3 hour private boat tour on the island of Capri

If you’re dreaming of exploring the breathtaking coast of Capri in a way that feels exclusive and personalized, a private boat tour might just be your answer. While I haven’t personally set sail on this exact trip, I’ve gathered enough insights and traveler reviews to give you a balanced idea of what to expect from this 3-hour adventure. Think of it as a tailored escape where you can enjoy the island’s natural beauty, from charming caves to famous rock formations, all in the comfort of your own private vessel.

What immediately caught my eye about this tour is its focus on intimate, cove-hopping, and snorkeling—perfect if you love to get into the water and see Capri from a different perspective. Plus, the fact that it’s a private experience (no sharing with strangers) is a huge plus for those who value privacy and flexibility. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the cost, which might seem steep for some, but given the exclusivity and included stops, it could be a good value for a special day.

This tour works well for travelers who want a customized, relaxed cruise with plenty of opportunities to swim, take photos, and enjoy the scenery without the crowds. If you’re after a romantic getaway, a family-friendly outing, or simply want to see Capri’s highlights from a smaller boat, this experience could be a perfect fit. Keep in mind, if visiting the Blue Grotto is a priority, you should budget an extra 14 euros per person for that part of the trip.

Key Points

• Exclusive private experience with no boat sharing.
• Multiple stops at Capri’s iconic caves and natural formations.
• Swim and snorkel opportunities in crystal-clear waters.
• Flexible, customizable itinerary tailored to your group.
• Cost reflects exclusivity, making it best suited for those valuing privacy.
• Includes various admission tickets for caves and attractions, making planning easier.

Discovering Capri by Boat: What You Can Expect

The beauty of this tour is how it’s designed to give you a comprehensive, yet personal, view of Capri’s coastline. It’s a good mix of sightseeing, relaxing, and active fun—ideal if you want more than just a typical boat ride. The total duration is around three hours, which means you get a good taste of the island’s highlights without feeling rushed.

Starting Point and Duration

Your journey kicks off at Pasticceria La Vela Di Agnese Schettino in Capri, a convenient meeting point. From there, you’ll hop on a private boat, ensuring a more intimate experience compared to larger group tours. The three-hour window is enough to cover many of the island’s highlights, with time to enjoy each stop without feeling hurried.

The Stops and Why They Matter

Each stop on this tour has been carefully chosen for its visual and experiential appeal. Let’s go through them:

Grotta Rossa (Coral Cave)

Your first stop is the Red Grotto, famous for its vibrant colors and the unique coral formations. Spending about 10 minutes here, you’ll get a chance to see this cave’s striking interior, making for some memorable photos. Since the admission ticket is included, you can enjoy the experience without extra hassle.

White Grotta

Next is the White Grotto, a charming cave with its own distinctive glow. Again, around 10 minutes are allocated here. The quick visits keep the tour lively and allow you to see multiple sights in a short time.

Natural Arch

The Natural Arch is a highlight—the segment of ancient vaults suspended 18 meters above the water. It’s a remarkable sight, formed back in the Paleolithic age. Expect about 10 minutes here, enough to take in the grandeur from sea level and snap some photos.

I Faraglioni

Perhaps the most iconic Capri feature, the Faraglioni rocks are a must-see. Passing through the famous arch, you’ll have around 15 minutes to enjoy the view and capture some souvenirs in photos. This spot is usually a highlight for many travelers.

Villa Malaparte

You’ll also get a glimpse of Villa Malaparte, an architecturally striking mansion designed by Curzio Malaparte. From the water, it looks just as dramatic and captivating as in photos, with about 10 minutes to admire it.

Punta Carena Lighthouse

Sailing towards the Punta Carena Lighthouse, you’ll experience one of the most scenic parts of the west coast. The lighthouse is a popular sunset viewing spot and a symbol of Capri’s rugged beauty. The tour allocates around 15 minutes here.

Blue Grotto (Optional Extra)

The Blue Grotto is the highlight for many visitors, but note that entering the cave costs an additional 14 euros per person. This involves changing boats and a short row into the cave itself. The cave is considered a “museum,” and entrance times can vary depending on waiting times. If you’re keen to see it, budgeting extra time and money is necessary. One reviewer mentioned how fortunate they were to visit it, as it had been closed for days before their trip—a reminder that the Blue Grotto’s opening can be unpredictable.

The Experience Onboard

Travelers rave about the private, intimate setting. As one reviewer put it, “It was a true private boat tour, with no sharing—just our family of four.” The boat is well-equipped with snorkeling gear, soda, bottled water, and beach towels, making it easy to relax and enjoy the water.

The skipper’s expertise also makes a big difference—knowing the best spots, timing for photos, and how to navigate Capri’s tricky waters can turn a good trip into a memorable one. The flexible part of the itinerary means you can spend some time in a favorite cove, soaking in the sun and swimming in the calm, clear waters.

The Value and Cost

At a total of $463.04 per group (up to 6 people), this tour is a bit of a splurge, but it’s a premium experience. The price covers the boat, the skipper, admission tickets for caves, and amenities like snorkeling gear and drinks. If you consider how much a private tour with a dedicated skipper and exclusive stops costs elsewhere, it’s probably good value—especially if you’re traveling with family or friends and want a tailored experience.

Practical Tips

• Book in advance (about a week or more ahead), especially in high season, to secure your preferred date.
• If the Blue Grotto is a must-see, remember you’ll need an extra ticket and to allocate some extra time.
• Pack swimwear, sunscreen, and your camera!
• Be aware that the tour is weather-dependent; poor weather could mean rescheduling or cancellation.
• The tour ends back at the starting point, so plan your day accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private boat tour is ideal if you’re looking for a customized, relaxed, and intimate way to see Capri’s coastline. It’s especially suited for small groups, families, or couples who want to avoid the busy crowds and enjoy the scenic spots at their own pace. If you love snorkeling, photography, and discovering hidden coves, you’ll feel right at home.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or seeking a longer, more comprehensive exploration of the island, you might want to consider alternative options. But for a special day with personalized attention, this trip packs a lot of value into three hours.

FAQs About the Capri Private Boat Tour

Is this a shared boat or private?
It’s a private tour—only your group participates, making it a more exclusive and personalized experience.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, which is enough time to enjoy several key sights without feeling rushed.

Can I visit the Blue Grotto?
Yes, but keep in mind you’ll need to buy an additional ticket of 14 euros per person and change boats to go inside. Entry depends on weather and waiting times.

What’s included in the price?
Your cost covers the boat, skipper, admission tickets for stops like Grotta Rossa, White Grotta, Natural Arch, Faraglioni, Villa Malaparte, and Punta Carena Lighthouse, snorkeling gear, soda, bottled water, and beach towels.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the experience’s nature—calm waters and short stops—can make it suitable for families, especially those comfortable with boat trips.

How do I book?
Usually, most travelers book about 8 days in advance. Check the availability early to secure your preferred date.

Final Thoughts

A private boat tour around Capri offers a wonderful way to see the island from a different angle. It combines scenic beauty, exclusive access to caves and rock formations, and the flexibility to customize your day. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a peaceful, personalized adventure, this experience has a lot to offer.

Keep in mind that the cost is on the higher side, but you’re paying for comfort, privacy, and the chance to see Capri’s highlights without the crowds. It’s ideal for travelers who value quality over quantity and want a memorable, intimate outing.

If you’re after a relaxed, customizable trip with plenty of opportunities to swim, take photos, and enjoy the sea, this private boat tour might be just what you need for your Capri adventure.