From Positano: Sail to Capri’s Stunning Beauty

If you’re dreaming of a day exploring Italy’s most photogenic island, this private boat tour from Positano to Capri might just be your ticket. Spanning roughly eight hours, the experience offers a blend of scenic cruising, iconic sea caves, and ample free time to soak up the island’s charm. With personalized attention and a lineup of picturesque stops, it’s especially appealing for travelers craving a flexible, intimate adventure on the Mediterranean.

What makes this trip stand out? First, I love the opportunity to enjoy tailored service — the private skipper ensures you’re not just another face in a crowded group. Second, the variety of stops, from swimming at Li Galli to visiting the Blue Grotto, means you get a well-rounded taste of Capri’s natural wonder.

That said, one thing to consider: the cost can seem hefty at over $1,000 per group, but the value is in the exclusivity, personalized experience, and the chance to avoid the typical tourist crowds. Plus, the tour includes drinks, snacks, and snorkeling gear, which add to the feeling of a special, all-inclusive day. Remember, if you want to venture inside the Blue Grotto, there’s an extra fee and potential wait, especially in high season.

Key points / Takeaways

• Private tour means personalized attention and flexibility in your schedule.
• Swim at Li Galli — a highlight for many, offering a refreshing break in stunning surroundings.
• Scenic stops include famous sea caves like the Green and White Grottoes, plus photo stops at iconic landmarks such as the Faraglioni, Arco Naturale, and Punta Carena Lighthouse.
• All-day experience with free time in Capri for shopping, exploring, or relaxing at your own pace.
• Inclusive amenities like drinks, snacks, snorkeling gear, and a beach towel help make the day feel effortless.
• Cost considerations: extra charges for the Blue Grotto entrance and optional docking fees in Capri can add up.

A Detailed Look at Sailing from Positano to Capri

The Beginning: Departing from Positano’s Spiaggia

Your adventure kicks off at Positano’s Spiaggia, where your private skipper will greet you and introduce the day. You’ll get a quick briefing and will receive a picture of your boat, a small but welcoming touch. The boat itself is likely a comfortable, sleek vessel designed for speed and stability, perfect for slicing through the waters and reaching Capri efficiently.

Cruising Past Positano and Heading Toward the Islands

Within about 15 minutes, you’ll be on your way, passing by the stunning cliffs and colorful homes that make Positano so iconic. This short cruise sets the tone for the day — expect plenty of chances to take photos of the picturesque coastline, especially as you approach the first major stop, Li Galli Islands.

Swimming and Photo Stops at Li Galli

Li Galli is a highlight for many travelers. The island’s legend and its jaw-dropping scenery make it worth the visit. You’ll have around 30 minutes here to take photos, enjoy a swim, or simply relax on the boat. As one reviewer put it, “Beautiful day! Tour guide was excellent,” highlighting the peacefulness and beauty of this spot.

Visiting Capri’s Famous Sea Caves

Next, the tour hits the sea caves — the Green Grotto, White Grotto, and optionally, the Blue Grotto, if you decide to pay the entry fee of €18 per person. The Blue Grotto is world-famous, but be prepared for possible waits of 1 to 1.5 hours in high season. If you’re eager for a quick visit, the tour’s flexibility allows you to enjoy the other caves and scenic views on the way.

Iconic Landmarks and Photo Opportunities

Throughout the day, your skipper will point out major sights: the Faraglioni rocks, the Arco Naturale (a natural arch), and the Punta Carena Lighthouse. Several stops include time for photos, especially at the Faraglioni, where you can capture the classic Capri postcard shot.

Free Time in Capri

After a leisurely cruise past the scenic coast, you arrive in Capri’s Marina Grande. This is your chance to explore on your own — shop for souvenirs, enjoy a coffee, or just soak up the atmosphere. The tour generously offers around four hours here, enough to visit the town or relax before heading back.

Exploring the Blue Grotto

If you’ve planned to visit the Blue Grotto, expect an hour inside — but keep in mind the wait times, which can be lengthy during peak season. The experience inside the cavern, illuminated by sunlight filtering through the water, is unique but can be crowded and sometimes a bit chaotic.

Final Stops and Return

Before leaving Capri, your boat will visit the Grotta Albergo dei Marinai and Marina Piccola, offering more scenic views and optional swimming. The tour wraps up with a 40-minute cruise back to Positano, giving you one last chance to enjoy the coast from the water.

What the Tour Includes and What You Should Expect

This private tour includes a skipper, fuel, snacks, and drinks—from soft drinks and prosecco to limoncello, which makes for a leisurely day. Snorkeling gear and beach towels are also provided, so you’re set for swimming and relaxing on the boat.

However, it’s important to note that entrance fees for the Blue Grotto (€18) and optional dock fees in Capri (€100) are extra and not included in the price. This allows you to plan accordingly without surprises.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for travelers looking for a luxurious, private day that combines scenic cruising with free time to explore Capri at their own pace. It’s ideal if you value personalized service, want to avoid the crowds, and enjoy a flexible itinerary. It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, given the nature of boat access.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Day

• Bring sun protection — sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, and swimwear are a must.
• Book early in high season to secure your preferred start time and avoid long waits for the Blue Grotto.
• Consider extra costs: budget for the Blue Grotto (€18), optional dock fee (€100), and any meals you might want in Capri.
• Arrive prepared: the tour starts at the marina, so check your meeting instructions in advance.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re craving a day of luxury and privacy on the water with the freedom to explore Capri on your own terms, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone looking for a bespoke experience rather than a crowded group outing. The stunning vistas, combined with the chance to swim at Li Galli and visit iconic sea caves, make it a memorable Mediterranean escape.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a guided group with fixed timings and less flexibility, you might find more economical options. Also, be prepared for the occasional wait at the Blue Grotto during the busy season.

Final Thoughts

This private boat trip from Positano to Capri offers a wonderful combination of scenic beauty, personalized service, and flexible exploration. The stunning views, especially from the boat, will leave a lasting impression, and the stops at Li Galli and Capri’s sea caves are genuinely special. The included drinks, snorkeling gear, and the comfort of a private skipper elevate this experience beyond a standard tour.

For travelers who want a luxurious, authentic day on the water — with plenty of photo opportunities and the freedom to customize — this tour provides excellent value, especially considering the intimacy and comfort it offers. It’s a fantastic way to see Capri without the hassle of big tour groups or crowded boats. Just remember to factor in extra costs for the Blue Grotto and plan ahead for a smooth, enjoyable adventure.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private boat experience, meaning you’ll have your own skipper and personalized attention throughout the day.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, from departure in the morning until return in the late afternoon.

What’s included in the price?
Your package includes the boat, skipper, fuel, snorkeling equipment, drinks (soft drinks, prosecco, limoncello), snacks, and a beach towel.

Are there additional fees I should know about?
Yes, the Blue Grotto entrance costs €18, and there may be a dock fee of €100 in Capri if you choose to dock. These are not included in the base price.

Can I swim during the tour?
Absolutely, swimming stops are part of the itinerary, especially at Li Galli and in the scenic spots around Capri.

Is getting into the Blue Grotto guaranteed?
Not quite — during high season, there can be long waits, and entry depends on sea conditions and crowd levels.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Yes, pack sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, swimwear, sandals, and a camera to capture the moments.

This private boat tour to Capri from Positano offers a balance of stunning scenery, relaxed flexibility, and a touch of luxury — a day you’ll remember long after the boat has docked.