Private Boat Tour of Capri Island

Exploring Capri by Boat: A Deep Dive into this Highly Rated Private Tour

If you’ve ever dreamed of cruising along the dramatic coastline of Capri, this private boat tour promises a blend of stunning scenery, exclusive access, and personalized service. Scheduled for about three hours, it offers a curated experience that covers the best of the island’s natural beauty—minus the hassle of crowded tourist spots. With a top rating of 5.0 based on 35 reviews, it’s clear this trip hits the right notes for many travelers.

What we love most about this tour is the flexibility it provides—visiting lesser-known corners of Capri and enjoying swim stops in pristine waters, all while having a knowledgeable local captain guiding the way. However, a potential consideration is the optional Blue Grotto visit, which can be crowded and weather-dependent. This tour suits adventurous travelers who appreciate authenticity, comfort, and a touch of exclusivity, especially those wanting to avoid tourist throngs.

Key Points

• Customizable Itinerary: Visit hidden gems, caves, and iconic sights at your own pace.
• Expert Guide: Nando, a Capri native, shares authentic stories and navigates choppy waters with ease.
• Ideal Duration: Around 3 hours, perfect for a relaxed yet rundown of the island.
• Swim and Snorkel: Multiple stops for swimming in crystal-clear waters, with snorkeling gear included.
• High Satisfaction: Consistently rated 5 stars, with glowing reviews praising guides and views.
• Value for Money: Offers a private, intimate experience at a competitive price, including amenities.

Why Choose the Private Boat Tour of Capri?

This tour offers a balance between comfort, personalization, and adventure. For around $216 per person, you get exclusive access to the island’s most photogenic spots, with the added benefit of guidance from a local who knows Capri like the back of his hand. The boat itself is modern and comfortable, equipped with amenities like restrooms, towels, and plenty of water and soda.

Instead of joining large groups, you’ll be on your own private vessel—ideal for couples, families, or small groups looking for a more intimate experience. The flexibility to skip or include specific stops, such as the Blue Grotto (which is optional and sometimes crowded), means you can tailor the trip to your preferences. The tour’s popularity, booked on average 54 days in advance, speaks to its desirability among travelers seeking quality and authenticity.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Starting Point: Marina Grande

The journey begins from the bustling port of Marina Grande, a lively hub where you’ll meet your captain and crew. The setting already hints at the relaxed, scenic vibe you can expect throughout the trip.

Blue Grotto (Optional)

The Blue Grotto is Italy’s most famous sea cave, with its glowing blue waters. The ticket costs €18 per person, payable on site. This stop is a highlight but also a common point of congestion, with waits often exceeding 45 minutes. For those determined to see it, the tour offers an option to visit, but if the wait is too long, you can instead enjoy other stops. Reviewers like Afshan_M appreciated the option, noting that the tour offers a “chance to visit even if the wait is long”—or you can opt out and explore other beautiful sights instead.

Coastal Passages and Landmarks

Next, your boat will cruise past the history-rich forts along the west side of Capri, offering stunning views that few get from the land. This is a chance to appreciate the island’s strategic past—and its stunning natural beauty—without the crowds.

Monte Solaro and Cala Ventroso

One of the tour’s highlights is passing the highest point of the island, Monte Solaro. You’ll get a glimpse of the dramatic drop from the sea, and if conditions allow, enjoy a swim in Cala Ventroso. This spot is a favorite among reviewers, with Pam_Z praising Nando’s navigational skill to avoid choppy waves and ensure a pleasant experience.

Grotta Verde and Other Caves

Cruising along Anacapri’s southern coast, you’ll see several caves, including the Grotta Verde, with transparent waters perfect for a quick swim. Reviewers like Monica_A appreciated the opportunity to swim in such scenic spots, noting that Nando always had towels and drinks ready.

Iconic Rock Formations and Photo Stops

The tour also includes stops at the rocks symbolizing Capri—these are prime spots for capturing the perfect picture. Nando’s local insights often make these moments even more memorable, as he knows the best angles and lighting.

The East Side and White Grotto

From the east, you’ll view the famous natural arch and finish with the White Grotto, known for its stalagmite shaped like a Madonna. Many guests, like Amy_T, have mentioned that Nando’s attention to detail and storytelling make these stops especially engaging.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Included are essential comforts—snorkeling equipment, bottled water, soda, towels, and a restroom on board. These little touches elevate the experience, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery without fuss. However, the Blue Grotto entrance fee (€18) is not included, so you’ll need to budget for that if you want to visit.

The tour is flexible enough that if the Blue Grotto isn’t your priority, you can spend the time exploring other caves or relaxing in the water. Reviewers have expressed that the combination of swimming, sightseeing, and expert navigation is a perfect mix that makes the trip worth every penny.

The Guide: Local Knowledge Matters

Multiple reviews rave about Nando, a Capri native, whose friendly demeanor and local insights elevate the trip. Guests like Jennifer_L and Amy_T appreciated his helpfulness, storytelling, and extra touches—like helping with photos and offering restaurant recommendations. His ability to navigate the often choppy waters also received praise, with reviewers highlighting that he prioritizes safety while ensuring fun.

Practical Details & Booking Tips

Since the tour is private, only your group will participate, making it ideal for couples, friends, or families. The trip lasts approximately three hours, giving you enough time to visit multiple spots without feeling rushed. Booking well in advance is recommended, especially for peak seasons, as the tour is popular and limited in availability.

The meeting point at Coast to Coast—Capri Boat Tours on Via Cristoforo Colombo—is easy to find, and the operator emphasizes punctuality and high service quality. Cancelations are free up to 24 hours before, so you can book confidently knowing you can reschedule if needed.

Final Thoughts: Is this tour right for you?

If you’re looking for an authentic, personalized way to see Capri’s coast, this tour is hard to beat. Its combination of scenic cruising, swim stops, and insider knowledge ensures you’ll see hidden corners and iconic sights alike. The value for money is evident, given the private setting, comfortable boat, and comprehensive itinerary.

However, if visiting the Blue Grotto is your absolute priority and you’re concerned about long waits, you might consider upgrading to the longer, 4-hour tour or planning your grotto visit separately. This tour suits travelers who value quality over quantity and want a relaxed, memorable experience without the noise and crowds.

For those craving a balance of adventure, comfort, and local charm, this private boat tour stands as one of the top ways to explore Capri from the sea.

FAQ

Can I visit the Blue Grotto on this tour?
Yes, visiting the Blue Grotto is optional. You can choose to spend time there if the wait isn’t too long, or skip it and explore other beautiful spots on the island.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 3 hours, including all stops and cruising around the island.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes use of snorkeling equipment, bottled water, soda, towels, and access to a restroom on board. Entrance to the Blue Grotto is not included.

Is this tour private?
Yes, only your group will participate, making it a personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, a towel, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

How far in advance should I book?
Given its popularity, it’s best to book at least a few weeks in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date.

To sum it up, this private boat tour of Capri is a superb choice for travelers seeking an authentic, enjoyable way to explore the island’s coast. With expert guidance, stunning scenery, and the flexibility to customize your stops, it offers excellent value and memorable moments. Whether you’re honeymooning, celebrating a special occasion, or simply want to avoid the crowds, this experience will leave you with a deeper appreciation for Capri’s natural beauty and local charm.