Positano & Capri Private Boat Tour with Swimming Stops

Summary

Boat along cliffs, swim grottos and wander Positano’s lanes

You’ll set out from Sorrento by private boat with your own captain, swimming at Queen Giovanna’s Bath and secret coves before wandering Positano’s colorful streets. Cruise past Li Galli and under Capri’s Faraglioni rocks, dive into glowing grottos, and maybe grab lunch by the sea—all at your own pace. Expect quiet moments and some laughter along the Amalfi Coast.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the smell—sea salt and diesel as we left Sorrento’s harbor, our captain Marco humming something under his breath. He handed us cold bottles of water and pointed out the Baths of Queen Giovanna, saying some Roman empress once swam there. The ruins looked almost accidental, half-swallowed by wildflowers. I dipped my hand over the side; the water was colder than I expected. There was this old fisherman waving from a tiny boat near Punta Campanella, and Marco just grinned and waved back like they’d done it every morning for years.

We stopped for a swim near a fishing village—can’t remember the name now—and I swear the water was so clear you could see every pebble on the bottom. My friend tried snorkeling but mostly just floated around laughing at how awkward the fins felt. It’s weird how quiet it gets out there, except for distant voices bouncing off the cliffs. When we finally saw Positano from below, all those pastel houses stacked up like someone spilled a box of chalks down a hill, it didn’t feel real. We wandered through alleys smelling of lemons and sun lotion for an hour or two before hopping back on board.

Passing Li Galli islands (Marco said something about sirens—I’m still not sure if he was serious), we made our way toward Capri. The Faraglioni rocks are much taller up close than in photos, almost intimidating. We cruised right under one arch—everyone ducked even though there was plenty of space. Lunch was optional but honestly, eating spaghetti alle vongole with your feet dangling off a boat near Marina Piccola feels pretty hard to beat.

The Green Grotto was next—Marco encouraged us to jump in (“You’ll regret it if you don’t!”). The cave glowed this impossible color around us; I got goosebumps even though the water wasn’t that cold anymore. Blue Grotto was crowded, but worth it for that moment when everything inside turns electric blue and everyone goes silent for half a minute. I still think about that light sometimes when I close my eyes at home—you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Amalfi Coast and Capri by boat

• Start tour from Sorrento at 9:30 AM
• Sail past Marina Grande
• Stop at Queen Giovanna’s Bath ruins
• Pass Punta Campanella lighthouse
• Swim in oldest Amalfi fishing village
• Swim and snorkel at beautiful beach
• Cruise below and explore Positano town
• Snorkel around Li Galli islands
• Cruise under Faraglioni Rocks
• Swim and relax at Marina Piccola
• Visit Capri town
• Swim in Green Grotto cave
• Visit Blue Grotto by rowing boat

Top questions

How long is the Positano & Capri private boat tour?

The tour lasts about 8 hours starting from Sorrento at 9:30 AM.

Does this day trip include swimming stops?

Yes, there are multiple swimming stops including Queen Giovanna’s Bath, fishing villages, Li Galli islands, Green Grotto, and more.

Is lunch included on this private tour?

Lunch is optional; you can stop for seaside lunch by arrangement but it's not automatically included.

Can you visit both Positano and Capri in one day?

Yes, this private tour is designed to let you explore both Positano and Capri in one day from Sorrento.

Are towels and snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, beach towels and snorkeling equipment are included in your tour package.

Is entry to Blue Grotto included?

No, entry requires an extra ticket purchased on site when transferring to a small rowing boat at Blue Grotto.

Is pickup from my hotel included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; tours depart from Sorrento marina.

Is this tour suitable for infants or travelers with health issues?

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues; infants must sit on an adult's lap.

What’s included

Your day includes a private captain and exclusive use of your boat departing from Sorrento marina, all fuel costs covered, safety equipment provided onboard plus beach towels and snorkeling gear ready for each swim stop. Drinks like beer, water, and soft drinks are available throughout—insurance is also taken care of so you can just focus on soaking up the Amalfi Coast air.