Capri Secret Corners Semi-Private Boat Tour with Local Captain

If you’re dreaming of exploring Capri’s stunning coastline and secret spots without the crowds, this semi-private boat tour managed by Sail & Fun might just be what you’re looking for. From what we’ve seen, it offers a pretty comprehensive look at the island’s most iconic and lesser-known sights, all in a flexible, intimate atmosphere. It’s a chance to see the famed Faraglioni rocks, explore mystical grottos, and enjoy some quality time on the water—an experience that often gets rave reviews.

What really stands out about this tour are the knowledgeable guides and the spectacular views those guides help you uncover. You’ll also appreciate the perfect balance of relaxing stretches and active swimming stops, plus the fact that you get to enjoy drinks, music, and a good dose of local charm on board. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour doesn’t include a visit to the Blue Grotto, which might be a bummer if that’s a must-see for you. Also, since it’s a semi-private experience, the group size is kept small (max 12 people), which favors a cozy vibe but may not suit those looking for a large, bustling excursion.

This experience fits best for travelers who want to see Capri with the help of local expertise, enjoy a relaxed day on the water, and take plenty of photos in some of the island’s most breathtaking spots. It might not be ideal if you’re after a very structured, long-standing tour with a set itinerary, or if you’re hoping for a visit to the Blue Grotto—this is more about the full island experience by boat.

Key Points

• Small group experience means more personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Expert local captain offers storytelling, anecdotes, and navigation of hidden corners.
• Several swim and snorkeling stops provide ample chances to cool off and enjoy the sea.
• Includes drinks, snacks, and an onboard aperitif, making it a leisurely, enjoyable trip.
• Beautiful scenery and photo opportunities at places like the Faraglioni and Villa Malaparte.
• It’s a flexible tour that can last from 3 to 8 hours, depending on your preferences.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Marina Grande—A Classic Introduction

Your day begins at the Spiaggia Marina Grande, a renowned beach spot with soft sand and crystal waters. It’s an ideal place to get your bearings, enjoy the scenery, and appreciate the Mediterranean’s charm. The tour spends about five minutes here, giving you just enough time for a quick look and some photos before moving on. The included admission ticket makes this stop straightforward and hassle-free.

Roman History at the Bagni di Tiberio

Next, you’ll cruise over to Spiaggia Bagni di Tiberio, a small but historically significant coastline. This spot was once favored by Roman emperors Augustus and Tiberius, who used to bathe there. Today, the ancient seaside villa still stands, adding a layer of history to your experience. Your time here is brief—about five minutes—but it’s enough to snap some shots and soak in the ambiance of a place steeped in Roman lore. It’s free to visit, which adds to its appeal.

The Blue Grotto: A Must-See? Not Quite

One of the most famous sights in Capri, the Blue Grotto, often features in travel lists. However, it’s important to note that this tour does not include a visit to the grotto. That said, you’ll see it from the boat, and the sight of the low, narrow entrance can be quite striking. The water’s glow, caused by sunlight filtering through, is a visual treat even from a distance. If visiting the Blue Grotto is a priority, you might need to consider a dedicated trip, but for many, catching a glimpse from the boat still feels special.

Exploring Cala del Rio and the Heart Cave

The tour takes you to Cala del Rio, a stunning cove famous for its natural beauty and the nearby Villa of fashion designers Dolce and Gabbana. Here, you’ll also get to see the Grotta Iannarella, or “Heart Cave,” where a carved outline of a heart decorates the rock—an Instagram-worthy moment.

Afterward, you’ll visit Cala del Tombosiello, known for its calm, inviting waters—perfect for a quick swim or snorkel if you wish. Both stops last around 10 minutes, giving enough time to float around, take photos, or just enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Closer to the Icon: Punta Carena Lighthouse and the Saints Grotto

A highlight for many is Punta Carena Lighthouse, Italy’s second-largest lighthouse, dating back to 1867. It’s a peaceful spot to relax, especially at sunset, when the golden light plays on the waters. The tour dedicates about five minutes here, enough to snap some photos and enjoy the tranquility.

Near the lighthouse, the Grotta dei Santi offers a peek into Capri’s mystical side with stalactites shaped like praying saints. The environment is magical, and you’ll love the vivid colors of the water. It lasts about ten minutes, but the memories linger.

Popping into the Green Grotto and Punta Ventroso

The Grotta Verde, once called the Cave of the Turks, enchants with its emerald shimmer and stalactites. The interior’s glow is mesmerizing—a perfect spot for a quick swim or photos. You’ll spend approximately ten minutes here, and many reviews highlight how unique and beautiful this cave is.

At Punta Ventroso, you’ll stop for a laid-back break—enjoy refreshments, music, and perhaps a dip. It’s roughly 45 minutes of relaxing time, which many travelers find perfect for unwinding and taking in the scenery.

