Thinking about exploring Italy’s beautiful Gulf of Naples by boat? This private day cruise from Sorrento offers a chance to see three incredible islands—Capri, Ischia, and Procida—in one day. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want a flexible, scenic experience without the hassle of navigating themselves or multiple tour groups.
What really catches the eye about this tour is the opportunity to customize your stops—deciding where you want to spend some free time—and the chance to dip into the Mediterranean’s crystal-clear waters. Plus, you’ll get plenty of stunning views, from soaring cliffs to historic castles. On the flip side, it’s a full day of boat travel, which might be tiring for some, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or dislike being on the water for hours.
If you’re someone who appreciates scenic boat rides, loves spontaneous adventures, and wants a taste of the islands without heavy crowds, this tour could be a great fit. However, keep in mind that it’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues or altitude sickness, and weather conditions can impact the schedule.
Key Points

- Flexible stop options allow you to choose where to explore on each island
- Great for swimming and snorkeling in clear, inviting waters
- Includes snacks and drinks onboard, making it easy to relax
- Beautiful views of the coast, caves, and harbors provide plenty of photo opportunities
- Private group setting means a more personalized experience
- Weather-dependent cancellations may occur, so flexibility is key
A Close Look at the Itinerary

This tour packs a lot into 8 hours, and that’s part of its appeal. Starting from Sorrento, you’ll meet your skipper—either at Via Marina Grande or a designated spot—and get a quick safety briefing before setting off. From there, it’s all about cruising, swimming, and sightseeing.
First stop: Capri. The boat ride to Capri takes about 20 minutes, giving you a taste of the scenic coast along the way. Once at the island, you’ll get the chance to see the famous caves like the White Green and Blue Grottos—iconic sights that make the island such a magnet for visitors. We loved the way the boat glided past high cliffs and secret coves, and many reviews mention how magical the scenery is.
Next, onto Ischia. The boat ride to Ischia lasts about 50 minutes, offering another scenic passage. Here, you’ll have a chance to snap photos of the Aragonese Castle, a historic fortress that juts out into the sea, and the colorful harbor of Sant’Angelo. The tour includes time for swimming at spots like Maronti, Citara, or San Montano—ideal for cooling off and enjoying the clear waters. Multiple reviews highlight how relaxing it is to swim in such pristine conditions, and the views of lush gardens and castles from the boat are often praised.
Then, it’s Procida’s turn. The boat makes a 30-minute cruise to Procida, where the colorful houses and charming marina of Corricella are prime photo spots. Many find Procida’s vibe more laid-back and authentic compared to Capri. You’ll have about an hour here for exploring, shopping, or just soaking in the scenery.
Throughout the day, you’ll also cruise past Chiaiolella beach, admire scenic views along the coast, and get to see the natural beauty of each island from the water—something many reviews say is the highlight. The boat’s route is carefully planned to maximize sightseeing while giving you enough time on each island for some free exploration.
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What You Can Expect on the Day

This is a well-organized tour that balances cruising, stops, and free time. You’ll start with a safety briefing, then spend roughly 20 minutes on the boat heading toward Capri. Once there, you’ll see the famous caves, with photo stops and optional swimming or snorkeling. The boat rides between islands vary from 10 to 50 minutes, giving you plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the views.
The free time on each island is a highlight. You can explore at your own pace, shop, or sit down for a coffee. It’s designed to give you a taste without rushing, but keep in mind that the total cruising time and stops add up to a full day.
Snacks and drinks onboard are included, which many reviewers really appreciate, especially since it’s a long day on the water. The boat is private, so you’re traveling with a small, custom group, making it feel more intimate and flexible. You control your schedule more than on a big group tour, which is a big plus for many travelers.
The Experience of the Boat Ride

The boat itself is described as comfortable and well-maintained. Many reviews mention the “beautiful views” and how much they enjoyed the scenic passages along the coast. The speedboats allow quick transitions between islands, meaning you spend more time relaxing or exploring rather than stuck on a bus or ferry.
A recurring theme is how the boat trip offers unbeatable vantage points. You’ll love the views of the high cliffs around Capri, the lush landscapes of Ischia, and the vibrant harbor of Procida. Many find the ride itself relaxing—especially if you enjoy being on the water—and some have even said they found it “soothing to just sit back and watch the coastline change as you cruise along.”
Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private cruise is ideal if you want a personalized, flexible way to see some of Italy’s most iconic islands. It suits travelers who don’t mind a boat ride and want to avoid the crowds often found in larger group tours. It’s perfect for those who value scenic views, swimming opportunities, and spontaneous stops.
However, it’s not recommended for travelers with mobility issues or those sensitive to rough seas, as the entire experience is based on boat cruising. If weather conditions turn bad, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, so flexibility is key.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details

