Private Boat Tour of Capri and Positano from Sorrento

Exploring the Amalfi Coast by Private Boat: A Deep Dive into the Sorrento to Capri & Positano Experience

Taking a private boat tour along the Amalfi Coast offers a blend of luxury, adventure, and genuine discovery. This particular journey from Sorrento to Capri and Positano is tailor-made for travelers who crave an intimate connection with one of Italy’s most iconic seaside regions. With a maximum of seven guests per boat, it feels like a personalized escape—an opportunity to see the craggy cliffs, colorful villages, and legendary caves without the crowds that often overwhelm the more popular excursions.

What really catches our eye about this tour is the way it combines sightseeing with authentic moments. The chance to swim in waters right next to the towering Faraglioni or explore secret caves like the Blue Grotto adds a sense of adventure that big group tours often lack. Plus, the itinerary includes some of the most photogenic spots in the Mediterranean—think stunning coastlines, dramatic rock formations, and quaint artisan streets in Positano.

A potential consideration is the price—at just over $1,000 per group, it’s a splurge, but one that many reviewers feel is worth every euro. Naturally, such an exclusive experience might be less suitable for travelers on a tighter budget or those who prefer a more structured, less flexible tour. This trip suits those looking for a tailored, relaxing, and scenic day out—perfect for couples, families, or small groups who want to skip the crowds and focus on personal discovery.

Key Points

Personalized experience: With only up to 7 guests, the tour feels exclusive and flexible.
Stunning scenery: From Roman ruins to the Faraglioni and hidden caves, each stop offers breathtaking views.
Authentic local encounters: Stroll through Positano’s artisan streets and shop for custom-made sandals.
All-inclusive comfort: Drinks, snacks, snorkeling kit, toilet, and showers mean you’re well-cared-for.
Unique access: Swim at legendary sites like the Blue Grotto and Li Galli islands, often missed on larger tours.
Price reflects quality: While costly, the reviews suggest this is a worthwhile splurge for a special day.

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Starting off from Sorrento

Your day begins early, with the boat departing from Via Marina Piccola at 9:00 am. The initial stretch along the Sorrento coast offers a chance to appreciate its rocky shoreline and the remains of Queen Joan’s Roman villa—an evocative reminder of Italy’s long history. This ancient site, belonging to the noble Pollio Felice family, provides an interesting glimpse into Roman-era luxury right on the water.

Punta Campanella and the Li Galli Islands

Next, you’ll pass Punta Campanella, the very tip of the Sorrento peninsula, where the land ends and the open sea begins. From here, the views across to Capri are striking, and you can imagine why sailors and travelers alike have been captivated by these waters for centuries.

The highlight of this stretch is a 20-minute visit to the Li Galli islands, a tiny archipelago famed for their beauty and mythological significance. The reviewers mention this stop as “very suggestive,” emphasizing how rare it is to experience such remote, pristine spots in a private boat setting. The calm, turquoise waters surrounding Li Galli make it ideal for a quick swim or snorkel—an extra that many find worth the additional 20 minutes.

Visiting Capri’s Natural Wonders

Once around Capri, the boat makes its way to see several legendary caves—the White Grotto and the Green Grotto—each with its own story and stunning visual effect. The Blue Grotto, perhaps the most famous attraction, is a natural marvel. Accessed by small rowing boats, this cave’s vibrant blue hue is caused by sunlight filtering through an underwater opening, illuminating the water in a way that feels almost surreal. The cave is about 60 meters long with a narrow entrance, so just be prepared for a brief, slightly intimate boat ride to enter.

Along With the caves, the boat stops at the Faraglioni, the iconic towering rock formations. Reviewers repeatedly mention the “thousand shades of blue” in these waters—swimming here is a highlight, with many taking advantage of the natural underpass for fun photos. The central stack’s natural arch is one of the most photographed sights in the region, and you’ll have time to admire it from close quarters.

