Capri & Blue Grotto Small Group Full-Day Boat Tour from Positano

An Honest Look at the Capri & Blue Grotto Small Group Boat Tour from Positano

Taking a boat trip around Capri and its famed grottos sounds like the perfect way to spend a day along Italy’s Amalfi Coast. This particular tour, operated by Cassiopea, promises a relaxed, small-group experience that skips the hassle of ferry lines and crowded boats. It’s designed for travelers who want a more intimate way to see Capri’s natural beauty, with stops at key attractions and plenty of time to explore on land.

One of the things we love about this tour is how it balances on-water sightseeing with free time on land. You get to see stunning coastlines from the water, swim in crystal-clear waters, and explore the charming towns of Capri and Anacapri — all without the chaos that often comes with large group tours. The inclusion of drinks like Prosecco and bottled water also adds a touch of celebration to what’s already a picturesque journey.

However, a notable consideration is that the Blue Grotto visit is optional and incurs an extra fee. The wait can be lengthy, especially during high season, which might impact those with tight schedules or limited patience. Plus, some reviews suggest that certain parts of the tour, like visiting Capri itself, may not live up to expectations if you’re hoping for an in-depth experience.

This tour is best suited to adventurous travelers who enjoy small groups, are comfortable on boats, and genuinely want to experience Capri’s rugged coastlines with knowledgeable guides. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day with some swimming and sightseeing, this could be your ideal choice.

Key Points

• Small group size offers a more personalized experience compared to large tourist boats.
• Skip the ferry lines and start directly from Positano, saving precious time.
• Multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing keep the day dynamic.
• Expert guides and friendly crew enhance the trip’s quality.
• The Blue Grotto visit is optional and costs extra, so plan accordingly.
• Enjoy drinks and towels included to keep you comfortable and refreshed.

In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Early Morning Vibe

Your day begins at the Cassiopea ticket office on Positano’s main beach, Spiaggia Grande, around 8:10 am. The early start is ideal because it allows you to beat some of the crowds heading to Capri. Expect to board a comfortable, well-maintained boat with a maximum of 12 travelers, which means plenty of space and room to relax. The small-group setup really shines here, with Francesco or Stefano — the boat captains praised for their friendly, knowledgeable approach — making everyone feel at home.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: The Blue Grotto

The Blue Grotto is one of the main attractions, but it’s essential to know that tickets cost around €18 payable at the entrance. The tour inside is brief — roughly 5 minutes — but the wait can stretch well over an hour during peak season, sometimes longer in high tide or busy hours. Some reviews mention that the boat often just passes by the grotto if lines are too long, which can be disappointing for those eager to see it up close. This has led to some feeling the experience is over-hyped or not worth the extra time and cost.

Stop 2: The White Grotto

A quick, free stop at the White Grotto lets you get close to its majestic, white-marble façade. Reviewers mention that this stop is a highlight for many, offering a stunning photo opportunity with minimal time investment.

Stop 3: The Natural Arch

The Natural Arch, carved by centuries of sea and wind, is a brief but impressive feature. It’s a free stop, and the scenery offers excellent photo moments. Expect around 5 minutes here, enough to admire the natural rock formations.

Stop 4: The Faraglioni Rocks

No trip to Capri is complete without glimpsing the iconic Faraglioni. Recognizable from countless movies and commercials, these towering rock formations often serve as the backdrop for luxury yachts. The boat stays close enough for great photos, and some reviewers say this is one of the most memorable parts of the trip.

Stop 5: The Green Grotto

The glowing green hues of the Grotta Verde are a real treat. The light filtering into the water creates a surreal, luminous effect. It’s a brief stop — around 5 minutes — but enough for a quick swim or photo.

Swimming, Snorkeling, and Land Exploration

The tour emphasizes free time for swimming and snorkeling, which many travelers find the most enjoyable part. The boat supplies towels, and you’ll have the chance to jump into the turquoise waters near Capri. One reviewer from Anni_A shared how they enjoyed swimming back from Capri, making the experience feel relaxed and personalized.

