From Capri: 3-Hour Island Boat Tour with Optional Blue Grotto

A boat ride around Capri offers a fresh perspective on one of Italy’s most glamorous islands. For about three hours, you’ll glide along the coast, visiting key sights like the Faraglioni rocks and the Blue Grotto, with the option to explore some of the most beautiful caves and beaches from the sea. This tour, priced at approximately $1,390 for a group of up to 12 people, promises a private experience that feels both exclusive and authentic.

What we particularly like about this experience is the chance to enjoy personalized guidance from your crew, especially the knowledgeable guides and expert boat captain, Gabriele, who make the trip informative but relaxed. Plus, the opportunity to snorkel in clear waters near Marina Piccola adds a fun, hands-on element to the trip.

One thing to keep in mind is that the Blue Grotto requires a separate ticket of €14 per adult, which is not included in the tour price. Considering the overall cost, this is a worthwhile expense if you’re keen to see the Grotto up close, but it’s good to plan ahead financially.

This tour suits travelers looking for a personalized, scenic experience, especially those who prefer avoiding crowded boat tours and want a chance to swim and take photos at iconic locations. It’s perfect for those who value expert guidance and a flexible itinerary that highlights the island’s most photogenic spots.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience with knowledgeable guides and captain.
• Includes famous sights such as the Faraglioni, Green and White Grottoes, and the Punta Carena Lighthouse.
• Flexible stops for swimming, snorkeling, and optional visits to the Blue Grotto.
• Great value for a private tour with all fees, water, and beverages included.
• Separate Blue Grotto ticket costs €14, but the experience of entering the Grotto is worth it for many.
• Duration of about 3 hours offers a thorough yet relaxed exploration of Capri’s coastline.

Detailed Review of the Capri Island Boat Tour

The Starting Point and Logistics

Your day begins with an easy hotel pickup, whisking you to the port of Massa Lubrense, a scenic departure point away from the busy harbor of Capri itself. From there, you’ll board your private boat—an intimate, comfortable vessel that quickly makes you feel like a VIP. We appreciated that this tour is just for your group, providing a sense of exclusivity often missing from larger group cruises.

The trip lasts roughly three hours, which is ample time to see many highlights without feeling rushed. The start at 11:00 am aligns well with good lighting and calmer waters, making your time on the water more enjoyable.

Itinerary Breakdown and Highlights

Stop 1: Blue Grotto
The Blue Grotto is the most famous of Capri’s caves, celebrated for its glowing blue waters. You have the option to visit—it’s a short ride inside the Grotto, with an extra fee of €14 per adult, paid on the spot. The experience of entering this natural wonder is often a highlight for visitors, but it’s important to note that the tour does not include the ticket price. Wait times can vary, so a flexible schedule and patience are helpful.

Stop 2: Spiaggia di Marina Piccola
Next, your boat drops anchor near Marina Piccola—a perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. We loved how this allows you to cool off and enjoy the marine environment directly from the boat, with about 30 minutes allocated for water fun. The shallow, transparent waters make it ideal for novice snorkelers or families.

Stop 3: Grotta Verde (Green Cave)
Accessible only by boat, the Green Cave’s turquoise waters are a stunning natural show. The boat stops here for about 15 minutes, giving you a chance for photos and a quick peek inside. It’s free to visit, making it a popular photo stop that truly stands out.

Stop 4: Punta Carena Lighthouse
This lighthouse is one of Italy’s largest and the second in luminosity range in the country. While only a brief stop of 10 minutes, you’ll have excellent views of the coastline and the lighthouse’s commanding presence. It’s a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the maritime history of the island.

Stop 5: Marina Grande
The bustling marina is the hub of Capri’s boat traffic, often populated with yachts and luxury vessels. Your boat will linger here for about 10 minutes, providing a glimpse into the island’s jet-set scene and some of its lively waterfront.

Stop 6: White Grotta
This lesser-known cave is famed for its colorful rocks and the “Virgin Marine” statue inside. Only accessible by boat, the White Grotto offers a quieter, more intimate experience—perfect for those who want to avoid the crowds at the Blue Grotto.