Positano’s Charm

Next, the boat heads to Positano, often called the “Pearl of the Amalfi Coast.” Here, the focus is on exploring its narrow, winding streets—perfect for those who love quirky artisan shops. Reviewers note that walking from the beach up to Piazza dei Mulini is a must, where colorful boutiques and handcrafted sandals await. The beaches here—Spiaggia Grande and Fornillo—are easily accessible on foot, but some of the lesser-known coves require a boat ride.

Final Swim and Capri’s Lighthouse

Before heading back, the captain steers toward the Li Galli archipelago again for a final swim stop, giving everyone a last chance to enjoy the crystalline waters. The boat also visits Capri’s Lighthouse, an imposing octagonal tower with a lantern that’s the second largest in Italy, perfect for photos and appreciation of the island’s maritime history.

Practical Details and Comfort

This tour’s all-day length—about 8 hours—means you’ll have plenty of time to soak in the scenery, take photos, and relax. Included amenities like snacks, drinks, snorkel kit, a toilet, and a freshwater shower on board make it comfortable, especially considering the length of the day. The boat’s small size (up to 7 people) ensures you’re not crowded, and the skipper provides a personal touch that seasoned reviewers praise—many mention their guides by name, like Tonino, who was described as “kind, funny, and very experienced.”

Cost and Extras

The price of $1,037.16 covers the whole group, but note that fuel surcharge (€400) and disembarkation fee in Capri (€100) are additional costs payable on arrival. You’ll also pay a small tourist tax if you choose to disembark on Capri, but many reviewers feel the overall value justifies the expense, especially given the tailored experience and access to sights larger groups can’t reach.

Why This Tour Might Be Perfect for You

If you’re after a luxurious, private day on the water with flexible stops, this tour is hard to beat. For those who want to avoid large tour groups, the small size and personalized service provide a more authentic, relaxed experience. It’s ideal for couples celebrating something special, small families, or friends who want to explore at their own pace. The itinerary offers a fine balance of sightseeing, swimming, and shopping—catering to diverse interests.

Conversely, if you’re budget-conscious or prefer a structured group tour with set times and less personal interaction, this option might feel a bit premium. Keep in mind that the experience is weather-dependent, and the €400 fuel surcharge is a significant additional fee.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour of Capri and Positano from Sorrento truly delivers on its promise of a scenic, personalized adventure. The combination of stunning vistas, secret caves, and charming towns creates a memorable day that’s worth the splurge for many travelers. The small-group format offers a degree of intimacy and flexibility that large cruise or bus tours simply can’t match.

The reviews highlight how worthwhile the experience is—many mention the professionalism of the guides, the quality of the boat, and the delicious snacks. If you’re looking for a day of luxury, adventure, and authentic Italian seaside charm, this tour could be your perfect escape.

For travelers who value exclusivity, breathtaking scenery, and the freedom to explore at their own pace, this private boat trip offers an unforgettable slice of the Amalfi Coast.

FAQ

How many people can fit on the boat?
The maximum capacity is 7 people, making it a very intimate and personalized experience.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes the skipper, drinks, a beach towel, snorkeling kit, snacks, a toilet on board, and a freshwater shower.

Are there additional costs?
Yes. There’s a €400 fuel surcharge payable on arrival, as well as optional embarkation and disembarkation fees (€100 in Capri) and a €5 tourist tax if you disembark there.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I swim during the tour?
Absolutely. Many stops, especially around Li Galli and near the Faraglioni, provide excellent opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 65 days ahead, reflecting its popularity among travelers seeking a private, luxurious experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Via Marina Piccola, 80067 Sorrento, and returns there at the end of the day.

Whether you’re after picture-perfect moments, a quiet escape, or a chance to explore secret caves, this private boat tour from Sorrento packs a punch. It’s an experience that balances luxury with authenticity—perfect for those wanting to see the Amalfi Coast in style.