Capri Private Boat Tour & Blue Grotto from Sorrento or Positano

Summary

Capri’s sea caves, Faraglioni rocks and island swims by private boat

You’ll cruise from Sorrento or Positano to Capri by private boat with a local captain, swimming off hidden coves and seeing sights like the Blue Grotto and Faraglioni rocks up close. There’s time ashore on Capri island too — plus cold drinks and snorkeling gear included. It’s relaxed but full of those little moments you remember long after.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — we almost missed the boat because I thought the marina was closer to our hotel in Sorrento. Our captain, Matteo, just grinned and waved us on board anyway (I swear he’s seen much worse). The boat smelled faintly of sunscreen and salt, and as we pulled away from shore, I felt that little shiver you get when you know you’re about to see something famous for real — Capri. There was this cool wind off the water and Matteo pointed out the Baths of Queen Giovanna first. He told us stories about ancient Romans sneaking around here, which made me laugh because there were already two couples taking selfies on the rocks.

The sea changed color every few minutes — one moment it was all glassy green near the White Grotto, then suddenly deep blue around the Faraglioni rocks. We slowed down by a tiny waterfall trickling out of stone (didn’t expect that), and I dipped my hand in. Cold! Matteo let us jump in for a swim just off Capri; honestly, floating there with nothing but sky above is something I still think about. The water tasted salty-sweet on my lips (I always forget not to swallow any). When we reached the Blue Grotto, there was this little line of rowboats waiting — you pay extra to go inside (14€, cash only), but even just seeing that neon-blue light leaking out was wild.

We docked at Marina Piccola so we could wander Capri for a couple hours. The sun bounced off white houses and everyone seemed to be eating lemon granita or shouting “ciao!” at someone they knew. On the way back, Matteo pointed out Villa Malaparte and the Punta Carena lighthouse; he joked that if we ever got lost at sea, just look for that flash every three seconds. Not sure if he was serious or not — his English was perfect but his humor’s very Italian. Anyway, I’m glad we had him as our local guide because half those stories don’t show up in any guidebook.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private boat tour around Capri

• Depart from Sorrento by private boat
• Stop at Baths of Queen Giovanna
• See small waterfall on Sorrento Coast
• Sail around Capri island with captain
• Visit White Grotto cave
• Admire Faraglioni standing rocks
• Cruise under Punta Carena lighthouse
• Optional rowing boat to Blue Grotto
• Visit Green Grotto cave
• Stop on Capri island for 4 hours
• Swim in cobalt blue sea

Top questions

How long is the private Capri boat tour?

The tour typically lasts a full day with 2–4 hours free time on Capri if departing from Sorrento.

Is swimming allowed during the tour?

Yes, you can swim off the boat in several spots around Capri’s coast.

Does the tour include entry to the Blue Grotto?

No, entry is optional and costs €14 per person paid directly at the site.

Where does the tour depart from?

You can start from Sorrento, Capri or Positano marinas.

Are drinks provided on board?

Yes, soft drinks and bottled water are included during your cruise.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No lunch is included; however, you have free time on Capri to eat where you like.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, snorkeling gear is available for use during your swim stops.

Can infants join this private boat tour?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during navigation.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup at your chosen marina in Sorrento, Capri or Positano; all fuel costs; insurance; soft drinks and bottled water; use of snorkeling equipment; plus guidance throughout from your English-speaking captain before returning to port in late afternoon.