Positano: Private Boat cruise to Capri Island & Blue Grotto

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1 A Practical Look at the Positano Private Boat Cruise to Capri & the Blue Grotto

2 The Allure of a Private Boat Tour on the Amalfi Coast

A Practical Look at the Positano Private Boat Cruise to Capri & the Blue Grotto

Traveling along Italy’s Amalfi Coast offers breathtaking views, charming towns, and a whole lot of Mediterranean charm. This particular tour, a private boat cruise from Positano to Capri and its famous Blue Grotto, promises an intimate, flexible way to see iconic sights that large group tours often miss. We love that this experience offers customizability—you can tailor your day to match your interests—and the focus on luxury and comfort.

However, it’s worth mentioning that entrance to the Blue Grotto is not included and can involve long queues and additional costs, which might affect your plans. The tour is best suited for those wanting an authentic, relaxed day on the water, valuing personalized attention and the chance to explore at your own pace. If you’re comfortable with a bit of planning around the grotto’s entrance and enjoy beautiful scenery, this trip could be a highlight of your Italian holiday.

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Key Points

Private, customizable itinerary tailored to your interests
Includes visits to several caves and scenic spots around Capri
Luxury boat with a professional skipper for comfort and insight
Potential for swimming and relaxing in beautiful spots
Extra costs: Blue Grotto entrance and Capri dock fee
Ideal for travelers seeking a flexible, intimate experience on the water

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Italy.

The Allure of a Private Boat Tour on the Amalfi Coast

This tour offers a rare opportunity to navigate the coastline at your own pace, guided by a knowledgeable skipper who can help you discover hidden coves and scenic vistas. Instead of a crowded ferry or bus, you get the luxury of a private vessel—often a welcome relief after busy days exploring towns like Positano and Amalfi.

The price of approximately $1,920 for up to 12 people might seem steep at first glance, but it translates into a shared, memorable experience that’s hard to match with larger tours or public transportation. When you consider that the price includes towels, soft drinks, mineral water, and a glass of Prosecco, it’s clear that this is about more than just transportation—it’s a full, relaxed day on the water.

The Day’s Itinerary: What to Expect

Your adventure begins early in the morning at Cassiopea, located right on Positano’s main beach, Spiaggia Grande. This convenient meeting point means no long transfers from your hotel or other locations. Once on board, you’ll set off along the Sorrento coastline, a scenic stretch packed with views that instantly make you feel you’re in a postcard.

The first highlight is the island of Capri, famous for its hidden coves and impressive caves. Your skipper will take you past the Grotta Bianca (White Grotto) and the Grotta Meravigliosa, both known for striking stalagmites and stalactites. These caves are surprises worth the effort of slowing down for pictures and exploration, and the boat’s proximity makes viewing easier and more personal than from a crowded tour bus or ferry.

The Natural Arch is another must-see along the coast, a dramatic formation that appears almost sculpted by nature, watching over a small pond formed when a cave collapsed.

The Faraglioni rocks are undoubtedly the star of the show—these iconic sea stacks are the perfect photo op and symbolize Capri’s rugged beauty. From there, cruising into Marina Piccola, a tiny fishing village, offers a glimpse of local life and the chance to soak in the Mediterranean atmosphere.

Next, your skipper might take you past the Grotta Verde (Green Grotto), where the light filtering in produces a mesmerizing green glow, a spectacle that’s worth both the photo and the moment.

The highlight, of course, is the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra). You’ll see the famous entrance from the boat and have the option to buy a ticket and transfer into a small rowing boat for the inside experience—though, as many reviewers note, long queues and weather conditions can delay or limit access. If you choose to visit, be prepared for a wait, and understand that this part of the trip might be a bit unpredictable.

After exploring the caves, the boat heads toward Marina Grande, Capri’s main harbor, which is perfect for exploring the charming town of Capri. You’ll have free time to browse luxurious boutiques, relax in cafes, or visit sites like Villa Jovis or the Augustus Gardens—depending on your interests and time.

