From Sorrento: Full Day Capri Private Boat Trip with Drinks

If you’re dreaming of a day spent cruising along the stunning coastlines of Italy’s Campania region, this full-day private boat trip from Sorrento to Capri might catch your eye. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the details and reviews give us a clear picture of what to expect—beautiful scenery, expert guidance, and a taste of the island’s highlights, all wrapped into a 7-hour adventure.

What really stands out are the beautiful landscapes you’ll see from the water and the chance to explore Capri at your own pace. Plus, the inclusion of drinks and the opportunity to snorkel add a relaxed, fun vibe to what can be a busy travel day. That said, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention issues like language barriers with guides and a few hiccups with boat size or timing, so managing expectations is important.

This tour seems well-suited for travelers who want a personalized experience with great photo opportunities and a flexible itinerary. It’s a solid choice if you’re into scenic boat rides, island exploration, and a touch of luxury, but not ideal if you prefer a structured group with a fixed schedule or if you’re travelling on a tight budget.

Key Points

• Private boat experience: Total flexibility, personalized guidance, and your own skipper.
• Highlights include: the Faraglioni, Blue Grotto (optional entrance fee), and stunning caves.
• Relaxed pace: 7 hours with plenty of time for stops, photos, and a bit of shopping.
• Potential drawbacks: language barriers, boat size, or weather may impact your experience.
• Best for: couples, small groups, or travelers who want a personalized, scenic day on the water.
• What to bring: sunscreen, hat, swimwear, cash, and your camera.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary and What You’ll Experience

The start of the day is straightforward — your private skipper will meet you at Marina Grande in Sorrento, where you’ll recognize the boat thanks to a pre-shared photo. From there, the real fun begins. Over roughly 7 hours, you’ll cruise along the Sorrento peninsula, soaking up incredible views of the coastline and passing by iconic sights like the Faraglioni—those famous limestone stacks that dominate Capri’s skyline.

Scenic cruising and photo opportunities

One of the top perks of this tour is the chance to take unforgettable photos of Capri’s natural landmarks. Your skipper, usually quite knowledgeable, will point out the best angles and spots for capturing the scenery. We loved the way the boat glided past the White Grotto and the Red Grotto, which are accessible by water and often featured in travel photos.

Visiting the Blue Grotto

A highlight for many is the visit to the Blue Grotto. The tour offers a chance to hop ashore and go inside, with an entrance fee of €14. Keep in mind, the Blue Grotto is weather-dependent and can be busy, so the timing and possibility of visiting might vary. Some reviews mention that the boat may not always stay long at each site, which can feel rushed, especially if you’re keen to spend more time exploring.

Island exploration and free time

After the scenic cruise, you’ll get about 3 to 4 hours to explore Capri on foot. This is your chance to visit the charming town, do some shopping, or just relax in a café. The skipper is typically happy to suggest good places to eat, which is handy since dining options on Capri range from casual trattorias to more upscale restaurants. We appreciate that the tour offers flexibility here—you’re not stuck with a set schedule, and you can choose how to spend your time.

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Snorkeling and relaxing

Back on the boat, you can take a break from exploring and enjoy some snorkeling or simply lounge with drinks on deck. The tour includes a variety of beverages, which adds a nice touch of comfort. According to reviews, the crew is friendly and accommodating, making it easy to relax and soak in the views.

The Good, the Not-So-Good, and the Realities

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable skippers, with one reviewer stating, “Davide was great! Informative and a great skipper!” The ability to advise on where to eat and explore is a huge plus, ensuring you get a local touch on a touristy island.

However, some reviews highlight language barriers—not all skippers speak fluent English, which can lead to misunderstandings or a less engaging experience. One traveler mentioned, “The driver of the boat didn’t speak English very well.” If language is a concern, it’s worth clarifying this before booking.

Timing is another point. A review from a disappointed traveler describes a delay: “Due to problems with the boat, we were picked up an hour late,” which made the day feel slightly rushed. Weather can also be unpredictable, and if it turns cloudy or rainy, it might impact the overall enjoyment, especially the Blue Grotto visit.

Boat size and comfort level are also considerations. There’s mention of a smaller boat that made the ride bumpier, affecting the ability to enjoy drinks or relax fully. It’s worth asking about what kind of boat will be used if comfort is a priority.

Is it worth the price?

Considering the cost, the tour offers a personalized, all-day experience with plenty of scenic spots and free time. If you value flexibility, stunning views, and a private guide’s insights, many find it to be good value. But if you’re on a tight budget or looking for a more structured or group-focused tour, this might feel a bit indulgent.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for couples seeking romance, small groups of friends, or travelers who want a more intimate, tailored experience on the water. It’s also suited for those interested in photography, as the views from the boat give great angles for capturing Caprian beauty.

It’s less ideal for travelers who prefer a tightly scheduled tour or are on a tight budget, as private experiences generally come at a higher price point. Pregnant women are advised against it, possibly due to boat comfort or safety considerations.

Final Thoughts

This private boat trip from Sorrento to Capri offers a wonderful way to see the island from a different perspective. The trip’s highlights—cruising past the Faraglioni, visiting the Blue Grotto, and having free time on Capri—deliver a well-rounded experience. The flexibility to customize stops and get local recommendations makes it particularly appealing for those who enjoy a personalized touch.

The experience is best suited for those who prioritize scenic beauty, relaxed pacing, and a touch of luxury. It’s a good pick if you’re after memorable photo moments and don’t mind a bit of unpredictability or minor inconveniences like weather or boat comfort issues.

Overall, if you love being on the water and want an intimate day exploring Capri with a knowledgeable skipper, this tour could be a highlight of your trip to Sorrento.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally focused on adults, especially since it involves a private boat and some optional sights like the Blue Grotto. If you’re traveling with kids, consider their comfort and whether they’ll enjoy the boat ride and exploration.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, cash for optional extras like the Blue Grotto entrance fee, and your camera or smartphone for photos.

How long do we spend at each stop?
You’ll have about 3-4 hours free on Capri for exploring, shopping, or relaxing. The rest of the time is spent cruising, sightseeing, and visiting sites like the caves.

Can I visit the Blue Grotto?
Yes, you can choose to visit the Blue Grotto during the trip, with an entrance fee of €14. Keep in mind, visits depend on weather and timing, and some reviews mention it might be rushed.

What happens if the boat has problems or is late?
Some travelers experienced delays or boat changes, which can make the day feel rushed. The company offers a compensation of an hour at the end if needed, but it’s worth being flexible.

Is food included?
The tour doesn’t include meals, but your skipper can advise on where to eat. Expect to find local restaurants and cafes during your time on land.

What if the weather turns bad?
Weather can impact the trip, especially the Blue Grotto visit. It’s best to check the forecast and be prepared for possible changes or cancellations.

If you’re after a scenic, flexible day with a touch of luxury and don’t mind the occasional hiccup, this private Capri boat trip from Sorrento offers a great way to see the island’s highlights from the water. Just remember to keep expectations balanced and be ready for a relaxed, picture-worthy adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: