Capri tour & Blue Grotto (from Sorrento)

Sailing around the island of Capri on a private boat sounds like the perfect way to experience this legendary Italian destination. From the comfort of your boat, you’ll get an up-close view of the breathtaking cliffs, hidden coves, and famous grottoes that are often missed from land. This full-day tour from Sorrento, offered by Amalfi Coast Dream, promises a blend of scenic beauty, personalized service, and some well-deserved relaxation—plus a chance to swim in the crystal-clear waters.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the level of intimacy it offers; being in a private group means you can customize your experience, ask questions, and enjoy the trip at your own pace. The knowledgeable, friendly captains make sure you’re well-informed about each stop and are happy to cater to your preferences—whether that’s snapping photos, swimming, or just soaking in the scenery. One thing to keep in mind is the optional Blue Grotto entry, which can be quite busy and might require a wait, so planning accordingly helps.

This trip is ideal for travelers who love a mix of adventure and relaxation, want to avoid large crowds, and value expert local insights. It’s especially suited for those comfortable with a moderate physical level since embarkation and disembarkation can involve some effort. If you’re dreaming of a day on the water with stunning views and few travelers, this tour will likely hit the mark.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience: Limited to your group, with a captain who shares insights and makes adjustments.
• Spectacular scenery: Cliffs, grottos, and iconic rocks like the Faraglioni are front and center.
• Multiple swimming and snorkeling stops: Refresh in secluded coves and underwater caves.
• Flexible itinerary: The tour covers major sights but allows some adjustments based on weather or preferences.
• High customer satisfaction: Consistently rated 5 stars with reviews emphasizing guides’ friendliness and local expertise.
• Optional Blue Grotto visit: Can be included for an additional fee, but expect possible wait times.

The Full Experience: What You Can Expect

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Sorrento at 10:00 am, where you’ll meet your captain and hop aboard your private boat. This is not a large group tour but a more intimate experience, with the boat accommodating up to five people comfortably. As the boat departs, you’ll cruise along the Sorrento coast, passing the Bagni Regina Giovanna—a small, picturesque bay with a waterfall and an ancient Roman bath. Reviewers mention this as a highlight, with one noting, “We loved the way the captain explained the history of this spot and made it special.”

The voyage then takes you around Capri’s stunning cliffs and coves. Your captain will point out notable landmarks like the Villa Malaparte, the Natural Arch, and the Rock of the Sirens. The Faraglioni—the iconic three rocks—are a must-see, and the captain’s commentary adds context and fun facts that bring the scenery alive. Expect to spend about 15 minutes here, taking photos and marveling at the natural beauty.

Waterfalls, Grottos, and Hidden Gems

Your first stop is Massa Lubrense, where a small natural spring emerges from a rock—an unusual sight that adds to the sense of discovering secret corners. Next, you’ll visit the White Grotto, the largest of Capri’s famous caves, and the Grotta Verde (Green Grotto), often praised as the “best of them all.” Reviewers rave about the Green Grotto, describing it as stunning with vivid shades of green illuminating the water, making it a highlight of the trip.

The Blue Grotto is always a discussion point. It’s an optional visit, with an additional cost of €14 per person. You might find the wait times vary, as it’s often crowded—some reviews mention waiting up to two hours, especially during peak times. The boat trip inside the Blue Grotto involves hopping onto a small rowing boat, which can be a fun but sometimes chilly experience. If the wait is too long, your captain might suggest skipping it or visiting other caves instead.

Iconic Landmarks and Leisure Time in Capri

The tour also includes passear past the Punta Carena Lighthouse, cruising beneath the second-oldest lighthouse in Italy. Several reviewers appreciated the chance to see Capri from the water, noting that the views of the Faraglioni and Marina Piccola are breathtaking.

Midday offers about four hours of free time on Capri. This allows you to stroll through the charming town, window-shop, indulge in some gelato, or relax at a café. Many guests have praised the flexibility here, with one reviewer mentioning, “Vittorio took care of our lunch reservations and even helped us find a quiet spot for swimming.” This free time is a real perk, giving you the chance to experience the island beyond just the water.

Snorkeling, Swimming, and Relaxation

Included in the tour are snorkeling equipment and several swimming stops. The water is often clear, inviting travelers to dive in and cool off. Reviewers have reported that the boat’s crew is attentive, encouraging safe swimming and offering snorkels at key spots. Many say this is the perfect way to blend sightseeing with relaxing swims in secluded bays.

The Guides and Crew

The reviews highlight Yuri, Juani, Flavio, and Vittorio as standout captains and guides—friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to customize the experience. “Juani was great and took us to some amazing points,” says one guest, emphasizing how the guides’ local insights turned a good trip into a memorable one. They’re also praised for taking photos, making restaurant reservations, and playing music, adding to the overall enjoyment.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $848.90 per group, this private tour offers a high level of personalization and access to places that larger tours can’t match. When you consider that this includes a full day of sailing, snorkeling equipment, refreshments, and a dedicated captain, the value becomes clearer. Many guests felt they received more than their money’s worth, especially compared to larger group tours, which tend to be more rushed and less flexible.

The optional Blue Grotto visit, costing €14 per person, is a small extra that many find worthwhile for the experience, although be prepared for potential waits. The four hours of free time on Capri itself also add value, letting you tailor your visit beyond what a standard tour might offer.

Practical Tips for Maximizing Your Day

• Book early, as the tour is popular and often booked about 65 days in advance.
• Arrive prepared for the Blue Grotto, with a flexible mindset—during busy times, it might be skipped or delayed.
• Bring sunscreen, water, and a hat for comfort during sunny hours.
• Wear comfortable shoes for your free time on Capri, as cobblestone streets and stairs are common.
• Confirm your meeting point and start time to avoid last-minute stress—your tour begins at 10 am.

The Sum Up

This private Capri boat tour from Sorrento offers a fantastic blend of scenic beauty, flexibility, and personalized service. You’re in good hands with guides who know the island inside out and are eager to make your day special. Expect stunning views of cliffs, grottos, and the famous Faraglioni rocks, with plenty of opportunities to swim and relax along the way. It’s a great choice for those seeking a more intimate, tailored experience away from the crowds, especially if you love water-based adventures and authentic moments.

While it’s a pricier option, the level of customization and the access to hidden gems make it well worth the investment. Just keep in mind that the Blue Grotto’s popularity can lead to long waits, so flexibility with this stop improves your overall experience.

Ideal for couples, small groups, or families who want a memorable, scenic day on the water, this tour balances sightseeing, relaxation, and a touch of adventure perfectly. If you value knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and the freedom to explore at your own pace, this trip will certainly meet your expectations.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The tour requires a moderate physical fitness level due to embarkation and disembarkation, so it may be challenging for those with mobility issues. However, children who are comfortable on boats and with water should enjoy it.

What is included in the tour fee?
The fee covers the private boat, captain, fuel surcharge, bottled water, soft drinks, insurance, and snorkeling equipment.

Can I visit the Blue Grotto?
Yes, the Blue Grotto can be included for an extra €14 per person, but note that it may involve waiting times and is subject to weather conditions and crowds.

How long is the free time on Capri?
You’ll have approximately four hours to explore Capri at your own pace, which is enough for sightseeing, shopping, dining, or relaxing.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes for your free time on the island. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you can also bring your own if preferred.

This private boat tour from Sorrento guarantees a day filled with stunning views, personalized touches, and memorable experiences—perfect for those who want to truly enjoy Capri from the water.