Private Boat Tour of Capri from Capri

Discovering Capri from the Water: A Detailed Look at the Private Boat Tour

If you’re dreaming of cruising around the legendary island of Capri, this private boat tour promises a personalized day exploring its dazzling coastlines, caves, and iconic sights. With a maximum of seven guests, the experience offers an intimate way to see Capri’s natural beauty without the crowds or generic group tours. The tour, booked on average 125 days in advance, is a full seven hours of coastal discovery, set at a price that reflects its exclusivity—around $982.97 per group.

What really caught my eye about this experience is the emphasis on authentic, local storytelling—each stop has a legend or a story that your skipper will share, adding depth beyond just sightseeing. I also love that it includes practical amenities—snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, towels, and even fresh water showers—making it feel like a true day of luxury and adventure.

However, a potential consideration is the additional fees: embarking and disembarking in Capri’s port costs €100, and a hefty fuel surcharge of €250 applies. This bumps up the overall cost, so it’s worth factoring into your budget. Also, the Blue Grotto visit isn’t guaranteed—bad weather or long lines could mean missing out on that highlight, but the rest of the coast is just as spectacular.

Key Points/Takeaways

• Exclusive Private Experience: Only your group joins, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.
• Beautiful Coastal Stops: From Punta Carena lighthouse to the White and Green caves, each spot has fascinating stories and views.
• Skipper as a Guide: The crew, including guides like Alberto, are praised for friendliness, competence, and interesting commentary.
• Swim and Snorkel Opportunities: The Faraglioni rocks and nearby coves offer some of the best swimming on the island, with snorkeling kits and towels provided.
• Comfort and Convenience: The boat is large, comfortable, and equipped with amenities like toilet, fresh water shower, and snacks.
• Weather Dependency: The Blue Grotto visit is weather-dependent and may be skipped if conditions are poor.
• Cost Breakdown: Base price is $982.97, but expect to pay €100 and €250 for port and fuel fees, respectively.
• Advance Booking Recommended: Most travelers book around four months ahead, highlighting its popularity.
• Ideal for Small Groups: Perfect for couples, families, or friends seeking an exclusive, relaxed day with personalized service.

Exploring Capri by Boat: An Authentic and Luxurious Journey

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to see Capri in style, this private boat tour offers a chance to enjoy the island’s natural wonders with the added comfort of a dedicated skipper and customized itinerary. As I review this experience, I’ll lay out what makes it special, what to expect along the way, and whether it’s worth the splurge.

The Itinerary: A Balance of Sights and Stories

Your adventure begins at Lo Scoglio Delle Sirene, a scenic starting point on Via Mulo, where the boat departs at 9:30 am. The journey lasts about seven hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in the scenery, swim where you want, and listen to engaging stories from your skipper.

The first stops include Punta Carena, with its imposing lighthouse that’s been guiding sailors for decades. From there, the boat glides past the Green Cave and White Cave, each with their own legends. These are not just photo ops—they’re stories in stone that your guide will share, adding depth to your visual experience.

The highlight for many is approaching the Blue Grotto, the famous sea cave illuminated by sunlight filtering through underwater cracks. The experience of entering the grotto by small boat, with its shimmering blue waters, is unforgettable. Keep in mind, however, that weather conditions or long queues can prevent access—something worth considering when planning your day.

Finally, the Faraglioni rocks rise dramatic and proud from the sea, offering a perfect backdrop for swimming. Many guests describe swimming near these iconic formations as a highlight—an invigorating dip in waters that are often a blend of blue, green, and cobalt, as one reviewer enthusiastically recounted.

What You’ll Actually Experience on the Water

The boat itself is described as both large and comfortable, a gozzo sorrentino style vessel that’s perfect for small groups. Alberto, one of the friendly guides, is praised for his approachable manner and helpful tips—he even serenaded his guests on the way out, which added a personal touch to the trip.

The tour includes snacks and drinks, which makes the experience more relaxed, especially when combined with the snorkeling kit—a great way to explore the underwater world. Towels are provided, and there’s a fresh water shower on board for rinsing off after swimming. These details transform a simple boat ride into a full-day luxury experience.

The Cost: Is It Good Value?

The base cost is nearly $1,000 for the entire boat, which might seem steep. But when you consider the exclusivity—only your group—plus the amenities, storytelling, and unique stops, it begins to make sense. The additional €100 for embarkation/disembarkation and €250 fuel surcharge bump the total closer to $1,400, so it’s wise to weigh whether a private, all-inclusive day is worth it for you.

Compared to larger group tours, this private experience offers more flexibility and intimacy. You get to choose how long to stay at each site, and your skipper aims to tailor the day to your interests—something you can’t get with a large bus or cruise.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat tour is best suited for travelers who value personalized service, are comfortable with a bit of extra cost, and want a relaxed, scenic day rather than a hurried sightseeing rush. It’s ideal for couples, small families, or friends who want a memorable, exclusive experience.

If you’re into swimming, snorkeling, and stories about Capri’s caves and legends, this tour hits all those marks. It’s less suitable if you’re on a tight budget, or if bad weather days might spoil your plans, since the Blue Grotto visit is weather-dependent.

The Bottom Line: Authentic, Comfortable, and Memorable

This private boat tour offers a rare chance to see Capri at your own pace, with a knowledgeable skipper guiding you past the island’s most photogenic spots and sharing local stories. The boat’s comforts, snorkeling gear, and snacks make it a full-day escape from crowded tourist spots into the quiet beauty of the sea.

For travelers who prioritize quality over quantity, and who want a deeply personal experience with stunning views and local flavor, this tour is a solid investment. The reviews highlight not just the scenery, but the exceptional friendliness and professionalism of the guides, especially Alberto, who’s praised for his helpfulness and even singing—adding a dash of genuine charm.

If you go in with realistic expectations about the costs and potential for missing the Blue Grotto, you’ll find that this journey offers a unique, authentic way to connect with Capri’s natural and cultural allure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should I book this tour?
Most travelers book about 125 days ahead, as it’s a popular experience, especially during peak season.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the boat, skipper, drinks, snacks, beach towels, snorkeling kit, toilet, and fresh water shower.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, you’ll need to pay €100 for embarkation/disembarkation in Capri’s port and a €250 fuel surcharge, payable on arrival.

What’s the maximum group size?
Up to 7 people, making it ideal for intimate groups or small families.

Is the Blue Grotto guaranteed?
No, it depends on weather conditions and the lines—if it’s closed, your skipper will suggest other exciting stops.

What kind of boat is used?
A large, comfortable gozzo sorrentino style vessel, perfect for sightseeing and swimming.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 7 hours, starting at 9:30am from Lo Scoglio Delle Sirene.

Can I swim and snorkel during the trip?
Absolutely. The Faraglioni area and other coves are perfect for a refreshing dip, with snorkeling gear provided.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the cost and boat size.

Final Thoughts

For anyone looking to see Capri from a different perspective—away from crowded buses and tourist traps—this private boat offers a bespoke way to enjoy the island’s stunning coastline. The combination of natural beauty, engaging storytelling, and personalized service makes it a memorable outing worth considering.

Whether it’s your first time or a repeat visit, the charm of sailing past the famous Faraglioni or swimming in caves will stay with you. Just remember to factor in the extra fees and the unpredictable nature of the Blue Grotto weather. With a little planning, this trip can become one of the most treasured highlights of your Capri visit.

Note: Always confirm details before booking, as weather and sea conditions can influence the day’s itinerary.