Blue Grotto and Capri by Private Boat Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring Capri’s famed coastlines and hidden spots, this private boat tour promises an adventure packed with scenic views, local delights, and unforgettable moments. We haven’t taken this tour ourselves, but the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a top choice for anyone wanting an immersive experience without the crowds.

What we love about this experience is how it combines natural beauty with personalized comfort—crystal-clear swimming spots, a visit to the legendary Blue Grotto (if open), and a relaxed vibe with tasty snacks and drinks. Plus, the fact that it’s a private tour means you get to choose your pace and focus on what interests you most.

One thing to consider is the cost—at over $1,250 for a group of up to 12, it’s definitely on the pricier side. But for the exclusivity, flexibility, and the curated experience, many find it worth the splurge. This tour suits travelers who want a tailored, laid-back day at sea with plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, and enjoying the stunning scenery, all while having knowledgeable guides by your side.

Key Points

• Private and personalized—your group has the boat to yourselves, with flexible stops and a dedicated skipper and guide.
• Stunning sights—over 17 points of interest, from iconic rock formations to scenic coves and historic landmarks.
• Includes snorkeling and swimming—gear is provided, so you can cool off in crystal waters at several stops.
• Tasty local food and drinks—brunch featuring regional specialties, plus aperitivo with prosecco and limoncello, make the trip more festive.
• Potential Blue Grotto closure—bad weather might mean missing the Blue Grotto, but the tour continues with plenty of other highlights.
• Great reviews for guides and views—many travelers praise the knowledgeable hosts and breathtaking scenery.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

This tour is designed to give you a comprehensive view of Capri’s coast, blending natural wonders with cultural touches and plenty of chances to relax. It starts at Spiaggia Marina Grande, a lively beach with soft sands and clear waters, perfect for a quick dip or just soaking up the scene. From there, you’ll cruise past Spiaggia Bagni di Tiberio, which has been a favorite since Roman times, thanks to its historical allure and beautiful setting.

The highlight for many is the Blue Grotto—the legendary sea cave famous worldwide for its glowing blue waters. However, it’s important to note that the boat doesn’t include the ticket price, which is €18 per person, and that the grotto’s availability depends on weather conditions. Several reviews mention that rough waters may cause it to remain closed, but the guide often finds other ways to fill your time with equally stunning sights.

Next, your boat will stop at various smaller coves, like Cala del Rio and Cala del Tombosiello, which are more secluded and perfect for photos or a quick swim. The Punta Carena Lighthouse is another highlight—especially at sunset, offering a great photo opportunity and a peaceful spot away from the crowds.

Discovering Grotta dei Santi and the Green Grotto showcases the island’s natural diversity, with caves decorated by stalactites, stalagmites, and shimmering emerald waters. The guide’s commentary adds context, making each stop not just a pretty view, but a story worth hearing.

For a taste of Capri’s famous landmarks, you’ll see the Faraglioni rocks, which are the island’s most recognizable symbols. Many reviews rave about how close and impressive these formations are, perfect for photos and awe. The Casa Malaparte, with its striking architecture, offers a dash of culture and film history, while the White and Red Grottos add to the list of natural marvels.

The tour also includes a relaxing break at Punta Ventroso with snacks, prosecco, and limoncello, where you can unwind, take a dip, or just enjoy the sea breeze. For the mythology enthusiasts, passing by Via Marina Piccola and Tiberius’ Leap offers a glimpse into Capri’s legendary past.

Finally, the journey ends near the Gennarino Scugnizzo statue, celebrating Capri’s maritime roots, before returning to your starting point, hopefully with a camera full of stunning photos and your heart full of memories.

The Experience in Practice

On paper, this tour sounds like a well-rounded adventure, and reviews confirm it’s delivered on that promise. The tour duration is approximately three hours, including travel time, making it ideal for those on a tight schedule or wanting a quick but rich experience.

The boat itself appears to be beautiful and well-maintained, with a friendly crew that’s knowledgeable and attentive. As some reviews point out, the guides are great at sharing insights about the island’s history, geology, and legends, which adds a lot of value to the experience.

Snorkeling gear and floaties are provided, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own if you want to explore underwater. The stops for swimming are frequent enough to give everyone a chance to cool off and enjoy the clear waters. The inclusion of water, soda, beer, Prosecco, limoncello, and a brunch with local specialties means you’ll stay refreshed without needing to bring your own supplies.

The food and drinks are a highlight for many; reviews mention Andrea and Valerio’s hospitality, making the trip feel more like a day out with friends than a standard tour. The brunch, paired with the lively atmosphere and scenic backdrop, creates a relaxed, enjoyable vibe.

However, a crucial point is the reliance on weather conditions for the Blue Grotto—if the sea is too rough, that iconic stop might be skipped. Several reviewers noted this, but they still enjoyed the other sights and appreciated the flexibility of the guides. Also, the price might seem steep, but considering all the inclusions, private service, and the quality of the experience, many travelers feel it’s justified.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private boat tour is well-suited for travelers who want a personalized and relaxed way to see Capri’s best spots. It’s perfect if you’re looking for stunning scenery, snorkeling, and local food and drinks in a comfortable setting.

It appeals especially to those who value expert guidance and customized stops, as opposed to larger group excursions. If you enjoy taking photos, swimming in clear waters, and learning about Capri from knowledgeable guides, this trip checks many boxes.

It’s also a good fit for couples or small groups looking for an intimate experience, though it’s equally suited for friends or even families with older children comfortable on a boat. The tour is flexible, laid-back, and designed to let you soak up the beauty without feeling rushed.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically geared toward families, the tour might be suitable for children comfortable on boats and in water. Keep in mind that the experience involves some swimming and snorkeling, so older children or teens will enjoy it most.

What is included in the tour?
Your ticket covers the boat, skipper, hostess, fuel, live guide, safety equipment, restroom, water and drinks, brunch, snacks, and snorkeling gear. You also get beach towels and assistance with pickup and drop-off.

How much does the Blue Grotto ticket cost?
The Blue Grotto entrance fee is 18 euros per person, paid separately from the tour.

What happens if the Blue Grotto is closed?
If weather conditions prevent visiting the Grotto, the tour continues with other beautiful stops. Many reviews mention that guides are flexible and still make the most of the day.

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts about 3 hours, including traveling between stops. External factors like weather or tides may slightly extend the trip.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
The tour provides a brunch and drinks as part of the experience, so additional food isn’t necessary. If you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to check with the provider beforehand.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the boat and experience are exclusive to your group, making it feel more intimate and tailored.

Final Thoughts

For anyone looking to enjoy Capri from a relaxed, personalized perspective, this Blue Grotto and Capri private boat tour offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, cultural sites, and good vibes. The dedicated guides and small group size make it a comfortable way to see many highlights without the chaos of bigger tours.

While the price might give some pause, the inclusions—snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, and private service—add to the value. The flexibility to customize stops and the chance to enjoy stunning vistas, hidden caves, and iconic rock formations make this a memorable choice for travelers who want quality over quantity.

If you’re after a fun, laid-back day on the water with plenty of photo ops, some swimming, and stories from expert guides, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just keep in mind the possibility of the Blue Grotto being closed and plan accordingly.

Ready to discover Capri from the sea? This private boat tour offers a personalized, scenic, and delicious day that most travelers seem to cherish.