From Positano: Shared Capri and Blue Grotto Boat Tour

Exploring the Positano to Capri and Blue Grotto Boat Tour: A Practical Guide

If you’re dreaming of visiting Capri and its iconic Blue Grotto without the hassle—and at a reasonable price—you might want to consider this shared boat tour departing from Positano. Promising a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and exploring, it offers an efficient way to cover some of the most captivating sights in the region. We’ve looked into the details, reviews, and logistics to bring you a clear picture of what to expect.

Two aspects stand out immediately: the small-group setting makes for a more personal experience, and the inclusion of multiple stops, from stunning caves to free time on the island, ensures you get a true taste of Capri. However, a potential consideration is that some key attractions, like the Blue Grotto, require an additional ticket and may not be included in your tour price. This is typical for day trips in this area but worth knowing beforehand. This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a cost-effective, well-organized, and authentic way to experience Capri’s highlights in a single day.

Key Points

• Small group size (up to 12 travelers) for a more intimate experience
• Includes transportation, water, Prosecco, beer, and snacks to keep you refreshed
• Flexible free time in Capri for personal exploration
• Multiple scenic stops including the Blue Grotto, Faraglioni rocks, and Green Grotto
• Cost-conscious at around $178 per person, with some extra fees
• Excellent reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and stunning views

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Pickup

The experience kicks off in Massa Lubrense at Molo Bagni le Sirene Marina della Lobra. The tour offers pickup by car or van right next to the Bar Internazionale in Positano, adding to its convenience. This means you won’t need to navigate busy streets or worry about parking—your transportation is sorted before you even set foot on the boat. It’s especially helpful in this part of Italy, where parking can be a challenge.

The Amalfi Coast View

Your first stop is a scenic bus ride along the Amalfi Coast. With approximately 30 minutes to enjoy the views, this section is perfect for snapping photos of colorful cliffside villages and dramatic sea cliffs. The ticket here is free, making it a great way to start appreciating the region’s natural beauty without extra cost.

Blue Grotto Excursion

Next, you’ll head to the Blue Grotto, one of Capri’s most famous attractions. While admission tickets cost €18 per person and are not included in the tour price, the opportunity to see this natural wonder is often a highlight. Be prepared for the possibility of waiting in line, as the grotto can be crowded, especially in peak season. The boat approach gives you a close-up view of the cave’s entrance before your guide explains its fascinating history and natural features.

Marina della Lobra and Capri Boats

At Marina della Lobra, your group checks in and boards a smaller boat (up to 12 people), adding a personal touch to the journey. The boat ride itself is part of the charm—sailing around Capri’s coastline, you’ll enjoy views of rugged cliffs and shimmering waters. The 15-minute ride gets you into the heart of Capri, ready for the next stops.

Green Grotto at Anacapri

Your next scenic stop is the Grotta Verde or Green Grotto at Anacapri. This visit lasts about 10 minutes, providing an up-close look at the cave’s natural green hues and unique formations. This is a less crowded alternative to the Blue Grotto, allowing you to soak in the colors without the long lines.

Swimming at Marina Piccola

One of the tour’s most relaxing moments is the 30-minute swimming stop at Marina Piccola. This sheltered bay offers calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The tour supplies diving masks, and you’ll love the chance to cool off in the clear waters while soaking up the sun. Many reviewers highlight this as a favorite part of the day, praising the opportunity to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.

Free Time in Capri

After completing the scenic stops, your group has about 4 hours of free time to explore Capri and Anacapri. This is where you can wander the charming streets, browse local shops, enjoy a meal, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere. With such a generous window, you can visit iconic spots, grab some delicious gelato, or take photos of the famous Faraglioni rocks from different angles.

The Faraglioni Rocks and White Grotto

The Faraglioni are perhaps Capri’s most recognizable natural feature. The tour briefly stops here, offering a 10-minute photo opportunity of the towering sea stacks. Similarly, the White Grotto provides a quick look at another of Capri’s picturesque caves, also lasting about 10 minutes.

Return and End of Tour

Your day concludes with the boat ride back to Marina della Lobra, where your transportation awaits to return you to Positano. The entire experience takes approximately 8 hours, blending sightseeing, relaxing, and authentic Italian coastal scenery.

What We Loved About This Tour

The knowledgeable guides really stood out, especially as one reviewer noted how their guide was “extremely knowledgeable on the history of Capri.” This personal touch makes a difference when navigating busy tourist sites, giving you insight rather than just pictures. The stunning views throughout the trip—whether from the boat, the caves, or the island streets—are truly worth the price.

The swimming stop at Marina Piccola is a highlight, giving you the chance to cool off and enjoy the water in a peaceful setting. Plus, the inclusion of refreshments like water, Prosecco, beer, and snacks keeps you energized without extra expense.

Price and Value

At around $178 per person, this tour offers solid value, especially considering the small group size, the comprehensive itinerary, and the flexibility for free exploration. Keep in mind that additional costs—such as the Blue Grotto ticket (€18) and the landing tax ($10)—are not included, but these are standard in the region.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is that Blue Grotto tickets are extra, and waiting times can vary. Also, some travelers might prefer a more structured, guided experience rather than free time, but the four hours on the island strike a good balance for most.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a cost-effective and personalized day trip to Capri. It suits those who want to see the highlights without the crowds or the high prices of private tours. If you enjoy small groups, snorkeling, and casual sightseeing, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also perfect if you prefer a relaxed pace that includes free time to wander and soak up the atmosphere.

The Sum Up

This shared boat tour from Positano to Capri and the Blue Grotto strikes a fine balance between value, comfort, and authentic experience. It offers a well-rounded day with stunning scenery, informative guides, and leisure time—all in a small-group setting that encourages a more intimate connection with the region. You’ll love the views, the chance to swim in Capri’s beautiful waters, and the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

While the extra costs for the Blue Grotto ticket and landing tax are worth noting, they don’t overshadow the overall value of the trip. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a day full of scenic variety without the stress of large tour groups or overly rigid schedules. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to this coastline, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to make the most of your time in this stunning corner of Italy.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup by car or van from Positano and transportation within the region, making it easy to start and end the day comfortably.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, including sightseeing, swimming, and free time on Capri.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to up to 12 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal and less crowded.

Are refreshments provided?
Yes, the tour supplies water, Prosecco, beer, soft drinks, and chips, so you stay refreshed throughout the day.

Are the caves included in the cost?
No, the Blue Grotto ticket (€18) is optional and not included in the tour price. The Green Grotto and White Grotto are free to visit.

Can I swim during the tour?
Absolutely. The 30-minute swim stop at Marina Piccola allows for relaxing in the water with supplied masks for snorkeling.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. However, consider individual mobility and swimming ability for the water stops.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, swimwear, a towel, camera, and some cash for optional extras like the Grotto tickets.

How do I cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Weather cancellations are also fully refundable or rebookable.

Would this tour be good for first-time visitors?
Yes, it’s perfect for those new to Capri, as it covers many highlights in one day with a relaxed pace and guide insights.

This small-group boat journey from Positano offers an authentic, scenic, and flexible way to experience Capri’s iconic sights. With stunning views, friendly guides, and plenty of time to explore, it’s a smart choice for travelers wanting a memorable taste of Italy’s famous coastline.