Private Boat Tour of Capri from Positano

Exploring Capri from Positano by Private Boat: An Authentic, Stylish Day on the Water

If you’re dreaming of a day trip to Capri that skips the crowds and offers a more personalized experience, a private boat tour from Positano might be just what you need. This water-based adventure promises not only stunning scenery but also the chance to customize your itinerary with the guidance of a knowledgeable skipper. Costing around $1,100 for a group of up to 7, it’s a slightly premium way to see the island’s most iconic spots, but many find the flexibility, comfort, and intimacy well worth the price.

What really catches our eye about this tour is the opportunity to avoid the ferry hustle and enjoy a leisurely, more relaxed pace on the water. Plus, with stops at major attractions like the Blue Grotto, the Faraglioni stacks, and the Punta Carena lighthouse, you’ll get a well-rounded glimpse of Capri’s natural beauty. However, if your group is expecting a tour with lots of inside information or guided commentary, you might find the guide’s English skills or the pre-set itinerary a little limiting.

This tour is perfect for travelers who value privacy, flexibility, and a true sense of adventure. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a more exclusive way to experience Capri, this private boat will suit those looking for comfort and tailored experiences rather than large group tours.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience: You can tailor the day to your interests and pace.
• Skip the ferry and long waits: Depart directly from Positano to maximize your time at sea.
• Includes snorkeling gear and towels: Perfect for cooling off and exploring hidden coves.
• Expert local skipper: Enjoy insights into Capri’s sights and history from someone who knows the waters well.
• All-inclusive for convenience: Drinks, snacks, towels, and safety gear are provided.
• Consider the fuel surcharge: An additional EUR 300 applies, which is worth considering when budgeting.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off at Positano Spiaggia at 10:00 am, giving you a good morning start to beat some of the later crowds. The journey lasts approximately 8 hours, allowing plenty of time to relax and explore. Since the boat has a maximum capacity of 7, it keeps the experience intimate, ensuring everyone can enjoy the views, conversation, and comfort.

The Itinerary in Depth

Stop 1: Blue Grotto
This is the most famous highlight. The Blue Grotto is a natural sea cave about 60 meters long and 25 meters wide, accessible via small rowing boats. The famous blue color results from sunlight filtering through an underwater opening—that’s what makes it so photogenic. However, one review mentions the guide’s hesitation to visit here because of long wait times, which is a good consideration if you’re eager to see it. The entrance is tiny, only about two meters wide and one meter high, so patience and timing can matter.

Stop 2: White Grotto
Less crowded and more relaxed, the White Grotto offers a visual treat with stalactites and a natural sculpture that resembles a Madonna, created by sea erosion and atmospheric effects. It’s free to see, and it’s a quieter spot that many find charming, adding a mystical touch to your day.

Stop 3: The Faraglioni
These towering stacks, rising about 100 meters above the sea, are what many think of when they picture Capri. The central arch among them is accessible via boat, providing an excellent photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the natural erosion that formed these iconic rocks. Several reviewers mention how impressive these formations are, and one notes that the skipper navigates through the natural underpass comfortably, making it an enjoyable highlight.

Stop 4: Punta Carena Lighthouse
As Italy’s second-largest lighthouse, Punta Carena is not just a navigational beacon but also a scenic spot. The lighthouse’s bright light can be seen from afar, and the surrounding area offers a chance to admire the rugged coastline and seascape.

Stop 5: Spiaggia di Marina Piccola
This south-facing beach offers year-round sun exposure, with a rocky terrace called “Scoglio delle Sirene” jutting into the sea—perfect for relaxing, swimming, or savoring the view with a drink from nearby restaurants. Reviewers mention how the beach area provides a breathtaking setting, especially with the backdrop of the cliffs and the sea caves.

Stop 6: Li Galli Islands
A small archipelago between Capri and Positano, Li Galli islands are a special sight, often described as one of the most picturesque spots in the Mediterranean. The tour includes about 20 minutes here, enough for some photos and a sense of the islands’ allure.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

The tour’s price of $1,098.98 covers almost everything you need for a full day on the water: skipper, snorkeling gear, towels, snacks, drinks, toilet, fresh water shower, and safety jackets. This means you can focus on enjoying yourself rather than hunting for extras.

