The 15 Best Boat Tours & Cruises in Capri
When it comes to Capri, the best way to experience its stunning coastal scenery is from the water. The island’s dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and iconic Faraglioni rocks are best appreciated when viewed from a boat. Whether you want the intimacy of a private cruise or the lively atmosphere of a group tour, Capri offers options that fit every taste and budget. We love tours that include visits to the Blue Grotto, with its shimmering blue waters, and those that let you swim and snorkel in quiet coves away from the crowds.
You’ll find tours here that range from quick 2-hour trips to full-day private adventures, each with their own charm. If you’re after a personalized experience, a private boat might be best; if you want to see everything without fuss, join a group cruise. No matter which you choose, booking early is wise—these tours fill up fast during the high season.
1. Boat Tour in Capri Italy
At number 1, the Boat Tour in Capri Italy offers a private experience with flexibility that many travelers rave about. Starting from Capri, this tour lets you choose the departure port, the length—ranging from 2 to 6 hours—and the itinerary, including a visit to the Blue Grotto or a land stop on Capri. The boat itself is well-equipped, with snorkeling gear and beach towels provided.
Guests consistently praise the personalized service and the opportunity to avoid the summer crowds, especially around the Faraglioni and hidden coves. The highlight for many is the chance to swim and snorkel in secluded spots or relax on deck with a drink. Prices are around $469.70 for a group of up to four, making it a good choice for families or small groups.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a customizable, intimate day on the water with options to include land sightseeing or just pure relaxation.
2. Private tour in a typical Capri boat
Number 2 on our list is the Private tour in a typical Capri boat, rated 5 stars by over 330 travelers. For about $446, you get nearly 3 hours aboard a traditional “gozzo” boat with a local skipper. This tour is praised for its relaxed pace and the chance to cruise past highlights like the Faraglioni, Natural Arch, and Punta Carena lighthouse.
What sets this apart is the opportunity to stop for swims in quiet coves, with towels provided on board. The guide, Gennaro or Mario, shares interesting stories and insights about Capri’s coastline. Guests often note the lively music, champagne, and the chance to capture great photos from unique angles.
Bottom Line: Ideal for small groups seeking a relaxed, personalized cruise with plenty of swimming stops and local flavor.
3. Capri: Island Boat Trip with Grottos
The Capri: Island Boat Trip with Grottos ranks third with over 3,700 reviews and costs just $27 per person. This quick tour takes you around the island for about 1-2 hours, giving you a taste of Capri’s most iconic features, including the White and Green Grottos and the Faraglioni. It’s a great way to see the main sights if you’re short on time.
The itinerary includes several stops at key points like the Casa Malaparte and Punta Carena Lighthouse, with commentary from the skipper about the myths and legends of Capri. Guests appreciate the lively atmosphere and the ability to see many highlights in a short time. Note: entry into the Blue Grotto is not included, and lines can be long.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers on a budget or those with limited time who still want a rundown of Capri’s coast.
4. From Pompeii/Castellammare/Vico Equense: Capri Day Cruise
Number 4 is the From Pompeii/Castellammare/Vico Equense: Capri Day Cruise, rated 4.7 with nearly 480 reviews. This full-day tour spans about 10 hours, including a scenic boat cruise from the mainland plus free time on Capri and Anacapri. It’s ideal for travelers who want to combine land exploration with a sea adventure.
The itinerary covers the Faraglioni, grottoes, and cliffs, with leisure time to stroll in Capri’s charming streets. Guests love the comfort combined with the chance to relax on the boat amid great views, and the return trip offers stunning photo ops of the Gulf of Naples.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a full experience, combining boat and land, with a relaxed pace and beautiful scenery.
5. Private Boat Tour of Capri
Number 5 is the Private Boat Tour of Capri, rated perfect 5 stars from nearly 200 reviews. For $442.38, up to 7 people can enjoy a 3-hour journey. This tour is perfect for those wanting to explore at their own pace, stopping for swims, photos, or just soaking up the views of the Faraglioni and Blue Grotto.
Guests love the flexibility, with options to include snacks, drinks, and Wi-Fi on board. The captain is attentive, sharing local stories and ensuring a comfortable trip. It’s well-suited for couples or families seeking privacy and a tailored experience, with the opportunity to combine sightseeing with swimming.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those who want control over their itinerary and enjoy a private, comfortable setting.
6. Capri: 2-Hour Boat Tour with Happy Hour
In sixth place, the Capri: 2-Hour Boat Tour with Happy Hour offers a quick yet lively experience. Guests enjoy cruising along the coast, discovering coves, and passing by the Lighthouse of Punta Carena, all while relaxing with a limoncello during happy hour.
The short duration suits travelers who want a taste of Capri from the water without committing to a full day. Many reviewers note how much they saw in just 2 hours and appreciated the friendly crew and the opportunity to swim in the clear sea.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers with limited time looking for a fun, social experience on the water.
7. Half day tour of Capri by private boat
Rated 5 stars, the Half day tour of Capri by private boat costs around $511.66 for up to 7 people and lasts about 3 hours. This tour emphasizes flexibility, allowing you to tailor stops for swimming and sightseeing, including the Blue Grotto and Natural Arch.
