Capri Full Day SemiPrivate Boat Tour and City Visit from Positano

If you’re heading to the Amalfi Coast and craving a taste of the legendary island of Capri, this full-day semi-private boat tour offers a compelling way to see its highlights. With a mix of scenic cruising, iconic grottos, and a generous four-hour stop on land, it balances natural beauty with cultural charm. The experience promises comfort, elegance, and plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and relaxing swims.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines the thrill of exploring by boat with enough free time on the island to wander at your own pace. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear and a delicious onboard brunch adds to the value. That said, one thing to keep in mind is the potential for weather dependence, which could affect the itinerary.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy scenic journeys, want to see Capri’s most famous spots without stress, and appreciate a mix of guided and independent exploration. If you’re looking for a memorable day that offers both adventure and leisure, this might just be your ideal choice.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal views and iconic rock formations like the Faraglioni make this tour picture-perfect.
• A well-balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, snorkeling, and free time on the island.
• Comfortable luxury vessel with amenities including snacks, drinks, and snorkeling equipment.
• An authentic experience that balances guided stops with personal exploration.
• Weather-dependent conditions could influence certain stops or the overall experience.
• Suitable for most travelers with a max group size of 12 ensuring a more intimate environment.

Exploring Capri in Depth: What You Can Expect

This tour is designed to take you beyond the usual postcard shots, offering a full perspective of Capri’s natural and cultural treasures. Starting from Positano, you’ll set sail on a luxurious first-class boat, enjoying the gentle waves and spectacular views even before reaching the island.

Embarking from Positano

The meeting point is at Spiaggia di Positano Marina Grande, a charming spot in Positano where the boat departs early in the morning. The journey across the water takes roughly an hour, during which you’ll get a sneak peek of the coast’s dramatic cliffs and colorful towns. The vessel is a semi-private setup, capping at 12 guests, which helps maintain a relaxed, personable atmosphere despite the small group.

First Stops: Beaches and Roman History

Your first stop is Spiaggia Grande, the most famous beach in Capri. With its soft sand and lively atmosphere, it’s a perfect spot for a quick photo or a paddle in the clear waters. Just a short distance away, the Bagni di Tiberio offers a quieter, historically significant spot—Roman emperors like Tiberius once bathed here, and the remains of their seaside villa still stand nearby. Reviewers appreciate these stops for their mix of natural beauty and history, with one noting that the proximity to Roman emperors’ summer retreats adds a special touch of ancient glamour.

The Blue Grotto: A Must-See Marvel

No trip to Capri is complete without a visit to the Blue Grotto, famed worldwide for its glowing blue waters and magical entrance. The low, narrow opening leads into a chamber where sunlight filters from outside, illuminating the water in a dazzling azure hue. While the tour doesn’t include pre-paid tickets, which cost around €18 on-site, it’s well worth the wait and small extra expense for the chance to step into this natural wonder. Some travelers, like Megan, have expressed disappointment when delays or weather affected this stop, but most agree it’s a highlight that lives up to its reputation.

Exploring the Coast: Hidden Caves and Scenic Covess

The itinerary continues with visits to lesser-known caves such as Cala del Rio and Cala del Tombosiello, both praised for their stunning natural scenery. The Grotta Iannarella or “Heart Cave” is a particular favorite, with a carved-out shape resembling a heart—an ideal backdrop for those romantic or fun photo moments. The Grotta Verde (Green Grotto) enchants visitors with its emerald-green waters, stalactites, and stalagmites. These spots, often quiet and peaceful, give a sense of discovering a secret paradise. Reviewers have shared how the serene atmosphere inside the Green Grotto makes the swim inside something truly special, providing a close-up connection with nature.

Iconic Landmarks: Lighthouse, Tiberius’ Leap, and Faraglioni

The Faro di Capri, or Punta Carena lighthouse, is one of Italy’s oldest (first lit in 1867) and offers a tranquil spot to admire the coast at sunset. The group typically spends about 10 minutes here, soaking in the views and listening to the waves.

Next, you’ll glide past Tiberius’ Leap, a sheer cliff where Roman legends say prisoners met their end, creating an air of history and drama. Then comes a viewing of the Faraglioni, the famous trio of rocks that define Capri’s landscape. The group usually spends around 30 minutes here, taking selfies and marveling at these towering formations that have inspired countless artists and writers.

Artistic and Architectural Highlights

Near the end of the boat cruise, you’ll see Casa Malaparte, an iconic modernist villa perched on a cliff, famous for its minimalist design and past appearances in film. It’s an excellent photo stop, and the reviews praise its dramatic setting and architectural beauty.