Final Stop: I Faraglioni
No visit to Capri is complete without seeing the iconic Faraglioni rocks. Your boat gets close enough for fantastic photos—an experience travelers have rated as “worth the money,” especially when guided by experts like Gabriele. This natural formation is one of the most recognizable symbols of the island, and seeing it from the water allows you to appreciate its grandeur.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package includes alcoholic beverages, bottled water, sodas, and snorkeling masks, making it easy to relax and explore without worrying about extra costs. All taxes and fees are covered, providing transparency and simplicity.

However, the Blue Grotto tickets are an additional expense, which can catch some travelers off guard if they’re unprepared. Considering the Grotto’s fame, most appreciate this as a worthwhile addition, but it’s worth factoring into your budget.

The Experience and Guides

Reviews highlight the value of knowledgeable guides and a skilled boat captain—Italo and Gabriele received praise for making guests feel at home. Their friendly, professional approach turns a scenic cruise into a tailored experience, with commentary that adds context to each stop.

Travelers have expressed high satisfaction: one reviewer called it “the best money we spent,” emphasizing that having a private boat and guides made the experience much more enjoyable than typical crowded group tours.

The Price and Its Value

At around $1,390 for a group of up to 12, this tour might seem pricey at first glance. But when you compare it to larger, less personal cruises, the value of privacy, flexibility, and personalized service becomes clear. You’re paying for not just the sights, but the comfort and exclusive access that come with a private boat.

Considering the inclusion of drinks, snorkeling gear, and the chance to customize your stops somewhat, this experience offers a good mix of luxury and authenticity. For travelers who value comfort and unique photo opportunities, the cost is justified.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for small groups or families looking for a private, relaxed way to see Capri’s coastline. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate expert guides and want to avoid the crowds of larger boat tours. If you’re interested in swimming, snorkeling, and taking iconic photos from the sea, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up: Is This the Right Tour for You?

In essence, this boat tour offers a balanced blend of stunning scenery, personalized service, and flexible stops. It’s a chance to see the island’s most famous sights from a comfortable, private vessel, making it perfect for travelers who want an authentic and relaxed experience.

The inclusion of snorkeling and the option to visit the Blue Grotto makes it more than just a sightseeing cruise—it’s an opportunity to truly enjoy the sea that surrounds Capri. If you’re seeking a less crowded, more intimate way to explore, this tour is well worth considering.

That said, it’s on the higher end of the price spectrum, so if budget is a concern, weigh the value of privacy and personalized guidance. For those who prioritize quality over quantity and want a memorable, picture-perfect day on the water, this tour could be the highlight of your Capri visit.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers the private boat rental, all taxes and fees, bottled water, sodas, alcoholic beverages, and snorkeling masks.

Is the Blue Grotto part of the tour?
No, entering the Blue Grotto requires a separate ticket costing €14 per adult. The tour stops outside the Grotto, and you may choose to go inside if you wish.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs for approximately 3 hours, giving enough time to see multiple sights and enjoy swimming or photos.

Can I swim and snorkel during the tour?
Yes, you can swim and snorkel at Marina Piccola and around the boat during designated stops, with about 30 minutes allocated for this activity.

What are the main sights visited?
Highlights include Faraglioni, Punta Carena Lighthouse, the Green and White Grottoes, and the bustling Marina Grande. The Blue Grotto is optional.

Are guides included?
Yes, the crew, including guides like Gabriele, provides commentary and assistance, making the experience more informative and enjoyable.

How many people can join the tour?
Up to 12 guests can participate, making it ideal for small groups or private parties.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers and families find it accessible, especially since snorkeling gear is provided and stops are brief.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, a hat for sun protection, and a camera. Remember, the Blue Grotto ticket is separate, so plan your budget accordingly.

This private boat tour around Capri offers a personalized and scenic way to experience the island’s highlights from the water. With knowledgeable guides, excellent photo opportunities, and the flexibility to include swimming and cave visits, it’s a memorable way to make the most of your time on this iconic island.