Capri Boat Tour from Naples: Small Group, Lunch & Grottos

Summary

Capri’s grottos, Faraglioni rocks and a slow island lunch by sea

You’ll feel Capri before you even see it: salt air on your skin, stories from your skipper as you pass grottos and Faraglioni rocks, then time ashore to wander at your own pace. With homemade lunch and a small group vibe, this day trip from Naples lets you slow down — and maybe laugh at yourself over a strong limoncello toast.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the sound — that low slap of water against the hull as we left Sorrento’s port behind. Our skipper, Marco, had this way of pointing out things you’d miss: “Look there,” he said, gesturing at a pale cliff streaked with green. It was still early and the air had that citrusy tang you only get near Capri. I tried to take it all in but honestly, I was just happy to sit back and let the wind mess up my hair for once.

We drifted close to the White Grotto and Marco slowed down so we could see inside — sunlight bouncing off chalky walls, water almost turquoise. There were only about a dozen of us on board, which made it easy to ask questions or just listen in while someone else did (someone asked about the Faraglioni rocks — apparently there’s a local legend about lovers passing through them for luck). The Caprese sandwich they handed out was simple but perfect: mozzarella so fresh it squeaked between my teeth, basil leaves still cool from the morning market. I didn’t expect to care about lunch but now I want to eat like that every day.

When we finally landed on Capri itself, I wandered off towards the Piazzetta — got lost twice in those narrow lanes and ended up buying lemon soap from an old woman who barely looked up from her crossword. It felt good to have hours just to wander; no one rushed us back. Later, back on board, Marco poured out limoncello (he grinned when I coughed at the first sip) and we watched Sorrento’s coastline slide past in gold evening light. I still think about that view sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Capri Island boat tour and exploration

• Pick-up at Star Hotel Terminus
• Transfer to Piano di Sorrento port
• Start boat tour around Capri
• Admire White Grotto and Marvellous Grotto
• Stop to see Green Grotto
• Admire Natural Arch from boat
• View Villa Curzio Malaparte from sea
• See Faraglioni rocks
• Admire Lighthouse of Punta Carena
• Stop 3-5 hours to explore Capri
• Depart Capri to Sorrento with limoncello tasting
• Return to port and transfer to hotel

Top questions

How long is the Capri boat tour from Naples?

The full day lasts around 10-11 hours including transfer time.

Is lunch included during the Capri day trip?

Yes, a Caprese sandwich plus snacks and drinks are included onboard.

How many people are on each boat?

The group size is limited to 12-14 travelers per boat.

Is pickup from Naples included?

Yes, pickup at Star Hotel Terminus in central Naples is included.

Do we visit the Blue Grotto on this tour?

No, not with the standard option; Blue Grotto is only with an upgrade and extra fee onsite.

How much free time do we get on Capri island?

You’ll have 3 to 5 hours to explore Capri at your own pace.

Are drinks provided during the boat tour?

Yes, soft drinks, water, beer, wine, Prosecco and limoncello are served onboard.

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?

No; return to Naples is around 7:00-7:30pm so it may not fit cruise schedules.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup by minivan from central Naples to Sorrento’s port, an English-speaking local skipper throughout the small group boat tour around Capri with stops at grottos and famous sights like Faraglioni rocks. You’ll enjoy a Caprese sandwich lunch with snacks plus soft drinks, beer or wine onboard — finished off with homemade limoncello before heading back in the evening.