Small-group Positano Capri

If you’re dreaming of a day spent sailing along the Amalfi Coast to explore the stunning island of Capri, this small-group tour might catch your eye. It promises a blend of natural beauty, cultural highlights, and laid-back leisure, making it an appealing option for travelers wanting to experience Capri without the hassle of large crowds or overly commercialized trips.

From what we’ve seen in reviews and the tour outline, it’s a well-rounded experience with some highlights that really shine—like visiting the Green Grotto and cruising past the famous Faraglioni rocks. However, it’s worth noting that some travelers have expressed mixed feelings about certain aspects, especially around the Blue Grotto entry and the included stops. This tour seems best suited for those who value an intimate boat ride, natural scenery, and a flexible schedule over a tightly scripted itinerary.

What we love about this tour: First, the small-group size of just 12 people means you’re unlikely to feel lost in a crowd, which really enhances the relaxed vibe. Second, the opportunity to explore Capri at your own pace—whether that’s lounging on deck, swimming, or wandering the town—is a definite plus.

A potential consideration: The Blue Grotto, one of Capri’s most famous sights, isn’t guaranteed to be visited, and the long wait or extra cost can be frustrating. Plus, some reviews mention the restaurant stop being an inconvenience or overpriced. So, if visiting the Blue Grotto is a must for you, this might not be the best fit, unless you’re okay with the possibility it might be skipped.

Who it’s best for: This tour is ideal for travelers who want a mix of natural scenery, cultural highlights, and free time without the crowds of larger group tours. It suits those who appreciate a family-run vibe and are comfortable with some variability in the itinerary.

Key Points

• Intimate group size: With a maximum of 12 travelers, you’ll get a more personal experience.
• Flexible exploration: Plenty of time to swim, wander Capri, or relax on deck.
• Natural wonders: Multiple caves, Faraglioni rocks, and scenic coastlines are highlights.
• Potential cave entry issues: The Blue Grotto isn’t guaranteed, and waiting times can be long.
• Family-run feel: The guides and crew are praised for their friendliness and local knowledge.
• Value for the price: For around $200, you get a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and scenic cruising, which is quite reasonable considering the personalized experience.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Meeting at Positano’s Spiaggia Grande

The tour kicks off early, around 9 am, from Positano’s main beach. Meeting there in front of the Saracen Hotels’ lair means you’re centrally located and easy to find. The check-in process is straightforward, and since the boat is limited to a small group, you won’t be crowded in.

White Grotto and First Photo Ops

On your way to Capri, you’ll pass by the White Grotto, which is a quick stop offering great photo opportunities. The guide will probably point out interesting facts about the coast, adding some context to the scenery. For those into photography, this is a nice warm-up shot of the coast’s white caverns.

The Blue Grotto: A Highlight with Caveats

The Blue Grotto is the star attraction for many visitors, and it certainly looks impressive in photos. Tickets cost an extra €18, payable at the entrance, so be prepared for that additional expense. Keep in mind, though, that the wait can be lengthy—sometimes over an hour during peak season—and there’s no guarantee you’ll get in. The inside visit lasts only about 5 minutes, so some travelers question whether it’s worth the wait.

From reviews, we see many are happy to skip it if the line is too long, especially since the boat operator might take you to other caves or scenic spots instead.

Green Grotto and Swimming

The Green Grotto is a must-see for its vibrant emerald waters—truly a natural showstopper. It’s a perfect spot for a quick swim or snorkeling if you want a break from sightseeing. The guide will probably tell you about the grotto’s unique lighting, created by sunlight filtering through underwater openings. This stop lasts about 15 minutes, enough to snap some photos and get in a refreshing dip.

Natural Arch and the Iconic Faraglioni Rocks

Next up is the Natural Arch, a striking rock formation carved by the sea. It’s a quick stop but a favorite among photographers. Following that, you’ll cruise past the Faraglioni, the towering rock formations that are practically synonymous with Capri. Each of the three has its own name—Stella, Arco dell’Amora, and Scopolo—and they’re an incredible sight whether you’re on the water or exploring on land.

Free Time in Capri

After passing these natural wonders, you’ll arrive at Capri itself. Here, you get around 3 hours to explore. This is your chance to relax on deck, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or disembark and wander through Capri’s chic streets. Many reviews mention visiting the Piazzetta, taking the chairlift to Monte Solaro, or shopping in Anacapri.

