Capri & Blue Grotto Boat Tour from Positano with Swim Stops

Summary

Capri’s grottos, secret coves and a slow boat from Positano

You’ll start early in Positano for a small group cruise along dramatic coastlines toward Capri, with stops at grottos and time to swim near Faraglioni rocks. Experience the famous Blue Grotto (entry extra), wander Capri’s lively lanes or relax by its beaches, plus enjoy cold drinks and Prosecco on board before drifting back to shore.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I heard was the slap of water against the hull—sort of rhythmic, almost hypnotic—while we waited on the main beach in Positano, clutching our coffee and squinting at the orange Cassiopea booth. Our guide, Marco, grinned as he handed out towels (I forgot mine, so that was a relief) and did a quick roll call. There were maybe ten of us? A mix of accents. The sea looked flat but you could still smell salt and sunscreen everywhere.

I’d seen photos of Capri’s Faraglioni rocks before but passing right under them felt different—like you’re suddenly inside someone else’s postcard. We stopped at the White Grotto first; Marco pointed out these pale stalactites hanging over us like icicles. He joked about how locals say they look like ancient gods’ teeth (I’m not sure if he made that up). The sun bounced off everything, making my shirt feel too warm one minute and then chilly when the breeze picked up. At the Green Grotto, we all leaned over to see how the water glowed—honestly, it looked fake, like someone dropped neon paint in there.

The Blue Grotto is what everyone talks about on this Capri & Blue Grotto boat tour from Positano. But nobody warns you about the wait; we bobbed outside for ages while little rowboats zipped people in and out through this tiny mouth in the rock. It was worth it though—the light inside really does turn everything blue. Five minutes goes fast when you’re trying to take it all in (and not drop your phone). Afterward we had time on Capri itself; some folks went straight for Anacapri but I just wandered near the square and grabbed a lemon granita—tart enough to make me blink.

On the way back Marco popped open some Prosecco for us. I ended up talking with a couple from Berlin about how tired our legs were after climbing all those steps in Capri town. We took one last swim stop before Positano—cold at first but then perfect once you got used to it. I still think about that view back toward the cliffs, sunlight catching on every ripple. Not sure I’ll ever get that exact feeling again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full-day Capri and Blue Grotto tour

• Depart from Positano by boat
• Visit Blue Grotto entrance
• Enter Blue Grotto cave
• See White Grotto up close
• View Natural Arch rock formation
• Observe Faraglioni rocks
• Visit Green Grotto
• Explore Capri island attractions
• Optional visit to Anacapri
• Relax at Capri beaches
• Swim after lunch near restaurants
• Enjoy slow cruise back to Positano
• Take a final swim in the Mediterranean
• Have a sun-downer on Positano beachfront

Top questions

How long does the Capri & Blue Grotto boat tour from Positano last?

The tour is a full-day excursion starting around 8:10 am from Positano and returning later in the afternoon.

Is entry to the Blue Grotto included?

No, entry to the Blue Grotto costs an extra €18 per person and is paid directly at its entrance.

What should I bring on this day trip?

Towels are provided by the operator; bring sunscreen, swimwear, snacks if needed, and your camera or phone.

Are drinks included on board?

Yes, bottled water, soda/pop, and glasses of Prosecco are offered during the cruise.

How do I check-in for this tour?

You need to check in by 8:00 am at Cassiopea’s orange booth on Spiaggia Grande beach in Positano.

Is lunch included during this day trip?

No lunch is included; you have free time on Capri where you can choose where to eat or explore.

Can infants join this boat tour?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during the cruise.

What happens if there is bad weather?

If bad weather prevents departure, you’ll be contacted via text/WhatsApp/iMessage for updates or cancellation/refund info.

What’s included

Your day includes morning check-in at Positano’s main beach with boarding around 8:10 am, all towels supplied under strict safety protocols, complimentary bottled water and soda/pop throughout your cruise plus a celebratory glass or two of Prosecco as you return. Entry fees for attractions like the Blue Grotto are not included; plan extra cash for those stops and your own lunch while exploring Capri island independently before heading back along the coast late afternoon.