values authentic experiences with a personal touch, and you’re willing to spend a bit more for tailored service, this is a superb choice. It’s also perfect for those who love swimming and snorkeling in clear waters and prefer not to be part of a large, crowded tour.

However, if your main focus is strictly visiting the Blue Grotto without the desire for other stops or swimming, you might find a more straightforward tour better suited — though this package’s flexibility is a strong point.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group participates, making it a very personalized experience.

How long does the tour last?
About 8 to 9 hours, including navigation time, with stops for swimming, sightseeing, and optional lunch.

What is included in the price?
Bottled water, soda, beer, prosecco, sweet red wine, snacks, beach towels, snorkeling gear, WC, and loading/disembarkation costs are all included.

Can I visit the Blue Grotto?
Yes, but it depends on weather and line length. The captain will ask if you want to go in, but wait times can be 30 minutes to an hour during busy months.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included but can be arranged or you can bring your own.

What if I want to swim or snorkel?
You’ll have multiple opportunities to swim in Capri’s waters, which many reviewers say is a highlight.

How many people can fit on the boat?
Up to 4 people per group, making for an intimate experience.

What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance; full refund if canceled due to poor weather.

Who is the tour provider?
Positano Rental Boats – Dreams on Board, known for friendly, professional service and high customer ratings.

Final Thoughts

The Capri Private Boat Tour from Positano or Praiano offers an excellent way to see Capri’s most famous sights without the crowds or rigid schedules of larger tours. It blends scenic cruising, swimming, and the chance to explore at your own pace, all with the comfort of a private boat and attentive captain. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate personal service, flexible itineraries, and stunning natural beauty.

While the price isn’t for everyone, those who value exclusive access, gentle luxury, and the chance to create their own memorable day will find this tour to be a worthwhile splurge. Perfect for small groups, couples, or families, it promises a genuine, tailored appreciation of one of Italy’s most enchanting coastlines.

Whether you’re after iconic photos, a day of swimming, or simply soaking up the scenery from a boat with a glass of prosecco, this tour can deliver. Just remember, the best experiences often come with a little patience — especially at the Blue Grotto — but the sights and memories will be well worth it.