Capri by Sea: Private Tour from Sorrento or Positano

Planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast? A private boat tour to Capri offers a luxurious and personalized way to experience one of Italy’s most iconic destinations. This eight-hour adventure promises a seamless blend of sightseeing, swimming, and exploring the charming town of Capri—all from the comfort of a private boat. With top-rated guides, plenty of opportunities to snorkel, and a flexible itinerary tailored to your preferences, it’s an experience that can make your trip truly unforgettable.

What we love about this tour is the intimate setting—only your group on a sleek, well-maintained boat—and the chance to see the coast from a perspective few get to enjoy. The expert skippers are praised for their local knowledge and friendly demeanor, often adding fascinating stories that enhance the experience. A potential downside? The tour’s price point makes it more suitable for travelers seeking a splurge, but many agree that the personalized service and exclusive access justify the cost. This experience is perfect for those who value comfort, stunning scenery, and a touch of luxury.

Key Points

• Private and exclusive experience with only your group involved
• 8-hour day, including swimming, snorkeling, and island exploration
• Skilled guides who share local legends and insider tips
• Flexible itinerary with stops at the Faraglioni, Piazzetta, and more
• Includes snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear for a fully enjoying day
• Opportunity to land on Capri for 3 hours of independent exploration
• Cost around $1,186 for up to 8 people, emphasizing value for groups
• Great reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the crew

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Setting Out from Sorrento or Positano

Your adventure begins at either Sorrento or Positano, with a meeting point at the marina around 9:00 am. From there, your boat—a sleek vessel designed for comfort and style—sets off along the Amalfi coast. The journey itself is almost as enchanting as the destination, as your skipper recounts tales of the region’s legends and highlights of the coastline. Expect to cruise past iconic sights like the Baths of Queen Giovanna and Punta Campanella, all while enjoying the gentle sea breeze.

The Approach to Capri: Natural Wonders and Scenic Views

As you draw closer to Capri, the scenery shifts dramatically. Clear waters lap against rocky coves, and the Faraglioni rocks come into view—these towering limestone formations are perhaps the most recognizable symbol of Capri. Many reviews mention how the guides take pride in pointing out these natural marvels, often sharing stories about their significance.

The boat tour includes stops for swimming and snorkeling, giving you a chance to cool off and marvel at the vibrant marine life beneath the water. One reviewer mentioned how the skipper, Matteo, “did everything right to make us enjoy the trip,” including organizing the perfect spots for swimming. Snorkeling equipment is provided, so you can fully explore the underwater world without hassle.

The Stop at the Faraglioni and the Aperitif

One of the highlights is a one-hour stop at the Faraglioni rocks, where you can snap photos with these iconic formations as the backdrop. Here, the crew offers a little aperitif—assorted snacks, fresh fruit, and drinks like prosecco and limoncello—making it a perfect moment for a toast or simply soaking in the views. Reviewers rave about the friendly crew and the quality of the snacks, often mentioning how the guides go out of their way to make everyone comfortable and well-fed.

Landing in Capri: Exploring the Island

After the boat cruise around the coast, you’ll have about three hours to land on Capri’s famous Piazzetta. This is enough time for a leisurely walk through the town’s charming streets, window-shopping at boutique stores, or grabbing a coffee at a sidewalk café. While tickets for the Blue Grotto are not included, many guests choose to explore the island’s main square, soaking in the atmosphere, or seat themselves at a seaside restaurant—some of which are accessible directly from the water, as reviewers recommend.

Authenticity and Personal Touches

A recurring theme in reviews is how flexible and attentive the skippers and crew are. One reviewer praised Luigi, describing him as “incredible,” and another noted how Captain Antonio “tailored the entire plan for the day around our preferences.” Such personalized service ensures that you’re not just on a set itinerary but have the chance to customize your experience—whether that’s more swimming, less time in town, or a special photo op.

The Return and Reflection

As the tour wraps up, you’ll cruise back along the coast, often with a few more stories from your skipper. Some guests mention dolphin sightings or other surprises, adding a magic touch to the day. The boat docks back at the marina around 5 p.m., leaving you with a treasure trove of memories and photos.

Price Analysis and Value

At approximately $1,186.83 per group, this tour is priced for groups of up to 8. That means if you book with friends or family, the cost per person can be quite reasonable—especially considering the exclusivity, the private boat, and the personalized experience. Reviewers repeatedly highlight the professionalism of the crew, the luxury of the boat, and the customized itinerary as justifying the expense.

While you’ll need to pay extra if you opt for lunch or want to visit the Blue Grotto, the overall experience offers significant value for those craving a luxurious, hassle-free day on the water. The inclusive snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear further enhance this value, making it a worthwhile splurge if budget allows.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: About 8 hours, giving plenty of time to relax and explore
• Start Time: 9:00 am from Sorrento or Positano
• Meeting Point: Marina Piccola port (Sorrento) or Positano marina
• What’s Included: Skipper, snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear
• Extras to Budget For: Lunch, Blue Grotto tickets (about €18), landing tax (€100 in Capri Marina Grande if required)
• Weather Considerations: The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or rough seas, a full refund or reschedule is offered
• Booking: On average, travelers book about a month in advance, so plan early especially in peak season

Authentic Reviews and Insights

Many reviews mention how knowledgeable and friendly the crew is; Luigi and Dora are often singled out for their expertise and warmth. One guest reflected, “Luigi was a fantastic skipper, taking us to all the best spots and sharing fascinating stories,” highlighting the added value of local guides.

Guests also appreciated the flexibility—being able to choose where to swim, how long to stay at each stop, and even arranging a restaurant reservation directly accessible from the water. One reviewer commented, “Luigi served us in the best way, and we had all the drinks we wanted, including Prosecco to toast.”

A few pointed out that rough seas can make the trip less comfortable, but the crew’s skill in maneuvering and the overall quality of the boat helped mitigate this issue. Several guests mentioned dolphins playing nearby, adding a little extra magic.

The Sum Up

This private boat tour to Capri from Sorrento or Positano offers a chance to enjoy Italy’s coast in style and comfort. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience—perfect for those who want a touch of luxury, personalized service, and a flexible schedule that suits their preferences. The inclusion of snorkeling, scenic stops, and ample time on the island makes it a well-rounded day trip that balances adventure with relaxation.

Ideal for groups eager for a private, bespoke experience, this tour excels in providing authentic moments, knowledgeable guides, and stunning vistas that will stay with you long after you leave the coast.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and given the relaxed pace, children should enjoy swimming and exploring the island with the family.

What is the meeting point?
The activity begins at the Marina Piccola port in Sorrento or in Positano, depending on your choice.

How long is the time spent on Capri itself?
You’ll have about 3 hours to explore the island after landing, giving enough time for a leisurely walk, shopping, or a meal.

Are meals included in the price?
No, lunch is not included, but you can book a restaurant directly accessible from the sea during the trip.

What’s the best time of year to go?
While the tour is available year-round, clear weather and calm seas are ideal. Summer months tend to be busier but offer the best weather.

Can I visit the Blue Grotto?
Tickets for the Blue Grotto are optional and cost about €18. Be aware that if it’s closed due to weather or other reasons, you won’t be refunded for that part.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, a towel, and your camera. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you can bring your own if preferred.

Is this a good value for the price?
Given the private setting, personalized service, and included snacks and drinks, many reviewers find the cost justified—especially when splitting among a group.

This private Capri tour balances stunning scenery, personalized service, and authentic experiences, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to indulge a little while exploring Italy’s breathtaking coastline.