Capri: Private Boat Tour, Grottos & Faraglioni Photos

Summary

Capri’s sea caves, Faraglioni rocks and private boat moments

You’ll leave Capri’s crowds behind on a private boat tour with your own skipper guiding you past sea grottos, through Faraglioni’s stone archway, and into luminous caves like the Blue Grotto (extra ticket). Swim in clear water or just stretch out with a cold drink as you circle the island’s wildest corners—there’s always something unexpected waiting around each bend.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll never forget the first second we pulled away from the marina in Capri — all the noise and crowds just faded behind us. The skipper (Antonio — he had that sun-worn look like he’s lived on boats forever) handed me a cold soda and grinned, “Ready?” I nodded, but honestly I was still trying to wrap my head around how blue everything looked. We cruised past Marina Piccola and he pointed out some villa perched on a cliff — apparently it belonged to an Italian writer who liked his privacy. I could see why. There was this salty breeze that made my hair stick up weirdly, but I didn’t care.

The first stop was the White Grotto. Antonio slowed down so we could peek inside — it smelled faintly like wet limestone and something floral drifting from above. He told us the names of each cave in this half-day Capri boat tour (I kept mixing them up). The Green Grotto was next; sunlight bounced off the water so it glowed under the hull. My friend tried snorkeling there but got spooked by a silvery fish darting past her leg — she shrieked and then laughed so hard she nearly swallowed her snorkel. After that we drifted near the Natural Arch, which looked impossibly delicate for something made of stone.

I’d heard about the Blue Grotto but didn’t realize you have to switch to these tiny rowboats run by another crew. There was a bit of a wait (bring patience), but once inside… well, it’s dark except for this neon blue glow that feels unreal. It’s extra (14 euros cash), but I’d do it again just for that weird silence when everyone stops talking at once. Later we circled around to see the Faraglioni up close — Antonio steered right under the middle arch so we could take those classic photos. I probably took too many.

We ended up sun-dazed and salty-skinned along the west coast near Punta Carena lighthouse, which is apparently the second biggest in Italy (Antonio seemed proud of that fact). He even let us pick music on his old Bluetooth speaker while we dried off with beach towels he’d brought along. There were other caves too — Coral Cave had flashes of red underwater if you squint just right. I still think about that light on the rocks as we headed back — not sure photos really catch it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private boat tour around Capri

• Sail to Marina Piccola bay
• Visit the Cave of the Sailors
• Visit the White Grotto
• Visit inside the Green Grotto
• View the Natural Arch from sea
• See Villa Malaparte from sea
• Change to rowing boat for Blue Grotto
• Visit inside the Blue Grotto
• See the Faraglioni rock peaks closely
• Sail along west coast to Punta Carena lighthouse
• Enter the Cave of the Coral

Top questions

How long is the Capri private boat tour?

The half day Capri boat tour typically lasts several hours, covering key sights around the island by sea.

Is swimming allowed during this Capri boat trip?

Yes, there are opportunities to swim and snorkel during stops at various grottos and bays.

Do I need to bring towels or snorkeling gear?

No, beach towels and snorkeling equipment are included with your private boat tour.

Is entrance to the Blue Grotto included?

No, visiting inside requires an extra ticket (€14 per person) paid onsite in cash.

Are drinks provided on board?

Yes, bottled water and sodas are included during your Capri private boat experience.

Can infants or small children join this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller on board.

Is pickup available for this Capri day trip?

No hotel pickup is listed; guests meet at the departure point near public transportation options.

Are service animals allowed on board?

Yes, service animals are permitted during this private boat tour around Capri.

What’s included

Your day includes an expert skipper who doubles as your guide, bottled water and sodas to keep cool under the sun, use of snorkeling equipment if you want to jump in at one of those hidden coves, fresh beach towels for drying off after swims, plus music via Bluetooth speaker—so you can set your own soundtrack as you circle Capri by private boat.