One reviewer mentions the group enjoying lunch at a local restaurant, which was a highlight for them. Others enjoy simply soaking up the atmosphere, enjoying drinks from the boat, and snapping photos of the coast.

The Charm of Nerano and Return to Positano

The tour then stops at Nerano or Marina del Cantone—cozy fishing villages perfect for a quick swim or picture-taking session. The small port, surrounded by cliffs, makes for a peaceful contrast to the busy Capri town.

Back in Positano, the tour ends with a taste of Limoncello, often considered a local specialty, along with some light snacks and drinks. It’s a friendly, laid-back way to wrap up the day, with plenty of photo opportunities of the coastlines and villages along the way.

What the Reviews Say

Reviews are mostly positive, with many travelers praising the guides’ friendliness, local knowledge, and the small-group intimacy. One reviewer described their skipper and hostess as laid-back and fun, making the experience truly memorable. Several mention how much they appreciated the relaxed pace, which allowed them to enjoy the scenery and swim opportunities without feeling rushed.

Some downsides surface in reviews about the Blue Grotto, with comments about long waits or being taken to a restaurant instead of visiting the grotto. Others felt the tour was not quite as comprehensive as they expected, noting that certain sights like the Blue Grotto weren’t always included.

Highlights from reviews include:
– The family-run nature of the business, making it feel personal and genuine.
– The scenic beauty of the caves, Faraglioni, and coastline.
– The opportunity for swimming and taking photos at less crowded spots.
– Friendly guides sharing local stories and tips.

The Price – Is It Worth It?

At around $201.59 per person, this tour offers a good value considering the duration, small-group setting, and variety of stops. You’re paying for a day of scenic cruising, natural wonders, and free time to explore Capri. The inclusion of drinks, towels, and a meal in Capri adds to the value, though some mention that the restaurant stop might be inconvenient or overpriced.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxed day on the water with a small-group vibe, this trip will suit you well. It’s perfect if you want to see Capri’s most iconic features—Faraglioni, the Green Grotto, and the coast—without the crowds or hustle of large tour buses.

Those who enjoy swimming and taking candid photos of natural rock formations will find this tour particularly rewarding. Keep in mind that the Blue Grotto isn’t guaranteed, so if that’s a must-see, you might want to consider how flexible you’re willing to be.

If you prefer a highly structured or all-included experience with guaranteed cave visits, this may not be your best choice. However, if you value authenticity, a family-run touch, and free time to explore, it could be a highlight of your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the small group size and relaxed pace can be comfortable for kids. Just keep in mind the boat ride and swimming stops.

How long do we spend at each stop?
Stops vary from about 15 to 30 minutes, with the longest being the time in Capri itself (~3 hours). The Blue Grotto visit may be shorter or skipped based on the line.

Does the tour include lunch?
You can choose to eat at a restaurant in Capri, which some reviews mention as a good experience, but it’s not included in the price. The tour provides some light snacks and drinks on board.

What’s the best way to see Capri?
This tour offers a great balance of sightseeing from the water with time to explore on land. It’s ideal if you want a relaxed experience that combines natural sights and free time.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, the Blue Grotto has an entrance fee of €18 per person, payable on site. Other than that, the tour price covers most activities, but meals or additional excursions are extra.

What about the group size?
It’s capped at 12 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and less crowded.

Can I swim during the tour?
Absolutely—swimming is encouraged at several stops, like the Green Grotto, and some guests mention bringing their own towels or pool noodles.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and camera. The boat may have limited shade, so hats and sun protection are recommended.

How do I cancel if my plans change?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund. Less than 24 hours’ notice means no refund.

Final Thoughts

This small-group sailing trip from Positano to Capri offers a relaxed, authentic way to enjoy some of the most iconic sights in the Mediterranean. It’s perfect if you’re looking to avoid the hustle and bustle of large tours and prefer a more personalized, intimate experience. The natural caves, scenic coastline, and time to explore Capri on your own make it a memorable day out.

However, it’s important to be flexible—especially regarding the Blue Grotto, which can be a bit unpredictable. If waiting in lines or being taken to a restaurant instead of the grotto might bother you, consider your options carefully. Still, many reviewers rave about the friendly guides, beautiful scenery, and overall laid-back vibe.

This tour is a great choice for travelers who cherish small groups, natural beauty, and a balanced mix of activity and free time. It’s a good way to soak up the sights of Capri without feeling rushed or overwhelmed, making it a genuine highlight for those who prefer a more relaxed pace.

Note: Always check the latest details and reviews before booking, as things can change depending on season and weather conditions.