Positano: Capri and Blue Grotto Shared Boat Tour with Drinks

If you’re planning a visit to the Amalfi Coast, a day trip to Capri is often at the top of the wish list. This particular shared boat tour promises a full day of stunning scenery, close-up views of iconic natural wonders, and a taste of the island’s charm—all with the convenience of pickup right in Positano. Whether you’ve never been to Capri or are a seasoned visitor, this tour offers a good mix of highlights and authentic experiences.

What excites us most about this tour are the opportunity to see the Blue Grotto (at your own expense), and the ample free time on Capri—perfect for exploring at your own pace. The guided boat ride with drinks and the chance to swim in the Tyrrhenian Sea add a relaxed, fun vibe. However, a potential hiccup might be the entrance fee for the Blue Grotto (18 euros), which isn’t included, so travelers should budget accordingly. This trip suits curious travelers eager to see multiple sights without the hassle of organizing transport or guides themselves.

Key Points

• Includes scenic transfer and boat ride along the Amalfi Coast with views of waterfalls and cliffs.
• Passes by iconic sights like the Faraglioni rocks, White Grotto, and Punta Carena lighthouse.
• Flexible free time on Capri allows for personalized exploration.
• Blue Grotto visit is optional and at your own expense.
• Snorkeling masks and drinks are provided to enhance the experience.
• Small group size (limited to 12) means more personal attention.
• Tour duration is about 8 hours, making it a full-day adventure.
• Cost is around $194.57 per person, a reasonable price for a day packed with sights and experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting from Positano, the journey kicks off with a pickup at a designated meeting point. This makes it easier for travelers to avoid the hassle of navigating crowded streets. The transfer to Marina Della Lobra, the boat’s departure point, offers scenic views of the Amalfi Coast, including the famous Marciano Waterfall. It’s a gentle reminder that this tour isn’t just about the destination but also about enjoying the journey.

Once aboard the boat, the relaxed cruise begins. You’ll love the way the boat glides past dramatic coastlines, with the guide explaining the sights along the way. The first major highlight is the Blue Grotto, an ethereal sea cave famous for its surreal blue glow. You can purchase tickets (around 18 euros) to enter this natural wonder on a small rowboat. As one reviewer noted, “the Blue Grotto is pretty,” but be aware that the experience lasts only about five minutes, so it’s a quick but memorable stop.

After the grotto, the boat circumnavigates Capri, revealing some of the island’s most dramatic coastal features. You’ll see the Faraglioni rocks, a set of towering sea stacks that are instantly recognizable. The Green Grotto and White Grotto are also visible, along with the Punta Carena lighthouse, which guides ships along these treacherous waters. During this part of the tour, your guide shares insights into the geology and history of the area, making the experience both scenic and educational.

Swimming stops are sprinkled throughout the cruise, giving you chances to dip into the clear Tyrrhenian Sea. Snorkeling masks are provided, so you can get a closer look at the underwater world. One guest mentioned that “swimming was the best part,” emphasizing how refreshing and fun it can be to cool off in such a beautiful setting.

Arriving in Capri, you’ll have about four hours of free time to explore. Some popular options include walking along the marina, shopping in the elegant streets of Capri town, or taking the chairlift to Monte Solaro for sweeping views of the island. Others might prefer to lounge in a café or visit a local gelato shop. The flexibility here is a real plus, allowing you to tailor your experience to your interests.

Meeting back at the boat, the return journey begins with a tasting of Limoncello, the famous lemon liqueur. It’s a delightful way to toast the day’s adventures and soak in the scenery one last time. The trip concludes with a drop-off at a convenient point in Positano, though drop-off locations can vary depending on traffic and season.

Value and Practical Considerations

At around $194.57 per person, this tour offers solid value considering the inclusion of transportation, drinks, snorkeling gear, and four hours on Capri. The small group size (up to 12 participants) makes it more intimate and allows for more personalized interactions. Keep in mind that the Blue Grotto fee (18 euros) is not included, so you’ll need to budget for that if you want to go inside.

Some travelers, like Jeremy, recommend heading straight for the chairlift if you want the best views, which suggests that prioritizing certain activities can maximize your time. Abdul’s tip to go early for the Blue Grotto highlights the possibility of lines or crowds, so planning accordingly can improve your experience.

The tour’s flexibility with pickup and drop-off points is a big advantage, especially in busy Positano streets. However, since the driver can only wait a few minutes, being punctual is essential.

Authentic Experiences and Highlights

From reviews, it’s clear that guides and captains play a significant role in making this trip memorable. Vanessa praised her captain Frederico, saying “they made the trip even better,” emphasizing the importance of knowledgeable and friendly staff. The scenic views of coastlines, waterfalls, and sea stacks are truly breathtaking and provide ample photo opportunities.

The free time on Capri is appreciated widely; it allows you to soak up the island’s atmosphere, indulge in local cuisine, or simply relax by the water. The drinks on board—water, beer, and soft drinks—add to the laid-back vibe, and the included snorkeling masks mean you can enjoy the underwater scenery without extra hassle.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see Capri without the stress of planning every detail. It’s great for small groups seeking a more intimate setting, and those eager to balance sightseeing with some leisure time. If you love coastal scenery, natural wonders, and authentic local touches like Limoncello tasting, this tour ticks many boxes.

On the other hand, if you’re a hardcore grotto enthusiast or want more time inside the Blue Grotto, you might find the extra fees and short visit limiting. Also, those on a tight schedule should consider that the full day can be quite busy.

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Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat tour from Positano offers a well-rounded experience that balances scenic cruising, natural wonders, and leisure time. It’s particularly suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy water-based activities and are comfortable with a small group setting. The inclusion of drinks, snorkeling gear, and free time enhances its value, making it more than just a boat ride.

If you’re after authentic coastal scenery, an intimate group, and the freedom to explore Capri on your own, this trip is a strong contender. The knowledgeable guides and the chance to see iconic sights like the Faraglioni and Blue Grotto make it a memorable way to experience the Amalfi Coast’s jewel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included from Positano?
Yes, pickup is included at certain meeting points in Positano, making it easy to join the tour without extra hassle.

How long is the overall tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, including transfer, sightseeing, free time, and return.

Are drinks included?
Yes, water, soft drinks, and beer are provided on board, along with snorkeling masks.

Can I visit the Blue Grotto?
You can at your own expense—tickets cost about 18 euros—and the visit lasts approximately five minutes.

How much free time do I get on Capri?
You’ll have around four hours to explore the island at your leisure.

What if I want to do more on Capri?
You can visit the Marina Piccola, shop, or take the chairlift to Monte Solaro—your guide can help with suggestions.

Is the group size small?
Yes, limited to 12 participants, ensuring more personalized service and a relaxed atmosphere.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your plans.

To sum it up, this shared boat tour from Positano to Capri is a fantastic way to experience the highlights of the island with the convenience of guided commentary and a relaxed pace. It’s best suited for those wanting a balance of sightseeing and free time, and who appreciate authentic, small-group experiences. With breathtaking views, a chance to swim, and a taste of local flavor, it promises to be a memorable day along Italy’s stunning coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: