Private Tour: Amalfi Coast to Capri Cruise

A Private Day on the Water: Amalfi Coast to Capri Cruise

Imagine gliding along the shimmering waters of Italy’s most famed coastline, with the sun warming your face and the breeze ruffling your hair. This private tour from Positano to Capri offers just that: a roughly six-hour journey exploring some of the most spectacular sights of the Amalfi Coast and the island of Capri. For $1,267.53 per group (up to five people), you’ll have your own captain leading the way on a sleek boat—either wooden or fiberglass—tailored to your interests.

What we particularly love about this experience is its customizable itinerary. You can choose to stop at the famous Blue Grotto, swim in pristine coves, or simply relax and soak up the views. Plus, the hosts provide snorkel masks, towels, and drinks, making it a relaxed, hassle-free day on the water. The limited group size ensures intimacy, and the luxury of having your own captain means you’re free to linger or move along as you please.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the importance of weather conditions. The tour is weather-dependent, and if seas are rough or the weather turns poor, the trip could be canceled or altered—something to consider if you’re traveling outside the shoulder seasons. This tour suits travelers who enjoy personalized experiences, scenic cruising, and a touch of adventure—perfect for couples, friends, or small families looking to see Capri and the coast in style.

Key Points

• Exclusive Private Experience: Only your group on the boat, with a dedicated captain leading the way.
• Flexible Itinerary: Customize stops, including swimming, sightseeing, or visiting the Blue Grotto.
• Stunning Views: Pass by iconic rock formations like the Faraglioni and Li Galli islands.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Towels, snorkeling masks, drinks, and snacks provided on board.
• Weather Dependency: The tour relies on calm seas; poor weather can lead to cancellations or route changes.
• Ideal for Small Groups: Up to five people for a more intimate experience, great for families or couples.

The Experience in Detail

Setting Out from Positano: Starting your day at the large cement pier near Spiaggia Grande, you’ll meet your captain and board your boat. The early departure means you’ll catch the coast’s breathtaking morning light—a time when the scenery is particularly vivid, and crowds are thinner.

Cruising Along the Amalfi Coast: As your captain takes the helm, you’ll cruise past the legendary Li Galli islands, known for their natural beauty and mythic association with Circe from Homer’s tales. It’s a perfect spot for a quick swim or just to snap some photos of the rugged cliffs and turquoise waters. The reviews emphasize how the captain’s knowledge adds value—sharing stories about the area and pointing out notable landmarks like the Pink and White Lighthouse and unique rock formations like the Arch of the Faraglioni.

Reaching Capri: The crossing from Positano to Capri across the Gulf of Naples is roughly an hour, and it’s a scenic highlight in itself. Once on the island, your captain will navigate around the coves and lagoons, stopping for swims in clear waters and passing by famous grottoes. The Green Grotto and the White Grotto (shaped like the Virgin Mary) are accessible for swimming and photo ops, adding to the allure of the trip.

Optional Visit to the Blue Grotto: The Blue Grotto remains a top draw for many. For an additional €18 per person, you can hop off the boat to enter this cavern of shimmering blue water. Keep in mind that the entrance fee isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget this in. Several reviewers mention this as a “must-see,” but it’s optional—you can skip it if seas are rough or if you prefer a more relaxed experience.

Leisure in Capri: After the cruising part, your captain can drop you off for some free time. Whether you aim to stroll the charming streets, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a seaside café, explore the Gardens of Augustus, or take the funicular up to Mt. Solaro for panoramic views, you’ll have the flexibility to tailor your visit. Several reviews highlight how captains help arrange reservations or point out local spots worth exploring.

Return Journey: Reunited with your captain, you’ll cruise back along the coast, enjoying the sunset if timing allows. The return offers more chances to relax, take photos, or just savor the scenery.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This private cruise offers a personalized, intimate experience that large group tours simply can’t match. The small group size and dedicated captain mean you can choose your pace, linger at favorite spots, or skip the ones you’re less interested in. The all-inclusive amenities—from drinks to snorkeling gear—ensure comfort, while the flexibility means your day can be as laid-back or active as you like.

One reviewer raved, “The trip was beautiful, and Giuseppe was able to give us interesting information about the area,” emphasizing how knowledgeable guides enhance the experience. Others appreciated the effort to arrange lunch reservations and personalized itineraries, which show this isn’t just a cookie-cutter tour but a curated day out.

However, some mentioned that poor weather can impact the experience, especially since swimming and grotto visits depend on sea conditions. The boat is operated by attentive captains who monitor the weather carefully and will cancel or modify the trip if necessary.

