Capri and Blue Grotto Small Group Boat Tour

A Day of Wonder: Capri and Blue Grotto Small Group Boat Tour

If you’re visiting Positano and craving an authentic, immersive experience of Capri’s natural beauty, this small-group boat tour offers a comprehensive way to explore the island from the water. Priced at around $177 per person, lasting approximately 8 hours, and led by friendly guides, it’s a well-rounded adventure that balances sightseeing, swimming, and cultural highlights.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines stunning scenery with informative guides who bring each stop to life — all aboard a comfortable, intimate boat that keeps the experience personal. Two standout features are the chance to see the Blue Grotto early in the day (avoiding long lines) and the variety of hidden caves and scenic spots that you won’t find on larger boat trips.

One potential consideration is that, depending on the weather and sea conditions, some activities like swimming or snorkeling may be limited or canceled for safety reasons. It’s also important to note that the Blue Grotto entrance fee of €18 is paid separately on-site, which some travelers might overlook when booking.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy, detailed explanations from guides, and a flexible itinerary that balances scenic cruising with time for relaxation and exploration. It’s especially suited for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy Capri’s natural beauty with knowledgeable hosts guiding the way.

Key Points

• Intimate group size (maximum of 12 travelers) ensures personalized attention.
• Multiple scenic stops including caves, panoramic views, and historical sites.
• Expert guides provide insights and stories, enriching the experience.
• Flexible activities like swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying local snacks.
• Blue Grotto visit can be a highlight, with the option to skip long lines by going early.
• All-inclusive amenities such as drinks, snacks, and beach towels add value.

Exploring Capri by Boat: A Deep Dive

Overview and What Sets This Tour Apart

This full-day boat tour around the island of Capri offers a charming and detailed way to see some of the most iconic sights, from the famous Blue Grotto to the Faraglioni rocks. For about 8 hours, you’ll cruise along the coast, stopping at captivating caves and viewpoints, all while enjoying the comfort of a small, friendly boat crewed by a knowledgeable skipper and hostess.

An important aspect that many reviews highlight is the small-group setting. With no more than 12 guests, you’ll find it easier to ask questions, get personalized service, and truly soak in the ever-changing landscape. Plus, the live guide onboard ensures you understand the significance of each location — from the history of the Punta Carena Lighthouse to the legends of the White and Red Grottos.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

Start at Positano: The tour begins with a private pickup, making it easy to start your day stress-free. From there, it’s about a 35-minute boat ride to Capri, providing lovely views of the coast.

Spiaggia Grande: Your first stop on the island is the famous Spiaggia Grande, a lively beach with plenty of space to relax and admire the vibrant scenery. It’s a perfect intro to Capri’s charm.

Marina Grande and Bagni di Tiberio: Just nearby, you’ll get a taste of Roman history, as this small coastline was once a favorite summer retreat for Emperor Tiberius — the very spot where ancient emperors once bathed.

Blue Grotto: The star of the show. Here, you’ll enter the sea cave with a smaller boat (cost of €18 per person paid on-site). The dancing blue light inside is an experience that stays with travelers long after the day ends. Reviews praise the early start to beat the crowds, with some guests noting waits of only about 10 minutes instead of hours.

Caves and Hidden Spots: The tour includes stops at Cala del Rio and the Heart Cave, which features a carved heart silhouette visible from the water. These spots showcase Capri’s raw natural beauty and offer excellent photo opportunities.

Punta Carena Lighthouse: Built in 1867, this lighthouse offers dramatic views, especially at sunset, making it a favorite photo spot. It’s a peaceful area that remains relatively untouched by mass tourism.

Grotta dei Santi, Verde, White, and Rossa: The tour ventures into several caves, each with unique features. The Saints Grotto is notable for the stalactites resembling praying saints, while the Green Grotto (once called the Cave of Turks) dazzles with emerald-green waters. The White Grotto features walls of white limestone, and the Red Grotto boasts walls of intense red rock. All are worth admiring, and some — like the Green and White Grottos — allow for short swims, weather permitting.

Punta Ventroso and Marina Piccola: The boat takes a relaxing break here, with a chance to sip prosecco and limoncello, enjoy snacks, and cool off with a swim. Many reviews mention how well the crew creates a festive, relaxed atmosphere—music, drinks, and conversation abound.

