Capri tour & Blue Grotto (from Sorrento)

Starting from the charming town of Sorrento, this private boat tour offers an intimate adventure around the legendary island of Capri. At about $849 per group of up to five, it’s a full-day experience lasting roughly 7 to 8 hours, perfect for those seeking a personalized and flexible way to see Capri’s most famous sights. Your journey is led by a knowledgeable English-speaking captain who will share insights and help you discover hidden gems off the beaten path.

Two aspects we really appreciate are the small-group intimacy, which ensures plenty of personal attention and the chance to customize your stops, and the variety of swimming and snorkeling opportunities. Refreshments and snorkeling gear are included, making it easy to relax and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. However, a potential consideration is that visiting the Blue Grotto involves an extra fee of €14 per person and depends on waiting times, which can sometimes be lengthy.

This tour is ideal if you love water-based adventures, want to skip the crowded tourist spots, and prefer a tailored experience with a knowledgeable guide. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy natural beauty, scenic cruising, and appreciate the flexibility to explore at their own pace.

Key Points

• Private & Personalized: Small-group setting allows for customization and individual attention.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Includes famous grottos, iconic rocks, and stunning coastal cliffs.
• Flexible experience: Four hours onshore to explore Capri independently.
• Snorkeling included: Multiple swimming stops with provided gear.
• Blue Grotto optional: Entrance fee of €14, subject to wait times.
• Expert guides: English-speaking captains who share insights and local stories.

Why This Tour Stands Out

We loved the personalized nature of this experience. Unlike large, crowded tours, you get the entire boat to yourself, with an English-speaking captain who acts as both guide and host. This makes it easier to ask questions, get tailored recommendations, and enjoy the ride without feeling rushed or lost in a crowd.

Another highlight is the variety of spots visited. From the dramatic Faraglioni Rocks to the lesser-known Bagni Regina Giovanna with its waterfall, each stop offers a different perspective on Capri’s enchanting landscape. Plus, the chance to snorkel in the Grotta Verde — often praised as “the best of them all” — is a real treat for water lovers.

A potential downside is the unpredictability of the Blue Grotto entry. As some reviews mention, waiting times can vary greatly, and you might find yourself unable to enter if it’s too busy. The tour provides alternative stops, but if seeing the Grotto is a must, be prepared for possible delays and extra costs.

This tour will appeal most to travelers who value quality over quantity, love a slower, more intimate pace, and want to avoid overly commercialized experiences. It’s especially suited for those keen on snorkeling, taking photos, and discovering Capri’s natural wonders from the water.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Bagni Regina Giovanna

We loved the way this stop combines history and nature. On the way to Capri, your boat will pause at this famous bathing spot on the Sorrento coast. The waterfall and ruins of Roman baths make this a scenic and historically interesting site. From here, you’ll cruise around Capri, soaking in views only accessible from the water — a perspective that reveals the island’s steep cliffs and secluded coves.

Stop 2: Massa Lubrense

This small, charming stop features a natural spring of water flowing from a rock. It’s a quiet moment amid the beauty, perfect for a quick splash or a photo. The reviews mention that the water spring adds a unique element, showing off the island’s geology in a simple, unpretentious way.

Stop 3: White Grotto

The largest of the three major caves, the White Grotto is a highlight. Expect about 10 minutes here to marvel at the smooth, white limestone formations. The light filtering into this cave creates a remarkable glow, making it a favorite spot for photography.

Stop 4: I Faraglioni

No trip to Capri is complete without seeing these iconic rocks. These three towering formations, especially the arch, are among the most recognizable symbols of the island. The boat will linger here for around 15 minutes, giving plenty of time to admire and snap photos of this stunning natural sculpture.

Stop 5: Punta Carena Lighthouse

Cruising underneath the second oldest Italian lighthouse, you’ll have a chance to appreciate the coastal scenery from a unique vantage point. It’s a quiet stop, perfect for soaking up the atmosphere of this historic maritime landmark.