This tour is perfect for those seeking luxury, privacy, and authentic experiences on the water, especially if you enjoy the idea of customizing your day and avoiding large crowds.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting in Positano: The Gateway to the Coast

Your day begins at the large cement pier next to Spiaggia Grande. Arriving early means you’ll beat the crowds and enjoy calm waters for your departure. The sense of anticipation builds as you step onto your boat, ready for a day of adventure.

Cruising Past Li Galli and the Coastline

The first part of the cruise is about soaking in the scenery—rugged cliffs, colorful towns, and natural reserves. The Li Galli islands are often the first highlight, with their history and myth intertwined with the legends of Ulysses. Several reviews mention the “stunning views” from the boat, making it clear that this part of the trip alone is worth the price.

Capricious Capri: Sights and Swims

Once at Capri, the boat navigates around sea caves and grottoes, with opportunities to swim in emerald waters and get close to iconic formations like the Faraglioni rocks. Several reviews highlight the Green Grotto and White Grotto as favorite spots for swimming and photos.

Visiting the Blue Grotto

The Blue Grotto, the most famous cavern on Capri, is a highlight for many travelers. The shimmering electric blue of the water has attracted visitors for centuries, and being able to see this natural wonder from your boat is memorable. Remember, visiting costs extra and is optional, so you can choose to skip if preferred.

Free Time on Capri

The optional stop allows flexibility—whether you want to explore the town’s shops, dine at a seaside restaurant, or visit the Gardens of Augustus. Many reviewers emphasize how captains can make reservations or suggest hidden gems, helping you make the most of your time.

Returning Along the Coast

As your day winds down, you’ll cruise back along the Amalfi Coast, enjoying the sunset views or a calm, reflective ride. The captain’s stories about the landmarks and history add depth and color to the scenery.

The Value of This Experience

When considering the price, it’s important to weigh the personalized service, private boat, and flexibility you receive. Compared to group tours, this private experience offers a more relaxed pace, tailor-made stops, and the comfort of your own vessel. Many reviewers mention how knowledgeable guides and friendly captains elevate the experience—one even said the trip was “the best day of our trip.”

The all-inclusive setup—with drinks, towels, snorkeling masks, and the option to swim—adds to the overall value. The ability to customize your route and skip the crowds on land makes this a compelling choice for travelers who want both comfort and authenticity.

Points to consider:

• The tour is weather-dependent, and poor conditions could lead to cancellation or adjustments.
• The cost per group might seem high, but the exclusivity and customization justify it for many.
• Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred boat type and date.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for small groups craving a luxurious, private day at sea. It suits couples celebrating a special occasion, small families, or friends wanting a shared adventure. If you’re looking for flexibility, expert guidance, and beautiful views, you’ll find this cruise worthwhile. It’s especially appealing if you value authenticity over crowd-packed tours and want a personalized day exploring Capri’s scenic coastlines.

FAQ

How long is this tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy cruising, swimming, and exploring.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes bottled water, soda, alcohol (local beer and Prosecco), towels, snorkel masks, and a local captain. Fuel and taxes are covered as well.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, the itinerary includes several stops for swimming in coves and lagoons, with snorkel masks provided for your convenience.

Is visiting the Blue Grotto part of the tour?
Visiting the Blue Grotto is optional and incurs an additional €18 per person. It’s not guaranteed due to weather or time constraints.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If sea conditions are unsafe, the captain may cancel or reschedule. In such cases, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. You can choose to spend more time swimming, sightseeing, or exploring Capri based on your interests.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers of all ages participate. One review mentioned a captain letting an 8-year-old be a “temporary captain”, which shows the family-friendly nature of the experience.

What type of boat is used?
Your choice of a wooden or fiberglass boat depending on your booking preferences. The boat is well-equipped for comfort and safety.

Do I need to make reservations for lunch or sights?
The captain can assist with lunch reservations at local restaurants or help you plan your free time on Capri, making your day more seamless.

To sum it up, this private Amalfi Coast to Capri cruise offers an exceptional way to see Italy’s stunning coastline and island. With a dedicated captain, customizable stops, and everything included for comfort, it stands out as an experience that balances luxury with authentic adventure. It’s best suited for travelers who value privacy, flexibility, and expert guidance—those who want to avoid crowded tours and dive into the scenery at their own pace.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a memorable day on the water, this cruise provides a blend of natural beauty, intimate exploration, and genuine local flavor. Just remember to keep an eye on the weather, book in advance, and prepare for a day full of dazzling sights and relaxed indulgence.