The Faraglioni Rocks: No trip to Capri is complete without seeing these iconic sea stacks up close. They’ve inspired countless artists and photographers. Here, you’ll have about 30 minutes to snap photos, soak in the views, and even get some selfies with this world-famous backdrop.

Villa Malaparte and Other Landmarks: The tour includes a glimpse of the famed Villa Malaparte, designed by architect Adalberto Libera. This striking red structure perched on a cliff has been featured in films and remains a symbol of modernist architecture on Capri.

Final Stops: The White and Red Grottos are also visited, with their distinctive colors and formations providing more stunning sights to end your day.

What the Reviews Say

Many travelers emphasize the friendly, knowledgeable guides — from Antonio to Valerio, guests rave about their storytelling and attentiveness. One guest noted, “Vincenzo and Pasquale were very nice, courteous, and informative,” highlighting the value of having hosts who genuinely care.

The overall sentiment is that this trip offers fantastic value. Many reviewers mention how the snacks, drinks, and even limoncello make the day special. Jessica called it “one of the highlights of our trip,” and others appreciated the opportunity to swim and snorkel in clear waters — a rare treat given the crowded beaches and busy land visits.

However, some reviews point out that the Blue Grotto can be crowded or closed—sometimes waiting hours or facing closure due to tides. Going early seems to improve the chances of experiencing it without long waits, which the tour’s timing wisely considers.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

What makes this tour stand out:

• The small group size ensures a lively, intimate atmosphere.
• The guides’ stories and insights add depth to the sightseeing.
• The variety of stops—from caves to panoramic views—keeps the day engaging.
• The inclusive drinks and snacks, plus the opportunity for swimming, maximize value.

Possible drawbacks:

• The Blue Grotto’s unpredictable schedule and extra fee can be a disappointment if you’re expecting a guaranteed visit.
• Weather can influence activities like snorkeling and swimming, so flexibility is key.
• Some travelers might find the boat a bit small during busy days, though reviews suggest the crew is attentive.

Who Would Love This Experience?

If you appreciate small-group tours, want to learn about Capri’s caves and landmarks from friendly guides, and love being on the water, this tour hits the spot. It’s perfect for those who enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and scenic cruising. It’s also suited for travelers who value authentic, less crowded experiences over large, touristy boat trips.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For anyone eager to explore Capri’s coast in a relaxed, friendly setting, this small-group boat tour offers a solid balance of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural insight. The guide’s local knowledge elevates the experience, while the scenic stops and caves create unforgettable memories. The inclusion of drinks, snacks, and the opportunity to avoid long lines at the Blue Grotto makes it a good value, especially for those who cherish authentic experiences.

It’s particularly well-suited for adventure seekers, photo enthusiasts, and travelers who prefer an intimate, personalized tour over crowded excursions. If you’re okay with some weather variability and appreciate a well-organized day on the water, this trip could easily become a highlight of your time in Positano and Capri.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, it lasts about 8 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and breaks.

How many people are on the boat?
A maximum of 12 travelers means you’ll enjoy a small, intimate group.

Do I need to pay for the Blue Grotto separately?
Yes, the €18 entrance fee is paid directly on site.

Can I swim or snorkel during the tour?
Yes, with floating equipment provided, weather permitting. Some reviews mention swimming in calm coves.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, sun protection, camera, and possibly a towel. The crew supplies beach towels.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes, the tour provides water, soda, beer, prosecco, limoncello, and snacks, plus a brunch of local specialties.

What if the Blue Grotto is closed?
The tour proceeds with other stops. The Blue Grotto visit is weather-dependent and can be canceled if tides or weather are unfavorable.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers of all ages enjoy it, but make sure children are comfortable on a boat for several hours.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is canceled or rescheduled in case of bad weather. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I disembark in Capri?
No, this tour is a water-only experience. For land visits, consider other options.

In short, this Capri and Blue Grotto boat tour offers a charming, memorable way to see some of the island’s best sights, with enough flexibility and personal attention to make it worth every penny. Whether you’re seeking natural beauty, fun swimming spots, or simply a relaxing day on the water, it’s a trip that stays with you long after the boat has docked.