Capri Private Boat Tour: Blue Grotto, Faraglioni & Snorkeling

Summary

Capri by private boat from Sorrento caves to Faraglioni

You’ll set off from Sorrento on a private boat tour to Capri with a local skipper—expect swims by Faraglioni rocks, snacks and drinks onboard, plus time at the Blue Grotto if you want it. There’s space for family or friends, music in the background, and plenty of chances to just soak up sun or laughter together.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, we almost missed the marina because I was convinced our taxi driver said “Marina della Lobra” when it was actually just around the bend. He laughed and waved us down anyway—guess we looked lost enough. The morning air was salty and a bit sticky, but stepping onto that old wooden gozzo felt like slipping into another pace. Our skipper, Antonio, had that quiet way of explaining things—he pointed out Punta Campanella in the distance and handed me a cold aranciata before I could even ask. There was music playing softly, something Italian I didn’t recognize. It fit.

The coast between Sorrento and Capri is all cliffs and little waterfalls you’d miss if you blinked. Antonio slowed down so we could see one up close—a thin stream tumbling straight into the sea. We passed Marina della Lobra (finally found it), then hugged the shore until Capri started to look less like a postcard and more like somewhere you could actually touch. The Blue Grotto was packed with little boats waiting their turn; I tried to say “Grotta Azzurra” right and totally failed—Antonio grinned but didn’t correct me. When we finally ducked inside, it was darker than I expected, except for that weird blue glow under the water. It smelled faintly of seaweed and diesel from all the engines outside, but mostly it was just quiet except for splashes echoing off stone.

Afterwards we swam near the Faraglioni rocks—water cold enough to make you gasp at first, then perfect once you got used to it. My son tried snorkeling and came up shouting about seeing “a hundred fish,” which might’ve been three or four. Snacks appeared out of nowhere: salty taralli biscuits and a little bottle of prosecco (which Antonio insisted on opening with a flourish). We could’ve stopped in Capri town but honestly none of us wanted to leave the boat yet—the sun felt good on our faces and nobody cared if our hair was still wet.

I keep thinking about that stretch between swims when everything slowed down—just waves smacking against wood and my daughter’s feet dangling over the side. Sometimes it’s not about checking off every famous spot; sometimes it’s just floating there with your people while someone else handles the steering.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private full-day boat tour to Capri

• Depart from Sorrento along coast
• Admire natural waterfall and Punta Campanella
• Visit the Blue Grotto
• Explore Capri island by sea and land
• Swim in crystal-clear waters
• See the famous Faraglioni rock formations

Top questions

Is this Capri boat tour private?

Yes, only your group is on board during this full-day private Capri boat tour.

Does the tour include visiting the Blue Grotto?

Yes, stops at the Blue Grotto are included if conditions allow; entry is optional.

Are snacks and drinks provided on board?

Yes, water, soft drinks like aranciata and coca cola, beer, prosecco, champagne, and snacks are included.

Can we swim or snorkel during this day trip?

Yes, there are several stops for swimming and snorkeling around Capri’s coast.

Is hotel pickup included in this Capri private boat tour?

The tour includes pickup at an agreed meeting point near Sorrento marina; check details when booking.

Are infants or children allowed on board?

Yes, infants can join; small children may ride in prams or strollers if needed.

Is there a restroom available on board?

Yes, there is a restroom on board each boat for guest use.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup near Sorrento marina before boarding your private 8-meter gozzo with a local skipper; all drinks (water, soft drinks like aranciata or coca cola), beer and prosecco are provided along with champagne and snacks such as taralli; WiFi is available onboard as well as use of snorkeling equipment; there’s also a restroom for comfort throughout your trip before returning in the afternoon.