Capri boat tour from Sorrento: snorkel Faraglioni caves

Sail through natural rock arches, snorkel in turquoise coves, and explore two sea caves in a single morning

This six-hour boat tour departs Sorrento for Capri, where you snorkel at the White and Green Grottos, navigate the Faraglioni Rocks through a natural arch, and have three hours to explore the island on foot. The boat carries snorkeling gear, masks, Prosecco and fresh fruit; a local captain guides the route along both coastlines. Children from age four are welcome.

Step-by-step itinerary

Capri Island boat tour and exploration

• Board boat in Sorrento
• Cruise along Sorrento coast
• Pass secluded beaches and watchtowers
• Stop for swim and snorkeling
• Cruise along Capri southeastern coast
• Visit Villa Jovis and Rock Window
• Sail through Faraglioni Rocks arch
• Explore White Grotto sea cave
• Explore Green Grotto sea cave
• Toast with Prosecco and fresh fruit
• Free time to explore Capri
• Return cruise to Sorrento via scenic route

The Experience

The boat leaves Sorrento heading west along the coast, passing Marina Grande fishing village and the Roman ruins at Bagni della Regina Giovanna before crossing to Capri's southeastern shore. Once there, you'll cruise past Villa Jovis—Emperor Tiberius' clifftop palace—and the Rock Window to the Sky, a natural opening carved into the cliffs by centuries of wind and water. The captain navigates the boat through a natural arch in the Faraglioni Rocks, three towering sea stacks that rise as the island's most recognizable landmark.

The snorkeling happens at the White Grotto and Green Grotto, where the water stays shallow and clear enough to see the seafloor. You'll have mask and snorkel provided, along with a floating device if you want one. After swimming, the crew serves Prosecco, fresh fruit and soft drinks on board—a pause before heading ashore. The boat has a shower, restroom and canopy for shade, and bottled water is available throughout the day.

Once you land in Capri, three hours are yours to walk the town, eat lunch (not included), or sit in a café. The return to Sorrento takes a different route along the coast, so the views shift. The whole day runs six hours from departure to return. A live guide speaks English and Italian, and the boat welcomes families with children from age four onward.

What’s included

• Snorkeling equipment (mask and snorkel).
• floating devices.
• canopy shade.
• on-board shower and restroom.
• bottled water.
• soft drinks.
• fresh fruit.
• Italian Prosecco and beer.
• a live guide in English or Italian.
• small-group boat tour with expert local captain.

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearby

Operated by Cruise & Snorkel Amalfi Coast

Is this one for you?The boat moves between stops throughout the morning and you'll enter the water multiple times, so comfort with swimming and snorkeling matters. If you prefer a slower pace or want to spend most of the day in one place, this tour's rhythm—multiple sites, multiple swims, a quick stop ashore—may not suit you; a land-based Capri tour or a longer island visit would work better.

Traveler reviews

4.87★★★★★★★★★★

53 verified traveler reviews

5 ★46

4 ★7

3 ★0

2 ★0

1 ★0

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What exactly are the Faraglioni Rocks and what do you do when you get there?

The Faraglioni are three massive sea stacks rising from the water off Capri's coast, known as the island's guardians. The boat sails through a natural arch carved into one of them, so you pass directly through the rock formation rather than around it.

Can I snorkel if I've never done it before?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is provided—mask, snorkel and floating device—and the stops at the White and Green Grottos are in shallow, calm water. The crew is there to help, and it's suitable for all fitness levels.

How much time do I actually spend in the water?

The itinerary includes multiple swim and snorkeling stops at hidden coves and the two grottos, though exact duration depends on the day's conditions and the group's pace. After snorkeling, you'll have three hours ashore in Capri itself.

Is lunch included, and what are my options in Capri?

Lunch is not included in the tour price. During your three hours on the island, you can eat at restaurants and cafés in Capri town, or bring your own food. The crew provides Prosecco, fresh fruit and soft drinks on the boat.

What's the difference between the White Grotto and the Green Grotto?

Both are sea caves accessible only by boat, with turquoise water that invites swimming and snorkeling. The White Grotto gets its name from the pale limestone, while the Green Grotto's water reflects a greenish hue from the minerals and light. You'll visit both during the same tour.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?

No. Masks, snorkels and floating devices are provided on board. Bring a swimsuit, towel and sunscreen; the boat has a shower and restroom, and a canopy provides shade between stops.