A Taste of Authentic Capri

Many travelers find that the best part of this tour is the ability to slow down and appreciate Capri’s natural beauty and local vibe. The small-town atmosphere of Marina Grande, with its bustling seafood restaurants and lively streets, provides a stark but welcome contrast to the quieter, scenic boat ride.

The skipper’s flexibility is often praised, with reviews highlighting how knowledgeable and relaxed the guides are, making the day feel less like a tour and more like a day spent with friends showing you their favorite spots. One traveler raved, “Francesco, our skipper, was amazing, knowledgeable, flexible, and relaxed. It was a perfect day.”

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Swimming, Refreshments, and Comfort

Throughout the cruise, the boat’s crew will look for good spots to stop for a swim, offering you a chance to dip into the calm, clear waters—an essential part of any Mediterranean outing. The boat features showers for rinsing off after swimming, ensuring you can stay comfortable after your dips.

Included in the price are non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, and Prosecco, which help keep everyone refreshed during the day. It’s a small touch that elevates the experience—imagine sipping bubbly while gazing at the coast or soaking up the sun.

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Practical Tips for a Smooth Day

Since Blue Grotto tickets are extra and subject to weather and queues, many travelers opt to enjoy the cruise without necessarily entering the grotto. If you’re keen, arrive early and be prepared for potential wait times. It’s worth noting that the Capri dock fee (around €100 or roughly $100) is also an extra cost, paid directly at the dock.

Be sure to pack sunblock, a hat, swimwear, and comfortable shoes for walking around Capri’s town. The meeting point at Cassiopea is easy to find, and the 8-hour duration provides a leisurely pace—relaxing but packed with highlights.

Real Traveler Insights

Reviewers consistently praise the balance of flexibility and guided expertise. One guest shared, “The day was gorgeous and relaxing. Francesco was knowledgeable and made us feel at ease.” Others appreciated the customization, noting they could skip the long lines at the Blue Grotto or choose where to swim and explore.

However, some mention that the Blue Grotto can be a gamble, depending on weather and queues, so it’s good to have alternatives in mind. The overall sentiment is that the value lies in the personal experience and stunning scenery, rather than ticking every box.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for small groups or couples who want an intimate, flexible day on the water. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with some planning around the grotto’s entrance and appreciate the luxury of having a private skipper making the day smooth and enjoyable.

Travelers looking for a more relaxed, personalized alternative to crowded boat trips will find this especially appealing. It’s also a great choice for those wishing to combine sightseeing with the chance to swim and enjoy leisurely exploration of Capri’s less touristy corners.

Final Thoughts

This private boat cruise offers a beautiful, flexible way to explore Capri and the surrounding coast. The chance to see caves, iconic rocks, and local towns from the water creates a unique perspective that no land-based tour can match.

The personalized service, combined with the stunning scenery and optional activities like swimming, makes it a great value for those seeking an authentic and intimate experience. For travelers who enjoy tailored adventures, this tour can turn a day in Italy into a truly memorable highlight.

While it requires some planning around the Blue Grotto’s entry and extra costs, the overall experience promises a relaxed, scenic, and luxurious escape from the crowds—perfect for lovers of the sea and natural beauty.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable on a boat and can handle a full day at sea. The private nature of the tour allows for some flexibility.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and a camera are recommended. Remember to bring extra cash for the Blue Grotto entrance and dock fee if you plan to visit.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the skipper is flexible and can tailor the stops and sightseeing to your preferences, making the experience more personal.

How long do we spend at Capri?
The tour includes time to explore the town and visit sites like Villa Jovis or enjoy shopping, but it’s best to check your specific starting time and plan accordingly.

What happens if the Blue Grotto is too crowded or closed?
The tour will still be beautiful without entering the Grotto; your skipper can recommend alternative caves or scenic spots.

Is the boat comfortable and private?
Yes, the boat is luxurious and designed for private groups, ensuring an intimate, comfortable experience with plenty of space to relax.

This private boat tour from Positano to Capri offers a relaxed, personalized, and scenic way to experience the Amalfi Coast’s most famous sights—perfect for those who value comfort, flexibility, and authentic moments by the sea.