Capri: Boat Tour with Grottos, Faraglioni & Swim Stops

Summary

Capri’s grottos and Faraglioni by boat, sun-warmed and salt-splashed

You’ll circle Capri by boat with a local skipper, weaving past Faraglioni rocks and pausing at grottos where light dances on stone walls. Swim or snorkel in emerald waters near Marina Piccola, sip cold drinks on deck, and soak up island stories along the way. Expect salty skin and real laughter — not just postcard views.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I booked the Capri boat tour mostly because I was curious about those famous blue waters you always see in photos. But standing at the Marina Grande dock, watching our skipper Carmine untie the ropes with that easy confidence (and a cigarette dangling from his lip), I realized I had no idea what to expect. The boat was smaller than I’d pictured — not fancy, but clean, with sun-worn cushions and the faint smell of sunscreen mixed with sea air. We set off, engine humming low, and honestly? The cliffs looked even taller from below. It’s weird how the island feels bigger once you’re circling it.

The first real surprise was the White Grotto. Carmine slowed down so we could look up at these pale stalactites hanging like teeth — he pointed out one shaped like a Madonna (I squinted; maybe?). The water slapped gently against the hull while he told us stories about smugglers hiding in caves here during storms. After that, we drifted past the Natural Arch — it really does look like some ancient doorway — and then suddenly everyone on board went quiet as we cruised through the Faraglioni rocks. There’s something about passing right under that stone archway with sunlight flickering off the waves… I didn’t expect to feel so small or so lucky at that moment.

Marina Piccola was busy but beautiful — kids shouting in Italian from paddleboards, older couples sunbathing on tiny boats nearby. Carmine offered us cold sodas (I grabbed one) and handed out masks for snorkeling near the Green Grotto. The water there had this unreal emerald glow; I tried diving down but mostly just floated on my back listening to distant laughter echoing off the rocks. We skipped the Blue Grotto because honestly, waiting over an hour didn’t sound fun (plus you have to pay cash right at the entrance), but even just seeing its entrance felt iconic somehow.

By the end of our day trip around Capri, my skin was salty and my hair a mess — but in a good way. It wasn’t perfect: my towel kept blowing away, and I definitely butchered “grazie” more than once (Carmine laughed). Still, there’s something about being out there on that bright blue water with strangers who start to feel familiar after a few hours. Sometimes when I close my eyes now, I can still hear those waves slapping against the side of the boat.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour around Capri island

• Admire Capri's coastline
• Pass White Grotto
• See red modern architecture
• View Natural Arch rock formation
• Pass Faraglioni rocks
• See Marina Piccola bay
• Pass Green Grotto
• View second Italian lighthouse
• Pass Blue Grotto (ticket not included)

Top questions

Does this Capri boat tour include swimming stops?

Yes, there are swim stops near places like Marina Piccola and Green Grotto.

Is entry to the Blue Grotto included in this tour?

No, Blue Grotto entry is not included; tickets must be purchased in cash at the entrance.

How long does it take to visit Blue Grotto during this tour?

The wait time for Blue Grotto is usually around 1.5 hours if you choose to visit.

Where does this Capri boat tour start?

The tour starts only from Capri itself—not from Naples or Sorrento.

Are towels or snorkeling gear provided?

Yes, beach towels and masks/goggles for snorkeling are included on board.

Is this tour suitable for families or young children?

Yes, infants and small children can join; strollers are welcome too.

What sights will we see during this Capri boat trip?

You’ll see White Grotto, Green Grotto, Natural Arch, Faraglioni rocks, Marina Piccola bay, lighthouse area—and possibly Blue Grotto if you choose.

What’s included

Your day includes soft drinks on board plus use of beach towels and snorkeling masks; you’ll relax on cushioned sundecks as your local skipper guides you past grottos and iconic rock formations before returning to Capri’s harbor by afternoon or evening.