Stop 6: Blue Grotto (Optional)

This is the most famous attraction but also the most unpredictable. For an extra €14 per person, you can hop into a rowboat to enter the Blue Grotto — renowned for its glowing blue waters. Be aware that waiting times vary, and if the grotto is crowded, you might be left waiting or unable to enter. Some reviewers mention that they couldn’t go in despite the effort.

Stop 7: Grotta Verde

This “green grotto” is frequently praised as the best of the caves, thanks to its vivid green waters and dramatic surroundings. With approximately 30 minutes here, you can snorkel and really take in the underwater scenery with the provided equipment.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:
– Captain who shares insights and navigates the boat.
– Fuel surcharge, ensuring smooth sailing.
– Bottled water and soft drinks to keep you refreshed.
– Snorkelling equipment for underwater exploration.
– Insurance for peace of mind.

Not Included:
– The Blue Grotto entrance fee (€14) is optional and paid locally.
– The Capri port fee (€100) is an extra charge if applicable, so check ahead.

This setup means you can enjoy a cost-effective, all-in-one adventure but should budget for the grotto fee if you want to enter.

Meeting and Timing Details

The tour departs at 10:00am from a meeting point in Sorrento and wraps up back at the same spot. The tour is designed for moderate physical activity — swimming and moving around the boat — so it’s best suited for those comfortable with some physical exertion and mobility. Service animals are permitted, but folks with mobility issues should consider the embarkation/disembarkation process, which might be challenging.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, with comments like “Juani was great and took us to some amazing points,” and “Yuri was an excellent guide who avoided the crowds.” The stunning scenery and quiet coves get frequent praise, with travelers remarking that the experience often exceeds expectations.

A few found the duration a bit long, especially if the wait for the Blue Grotto was lengthy or if time onshore in Capri felt somewhat limited. Still, most agree that the quality of the experience — personalized, scenic, and relaxing — outweighs these minor drawbacks.

Final thoughts

This private boat tour from Sorrento to Capri offers a luxurious yet authentic way to see the island’s coastal splendors. It’s perfect for travelers who want to avoid the crowds, enjoy customized stops, and enjoy natural beauty. The combination of beautiful scenery, snorkeling, and a knowledgeable captain makes it a memorable day, especially if you’re keen on photography, swimming, or simply relaxing on deck.

It’s also a good choice for those who appreciate flexibility — the four-hour onshore stop allows plenty of time to wander Capri at your own pace, explore local cafes, or shop. While the Blue Grotto remains a bit of a wild card, the tour’s other highlights are impressive enough to make this a worthwhile splurge.

Ultimately, this experience offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and discovery — a true highlight for anyone wanting to see Capri from the water with a touch of exclusivity.

FAQ

How many people can the boat hold?
The boat fits up to 5 people per group, making it a perfect private experience for small groups or families.

Is the Blue Grotto worth the extra fee?
Many travelers find the Grotto breathtaking and worth the €14 fee, but be prepared for possible long waits or the chance you might not get in if it’s very busy.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone to capture the scenery. Refreshments are provided, but extra snacks are up to you.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, you can ask your captain to spend more or less time at certain spots or include specific activities like snorkeling.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
It’s best for those with moderate physical fitness. The embarkation process and swimming stops might be challenging for guests with mobility issues.

How long is each stop?
Most stops range from 10 to 30 minutes, giving you ample time to explore, take photos, swim, or simply enjoy the view.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is it necessary to book in advance?
Yes, most tours are booked an average of 65 days in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and time.

In sum, if you’re after an authentic, flexible, water-based way to experience Capri’s beauty, this private boat tour offers a wonderful blend of scenic cruising, natural wonders, and personalized service. It’s a memorable way to see the island’s cliffs, caves, and legendary rocks without the hassle of large crowds—perfect for a special day in Italy.