Capri Private Boat Tour: Grottos, Faraglioni & Seaside Lunch

Summary

Sail Capri’s grottos and Faraglioni by private boat with a local skipper

You’ll glide around Capri by private boat with an expert skipper, stopping to swim in glowing grottos and pass beneath Faraglioni’s arches. There’s time for snorkeling (gear included), plus an option to pause for lunch at a seaside restaurant—your captain waits while you linger over fresh fish. Expect laughter, sea spray, and small surprises along every curve of this iconic coastline.

What’s the experience like?

He handed me a cold soda before I even realized I was thirsty—Antonio, our skipper, just seemed to know. The boat rocked gently as we left Marina Piccola behind, sunlight flickering off the water in that way that makes you squint and smile at the same time. Capri’s cliffs loomed above us, chalky white against the sky. I tried to say “Grotta Verde” with an Italian accent; Antonio grinned but didn’t correct me. The salt stuck to my skin and my hair was already a mess—didn’t care.

We drifted close to the White Grotto first. It’s quieter than you’d expect, just the slap of water against stone and a coolness in the air that made me shiver for a second. Then came the Green Grotto—sunlight bounced around inside until everything glowed greenish-blue. Snorkeling there felt like swimming through colored glass. My friend lost her flipper (classic), but Antonio fished it out with a laugh before she could panic.

I didn’t expect Villa Malaparte to look so lonely from the sea—a red rectangle perched on rock, almost stubborn about it. We waited our turn for the Blue Grotto (the line of boats is real), but slipping into that tiny rowboat was worth it just for those few moments inside: voices echoing off blue-lit walls, everyone whispering like we were in church or something. The main keyword here is “Capri private boat tour,” but honestly it felt less like a tour and more like borrowing someone’s secret for an afternoon.

The Faraglioni rocks showed up suddenly—three jagged towers rising out of nowhere. We passed right under the arch; Antonio insisted on taking our picture (“Kiss now!” he shouted). I still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic back home. Lunch was optional but we went for it—fresh fish at a little place by the water where everyone seemed to know Antonio by name. He waited at the dock while we ate too much bread and watched boats bobbing in the sun.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private boat tour around Capri island

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

Top questions

How long does the Capri private boat tour last?

The tour is a half-day experience.

Are stops at Blue Grotto included?

Yes, there is an option to visit Blue Grotto by transferring to a rowing boat for an extra fee.

Is lunch included on this Capri boat trip?

Lunch is not included but you can stop at a seaside restaurant if you wish; your skipper will wait at the pier.

What attractions are visited during this private boat tour?

You’ll see Marina Piccola, White Grotto, Green Grotto, Natural Arch, Villa Malaparte, Blue Grotto (optional), Faraglioni rocks, Punta Carena Lighthouse, and Coral Cave.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included in your tour.

Are towels provided on board?

Yes, beach towels are available for guests during the trip.

Can infants or small children join this Capri private boat tour?

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

Are service animals allowed?

Service animals are allowed on this tour.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; however, public transportation options are available nearby.

What’s included

Your day comes with an experienced skipper who doubles as your guide around Capri’s coves and grottos; all snorkeling gear; soft drinks; Bluetooth speaker for music; freshwater shower; and beach towels ready whenever you want them—all so you can focus on swimming or just watching sunlight flicker across those famous rocks while someone else handles every detail.