Capri Boat Tour from Sorrento: Grottos, Faraglioni & Island Time

Summary

Capri’s grottos and coastlines by boat then hours to roam free

You’ll set sail from Sorrento for Capri’s famous grottos and rock formations, swim in clear Mediterranean water with Prosecco in hand, then enjoy four hours exploring Capri at your own pace—maybe wandering Anacapri or savoring gelato under lemon trees. Expect laughter with your local crew and moments that linger long after you’re back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

I’d always heard Capri was beautiful, but I didn’t expect to feel so giddy just stepping onto that little boat in Sorrento. The morning air had that salty snap — you know when you can almost taste the sea before you even see it? Our skipper, Antonio, grinned and handed out lifejackets like he’d done it a thousand times (probably has). I caught myself laughing at nothing as we pulled away from the marina, watching pastel buildings shrink behind us. There’s something about leaving land for a bit that makes everything feel lighter.

The coast between Sorrento and Capri is all cliffs and secret coves. Antonio slowed down near the Green Grotto so we could jump in — the water was colder than I thought, but somehow exactly what I needed. He poured us tiny glasses of limoncello after (I’m still not sure if that’s tradition or just his thing), and our guide pointed out the Faraglioni rocks ahead. Someone tried to get a selfie with them in the background but only managed half their own face — we all cracked up. The sun bounced off the water in these weird little patterns; it felt like time was stretching out.

Landing at Marina Piccola was a bit chaotic — scooters buzzing everywhere, voices echoing off stone walls. We got a map and some tips (“Don’t miss Anacapri if you like quiet views,” our guide said), then split up for four hours of exploring Capri on our own. I wandered through narrow lanes where old men played cards under lemon trees, found myself at the Gardens of Augustus (the flowers actually smelled sweet, not just pretty), and ended up eating gelato on a bench with my shoes off. The chairlift up to Monte Solaro looked tempting but I chickened out last minute — maybe next time.

On the way back around the island, we drifted past the White Grotto and that wild-looking Natural Arch. I leaned over the rail just to watch how blue everything got as dusk crept in. Antonio told a story about fishermen who used to hide here during storms — he made it sound both scary and kind of romantic. By then my hair was tangled from salt spray and my skin felt sticky, but honestly? I didn’t care at all. Sometimes you need a day where nothing is perfect except maybe how it made you feel.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Capri boat tour and island exploration

• Depart from Sorrento marina
• Cruise along Amalfi Coast
• Pass Punta Carena lighthouse
• Visit Green Grotto if accessible
• See Faraglioni rock formations
• Pass Natural Arch on east coast
• Visit White Grotto on east coast
• Arrive at Marina Piccola, Capri
• Enjoy 4 hours free time on Capri
• Explore Piazzetta and Gardens of Augustus
• Optional visit to Anacapri and Villa San Michele
• Return to Sorrento by boat

Top questions

How long is the Capri boat tour from Sorrento?

The tour includes travel time plus 4 hours of free time on Capri island.

Does this Capri boat experience include swimming stops?

Yes, there are stops for swimming in clear Mediterranean waters during the tour.

Are drinks or snacks provided on board?

The tour includes Prosecco, snacks, one drink per person, free water, and limoncello tasting.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

Yes, pickup from and return to your accommodation is included.

What main sights are visited during the cruise?

You’ll see the Green Grotto, White Grotto, Faraglioni rocks, Punta Carena lighthouse, Natural Arch, Marina Grande and Marina Piccola.

How much free time do we get on Capri island?

You have 4 hours of free time to explore Capri at your own pace.

Is there a local guide on this Capri boat tour?

A skipper and tour guide are onboard throughout your journey.

Can infants or small children join this boat trip?

Yes; infants can ride in prams or strollers and specialized infant seats are available.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Sorrento, WiFi onboard for sharing those first impressions instantly, swimming stops with lifejackets provided if you want them (I did!), Prosecco plus snacks and drinks along with a proper limoncello tasting—plus four whole hours to wander Capri solo or with friends before heading back by boat with your local skipper and guide looking after everything else.