Capri Boat Tour with Optional Blue Grotto Visit from Sorrento

A boat tour of Capri from Sorrento for $149.46 per person offers a fantastic way to see this iconic island without the hassle of navigating on your own. With a full-day itinerary, small-group size (max 12), and plenty of opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and land exploration, it’s a well-rounded experience. Guided by friendly and knowledgeable captains and guides, this trip balances natural beauty with authentic moments, making it a favorite among travelers—rated 5.0 out of 5 from nearly 400 reviews.

What we love most? First, the intimate boat setting means you avoid the crowds often found on larger ferries or land tours, and second, the variety of stops—from the famous Blue Grotto to the Faraglioni rocks—offers both scenic beauty and memorable photo ops. On the downside, the Blue Grotto visit depends on weather, so you might not get in if tides or weather aren’t cooperating, especially during peak season. This tour suits travelers who want a personalized, leisurely day on the water combined with ample free time to explore Capri’s charming streets and shops.

This experience made our article of 15 Fantastic Boat Tours & Cruises In Sorrento.

Key Points

• Small-group experience ensures personal attention and a more relaxed vibe.
• Multiple stops provide a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and photo opportunities.
• Blue Grotto visit is optional and weather-dependent, but the boat ride itself is spectacular.
• Four hours on land gives ample time to explore Capri’s streets, cafes, and shops at your leisure.
• Inclusive amenities like water, soft drinks, beer, chips, and snorkeling gear make the day comfortable and fun.
• Flexible scheduling with options to adjust the itinerary based on weather conditions.

The Basics: What’s Included and How It Works

This seven-hour adventure costs just under $150, which, considering everything packed into the day, offers pretty solid value. The trip is operated by Lubrense Boats, a reputable provider with a high rating, and is capped at 12 travelers—a big plus for those who dislike large, impersonal tours.

The experience starts with a pickup in Sorrento (additional fee if you need it), or you can meet directly at Marina della Lobra in Massa Lubrense. From there, it’s about 30 minutes of smooth sailing to the island, with several stops along the way that highlight Capri’s natural treasures.

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy water, snorkeling masks, chips, beer, and soft drinks, making it comfortable whether you bring your own swim gear or just want to relax on deck. The tour is designed for most travelers, including service animals, and accommodates even those with limited mobility near public transportation.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Actually See and Do

Starting Point: Marina della Lobra

The tour kicks off in the heart of Punta Campanella Marine Park, famous for friendly dolphins and sea turtles. We loved how this initial cruise set a peaceful tone for the day, with the boat small enough to feel personal and unhurried. The 15-minute ride is free of charge, and it’s a great way to get a sneak peek of the waters around Capri.

Reaching the Blue Grotto

The iconic Blue Grotto remains one of the tour’s highlights. Departing early morning offers the best chance to see it—some departures at 8 or 8:05 am are scheduled explicitly for this. The light inside the grotto creates a mesmerizing blue glow, making it one of the most photographed natural sites worldwide.

However, the Blue Grotto’s accessibility is weather-dependent. Since the entrance is just one meter high, unfavorable sea conditions can close it entirely. The tour’s flexibility means you might visit the grotto or skip it based on tides and weather, which some reviewers found a bit disappointing if they missed out during peak hours.

Coastal Views and Unique Stops

After the grotto, the boat heads along Capri’s coast, passing Anacapri and the Punta Carena lighthouse—the second largest and most powerful lighthouse in Italy. The Grotta Verde, once a pirate hideout, is a lively contrast to the tranquil blue waters. Today, it’s a haven for migratory birds, and the clean, clear waters make it perfect for a quick swim or snorkel.

Iconic Landmarks

Next, the boat approaches Marina Piccola, a bustling area where yachts and helicopters jostle for space along the sheer rocks and turquoise waters. This is the perfect spot for a swimming break or simply soaking in the scenery.

The Faraglioni rocks, Capri’s emblem, are arguably the tour’s most photogenic stop. As the boat nears these towering coastal stacks, you’ll get ample time for photos—reviewers often praise this as a highlight. Some mention that staff helps with capturing perfect shots, which makes all the difference for memorable keepsakes.

