From Positano: Shared Capri and Blue Grotto Boat Tour

Exploring the Positano to Capri and Blue Grotto Boat Tour: A Honest Look

If you’re considering a trip from Positano to the iconic island of Capri, this shared boat tour promises a full day of scenic beauty, fascinating caves, and leisurely exploration. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, based on detailed info and reviews, it sounds like a solid option for travelers who want a taste of Capri without the hefty price tag or the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

What really stands out about this tour is how it combines the marvels of the Blue Grotto and Green Grotto with ample free time to wander through Capri’s charming streets. Plus, the small group setting keeps things intimate and manageable, especially if you’re not a fan of large, crowded tours. That said, there are a few things to keep in mind—like the extra cost for the Blue Grotto ticket—that might add up if you’re sticking to a budget. Overall, if you’re after a flexible, well-organized day with a knowledgeable guide, this tour could fit the bill.

This experience is especially suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, light adventure, and local exploration, all wrapped into one day. It’s not a luxury cruise, but it’s a chance to see some of Capri’s most famous sights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Key Points

• Small group size offers a more personalized, less crowded experience
• Includes hotel pickup, making logistics easier
• Variety of stops, from caves to beaches, to give a well-rounded visit
• Flexible free time on Capri for shopping, dining, or wandering
• Additional costs like the Blue Grotto ticket and landing tax should be budgeted
• Excellent for those wanting a balance between guided touring and independent exploration

The Itinerary in Detail

This tour packs a lot into approximately 8 hours, and it hits some of the most enchanting spots around Capri and the surrounding coast. Here’s what you can expect at each stage:

Start from Positano
The adventure begins with a convenient pickup near the Bar Internazionale in Positano. This is a real plus—no need to worry about navigating to a meeting point or dealing with public transport early in your day. The ride to Sorrento or the starting point along the Amalfi coast offers stunning views of the coastline, setting a beautiful tone for the day ahead.

Amalfi Coast Viewpoint
Your first stop is just a quick 30-minute bus ride offering postcard-worthy vistas of the Amalfi coast. It’s a perfect way to stretch your legs and snap some photos before heading out on the water.

Blue Grotto
Next, you’ll visit the Blue Grotto, one of Capri’s most famous attractions. Keep in mind, the ticket isn’t included in the price, so you should budget about €18 for entry. The experience of gliding into this glowing sea cave is something you won’t forget. Be prepared for the possibility of waiting a bit, especially if the weather isn’t perfect, since access can sometimes be limited.

Marina della Lobra & Green Grotto
Afterward, you’ll check in at the port and board a small boat—up to 12 people—heading towards Capri. This smaller boat makes the trip more intimate than large cruise ships, which many travelers appreciate. The Green Grotto in Anacapri is a lovely spot to see natural colors dancing across the water, with only about 10 minutes here, so it’s a quick photo op rather than an in-depth visit.

Swimming at Marina Piccola
One of the highlights is a 30-minute swim stop at Marina Piccola. With clear waters and a relaxed vibe, this is a chance to cool off, snorkel, or just enjoy the view. Bring your gear if you want to explore underwater, as the boat provides masks and snorkels.

Free Time in Capri
The core of this tour is a four-hour period free to explore Capri and Anacapri at your own pace. You could stroll through the elegant shops, enjoy a gelato, or visit local sites like the Piazzetta or the charming streets that wind up the hillside. This flexibility is a huge plus for travelers who like to set their own agenda and soak in the local atmosphere.

Faraglioni Rocks & White Grotto
On the way back, you’ll get quick glimpses of the iconic Faraglioni rocks and the White Grotto—short visits, but enough to capture some stunning photos. These are quick stops, typically around 10 minutes each, so don’t expect a full tour of these formations, but they’re definitely postcard-worthy.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s inclusive package covers the essentials: diving masks, water, prosecco, beer, soft drinks, and chips. It’s a nice touch, making sure you stay refreshed as you go along. The pickup at Marina della Lobra is also a convenience that saves you from navigating public transport or arranging separate transfers.

However, keep in mind that the Capri landing tax and destination fee (€10 per person) and Blue Grotto ticket (€18) are extra costs. These add to your overall expense but are fairly standard for such excursions.

How Good Is the Value?

At around $178.40 per person, this tour offers a lot—stunning scenery, cultural sights, and free time in Capri—without the higher price of private charters. The small group size and guided elements add comfort and context, making it a good deal if you value personalized attention. Plus, the reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides can elevate the experience, with one traveler praising their guide’s history insight.

Real Traveler Perspectives

From the review I came across, one traveler described their experience as “nothing less than amazing,” emphasizing the guide’s knowledge and the overall smooth organization. The driver’s pickup and drop-off were appreciated, especially for those unfamiliar with local transportation. The positive tone suggests that most participants found the trip well worth it, particularly the opportunity to explore Capri at leisure.

Practical Considerations

You’ll want to plan for the extra costs—like the Blue Grotto ticket—and be aware that the tour depends on good weather. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, you might be offered an alternative date or a full refund, which adds some peace of mind.

While this isn’t a luxury or private tour, it hits a nice balance of guided structure and free exploration, perfect for travelers looking to maximize their time and see the highlights without feeling rushed.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience works well for travelers who enjoy small group tours and prefer having a knowledgeable guide to provide context and background on Capri’s sights. It’s suitable for those who want to relax and enjoy the scenery, with enough free time to explore on their own. If you’re comfortable with basic costs for extras like the Blue Grotto, and appreciate flexibility, this could be a great way to see Capri without breaking the bank.

It’s also ideal for travelers who value convenience, since pickup and drop-off are included, reducing the hassle of transportation logistics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup at Marina della Lobra, making it easier to start your day without navigating public transit.

How long is the free time on Capri?
You get about 4 hours to explore Capri and Anacapri at your leisure, which is enough to see key spots or just relax and soak in the atmosphere.

Are the Blue Grotto tickets included?
No, the Blue Grotto has an additional fee of around €18, which you should budget for separately.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and maybe some cash for extras or souvenirs. The tour provides masks, snorkels, and drinks.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, this is a boat tour with some short stops—consider your children’s comfort with boats and walking around.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some peace of mind if your plans shift.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How large are the groups?
The boat can hold up to 12 people, making it intimate and less crowded than larger tours.

Final Thoughts

If you’re headed to Positano and want to experience Capri without dealing with the hassle of organizing every detail, this shared boat tour could be a good fit. The mix of guided commentary, scenic stops, and free time gives you a flexible yet informative day. The small group setting makes it more personal, and the overall price provides good value considering what’s included.

While it’s not a luxury cruise, it’s a solid, well-organized way to tick Capri off your list with minimal stress. Just keep in mind the extra costs for the Grotto visit, plan ahead for weather, and enjoy the stunning sights along the way.