Capri & Amalfi Coast: Private Boat Tour with Swimming & Grottos

Summary

Capri’s caves, Faraglioni rocks and secret swims from Sorrento or Positano

You’ll sail from Sorrento or Positano with a local skipper, stopping at Capri’s grottos for swimming and snorkeling. Sip prosecco as you pass Faraglioni rocks and relax with snacks on deck. There’s time for wandering Capri or just floating in that unreal water — it’s all included except lunch and Blue Grotto tickets.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the light bounced off the water near Sorrento’s harbor — almost blinding, but kind of beautiful if you squint. Our captain, Mario (who everyone seemed to know at the dock), gave a quick nod and handed me a towel with a grin. We set out along the Amalfi Coast and I swear, within minutes, that salty air had already done something to my mood. The boat felt steady but not too fancy — just right for a private Capri boat tour where you want to kick off your shoes and lean over the side.

I didn’t expect how much I’d laugh trying to pronounce “Grotta Azzurra” correctly — Mario just shook his head and poured us some limoncello instead. We drifted close to those famous Faraglioni rocks (they really do look like they belong in an old movie), and then he pointed out a tiny blue lizard sunning itself on the stone. The water around the Green Grotto was so clear it looked fake; I jumped in before thinking about how cold it might be. There was this quiet moment floating there — just sea, sky, and that weird citrus scent from someone peeling fruit on board.

We stopped for snacks (fresh fruit and something sweet I still don’t know the name of), then circled past Villa Malaparte — Mario told stories about poets and movie stars that made Capri sound like another planet. If you want time on land, there’s a chance to wander through Capri town or up to Monte Solaro by chairlift (I skipped it because honestly, I couldn’t get enough of the water). The whole day felt loose, like nobody was watching the clock except maybe for lunch reservations at one of those cliffside places — optional but tempting if you’re hungry after swimming.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Capri private boat tour highlights

• Depart from main regional ports
• Sail along Amalfi coast
• Visit White Grotto
• Visit Blue Grotto by wooden boat
• Stop at Green Grotto for swimming
• Admire Faraglioni rocks
• See Punta Carena lighthouse
• View Villa Malaparte
• View Tiberio’s jump and Villa Jovis
• Stop at Marina Piccola
• Stop at Marina Grande beach
• Optional free time in Capri town
• Optional visit to Piazzetta and shops
• Optional visit to Augustus Gardens
• Optional chairlift to Monte Solaro
• Optional visit to Villa San Michele
• Enjoy onboard snacks and drinks

Top questions

Is pickup included for this Capri private boat tour?

No hotel pickup is included; tours depart from main ports in Sorrento, Capri or Positano.

Can we swim during the day trip to Capri?

Yes, there are several stops for swimming and snorkeling around Capri's grottos.

Are drinks provided on board?

Yes, soft drinks, beer, prosecco and limoncello are included along with snacks and fruit.

Do we visit Blue Grotto on this private boat tour?

The boat stops at Blue Grotto; entering requires an extra ticket paid onsite via small rowboat.

How many people can join this private boat tour?

The maximum group size is 12 people per booking.

Is lunch included in the tour price?

No, lunch is not included but optional reservations can be made at local restaurants.

Are towels and snorkeling equipment provided?

Towels and snorkeling gear are included for all guests on board.

Is free time on Capri island possible?

Yes, especially if departing from Sorrento or Positano; you can explore Capri town or Anacapri.

What’s included

Your day includes a multilingual skipper guide at the helm plus towels, insurance coverage, use of snorkeling equipment for swims in Capri’s grottos, fresh fruit and sweet snacks served onboard alongside soft drinks like Coke or tea plus beer, prosecco and limoncello — all while you relax between stops at iconic sights before heading back to port.