Caprese Landmarks and Natural Wonders

The tour also stops near famous houses of historic figures and offers a view of the White Grotto, a natural formation where everything appears white— a fun visual contrast to the blue grotto. These stops are brief but add a sense of the island’s varied landscape and history.

Free Time on Capri

After the boat tour of the coast, you’ll have around four hours on land to explore Capri. This free period allows for wandering the charming streets, visiting cafes, shopping, or just relaxing by the sea. Many travelers appreciate the flexible schedule, which allows them to enjoy the island without feeling rushed.

The Experience on Board: Comfort and Atmosphere

The small vessel means fewer passengers and more space to stretch out. The crew, including guides like Fabrizio, are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and energy—many reviews mention how they went above and beyond to make the day enjoyable. You’ll also benefit from snorkeling gear, water, and refreshments, which keeps everyone comfortable during the hot hours.

Some reviews highlight how the crew advice and helpfulness enhanced the experience—such as tips on the best spots to shop or eat on Capri, or friendly assistance during swimming breaks. The boat’s moderate speed and stable ride contribute to a relaxed atmosphere.

The Land Exploration: What You’ll Find

Those four hours on land are perfect for wandering Capri’s narrow streets, popping into cafes for fresh lemon granita or browsing boutique shops. You might also choose to visit the famous Piazza Umberto or take the funicular up to Anacapri for stunning panoramic views. The flexible timing means you can tailor your visit to your interests—shopping, sightseeing, or simply relaxing.

The Blue Grotto: Worth the Wait?

Many travelers consider the Blue Grotto a must-see, and early departures increase your chances of beating crowds. However, it’s important to remember that weather can affect access. If you miss the grotto, the boat ride itself still offers unbeatable views of Capri’s coastline and natural formations, which many reviewers found just as memorable.

The Cost and Value

While $149.46 isn’t cheap, this tour packs in a lot of value: boat rides, multiple stops, snorkeling gear, drinks, and four hours to explore the island. For those who prefer a small-group experience over larger, crowded ferries or bus tours, this option stands out. Many reviews emphasize how the intimate setting and knowledgeable guides made the day special—some even call it “a must-do” when visiting the Amalfi Coast region.

What the Reviews Say

Reviewers consistently praise the friendly guides, breathtaking scenery, and well-organized logistics. Comments like “the staff was very helpful” and “the views were incredible” underline the high satisfaction level. A few noted that the Blue Grotto might be missed due to weather, but most felt the overall experience was worth it. The small boat size and personalized attention are common themes that set this tour apart.

If you are seeking a relaxing, scenic day with plenty of opportunities for swimming, photo-taking, and exploring, this tour checks all those boxes. The small-group format, knowledgeable guides, and flexible itinerary make it ideal for travelers who value authenticity and comfort. It’s especially good if you want to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more personal experience of Capri’s natural beauty.

However, if your main focus is visiting the Blue Grotto specifically and you’re concerned about weather, be prepared for the possibility of missing that highlight. Also, this tour suits those who appreciate some free time to explore on their own rather than a tightly scheduled group bus tour.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Is the Blue Grotto guaranteed?
Not necessarily. Its accessibility depends on weather and sea conditions. Early departures increase your chances, but delays or closures can occur.

How long do we spend on land in Capri?
You’ll have about four hours to explore the island at your own pace, which is enough for sightseeing, shopping, or relaxing at a cafe.

What’s included in the price?
Water, snorkeling masks, chips, beer, and soft drinks are provided. Entrance fees to the Blue Grotto, Capri landing tax, and destination fee are not included.

What is the boat like?
A small vessel with a maximum of 12 travelers provides a more intimate and comfortable experience, with plenty of space to relax or take photos.

Can I join this tour if I have limited mobility?
Most travelers can participate, and the meeting points are near public transportation, but check with the operator if you need specific assistance.

In all, this Capri boat tour from Sorrento offers a genuinely enjoyable way to see the highlights of the island with a personal touch. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning visitor, the combination of natural beauty, friendly staff, and flexible schedule makes it a worthwhile choice for a memorable day on the Amalfi Coast.