Underwater Wonders: White, Red, and Saints Grottos

Capri’s coast is peppered with caves of striking colors. The Grotta Bianca features smooth white limestone walls, while the Grotta Rossa impresses with deep red rock. Both offer a captivating contrast to the blue seas, making each a visual feast. The Grotta dei Santi adds a spiritual touch with stalactites resembling praying saints, a detail appreciated by those interested in natural artistry.

A Relaxing Break: Punta Ventroso

Midway through the journey, there’s a 30-minute break on board at Punta Ventroso. Here, you can sip prosecco, nibble on snacks, and take a dip in the calm waters. Reviewers have described this as a pleasant pause—a chance to unwind while enjoying music and the beautiful scenery.

Mythical and Cultural Stops

Crossing the Via Marina Piccola, you’ll pass by the Mermaid’s Rock, associated with ancient legends. Then, at the Porto Turistico, you’ll disembark for around four hours to explore Capri’s charming streets, do some shopping, or visit the Blue Grotto independently—a great opportunity for those wanting a more personal experience.

Artistic Touches and Final Stops

The Gennarino Scugnizzo di Capri, a statue of a young fisherman, symbolizes the island’s maritime spirit and is a charming photo subject. The tour concludes with a scenic cruise past the Faraglioni again, giving ample chances to snap final photos before heading back to Positano.

The Experience: What You Gain and What to Expect

This tour offers a comprehensive view of Capri’s most celebrated sights with a thoughtful balance of guided stops and free time. The boat itself is described as luxurious and well-equipped, with amenities including restrooms, snorkeling gear, and a selection of drinks from water to prosecco and limoncello. The onboard brunch of local specialties adds a delightful touch, making the journey as much about savoring flavors as seeing sights.

The group size of up to 12 ensures a more personalized experience, with the crew—led by a professional skipper and host—taking care of logistics and providing insights. Reviewers mention the professionalism of the crew, noting that delays or weather issues can sometimes affect the planned itinerary, but safety always takes priority.

Value and Cost Analysis

At around $354.56 per person, this tour may seem steep, but when you consider the inclusions—snacks, drinks, snorkeling equipment, and four hours on the island—the value becomes clearer. The guided stops at multiple caves, the iconic Faraglioni, and the cultural landmarks are substantial, especially given the small group size.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

One of the few downsides noted by reviewers is the potential for shortened swimming or land exploration times due to delays or large group dynamics. For instance, Megan expressed disappointment about reduced swim time because of other guests’ late arrivals, although the crew aims to maximize everyone’s experience. Weather can also influence certain stops, particularly the Blue Grotto, which is dependent on good sunlight and sea conditions.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate scenic boat rides, natural wonders, and a touch of luxury. If you love the idea of exploring Capri’s caves, iconic rocks, and historic sites in a relaxed, intimate setting, this tour will suit you well. It’s also perfect for those who want a balanced day—combining guided sightseeing with ample free time—without the hassle of organizing transport or tours independently.

Couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a memorable and manageable day on the water will find this experience rewarding. Keep in mind, if you’re seeking an ultra-flexible or more personalized land experience, you might want to supplement this with additional independent exploration.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This Capri full-day boat tour from Positano offers a well-rounded, visually stunning, and comfortably paced way to experience Capri’s highlights. The combination of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and free time on the island makes it an excellent value for those looking to see the most without feeling rushed.

While weather and group dynamics can sometimes impact the experience, the professionalism of the crew and the quality of the vessel help ensure a satisfying adventure. The onboard amenities, delicious local snacks, and snorkeling gear elevate the experience beyond a typical boat ride.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love scenic cruising, want a taste of Capri’s famous sights, and enjoy a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. If you’re after a memorable day packed with breathtaking views, natural wonders, and a splash of luxury, this tour will likely meet or exceed your expectations.

FAQs

Is transportation included from Positano?
Yes, the tour includes assisted pick up and drop off at private docks or piers near your accommodation, making it easy to start and end your day.

How long is the boat journey from Positano to Capri?
The trip from Positano to Capri typically takes about an hour, providing scenic views along the Amalfi Coast.

Do I need to buy tickets for the Blue Grotto separately?
No, the Blue Grotto tickets are purchaseable on-site for approximately €18 per person. The tour does not include pre-paid tickets.

What’s included in the tour?
Your ticket covers the boat, skipper, guide, steward, fuel, onboard restroom, water, soda, beer, prosecco, limoncello, snacks, brunch, snorkeling equipment, and towels.

How much free time will I have on Capri?
You’ll have around 4 hours to explore the island independently, shop, or visit attractions like the Blue Grotto at your leisure.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but snorkeling and swimming are optional activities. Children over 18 are the minimum drinking age, and safety measures are in place for all water activities.

In sum, this Capri boat tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Italy’s most iconic sights in comfort and style, with enough flexibility to make the day your own. Whether you’re after stunning photo ops, a refreshing swim, or just a relaxing day on the water, it delivers a well-rounded experience that’s hard to beat.