However, there’s a EUR 300 fuel surcharge payable on arrival, which is common in private boat tours but can surprise if you’re not prepared. Also, a tourist tax of 5 euros per person applies if you decide to disembark on the island.

The tour is designed to be flexible—you can set your own pace and choose your own itinerary—making it ideal for those who want a personalized experience.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One guest raved about the guide Alberto, describing him as “patient, kind, fun,” and emphasizing how he made the day special. The personal touch from a knowledgeable skipper is a definite plus, especially when he shares interesting tidbits about the sights.

Another reviewer appreciated the ability to craft their own adventure, noting that it was “an awesome day to adventure along the coast, swim in grottos and see what we wanted.” This highlights the flexibility many travelers seek in private tours, offering a sense of control and discovery that big group tours often lack.

However, not all reviews are glowing. One guest felt the price was high for what they received, criticizing the guide’s limited English and the decision not to visit the Blue Grotto due to long wait times. This underscores the importance of managing expectations and understanding that some sights, like the Blue Grotto, can be unpredictable.

Practicalities and Tips for Booking

• The tour departs from Positano at 10:00 am, so plan accordingly.
• Book well in advance—on average, about 100 days ahead—especially in peak season.
• Be mindful of the EUR 300 fuel surcharge; factor this into your budget.
• Pack essentials like sunscreen, your own snacks if desired, and waterproof phone cases.
• If you’re keen on visiting the Blue Grotto, consider how long the wait might be—it’s not guaranteed.
• The boat’s capacity is limited to 7 people, so this is an intimate experience, not a large group.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This private boat experience suits travelers craving flexibility, privacy, and a touch of luxury. It’s ideal for couples celebrating something special, small groups of friends, or families wanting a comfortable, tailored day on the water.

Those who enjoy natural beauty, scenic views, and the chance to swim and snorkel will especially appreciate the included gear and towels, making it easy to cool off at your own pace.

If you’re after a more guided, info-rich experience, this tour might feel a little limited, especially if your guide’s English isn’t fluent. But for those who want a relaxed, customizable day with stunning photo opportunities, this could be the perfect choice.

Final Thoughts

A private boat tour from Positano to Capri offers an excellent way to see the highlights of Capri while enjoying the comfort and flexibility many travelers crave. The ability to craft your own itinerary, combined with the scenic stops like the Faraglioni and the Blue Grotto, makes it an experience worth considering for those who value intimacy and personalized service.

While it’s a pricier option, the inclusions—drinks, snorkeling gear, towels, and personalized attention—add significant value. Just remember to budget for the fuel surcharge and plan your timing around the Blue Grotto’s potential waits.

If you’re looking for a memorable, exclusive day on the water with stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and the freedom to explore at your own pace, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s perfect for those who want a special, off-the-beaten-path adventure in one of Italy’s most beautiful areas.

FAQ

Can I customize the tour? Yes, the tour is private and offers the chance to set your own pace and select the stops you’re most interested in.

What’s included in the price? The tour includes a skipper, snorkeling gear, towels, drinks, snacks, toilet, freshwater shower, and safety jackets.

How long is the tour? The experience lasts around 8 hours, from around 10 am until late afternoon.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size? The maximum capacity of the boat is 7 people, making it an intimate experience.

Are there any extra costs? Yes, a EUR 300 fuel surcharge is payable on arrival, and a 5-euro tourist tax applies if you disembark on Capri.

What should I bring? Sunscreen, personal snacks, waterproof phone cases, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses for comfort.

Can I see the Blue Grotto? You can, but long wait times are common, and the guide’s hesitation in some reviews suggests it might be delayed or skipped.

How early should I book? Booking around 100 days in advance is typical, especially during high season.

Is this suitable for children? While the tour is private and can be tailored, the boat’s size and nature make it best suited for older children who are comfortable on the water.

What’s the best time of year for this tour? Spring through early fall is ideal, with comfortable weather and calmer seas; avoid rough weather days as the tour requires good conditions.

This private boat tour from Positano to Capri blends exclusivity, natural beauty, and flexibility—a winning combination for travelers eager for a memorable day at sea.