- The tour duration is about 8 hours, so it’s a full but manageable day.
- You’ll meet at one of two locations in Sorrento, depending on your booking.
- Snacks and drinks are included, making it convenient for passengers.
- The group is private, so it’s tailored for your small group or family.
- You’ll want to bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.
- The tour isn’t suitable for pets, and if you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions.
- Weather impacts are possible; you’ll be notified the day before or the morning of in case of rescheduling.
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The Sum Up

All in all, this private boat tour from Sorrento gives you a chance to experience the stunning islands of Capri, Ischia, and Procida in a way that’s flexible and scenic. The ability to choose where to stop and enjoy the water makes it feel more personal than a typical group excursion. The views are truly exceptional, from towering cliffs and colorful harbors to hidden caves and lush gardens.
It’s best suited for travelers who love being on the water, appreciate scenic beauty, and want to explore at their own pace. If you’re after a relaxing, picture-perfect day with swimming and sightseeing combined, this tour delivers on all fronts. Just remember that weather can influence the schedule, and it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues.
For those looking for an intimate, scenic adventure with a touch of spontaneity, this cruise could be the highlight of your trip to the Gulf of Naples.
Ischia, Procida, Capri, Private Day Cruise : From sorrento
FAQ

Is this tour private?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups, making it more personalized and flexible.
How long is the boat ride between islands?
The cruise times vary from about 10 to 50 minutes, depending on the route.
What should I bring?
Swimwear and sunscreen are recommended to enjoy swimming and protect yourself from the sun.
Are snacks and drinks included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy snacks and a selection of drinks onboard.
Can I swim during the tour?
Absolutely, swimming is encouraged at spots like Maronti, Citara, or San Montano.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Very bad sea or weather conditions may cause the tour to be canceled or rescheduled, with notifications provided the day before or the morning of.
Are there any age or mobility restrictions?
It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or those with altitude sickness.
Where do I meet the boat?
Your meeting point will be either Via Marina Grande or a designated location in Sorrento, depending on your booking.
How long is the overall tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, including cruising, stops, and free time.
Is this a good tour for families?
While suitable for most, consider the full day on the boat if traveling with young children or those sensitive to seasickness.
This private Sorrento boat tour offers a genuine chance to explore Italy’s Gulf islands with a flexible, scenic, and comfortable approach. If you’re after a day of beautiful views, swimming, and small-group intimacy, it’s worth considering.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Private Tours in Ischia
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Ischia
- from Sorrento: Positano e Amalfi Private Full-Day Boat Tour
- from Amalfi: Capri Boat Tour with Blue Grotto
- Ischia and Procida: Best Private Boat Tour of the 2 Islands
- Island of Ischia: private full day boat tour on Aprea 12m
- From Ischia: Procida Island Guided Cruise
- From Ischia: Positano and Amalfi Full-Day Boat Experience
More Tour Reviews in Ischia
- Ischia: Relax at the Aphrodite Thermal Park + Borgo Sant Angelo
- from Sorrento: Positano e Amalfi Private Full-Day Boat Tour
- from Amalfi: Capri Boat Tour with Blue Grotto
- Ischia and Procida: Best Private Boat Tour of the 2 Islands
- Island of Ischia: private full day boat tour on Aprea 12m
- From Ischia: Procida Island Guided Cruise
More Ischia experiences we've covered
- Ischia: Relax at the Aphrodite Thermal Park + Borgo Sant Angelo
- from Sorrento: Positano e Amalfi Private Full-Day Boat Tour
- from Amalfi: Capri Boat Tour with Blue Grotto
- Ischia and Procida: Best Private Boat Tour of the 2 Islands
- Island of Ischia: private full day boat tour on Aprea 12m
- From Ischia: Procida Island Guided Cruise
- Ischia: Epomeo summit hike
- From Ischia: Positano and Amalfi Full-Day Boat Experience
- Ischia: GEO hike
- Italian aperitif at the sunset by the sea
- Ischia: Wine hike


