Capri & Blue Grotto Small Group Full-Day Boat Tour from Positano

Experience the Beauty of Capri & the Amalfi Coast with a Small-Group Boat Tour from Positano

If you’re craving a day on the water with a chance to see Capri’s stunning coastline without the hassle of ferry crowds, this small-group boat tour offers a fantastic balance of comfort, flexibility, and memorable sights. Starting at Positano, you’ll spend approximately 8 hours exploring the famed Faraglioni rocks, Blue Grotto, and Green Grotto, with stops for swimming and time on land in Capri and Anacapri. The tour costs about $150.94 per person, which includes drinks, towels, and personalized service from a knowledgeable crew.

What we love most about this experience is how it offers a relaxed way to enjoy the island’s highlights, especially with a smaller group of just 12 travelers. Plus, the opportunity to dive into crystalline waters and sip Prosecco while taking in spectacular coastlines makes the day feel special. On the flip side, a potential drawback is the long wait to enter the Blue Grotto, which can be frustrating if weather or crowds are high.

This tour is best suited for those who value personalized service, want to avoid overcrowded boats or ferries, and enjoy a mix of land and sea adventures. If you’re looking for an authentic, relaxed way to see Capri’s top sights, this trip could be perfect for you—just be prepared for the possibility of waiting for the Blue Grotto and to bring your own snacks if preferred.

Key Points

• Small-group experience ensures a more intimate and personalized day on the water.
• Skip the ferry crowds and travel directly from Positano by boat.
• Multiple grotto stops, including the famous Blue Grotto, Green Grotto, and White Grotto.
• Time on land in Capri and Anacapri allows for sightseeing and exploring local charm.
• Swimming and snorkeling opportunities with supplied towels and drinks.
• Potential wait for Blue Grotto can be lengthy during peak season, so flexibility is key.

The Allure of a Coastal Boat Tour from Positano

Imagine gliding across the waters with the breeze in your hair, the colorful houses of Positano fading behind you, and the dramatic cliffs of Capri rising ahead. This full-day boat tour promises just that, with a carefully curated itinerary designed to showcase the island’s most photogenic spots and secret cornersof its coastline.

The experience begins at 8:30 am at the Cassiopea booth on Positano’s main beach. From there, you board a comfortable boat with a maximum of just 12 travelers, which makes for a more laid-back and engaging atmosphere compared to larger, crowded vessels. The crew’s friendly approach and local knowledge shine through—one reviewer even called Francesco, the guide, “amazing,” and “a great guide,” highlighting how much a good skipper can enhance the trip.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary and Experience

The Journey Begins: Leaving Positano

The tour starts early, with check-in at 08:10 am on the Positano main beach. The boat departs around 8:20 am, giving you a head start on the crowds. We found that the small size of the vessel and the crew’s efficiency make the initial departure smooth and straightforward, especially compared to the chaos of ferry lines or larger tours.

Stop 1: The Blue Grotto (Optional Extra)

The Blue Grotto is the most famous highlight, but it’s also the most unpredictable. Entrance costs an additional €18 per person and is paid directly at the grotto. The brief visit—about 5 minutes—offers a stunning view of the glowing blue waters, but be warned: waiting times during high season can exceed an hour. Several reviews mention disappointment about missing the inside due to long queues, or feeling that the experience was not worth the wait.

If you’re eager to see the Blue Grotto, go early or be prepared for a potentially long wait. Alternatively, some travelers found the other grotto stops and scenic views equally impressive, with less hassle.

Stop 2: The White Grotto (Grotta Bianca)

This 5-minute stop is a highlight, with a free entry and a chance to get close to this majestic natural feature. It’s a quick, awe-inspiring glimpse of Capri’s dramatic coastline—something you’ll appreciate for its natural beauty.

Stop 3: Natural Arch and Coastal Formations

Next, the boat pauses at the Natural Arch, a marvel created by sea erosion. This 5-minute stop offers fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to marvel at how nature shapes the coastline over time. It’s a free stop, and the crew often points out interesting features.

Stop 4: The Faraglioni Rocks

Arguably Capri’s most iconic symbol, the Faraglioni are a striking set of sea stacks rising from the water. We loved how close the boat got, giving us a perfect view of these towering formations, familiar from movies and ads. The 10-minute stop allows you to soak in the scenery, snap photos, and enjoy the grandeur of the landscape.

