Capri: Private Island Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Swimming

If you’re dreaming of seeing Capri from the water, a private boat tour with snorkeling and swimming may just be the perfect way to do it. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the reviews, details, and overall setup paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect — and it looks quite appealing. This experience offers a flexible, intimate way to explore Capri’s famed rock formations, hidden grottos, and scenic coastline, all with your own skipper guiding the way.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its personalized touch — a private boat with your own sailor, often bringing a local’s expertise and a friendly demeanor. Plus, the opportunity to snorkel and swim in the clear waters makes it more than just a sightseeing cruise; it’s a chance to connect with the sea in a very direct way. That said, the tour’s short duration — 2 or 3 hours — means you’ll want to plan your day to match the timing, and keep in mind that food and alcohol are extra, so you might want to bring your own snacks or drinks if that’s your style.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want an authentic, relaxed way to see Capri without the crowds or the hassle of large tour groups. It’s especially well-suited for families, couples, or small groups looking for a memorable, scenic outing with the flexibility to customize a bit. Overall, a private boat tour like this balances value, personalization, and the chance to enjoy Capri’s stunning coastline from a very special vantage point.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with your own sailor and guide.
• Stunning views of Faraglioni Rocks, Natural Arch, and colorful grottos.
• Ability to swim and snorkel in clear waters, with provided equipment.
• Duration options of 2 or 3 hours, allowing flexibility.
• Soft drinks, water, towels, and life jackets included — food and alcohol are not.
• Suitable for small groups, families, or couples seeking an intimate outing.

For anyone planning to visit Capri, the idea of exploring the island from the water is almost essential. While walking the bustling streets of Capri Town or visiting famous landmarks is wonderful, nothing quite compares to the experience of drifting along the coast, with the wind in your hair and iconic sights like the Faraglioni Rocks right beside you. This private tour offers just that, giving you a chance to see the island from a different perspective.

The tour’s length makes it an excellent half-day adventure — enough time to cover key sights without feeling rushed. Depending on your chosen option, you’ll spend 2 or 3 hours cruising, which means you can fit this into a broader itinerary that includes exploring the town or relaxing on the beach later. The skipper, often a local, brings a wealth of knowledge about Capri’s hidden gems, making the trip both scenic and educational.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

It’s clear from reviews that the guides are a highlight. One reviewer mentions Mario, who played lively music, shared stories about local landmarks, and was just genuinely enthusiastic — making the experience both fun and informative. Another praises Davi, noting his skill at handling rough waters and his deep familiarity with the island’s coast. This personalized attention is a far cry from large group excursions and creates a more relaxed, engaging atmosphere.

The scenery is undeniably one of the main draws. You’ll sail past the Faraglioni, those towering rock formations that are Capri’s signature image. The Natural Arch is another highlight — a stunning natural rock formation that looks like a giant gateway to the sea. Plus, the colorful grottos, including the Green, White, and Red caves, add to the drama, though accessibility varies depending on sea conditions and timing.

Snorkeling and Swimming: A Refreshing Interlude

One of the biggest perks of this tour is the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. The provided snorkeling gear lets you explore underwater life or simply enjoy a refreshing dip in the sea—perfect for cooling off after soaking up the sun. Reviewers mention being sprayed with water after swimming, which adds a playful touch and keeps everyone feeling comfortable and refreshed.

Keep in mind that the water, towels, life jackets, and snorkeling equipment are included, which simplifies packing. However, since food and alcohol aren’t included, you might want to bring your own snacks or drinks if you want to indulge onboard. The tour provides soft drinks and bottled water, which help keep you hydrated during your trip.

What to Expect on the Day

The meeting point is usually at “La Vela” Bar in Marina Grande, a central and easy-to-find location. Before the tour, you’ll receive details via email or messaging apps — including exact meeting instructions and how to identify your guide. Expect a short wait if there’s any local traffic or sea conditions that might delay the start.

Once aboard, your skipper will steer you along Capri’s coastline, stopping at key spots for photos, explanations, and optional swimming. The boat itself is described as beautiful, clean, and comfortable, making the experience more enjoyable. The skipper’s local knowledge means you’ll hear stories and learn about Capri’s landmarks, adding depth to the scenery.

The tour concludes back at the starting point, ready for you to continue your exploration of Capri or head to your next adventure.

Price and Value: A Fair Investment

At $189.75 per person, the tour isn’t the cheapest option available, but it’s quite reasonable given the personalized experience, private guide, and inclusion of snorkeling gear. For travelers seeking an intimate, flexible, and scenic way to enjoy Capri’s coast, the value is evident. You get a customized route, expert navigation, and the chance to swim in pristine waters — all while avoiding the crowds often found on larger group tours.

The option to reserve now and pay later adds flexibility, and the full refund policy if canceled 24 hours in advance provides peace of mind. This makes it easier to plan your trip without financial risk.

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The Overall Experience

From glowing reviews, it’s clear that many find this tour to be a highlight of their trip to Capri. One traveler called it “AMAZING,” with praise for the fun music, informative stories, and the ability to swim and take photos at key landmarks. Another reviewer described their experience as “magical,” emphasizing the skill and friendliness of the guides.

While some mention that the guide’s language skills may vary (noted that one guide didn’t speak English fluently), the shared enthusiasm and local knowledge seem to shine through. The short duration is ideal for those wanting a quick but memorable adventure, but those seeking a longer or more in-depth experience might consider other options.

This private boat tour appeals most to travelers who value personalized service, scenic beauty, and flexibility. It’s perfect for small groups, families, or couples wanting a relaxed, fun outing without the noise of large crowds. If you’re comfortable with a shorter experience and want to see Capri from the water with the chance to swim, snorkel, and take photos, this tour ticks all boxes.

It’s also a great choice for those who appreciate local guides and want to learn more about the island in a casual setting. Just remember, if you’re looking for a full day or luxury experience with food and drinks included, you might want to explore other options.

In brief, this private boat experience offers a personalized, scenic, and fun way to see Capri. It’s especially valuable for travelers who want to enjoy the coastline, take a dip in the sea, and get insider tips from a local skipper. With its good reviews, reasonable price for a private tour, and inclusions like snorkeling gear and soft drinks, it’s a fantastic choice for a half-day adventure.

This tour strikes a balance between value and intimacy, making it a smart pick for those who want a memorable, flexible, and authentic Capri experience without the crowds or hefty price tag.

How long does the tour last?
You can choose between a 2-hour or 3-hour cruise, depending on what suits your schedule and interests.

Where does the tour start?
Most trips meet at “La Vela” Bar in Marina Grande, near the main harbor area. Exact details are shared via email or messaging app beforehand.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers a private boat, a personal sailor, snorkeling equipment, soft drinks, bottled water, towels, and life jackets.

Are food and alcohol included?
No, they are not. You’ll need to bring your own if you want snacks or drinks beyond what’s provided.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, it might not be suitable for very young children with heart problems or those unable to swim.

What languages does the guide speak?
Guides speak English and Italian, but the availability of fluent English may vary. Check with the provider if language is a concern.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.

Are there any sea conditions to worry about?
Short delays may happen due to sea conditions or local traffic. The skipper will do their best to ensure a smooth trip.

How many people can join?
Since it’s a private group, the boat size depends on your booking, but generally, it’s ideal for small groups or families.

Should I bring anything?
Bring a sun hat, sunscreen, swimwear, and perhaps a camera. Everything else, including snorkeling gear and towels, is provided.

This private boat tour in Capri offers a fantastic way to experience the island’s beauty in a relaxed, intimate setting. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, it promises to be a memorable part of your Italian journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: