Marina Piccola: Tour of the Island

Exploring Capri’s Coast by Sea: A Genuine Boat Tour Experience

If you’re looking to see the iconic beauty of Capri, especially its caves and cliffs, a boat tour like the one offered by Capri Whales can be an excellent choice. This family-run operation specializes in small-group excursions that focus on safety, courtesy, and authentic experiences. For around $102 per person, you get a two-hour journey that covers major sights like the Faraglioni, Marina Piccola, and the famous Blue Grotto—plus a refreshing swim in the clear waters.

What I really like about this experience is how personal and flexible it feels. With a small group limited to ten participants, there’s plenty of space to ask questions and enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. I also appreciate the thoughtful inclusion of snorkeling masks, cold drinks, and even Prosecco for special occasions, which makes the trip feel more like a celebration of Capri’s natural beauty than just a sightseeing cruise.

One potential consideration is the tour’s duration—at just two hours, it’s a quick peek that’s perfect if you’re tight on time or prefer a lighter experience. If you’re craving a more extensive adventure, longer tours of 3 or 4 hours are available, but you’ll need to check availability ahead of time. Also, keep in mind that the Blue Grotto entrance fee is not included, so plan for an extra €18 per person if you want to visit it.

Key points / Takeaways

• Family Business: Capri Whales is run by a family with generations of sailing experience, adding a personal touch.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, making for a more intimate, less crowded experience.
• Comprehensive Sights: Visits include Capri’s famous caves, Faraglioni, Marina Piccola, and water swimming spots.
• Comfort & Safety: Emphasis on courtesy and safety, with snorkeling gear, towels, and insurance included.
• Flexible Duration: Tours are usually 2 hours but can extend to 3 or 4 hours, depending on your schedule.
• Value for Money: The price includes drinks, snorkeling masks, fuel, and insurance—considered good value for a personalized tour.

Seeing Capri’s Coast from the Water: What to Expect

When you join the Capri Whales tour, you’re stepping into a vessel that’s more than just a boat—it’s a family tradition. The meeting point is conveniently located next to the Funicular, making it easy to access from most parts of Capri or Sorrento. The crew speaks multiple languages, including English, Italian, and Spanish, which really helps if you’re not fluent in Italian.

Once onboard, the guide will provide you with a map of the island, so you can follow along and get a sense of where each sight is located. The tour’s main draw is the chance to visit Capri’s famous caves—notably La Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto)—and see the majestic Faraglioni rocks that punctuate the coast. The guide’s knowledge adds context, helping you understand why these formations are so iconic.

Swimming and snorkeling are central to this tour, with masks provided so you can get a closer look at the water’s clarity and marine life. The included beach towels are a thoughtful touch, if you want to lounge on the boat or dry off after your swim. During the trip, cold drinks—sometimes including Prosecco for special occasions—are offered, making it a relaxed, celebratory vibe.

The tour concludes back at the starting point, ensuring you’re not lost or stranded far out at sea. Because the tour lasts only 2 hours, it’s ideal for those who want a quick but meaningful taste of Capri’s coastal highlights. If you have more time, consider booking a longer voyage, as the company offers 3- and 4-hour options.

Highlights of the Tour: What Sets It Apart

Family-run charm: Guided by a family tradition that emphasizes courtesy and safety, you’ll feel welcomed and well cared for.

Exclusive access: While the Blue Grotto requires an entrance fee, the tour allows you to see many caves and coastlines that are impossible to reach from land, providing a sense of exclusivity and adventure.

Comfort and amenities: From snorkeling masks and towels to cold drinks and even Prosecco, the small touches make your trip enjoyable without extra costs.

Authentic experience: The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, sharing stories and insights that make each stop more meaningful.

Flexibility: The option for longer tours means you can customize your adventure to your pace and interests.

Intimate groups: Limiting the tour to ten people ensures a more relaxed and personal experience, compared to larger, more commercial cruises.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Likely See and Do

The tour begins at the meeting point next to the Funicular—an easy landmark, especially if you’re arriving from the main town. Once aboard, the guide will set the course for the coast, passing by the majestic Faraglioni, the towering rock formations that are Capri’s signature image. The guide usually shares stories about their formation and historical significance—an interesting tidbit for those curious about geology and local lore.

You’ll then head to Marina Piccola, a picturesque bay favored by locals, with a chance to stop for a swim in crystal-clear waters. This is where you can cool off and enjoy the natural beauty of Capri’s coastline. During the tour, you might also visit the famous Blue Grotto, but keep in mind that entering it costs €18 per person and is not included in the tour price. A few reviews mention that the crew is helpful in organizing this if you wish to go.

The highlight is usually the exploration of Capri’s caves and hidden spots that are only accessible by boat. The guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm make these moments engaging. You’ll also get a close-up view of the Faraglioni, which you’ll recognize from countless postcards. Many travelers comment on how spectacular these rocks look from the water—better than any photo on land.

The tour wraps up after about two hours, returning to the original meeting point. If you’ve opted for a longer trip, you might also visit additional sites or spend more time swimming.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat tour is best suited for travelers seeking a short, authentic glimpse of Capri’s coastline without the hassle of large crowds or overly commercialized experiences. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups who enjoy a relaxed pace, friendly guides, and a focus on natural scenery.

If you’re someone who wants to see the famous caves, take a dip in the sea, and enjoy a bit of Prosecco with new friends, this trip hits the mark. It’s also suitable for travelers with limited mobility, thanks to the wheelchair accessibility and small-group size.

However, if you’re a history enthusiast or looking for an in-depth exploration, this tour is more about scenic beauty and fun than detailed archaeological insights. Also, if you’re eager to visit the Blue Grotto, remember you’ll need to budget extra for the entrance fee outside the tour.

Price, Value, and Practical Tips

At just over $100 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering the included amenities like snorkeling masks, towels, drinks, and insurance. The small group size and family-run vibe add a personal touch that larger cruise operators can’t match.

Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season—I suggest checking availability for your preferred time. The option to reserve now and pay later provides flexibility to adjust your plans if needed, with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

What to bring is straightforward: weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone. Since the tour is in the morning or early afternoon, dress for sun and breezes.

Final Thoughts

This Capri Whales boat tour offers a relaxed and intimate way to experience some of the island’s most iconic sights. It’s ideal for groups seeking a personalized, family-friendly outing that combines sightseeing with swimming and lighthearted fun. The focus on safety, courtesy, and small-group ease makes it a dependable choice for travelers who appreciate genuine hospitality and authentic scenery.

While it’s a short trip, the memories of sailing past the dramatic Faraglioni, snorkeling in crystal waters, and sharing Prosecco with new friends often leave a lasting impression. If you’re looking for a straightforward, enjoyable way to see Capri from the water without breaking the bank, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The standard tour lasts 2 hours, but longer options of 3 or 4 hours are available depending on your schedule and interest.

What’s included in the price?
You get a guided boat trip, snorkeling masks, towels upon request, cold drinks, Prosecco for special occasions, fuel, and insurance. The Blue Grotto entrance fee is not included.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a good choice for travelers with mobility considerations.

Where do I meet the boat?
The meeting point is next to the Funicular, a convenient and recognizable landmark in Capri.

Can I visit the Blue Grotto on this tour?
You can see the Grotto from the boat, but entering it costs €18 per person and is not included. You might find the crew helpful in organizing your visit if you choose to go.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and possibly a waterproof phone case or camera are advisable. Towels and snorkeling gear are provided, but you can bring your own if preferred.

This boat tour from Marina Piccola provides a straightforward, enjoyable way to appreciate Capri’s stunning coastlines. It’s perfect for those who want a small-group, friendly, and scenic outing that mixes sightseeing with a splash of fun.