From Castellammare di Stabia: Capri Blue Grotto Boat Day Tour

From Castellammare di Stabia: Capri Blue Grotto Boat Day Tour
Rating: 4.5/5
Review Count: 10
Location: Naples, Italy
Price: $172.31 per person
Supplier: MBS Blu Charter Boat Tours

This early-morning boat tour offers a relaxed, intimate way to explore Capri’s stunning coastline and legendary attractions. For around 7 to 8 hours, you’ll set sail from Castellammare di Stabia on a small boat with just 12 passengers, giving you plenty of room to relax and take in the sights without the crowds. The highlight, of course, is visiting the famous Blue Grotto, but the tour also includes stops at the Faraglioni rocks, the ancient Roman villa, and free time on the island itself.

What we love about this experience is how it avoids the midday crush by starting early, meaning you’ll beat the throngs and get clearer views of Capri’s coast and sea caves. Plus, the small group size ensures a more personal, laid-back vibe—no crowded decks or long lines—just a handful of fellow travelers and a friendly skipper. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and drinks makes it all the more enjoyable, turning a sightseeing cruise into a fun, active day on the water.

One potential downside? The visit to the Blue Grotto is weather-dependent. If the sea’s rough or the weather’s poor, the famed cave might be off-limits, which can be a disappointment given its reputation. Still, the tour offers plenty of other highlights, so you won’t miss out on a memorable day.

This tour suits those who appreciate authentic experiences and want a comfortable, accessible way to see Capri’s beauty without the hassle of crowded boats or large tour groups. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy small-group intimacy, scenic boat rides, and exploring both sea and land at a relaxed pace.

Key Points

• Early Morning Start: Arrive before the crowds to enjoy Capri and the Blue Grotto in peace.
• Small Group Experience: Only 12 passengers, offering more space and personal attention.
• Diverse Itinerary: Coastline views, Roman ruins, sea caves, and free time on Capri.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Beverages, snorkeling gear, restrooms, and showers onboard.
• Weather Dependency: Blue Grotto visits depend on sea conditions.
• Authentic and Relaxed: Less hurried, more intimate, ideal for those wanting genuine moments.

A Detailed Look at the Capri Blue Grotto Boat Tour

Starting Point and Departure Time

We meet at Ai Vecchi Pontili Da Paolo in Castellammare di Stabia at 7:00 am. This early start may seem daunting, but it’s a key part of the magic—arriving at Capri before the crowds swell. The meeting point is accessible near public transportation, making it convenient to reach without extra hassle.

The Journey Along the Sorrento Coastline

From the moment we leave the harbor, the views are captivating. Sailing along the Sorrento coastline, you’re treated to striking cliffs, small coves, and colorful fishing villages. The water is often calm enough to see the seabed and the boats tugging along beside us.

Marina Grande from the Sea

Our first stop is the ancient fishing village of Marina Grande—a charming, authentic spot that’s more relaxed than the busy port area. From the water, it’s easy to appreciate the quaint charm of this harbor, its colorful boats, and lively waterfront.

Passing the Roman Villa

Next, we glide past the remains of an ancient Roman villa dating back to the 1st century BC. While you might not get a detailed history, it’s a reminder of Capri’s long-standing allure. The view of these ruins from the sea provides a unique perspective that land-based tours often miss.

Visiting the Blue Grotto (Weather Permitting)

The Blue Grotto is the crown jewel of the tour, and visiting it is a highlight—if the sea cooperates. The cave’s vivid blue glow and the way sunlight filters through the water are truly spectacular, inspiring countless artists and poets over the centuries. The admission fee isn’t included, so you’ll need to purchase a ticket on-site. Expect about an hour for the visit, which includes the boat ride into the grotto and the small rowboats that take you inside.

Note: The visit is subject to weather and sea conditions—if the waters are too rough, the grotto might be closed. One reviewer, Peter, noted that they had a fun boat ride that “was a great tour – a Blue Grotto Tour without the Blue Grotto,” which shows that even if you don’t visit the cave, the experience remains enjoyable.

The Lighthouse and Green Cave

Along the route, you’ll see one of Italy’s oldest lighthouses, perched high on the coast, and pass by the Green Cave, a lesser-known but intriguing spot composed of dolomite sedimentary rock. The Green Cave is classified as secondary, meaning it formed after the main rock, adding a touch of geological curiosity to your journey.