Stop 5: The Green Grotto (Grotta Verde)

This 5-minute stop is another visual treat—the iridescent green waters are caused by sunlight filtering into the grotto. It’s a brief visit but worth it for the photo opportunities and the unique color of the water.

Swimming and Land Exploration

After the grotto stops, the boat anchors for a swim session in the clear, turquoise waters. Several reviews mention how refreshing and relaxing this part of the trip is, often with supplied towels and Prosecco to enjoy while floating in the sea. The crew is attentive, and the water is often calm enough for a good swim.

Once in Capri and Anacapri, you’ll have free time to stroll through charming streets, visit local cafes, or shop for souvenirs. The land portions of the tour give a taste of Capri’s local ambiance and are a good chance to stretch your legs and explore at your own pace.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

Many travelers rave about their crew’s friendliness and knowledge. One reviewer said, “Francesco made our day on the boat,” emphasizing how good guides can make a difference. The smaller group size also means you’ll have less competition for seating and a more relaxed atmosphere, which many appreciated.

However, the unpredictability of the Blue Grotto’s entrance times can be a frustration if you’re eager to see it. Some reviews mention feeling that there was “false advertising” about the Grotto, especially when boats just drive past, knowing the wait times are long.

What to Bring and Expect

• Snacks and extra drinks are welcome since they are not included.
• The tour offers bottled water, soda, and Prosecco, which many found refreshing.
• Sun protection, hats, and sunglasses are a must—boats can get sunny and hot.
• Be prepared for sea conditions—if you suffer from seasickness, taking preventative measures is advisable.
• The group size of just 12 travelers makes it easier to relax and enjoy the scenery without feeling crowded.

Considerations

• Timing is tight, so plan your day accordingly. The tour ends back at the meeting point, so flexibility helps if you’re connecting to other activities.
• Long wait times for the Blue Grotto could mean missing other scheduled stops if not well managed.
• The cancellation policy is strict—non-refundable unless canceled due to weather.

Authenticity and Value

This tour offers a balanced mix of scenic cruising, swimming, and land time, making it a good value for those who want a thorough experience without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. Several travelers highlight how well-organized and punctual the crew was, adding confidence to the experience. The smaller group size and personalized service seem to make it more memorable and enjoyable.

On the downside, some reviewers felt the tour was overpriced for what was offered, particularly when it came to the Blue Grotto or the crowded, touristy feel of Capri. It’s worth considering whether you prefer a more unstructured, self-guided day or the guided, all-in-one experience this tour provides.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who enjoy small-group adventures and want to avoid the chaos of larger boat tours or ferry lines. If the idea of comfortable seating, drinks, and being able to swim in clear waters appeals, you’ll find this a worthwhile way to experience Capri. It’s especially good for those who appreciate local guides and the chance to explore both on water and land with a flexible schedule.

If you’re highly interested in seeing the Blue Grotto and are willing to wait or skip it if necessary, this tour is still a good choice. However, if your priority is a guaranteed visit to the Grotto or a more budget-friendly, self-directed approach, you might prefer taking the ferry or booking a different type of excursion.

FAQs

Does the tour include the Blue Grotto entrance fee?
No, the entrance fee (€18) is paid directly at the Grotto and is not included in the tour price. Be aware that waiting times can be long, especially during peak season.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, which allows for a more relaxed and personalized experience.

Can I bring my own snacks and drinks?
Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks since these are not included in the tour.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions prevent the tour from operating, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. The policy is strict, so check the forecast beforehand.

Is swimming included?
Yes, swimming and snorkeling are part of the experience when anchored in suitable spots. Towels are supplied, and you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the clear waters.

What is the ideal traveler for this tour?
If you prefer a small-group, flexible day on the water with plenty of time to explore, this is a great choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who value authentic experiences and are comfortable with some waiting, especially for the Blue Grotto.

In brief, this Capri & Blue Grotto Small Group Boat Tour from Positano offers a well-organized, scenic, and flexible way to see Capri’s best sights. It balances beautiful cruising with time on land and in the water, making it a solid pick for those wanting a more intimate experience than large tour boats or crowded ferries. While it’s not perfect—for instance, the Blue Grotto’s unpredictability—it delivers a memorable day packed with natural beauty, relaxing swims, and charming towns. Just remember to go with a flexible attitude, especially if you’re eager to see the Blue Grotto or avoid long waits.