The guide offers a relaxed pace, with towels, snorkeling masks, and homemade limoncello on board. Guests especially appreciate the private setting, with many raving about the personalized attention and the chance to explore quieter spots away from tourist crowds.
Bottom Line: Ideal for small groups seeking a customizable, semi-private experience that balances scenic cruising with opportunities to swim.
8. Boat Tour of the Caves on the Island of Capri
Number 8, the Boat Tour of the Caves on the Island of Capri, rated 4.5 stars. For $80.67, this 2-hour trip offers a comprehensive exploration of the island’s most famous caves, including stops at the White Grotta, Natural Arch, and the Faraglioni.
Led by an expert guide, the tour includes swimming in crystalline waters and tasting Limoncello. Many find this tour offers a nice balance of sightseeing, swimming, and local flavor, with memorable photo opportunities.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for visitors wanting a deeper dive into Capri’s cave systems with knowledgeable guides and a friendly atmosphere.
9. Capri: Island and Grottos Boat Cruise with Snacks and Drinks
Number 9, rated 4.3 stars, is the Capri: Island and Grottos Boat Cruise with Snacks and Drinks. For $67.97, it offers a 2-hour cruise around the island, passing Grotta Bianca, Green Grotto, and the Faraglioni.
Guests love the inclusive snacks, limoncello, and the chance to swim in clear waters. The small group size makes the experience intimate and relaxed. The guide shares engaging commentary about each site as you pass them.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a short, friendly tour with included drinks and scenic views.
10. Half Day Private Boat Tour of Capri
Number 10, the Half Day Private Boat Tour of Capri, offers about 4 hours for $627.62 for up to 6 people. This tour emphasizes flexibility: you decide how long to spend at each site and can include stops for swimming or sightseeing.
Guests rave about the attentiveness of the skipper and the ability to customize your route, with highlights like the Red Grotto, Faraglioni, and Villa Malaparte. The inclusion of towels, refreshments, and snorkeling gear adds value.
Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups wanting a personalized, semi-private experience with plenty of options to tailor the day.
11. Capri excursion in a private boat
Rated 5 stars by 94 travelers, the Capri excursion in a private boat offers a quick 2-hour cruise for about $387.03 for up to 5 people. This is a great way to see Capri’s top sights, including the Faraglioni, Blue Grotto, and Punta Carena.
The guide shares local stories, and guests particularly enjoy the swim stops and the relaxed atmosphere. It’s a flexible option for those with limited time or seeking a private, intimate experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups looking for a quick yet comprehensive boat experience.
12. Private Island of Capri by Boat
Rated 4.5 stars, the Private Island of Capri by Boat is a 2-hour tour costing $194.06 per person. It’s a flexible, private experience designed for those wanting to explore the island’s most famous sights at their own pace.
Guests enjoy swimming in the Green Grotto, passing the Faraglioni, and enjoying views of Villa Malaparte. The guide’s local knowledge enhances the experience, and snorkeling gear is included.
Bottom Line: Great for couples or families seeking a short, private cruise with personalized stops.
13. Private boat trip to Capri
Number 13, rated 5 stars, is the Private boat trip to Capri. For $993.54, up to 5 people can enjoy a 6-7 hour fully personalized cruise. It’s ideal for a relaxed, full-day exploration with stops for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing.
This tour includes time to visit the Blue Grotto (extra ticket required), and guests praise the flexibility and attentive skipper. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive, private experience that hits all the main sites.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a full, private day on the water with the ability to customize stops.
14. Capri Boat Tour: Grottoes, Swim & Sip Limoncello in a Small Group
Rated 4.5 stars, this small group tour costs about $69.66 per person for 2 hours of fun. It’s a lively, intimate cruise that visits Grottos, the Faraglioni, and the Punta Carena Lighthouse, with stops for swimming and snorkeling.
Guests love the inclusion of limoncello tasting and the small-group setting, which makes for a relaxed, personal experience. The guide shares interesting facts about the island’s features, making it both fun and educational.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a quick, social experience with plenty of water activity and local flavor.
15. Capri Coast to Coast: Boat Tour with Optional Blue Grotto
Rounding out our list, Capri Coast to Coast offers a flexible 1-2 hour tour for just $27.51. It covers the main sights like Villa Malaparte, Faraglioni, and, if weather permits, inside the Blue Grotto.
The tour is ideal for last-minute planners or those who want to see the highlights without committing too much time. Many reviews mention how the guide’s commentary enhances the experience, even if the grotto visit is weather-dependent.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly option for a quick overview of Capri’s most famous sights from the water.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Capri
When selecting your boat experience, consider your budget, time available, and your specific interests. If privacy and customization matter most, opt for a private tour like the Private Boat Tour of Capri. For a quick overview, the Island Boat Trip with Grottos provides a good introduction at a low cost.
For those seeking an active day of swimming and sightseeing combined with local stories, tours including snorkeling gear or snacks are ideal. Don’t forget to check the weather—some tours, like the Blue Grotto, are weather-dependent and might require flexibility.
Booking early, especially during peak summer months, ensures you secure your spot on these popular excursions. Whether you want a romantic sunset sail or a lively group outing, Capri’s boat tours promise a memorable way to see the island from its most spectacular vantage point—on the water.
