Boat Tour from Sorrento to Capri with a visit to the Blue Grotto

If you’re dreaming of a day exploring the stunning coastline of Italy, a boat trip from Sorrento to Capri might just be the experience you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve looked into it thoroughly and heard from travelers who have—and the feedback is glowing. This private boat adventure promises a mix of breathtaking scenery, unique caves, and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters, all with a touch of luxury and comfort.

What really caught my eye are the personalized nature of the trip—you’re on a private boat with your own group, not a crowded tour bus. Plus, the inclusion of prosecco, fresh snacks, and snorkeling gear makes it a fun, relaxing day. However, it’s worth noting that the Blue Grotto entrance fee isn’t included and costs about €14, which can add to the overall expense. This tour is geared toward those who want a well-rounded, intimate experience of Capri’s coast, especially if you’re someone who appreciates good views, good company, and a bit of adventure.

That said, this tour might not be perfect if you’re on a super tight budget or if you prefer more structured, group tours with fixed schedules. But if you value privacy, comfort, and flexibility, it’s a solid choice. Now, let’s dig into the details and see what you can expect from this 7-hour adventure.

Key Points

• Personalized Private Experience: Only your group participates, making for a more relaxed and intimate day.
• Stunning Scenery & Unique Caves: Admire iconic sights like the Faraglioni rocks, Red and White Grotta, and the Blue Grotto.
• Swimming & Snorkeling: Opportunities to cool off in the blue waters, with gear provided.
• Delicious Snacks & Drinks: Fresh fruit, cheeses, prosecco, beer, and soft drinks onboard.
• Flexible Time on Capri: Several hours to enjoy the island’s highlights, lunch, and exploring.
• Additional Costs: Blue Grotto entrance fee and Capri landing fee are extra, so budget accordingly.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point & First Stop: Bagni Regina Giovanna

Your day begins with setting sail from Sorrento, heading toward the coast where you’ll first see Bagni Regina Giovanna. This natural bay is home to the ruins of an old Roman villa—an intriguing sight that adds a touch of history to your scenic cruise. It’s a quick stop—just about 10 minutes—but enough to snap some photos of the ancient remains and the beautiful coastline.

Massa Lubrense & Cascatella Waterfall

Next, the boat will show you the Cascatella waterfall, where you’re invited to take a quick cold shower under the natural cascade. It’s a quirky addition and definitely for those who enjoy a splash of adventure or just want to cool off. The stop lasts around 20 minutes, so don’t expect a long break, but it’s a fun, refreshing pause.

Exploring the Caves: Grotta Rossa & White Grotta

Two of the most visually striking stops are the Red Grotto and White Grotto. The Red Grotto is famous for the red coral inside—an unusual find that makes it stand out among Capri’s caves. The White Grotto is notable for its white coloration and interesting erosion-shaped sculptures, such as a Madonna figure carved by nature. Each stop lasts about 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to marvel at these natural works.

Swimming & Free Time in Capri

When the boat reaches Capri, you’ll have roughly 30 minutes to swim in the captivating blue waters. It’s a perfect chance to relax, dip in the sea, and enjoy the scenery. The water here is typically clear and inviting, a highlight for many travelers.

The Iconic Faraglioni Rocks

No trip to Capri is complete without seeing the Faraglioni. During the cruise, you’ll have a good chance to admire these towering stacks, which are the island’s signature. They make for fantastic photos—trust me, you’ll want to have your camera ready.

The Blue Grotto

The tour’s most famous highlight, the Blue Grotto, is a must-see. Entrance costs about €14 per person and is technically optional, as the ticket isn’t included in the base price. You can decide whether to go in depending on weather conditions and your interest. The boat will stop for around 30 minutes here, giving you time to enter and explore if you wish. The experience of seeing the glowing blue waters inside the cave is often described as magical—well worth the small extra expense.

Free Time at Piazzetta di Capri

After the caves and sightseeing, you’ll have 2 to 4 hours to explore the island at your own pace. You can stroll along Via Krupp, visit Giardini di Augusto, or just enjoy a leisurely lunch in the Piazzetta. This flexibility is a real plus, allowing you to tailor your visit—whether you want to relax in a café or shop for souvenirs.

What’s Included & What to Expect

This tour covers a lot—fuel, towels, snorkeling equipment, drinks, and a light brunch with fresh fruit, cheese, ham, and bruschetta. The presence of a professional skipper ensures smooth sailing, and the onboard restroom is a comfortable touch for a full-day trip.

The drinks are mostly soft beverages and prosecco, so it’s a nice way to toast to a fantastic day, but remember alcohol is only for those 18 and over. The snorkeling gear is a bonus for those wanting to dip below the surface and see marine life.

Price & Value

At $1,317 for a group of up to six, this is definitely a premium experience. It’s not a budget trip, but considering the private boat, personalized service, snacks, drinks, and the flexibility of the itinerary, many would say it’s a fair price for a special day on the water. The fact that it’s private means your group isn’t sharing the boat with strangers, which can make a big difference in comfort and overall enjoyment.

Potential Drawbacks & Considerations

While many aspects of this tour are appealing, there are a few points worth noting. The Blue Grotto ticket isn’t included, costing around €14, which, depending on the group size, can add a noticeable sum. Also, the Capri landing fee at €100 per booking is extra, so be prepared for those additional costs.

Timing is another factor. The tour is about 7 hours—so it’s a full day, which might be tiring if you’re not used to long excursions. Also, weather conditions can influence the experience, especially for the Blue Grotto, which depends on good weather to visit smoothly.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates personalized experiences, values stunning scenery, and enjoys swimming in beautiful waters, this trip checks many boxes. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or families who want a relaxing day without the chaos of crowded tours. Food lovers will appreciate the onboard snacks and drinks, making the day even more enjoyable.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who want to see Capri’s highlights but prefer a more flexible, intimate way to explore the island and its caves. If you’re okay with the extra costs for entrance fees and landing fees, it’s a good value for a memorable day.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour from Sorrento to Capri offers a smooth blend of scenic beauty, cultural sights, and leisurely swimming. The fact that it is private, with a knowledgeable skipper, makes it stand out from larger group excursions. While the costs can add up with extra fees, the overall experience appears to justify the price for those seeking a special, personalized day on the water.

If you want the freedom to enjoy Capri at your own pace, see iconic sights like the Faraglioni and Blue Grotto, and savor fresh snacks in comfort, this trip could be just right. It’s an experience that balances beauty, relaxation, and a touch of adventure—perfect for making your visit to this stunning part of Italy truly unforgettable.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
While the tour doesn’t specifically mention children, the private setup and swimming opportunities make it generally family-friendly, especially if your kids are comfortable on boats and enjoy water activities.

How long do we get to spend on Capri?
You’ll have between 2 to 4 hours on the island, enough time to explore, have lunch, or just relax and soak in the views.

What’s the cost of the Blue Grotto entrance?
The Blue Grotto ticket costs about €14 per person, and it’s not included in the main price.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes, the tour provides soft drinks, prosecco, beer, fresh fruit, cheese and ham, and bruschetta as part of the onboard brunch.

How many people can fit on this private boat?
Up to six people per group, making it ideal for small groups or families wanting an exclusive experience.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour requires good weather; if it’s canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially during high season, as this is a private experience with limited availability. Confirmations are received immediately upon booking.

This Sorrento to Capri boat tour with visits to the caves and island highlights offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day. It’s perfect for those who value comfort, flexibility, and scenic beauty—just be prepared for some extra costs along the way.