Along With water-based fun, you’ll get land time in Capri and Anacapri, with options to explore on your own. While some visitors mention Capri’s crowded streets, others appreciate the chance to walk through these charming towns, browse shops, or sit in cafes. Keep in mind, some reviews note that Capri can be overcrowded, which might limit the feeling of authentic intimacy.

Drinks and Amenities

Throughout the day, guests are offered bottled water, soda, and a glass or two of Prosecco, which adds a celebratory touch. Towels are provided, following strict COVID-19 safety protocols, making it easier to stay comfortable.

Group Size and Guide Interaction

With a maximum of 12 travelers, the experience tends to be more intimate and less rushed. Guides like Francesco and Stefano are frequently praised for their friendliness and local knowledge, making the trip more engaging. Several reviews mention how much fun they had, especially with Francesco’s lively commentary and personal touch.

The Cost and Value

At $150.94 per person, this tour offers a balanced price point considering the small group size, activities, and land time. The value increases if you enjoy swimming, want a flexible itinerary, and prefer less crowded boats.

However, the Blue Grotto extra fee and potential waiting times are worth considering when evaluating overall value. Some reviews express frustration over the Blue Grotto being just a quick pass if lines are long, which can feel like a missed opportunity.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is best suited for adventurous, water-loving travelers who want to see Capri without the crowds. If you cherish small-group intimacy, enjoy beautiful scenery, and value flexible timing with options for swimming, you’ll likely find this experience rewarding. It’s particularly good for those comfortable on boats and willing to accept that some attractions, like the Blue Grotto, might not be fully accessible at all times.

On the other hand, if you’re seeking an in-depth, land-based tour of Capri, or if you’re heavily focused on visiting specific sites like the Blue Grotto, you might want to consider alternative options, since this tour prioritizes scenic cruising and free exploration over exhaustive land visits.

The Final Word

This small-group boat tour from Positano offers a beautiful, flexible way to explore Capri’s coastlines and grottoes. With attentive guides, comfortable boats, and the chance to swim in pristine waters, it provides a relaxing yet exciting day out. The limited number of guests ensures a more personalized experience, and the inclusion of drinks keeps everyone refreshed.

That said, it’s worth being aware of the potential wait times and the extra cost for the Blue Grotto. The experience is ideal for those seeking a scenic boat ride with some land time rather than a full, in-depth tour of Capri’s interior.

If you prioritize stunning views, a relaxed pace, and a small-group atmosphere, this tour is a fantastic choice — especially if you’re in Positano and want to make the most of a day on the water with genuine local guides.

FAQs

Is the Blue Grotto included in the tour?
No, the Blue Grotto is optional and costs about €18 per person, payable directly at the grotto entrance. The tour inside lasts only about 5 minutes.

How long do we spend in Capri?
You get allocated free time on land, but the exact duration can vary depending on the day’s schedule and wait times, especially for the Blue Grotto.

What does the tour include?
The tour includes boat transportation, water, soda, Prosecco, and towels following COVID-19 protocols. It does not include snacks or Blue Grotto tickets.

Are there any age or physical requirements?
Yes, travelers should have a good physical fitness level, as the trip involves some walking and swimming. Seasickness remedies are recommended if you’re sensitive to boat motion.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, ensuring a more intimate, less crowded experience.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Absolutely. Guests are encouraged to bring their own snacks and drinks if desired.

What time does the tour start and where?
Check-in is at 08:10 am at Cassiopea’s booth on Positano’s main beach, with boarding around 08:20 am.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate physical activity and boat ride are generally suitable for teens and older children, provided they are comfortable on boats.

This boat tour offers an inviting, scenic, and intimate way to experience Capri’s stunning coastlines. If you’re after a relaxed, small-group adventure with opportunities for swimming, breathtaking sights, and local guides, it’s worth considering — just keep in mind the potential wait for certain attractions and the extra fee for the Blue Grotto.