Exclusive Guided Boat Tour of Capri Island

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If you’re dreaming of a day cruising around Capri in style, this private boat tour from Sorrento offers a special way to see the island’s highlights without the crowds or chaos of large group tours. Although we haven’t personally taken this exact journey, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it’s a well-planned, memorable experience perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone eager to enjoy Capri’s natural beauty from the water.

What we love about this particular tour is its intimate atmosphere—with a maximum of 7 people, you get to enjoy personalized attention and a relaxed pace. The stunning scenery of the Faraglioni, caves, and coastline promises plenty of photo-ops, and the inclusion of swimming stops makes it feel more like a day of adventure than just sightseeing. A second highlight is the knowledgeable skipper, who’s bilingual in English and Italian, adding context and local charm.

The main drawback? The total cost is around $720 per person, which is on the higher side for a day at sea. However, considering the private nature, bespoke itinerary, and all the included amenities, many travelers will find the value justified, especially if they’re seeking a more exclusive, stress-free way to explore Capri. This tour is best suited for those looking for a special, high-quality experience, willing to invest for comfort and authenticity.

Key Points

  • Private, intimate experience with a maximum of 7 guests ensures personalized service and a relaxed vibe.
  • Multiple swimming stops and visits to iconic caves offer plenty of opportunities to cool off and enjoy the pristine waters.
  • Expert skipper provides insightful commentary in both English and Italian, enriching your understanding of Capri’s sights.
  • Beautiful scenery including the Faraglioni, Green Cave, and Villa Malaparte, highlights the natural and architectural charm of the island.
  • All-day flexibility with a 3-hour land visit, plus a scenic cruise back to Sorrento, balances adventure and leisure.
  • Cost reflects exclusivity with all the private touches, snacks, snorkel gear, and a relaxed pace, making it a worthwhile splurge for special occasions.

The Detailed Experience of the Capri Private Boat Tour

Starting Point: Marina Piccola

The experience begins at Marina Piccola, a charming port area with a lively but laid-back vibe. Here, your skipper welcomes you aboard the 8-meter super gozzo, a sleek, speedboat that feels both safe and sporty. The briefing sets the tone—expect a casual chat about the day’s plan and some insider tips about Capri.

Cruising the Sorrento Peninsula

The boat glides smoothly along the coastline, offering stunning views of Sorrento and the surrounding cliffs. This 40-minute sail is the perfect introduction, giving you a taste of what’s to come and allowing for some initial photos of the coastline and distant Mount Vesuvius if visible.

White Grotto and Natural Arch

The first scenic stop is the White Grotto, where your guide explains the natural formations and stalagmites that make the cave so captivating. It’s a quick pass, but the highlight is the Natural Arch, a stunning sea arch that invites you to take a swim beneath it. Here, the water’s calm and clear, ideal for dipping in and cooling off.

Passing Villa Malaparte and other sights

As you continue, your skipper will pass by Villa Malaparte, a striking home built directly on the sea, famous for its cinematic appearances. While you won’t disembark, viewing it from the boat adds a touch of glamour and history to your trip.

Swimming and Sunbathing at Marina Piccola

Next, you’ll anchor near Marina Piccola again for another swim session. The waters here are described as beautiful and perfect for relaxing or snorkeling. The inclusion of snorkeling masks allows you to explore the underwater world—many reviews mention seeing colorful fish and enjoying the tranquility of the sea.

The Faraglioni and Green Grotto

One of the most iconic sights is the Faraglioni, the towering sea stacks that are also the symbol of Capri. Expect to spend about 15 minutes here, capturing photos of these gigantic rocks. Nearby, the Green Grotto offers another photo opportunity and a chance to see the cave’s vivid coloration, thanks to the natural light filtering through.

Punta Carena Lighthouse and Hidden Caves

The tour includes a stop at the Punta Carena Lighthouse, Italy’s third-largest lighthouse, providing panoramic views and great photo ops. As you continue, your guide will navigate through small caves not marked on maps, revealing some of the island’s lesser-known secrets.

Land Visit and Exploring Capri on Foot

After about three hours on the water, you’ll have a 3-hour free time on land. This allows you to stroll through Capri’s charming streets, browse local shops, or simply relax at a café—your choice to make the most of this stunning island.

Return to Marina Piccola

The journey back to Sorrento is about 50 minutes, and the scenery continues to impress. On the way, you may get a quick glance at the Blue Grotto, though it’s a pass-by only, not an entry—an excellent photo opportunity.

What’s Included and What’s Extra

This tour covers quite a bit—bottled water, stereo equipment, snorkeling gear, and snacks are all provided. Your skipper’s bilingual commentary enhances the experience, making it both fun and informative.

However, there are some costs not included:

  • The Capri landing tax (€100 per booking)
  • Entry to the Blue Grotto (€18 per person)
  • Beach towels (€10), alcohol (Prosecco €30), sodas (€7), and fuel (€300) which you might want to budget separately.

Consideration of Price and Value

While $720 per person might seem steep, it’s important to weigh it against what you get: a private, tailored, and scenic day on the water, with stops at major sights and ample swimming opportunities. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, and the inclusive snacks and snorkeling gear add convenience. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable the skipper is, making the trip more engaging and informative.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a luxurious, private experience with flexibility and personalized attention. It suits romantic couples seeking an intimate adventure, small groups of friends eager to explore in comfort, or anyone celebrating a special occasion. If you’re looking to avoid the chaos of crowded boats and prefer scenic tranquility with a touch of luxury, this tour fits the bill.

The Sum Up

For those craving a relaxed yet adventurous day exploring Capri, this private boat tour offers an unbeatable combination of natural beauty, exclusivity, and expert guidance. The itinerary hits all the highlights—Faraglioni, Green Grotto, Villa Malaparte—plus plenty of swimming and photo opportunities. The small-group format ensures a more personal experience, making your day feel tailored and special.

While the price is higher than typical group tours, the private nature, comprehensive stops, and quality amenities make this experience especially valuable for travelers wanting a memorable and stress-free exploration of Capri’s stunning coast. If you’re willing to invest in comfort and authenticity, this tour will leave you with lasting memories of one of Italy’s most beautiful islands.

FAQs

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, including the boat cruise, sightseeing stops, swimming, and the land visit to Capri.

What is included in the tour price?
Bottled water, snorkeling masks, snacks, stereo system, and a knowledgeable skipper are included. You’ll also get beach towels and an awning for comfort.

Are there any additional costs I should budget for?
Yes, you’ll need to pay the Capri landing tax (€100 per booking), entrance fees to the Blue Grotto (€18 per person), and optional extras like alcohol (€30 for prosecco), towels (€10), and fuel (€300).

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Most travelers can participate, and snorkeling gear is provided, making it suitable for non-swimmers who are comfortable in the water. Always check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your skipper can likely tailor the stops within the framework of the planned itinerary, focusing on your interests.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This private boat experience around Capri offers a rare chance to see Italy’s famed island from its most beautiful vantage point—on the water, in a relaxed, tailored setting. Perfect for those who want to combine comfort, exclusivity, and authentic scenery into one unforgettable day.