From Amalfi Coast: Capri Cruise by boat 12 pax

A Balanced Look at the Amalfi Coast: Capri Cruise by Boat (12 pax)

If you’re dreaming of exploring Italy’s famous Amalfi Coast from the water, this small-group boat tour offers a chance to enjoy some of the coast’s most picturesque sights. Focused on a half-day cruise with about 4 hours in Capri, plus a stop in Positano, the experience promises spectacular views, a cozy boat, and the chance to snap some memorable photos.

What we find appealing about this tour is its intimate size — with only 12 passengers, it feels personal, and the small yacht provides a comfortable setting to take in the scenery. Plus, the chance to see Li Galli Island, Furore Fjord, and the Faraglioni rocks from the water is undeniably special.

However, some travelers note that the Amalfi Coast from the sea might not be as thrilling as expected, especially during the hotter parts of the day, and that the commentary inside the cabin can be somewhat hard to hear. Still, if you love authentic little boat trips, scenic stops, and free time in Capri and Positano, this might be a solid choice for your trip. It’s particularly suited for those seeking a small, relaxed cruise that blends sightseeing with leisure.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Small boat with only 12 passengers creates a cozy, less crowded atmosphere.
• Scenic Highlights: Passes by Li Galli Island, Furore Fjord, and the famous Faraglioni rocks.
• Flexibility in Capri: Four hours on the island for sightseeing, shopping, or lunch.
• Additional Stops: Relaxing swim in Positano’s crystalline waters on the return.
• Mixed Reviews on Timing: Some find the midday heat challenging, and commentary can be hard to catch.
• Extra Cost for Blue Grotto: Optional visit, but depends on weather and queues, costing around €20.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Booking and Arrival

Securing your spot on this tour is straightforward—most travelers book about 50 days in advance, indicating it’s quite popular. The price is around $55.14 per person, which, when considering the boat, stops, and free time, strikes a decent balance for a day in this region. The tour is operated by SUNLAND – SOVI TURISMO SRL, and you’ll receive a mobile ticket, making check-in simple.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start from Amalfi or Maiori: The tour departs from either of these charming towns, both of which are accessible and picturesque. Expect the boat to arrive punctually; reviews confirm most travelers experience a seamless start.

Cruise Along the Coast: The first part of the journey is a leisurely ride along the coast, giving you prime views of cliffs, colorful towns, and sea caves. As you glide past Amalfi, your guide often provides commentary—though, as some travelers mention, hearing the details inside the cabin can be a challenge. Still, the scenery from the deck is captivating.

Pass By Li Galli and Punta Campanella: These are natural highlights—Li Galli Island, famous for its legend and beauty, and Punta Campanella, the tip of the peninsula. The boat often passes close enough for photos and admiration.

Capri’s Famous Landmarks: As you approach Capri, the boat will pass the White Grotto, Grotta Verde, and possibly the Blue Grotto (costing about €20). The Blue Grotto’s visit is not guaranteed—it depends on sea conditions, and queues can be long, as some reviews point out. If the weather’s calm, your skipper might advise approaching the grotto for photos, but you won’t necessarily go inside.

Capri Stop (4 hours): Once docked, you have plenty of free time to explore. You can stroll through the town’s cobbled streets, shop for souvenirs, or grab a bite—local cafes and boutiques provide plenty of options. The tour guide will give you a meeting point and exact boarding time for the return trip.

Positano Stop (30 mins): On the way back, there’s a quick stop in Positano’s surroundings for a relaxing swim in its clear waters—something many travelers find refreshing after a day of sightseeing. This brief pause offers a different perspective of the coastline’s beauty.

The Boat and Amenities

The vessel itself is described as a luxury motoryacht, designed for comfort and a sense of exclusivity. Soda and non-alcoholic drinks are included, and there’s welcome prosecco—ideal for celebrating the scenic day, especially when the sun is shining. With a small group, interactions are more personal, and you’re less likely to feel lost in a crowd.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:

• The small group size offers a more intimate, relaxed experience.
• Spectacular views of iconic landmarks from the water.
• Adequate free time in Capri for exploration and shopping.
• The friendly, knowledgeable crew reportedly adds value, making the journey more informative and enjoyable.
• The relaxing swim stop in Positano is a perfect way to unwind.

Cons:

• The midday heat can be intense, as per one review, especially during summer months.
• The interior commentary can be hard to follow, which may diminish the experience for some.
• The Blue Grotto, while optional, isn’t guaranteed—disappointing if you’re eager to visit.
• The cost of extras like the grotto and land services aren’t included, and queues might extend the wait time.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxed, small-group boat experience that combines iconic sights with free time on Capri, this tour could be a good fit. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy photography, scenic cruising, and don’t mind the possibility of variable sea conditions. The opportunity to see Furore Fjord, Li Galli Island, and pass by the Faro of Capri from the water adds unique perspectives you can’t get from land-based tours.

However, those sensitive to hot weather or noise from internal commentary might want to prepare accordingly. This tour suits adventurous, relaxed travelers who appreciate intimate settings and scenic views over a highly structured, busy day.

Final Thoughts on Value and Experience

This cruise offers a beautiful way to see the Amalfi Coast and Capri, especially if you prefer a small, intimate setting over large group tours. The boat’s size and crew friendliness make for a comfortable journey, and the 4 hours in Capri provide ample opportunity for exploration.

The scenic stops along the coast, combined with the possibility of a swim in Positano, add genuine moments of relaxation and awe. While the Blue Grotto visit isn’t guaranteed and the commentary can sometimes be hard to hear, these are minor inconveniences when balanced against the overall experience.

This tour is especially suitable for those who value personalized, scenic cruising and want to avoid the crowds often associated with larger boats or bus tours. It’s a memorable way to see the coast from a different perspective, making it worth considering if you’re comfortable with the weather and open to some spontaneity depending on sea conditions.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with boat rides and walking around Capri and Positano.

What’s included in the price?
A 12-passenger luxury yacht, non-alcoholic drinks, and welcome prosecco are included. Land services and the Blue Grotto are not included.

Can I visit the Blue Grotto?
It’s an optional stop, costing about €20 per person. It depends on weather, sea conditions, and queues, so it’s not guaranteed.

How long do I spend in Capri?
You get about 4 hours, enough time to stroll, shop, or enjoy a meal.

What about the Positano swimming stop?
It lasts around 30 minutes and offers a chance to swim in Positano’s clear waters, a lovely way to unwind.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If poor weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

Are there any hidden costs?
Yes, the Blue Grotto and land services are extra. Be prepared for additional expenses if you choose to visit the grotto.

Is the commentary inside the cabin good?
Some reviews mention difficulty hearing the narration from inside, so it might be better to stay on deck for the full experience.

How many people are on the boat?
The boat holds a maximum of 12 passengers, making it ideal for a small-group experience.

How do I book this tour?
Most travelers book about 50 days in advance, either directly online or through trusted booking platforms like Viator.

To sum it up, this Amalfi Coast: Capri Cruise offers a charming, intimate way to enjoy some of Italy’s most iconic coastlines. It balances scenic water views, time in Capri, and a swim stop in Positano, making it suitable for travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace with some adventure. While not perfect—especially during hot summer days or if you’re eager for guaranteed grotto visits—it provides an authentic, memorable experience of this stunning region.