Small group boat tour from Sorrento to Capri

If you’re dreaming of spending a day exploring the breathtaking island of Capri, a boat tour is arguably the best way to soak in its beauty. This particular small group tour from Sorrento offers a relaxed, intimate way to see the island’s highlights—think caves, arches, and stunning coastal views—without the hassle of big crowds or complicated arrangements.

What we love about this tour is how it combines a variety of scenic stops with the ease of having transportation, snacks, and drinks included. Plus, with knowledgeable guides and a maximum of 12 travelers, it feels personalized and less rushed. On the flip side, some reviews mention the limited time at certain stops—so if you’re craving a full day of exploring or lots of swimming, this might feel a bit brief.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate comfort, small-group intimacy, and a mix of sightseeing and leisure. It’s especially appealing if you want a hassle-free day with a balanced itinerary that delivers both iconic views and some relaxing moments on the water.

Key Points

• Small group size (max 12) creates a more personal experience.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience.
• Multiple scenic stops like caves, natural arches, and the famous Faraglioni rocks.
• Snacks, drinks, and snorkeling equipment provided to enhance the trip.
• Limited free time in Capri means a well-structured but somewhat brief visit.
• Weather-dependent – the tour only runs in good conditions.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Starting with the essentials, this tour costs around $164.83 per person, which is quite typical for a full-day guided boat trip of this caliber in Italy. The price covers quite a bit—hotel pickup, snacks, soft drinks, beer, prosecco, a round of Limoncello, snorkeling gear, and on-board restroom facilities. Having all of this included makes planning easier, especially if you’re traveling from Sorrento and want to avoid the hassle of buying or carrying supplies.

However, keep in mind the port taxes of €10 per person aren’t included in the base price, so budget that in. Also, trips to the Blue Grotto aren’t included here—due to long waits, you’ll need to visit independently if you’re keen on seeing that famous blue-lit cave.

The Itinerary: A Day on the Water

This tour is designed to give you a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and free time. It kicks off early in the day, with pickup from your hotel in Sorrento—something that really streamlines the start. Once on board, you’ll set sail toward Capri, with your first stop being the White Grotta. Known for its white limestone encrustations and stalactites, it’s a small but striking cave—perfect for quick photos and marveling at nature’s artistry.

Next up is the Grotta Verde. Its name hints at the shimmering green light you’ll see reflected on the rocks—an effect caused by how the blue water plays with the sunlight. It’s a colorful spectacle that’s worth a few minutes of your time.

The tour then takes you to Marina Piccola, a small port on Capri’s southern side. Here, you get around four hours of free time. You might explore the lively Piazza Umberto I, aka “la Piazzetta”, which is compact but packed with charm. Many travelers choose to wander up to Anacapri, a quieter spot with artisan shops and stunning views. This part of the tour offers a chance to soak up the island’s atmosphere, grab a gelato, or simply admire the scenery.

The next stops are the Natural Arch—a Paleolithic rock formation that’s a natural marvel—and Mount Tiberius, once home to Rome’s Emperor Tiberius. You’ll learn some stories about the emperor’s mysterious personality, whether he was cruel or contemplative. The views from Mount Tiberius are spectacular, looking out over the sea and coastlines.

The last notable stop is the Punta Campanella, a rugged promontory with limestone cliffs dropping sharply into the sea. Historically important and scenic, this area is part of the protected marine reserve, offering dramatic cliffs and clear waters.

Finally, the tour concludes at the small port of Madonna della Lobra in Massa Lubrense. Here, you can enjoy the relaxed vibe of the Mediterranean village, with its traditional buildings and maritime charm.

What Travelers Say

Based on reviews, people generally love the experience but have some comments about the brief stops. One traveler said, “Seeing Capri was amazing! The staff were great. I just wish we had more time on the boat.” This highlights how beautiful the scenery is, but also that the tight schedule might limit some experiences.

Another review points out the friendliness and knowledge of the guides: “Friendly and nice guides who are informative.” Good guides can really make or break a boat tour, and it sounds like this crew is well-rated in that regard.

However, some mention issues like warm drinks and the absence of onboard toilet paper—reminders that comfort isn’t always perfect at sea. Still, these are minor inconveniences compared to the overall stunning views and smooth organization.

Value for Money

At around $165, this tour offers quite a lot—hotel pickup, snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, and a well-planned itinerary. Considering the scenic stops and the small group size, it feels like a good deal, especially since you don’t have to worry about organizing transportation or meals.

That said, the limited free time and the potential for weather cancellations are factors to keep in mind. It’s best suited for those who enjoy structured sightseeing with some leisure, rather than a full, unhurried exploration.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip works well for travelers looking for a relaxed, guided day out on the sea with plenty of opportunities for photos and light exploration. It’s ideal if you prefer a smaller, more intimate experience rather than a crowded boat. If you’re traveling with family or friends and want a stress-free way to see Capri, this tour checks many boxes.

If you’re a swimmer or want lots of beach time, you might find the stops too brief or wish for more swim opportunities. But for those who simply want to marvel at Capri’s natural beauty and enjoy a smooth, well-organized day, it’s a solid choice.

This small group boat tour from Sorrento to Capri offers a well-rounded taste of the island’s most iconic sights, with the added benefit of comfort and personalized attention. The combination of stunning caves, historical spots, and free time in Capri makes it ideal for travelers who want a manageable yet memorable day at sea.

While the schedule can be a bit tight, the included amenities and knowledgeable guides help make it worthwhile. It’s particularly suited to those who prefer a structured experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. If you’re okay with the possibility of limited swimming or short stops, this tour provides a beautiful, hassle-free way to enjoy Capri’s magic.

Overall, for the price and the experience offered, it’s a trip that delivers on stunning views, good organization, and friendly service—good reasons to consider booking if Capri is on your Italy itinerary.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel in Sorrento, which makes starting the day much easier. Keep in mind, pickup times vary from 7:30 to 10:30 am depending on availability.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 to 8 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and free time in Capri.

What stops are part of the itinerary?
You’ll visit the White Grotta, Grotta Verde, Marina Piccola, Natural Arch, Mount Tiberius, and Punta Campanella. There’s also a stop at the small port of Madonna della Lobra.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes, snacks, soft drinks, beers, prosecco, and a round of Limoncello are provided on board. Snorkeling equipment is also available for use.

Can I visit the Blue Grotto?
No, the Blue Grotto isn’t included due to long waiting times. If you want to see it, you’ll need to visit independently during your free time.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and relaxed.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour only runs in favorable weather. If canceled due to bad conditions, you’ll be offered a full refund or alternative date.

Whether you’re after scenic beauty, a hassle-free day, or just a taste of Capri’s allure, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to experience it all.