Disembarking on Capri and Free Time

Once on the island, you’re granted about three hours to explore. We loved the way the tour mixes sightseeing, swimming, and leisure. After wandering through the center of Capri—with its boutique shops, cafes, and scenic views—you can enjoy some free time for swimming in the clear waters.

Passing Under the Faraglioni

A highlight is passing under the natural arch of the Faraglioni Rocks—a classic Capri photo opportunity. These towering limestone stacks are iconic, and witnessing them from the sea offers a different perspective than on land.

Swimming and Snorkeling

Swimming here is a must. The water is crystalline, and you’ll have a chance to snorkel with supplied gear, exploring the vibrant underwater world. One reviewer, Dale, called it an “excellent way to visit Capri,” highlighting the free time for swimming and the overall relaxed vibe.

Return to Castellammare di Stabia

The boat departs around 4:00 pm, allowing us to enjoy the scenic journey back with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights. The return trip includes the chance to unwind with bottled prosecco, soft drinks, water, and seasonal fruit, making the trip both refreshing and indulgent.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The inclusions make this experience particularly attractive:
– Professional skipper and English-speaking assistant
– Beverages including prosecco, soft drinks, beer, and seasonal fruit
– Snorkeling gear to explore underwater
– Restroom and shower facilities onboard
– Life jackets for safety
– Fuel included, so no hidden costs

However, keep in mind that the admission fee for the Blue Grotto isn’t part of the package, and there’s a tourist fee in Capri for assistance and reception services. Also, meals and beach towels are not included, so plan accordingly if you want to dine or sunbathe on land.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Reviews

From traveler testimonials, we see a common thread: “Massimo was a FANTASTIC skipper and host,” making the journey personal and fun. Dale mentioned that their captain, Cirro, “did a great job” during the visit, which speaks to the level of care and professionalism you can expect.

Reviewers also highlight the stunning scenery—from the sea caves to the coastlines, the views are breathtaking. One remarked on the surreal contrast of the white limestone rocks and blue sea, describing the scene as “surreal” and “suggestive,” which perfectly captures the atmosphere.

Travelers also appreciate the relaxed pace and the chance to avoid the crowds, making this tour a peaceful yet adventure-packed day. The small group size creates a more intimate experience, allowing better interaction with the skipper and more space on the boat.

The Sum Up: Who is This Tour Best For?

This small-group boat tour from Castellammare di Stabia offers a genuine taste of Capri’s natural beauty and coastal charm. It’s ideal for travelers who value a relaxed pace, personal attention, and authentic scenery over a hurried rush. If you’re eager to beat the crowds at the Blue Grotto and prefer a more intimate sailing experience, this trip delivers.

It suits adventurous swimmers and snorkelers who want to explore underwater, as well as those interested in historical sites like Roman ruins and picturesque lighthouses. The inclusion of refreshments and comfort amenities makes it accessible for a wide range of travelers, including those who prefer a less commercialized experience.

While weather can interfere with the cave visit, the overall itinerary ensures that even on less cooperative days, you’ll still enjoy breathtaking scenery, cultural sights, and a memorable day on the water. This tour is best for those seeking authenticity, comfort, and a touch of adventure—all within a manageable, well-organized package.

FAQs

Q: What time does the tour start?
A: The tour begins early, at 7:00 am, allowing you to beat the crowds and enjoy Capri in a more peaceful setting.

Q: How long do I spend on Capri?
A: You’ll have about three hours on the island, giving you time for sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing.

Q: Is the Blue Grotto visit guaranteed?
A: Not entirely. The visit depends on sea conditions—if the weather is rough, it might be canceled or rescheduled.

Q: What is included in the price?
A: The price covers skipper, assistant, beverages, snorkeling gear, restroom, shower, life jackets, and fuel. Admission to the Blue Grotto is extra.

Q: How many people are on the boat?
A: The tour is limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal and spacious experience.

Q: Can I swim or snorkel during the tour?
A: Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and there’s plenty of opportunity for swimming in the clear waters near Capri.

Q: What should I bring?
A: Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, and possibly some cash for the Grotto ticket or souvenirs. You might also want a waterproof camera to capture the scenery.

This boat tour from Castellammare di Stabia offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural sights, and relaxing leisure, all while steering clear of the larger crowds and commercial chaos. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful day on the water, or eager to see Capri’s highlights away from the mass tourism, this trip provides excellent value, memorable views, and genuine Italian charm.