Mythical Marina Piccola and the Famous Faraglioni

Crossing into Marina Piccola, you’ll see the legendary Mermaid’s Rock, associated with Ulysses from Homer’s tales. Then, the pièce de résistance—the Faraglioni rocks—where you’ll spend about 20 minutes taking pictures, selfies, and marveling at these world-famous formations.

Architectural and Natural Wonders

Next up is Villa Malaparte, a striking modernist villa perched on the cliffs. It’s an iconic photo spot, and the guide’s insights about its history and film appearances add a layer of cultural appreciation.

You’ll also explore the White Grotto and Red Grotto, each offering their own flavor: the white limestone walls and sunlight inside the White Grotto, and the red rocks contrasting with blue waters in the Red Grotto—both quick stops but visually impactful.

Final Highlights: Tiberius’ Leap and the Iconic Statue

The tour’s final stops include Tiberius’ Leap, a dramatic cliff with a dark legend about prisoners thrown to their deaths, and the statue of the Scugnizzo, a symbol of Capri’s maritime spirit. These moments offer a mix of awe and cultural reflection.

What Travelers Are Saying

Multiple reviewers praise the guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills. Nick_T mentions how Andrea, the captain, made the experience memorable despite less-than-ideal weather, calling him “very knowledgeable and a great host.” Other guests highlight how jaw-dropping the views are, with one saying it was the “best experience of our entire trip,” and many mention how good the drinks and music made the day feel more festive.

A common theme is the small group size, which many find enhances the experience—more intimacy, less waiting, and better opportunities for photos. However, a few reviews note that the itinerary might feel a bit rushed for some, especially if you want more time at each stop.

The reviews also reflect that the experience is quite flexible in duration, with the tour lasting anywhere from three to eight hours, depending on your preferences. This flexibility is appreciated, but it’s worth planning accordingly to ensure you get what you want out of the day.

Some Caveats

One negative review refers to a complicated booking experience and frustration over a delayed start, but such cases seem to be exceptions rather than the rule. Overall, most say the experience is worth the price, especially considering the stunning scenery, expert guidance, and included drinks and snacks.

Practical Details

This is a shared tour with a maximum of 12 travelers, which keeps things intimate without feeling crowded. The cost is around $168.36 per person, which includes the skipper, hostess, fuel, live guide, restroom, drinks, snacks, and snorkeling gear—quite a lot of value when you consider the number of sights covered and the amenities onboard.

The tour operates with a flexible duration of approximately 3 to 8 hours, depending on your chosen options. The group size and small-group feel are a big plus for those who prefer a more personal experience.

You also get assisted pick-up and drop-off at private docks or piers, saving you some stress and time. Note that the Blue Grotto visit is not included, so if that’s a priority, you may need an additional trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat tour is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, personalized experience of Capri’s coastline, especially those who want stories and insights from local guides. It’s perfect if you’re keen on swimming, snorkeling, and taking photos at iconic sites like the Faraglioni and Villa Malaparte.

It’s also well-suited for small groups or couples who value intimacy and flexibility. If you’re a fan of good drinks, music, and a laid-back vibe, you’ll likely enjoy this trip. However, if your main goal is to see the Blue Grotto specifically, you might need to plan a separate visit.

FAQs

• Is the Blue Grotto included in this tour? No, the Blue Grotto visit is not part of this tour. You’ll see the outside and can appreciate its beauty from the boat.

• How long does the tour last? The duration varies from about 3 to 8 hours, depending on your preferences and specific arrangements.

• What’s included in the price? You get the boat, skipper, hostess, fuel, live guide, restroom, drinks (water, soda, beer, prosecco, limoncello, spritz), snacks, and snorkeling equipment.

• What’s the group size? The tour is semi-private, with a maximum of 12 travelers, making it more intimate than large group tours.

• Can I swim and snorkel during the tour? Yes, stops for swimming and snorkeling are built into the itinerary, with floating and snorkeling gear provided.

• Is the tour family-friendly? The data doesn’t specify, but given the focus on swimming, sightseeing, and a relaxed atmosphere, it could be suitable for older children and teenagers.

• What should I bring? Bring your swimwear, towels, sunscreen, camera, and perhaps a hat for sun protection.

• How far in advance should I book? Most travelers book about 46 days ahead, so it’s best to plan early to secure your preferred date.

• What happens if the weather is bad? The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand. If canceled due to weather, you’ll get a full refund or the option to reschedule.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a personalized, scenic, and fun day on the water around Capri, this tour offers a solid combination of stunning sights, expert guidance, and good company. The small group size helps keep things cozy, and the variety of stops means you’ll get a full taste of the island’s natural beauty and legends.

While it doesn’t include a Blue Grotto visit, the focus on other gorgeous grottos, the Faraglioni, and the coastline makes it a worthwhile choice for most travelers who want to see as much as possible in a relaxed setting. The reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude, which many say made the experience even better.

This experience is best suited for curious travelers who love the sea, enjoy sharing moments with a small group, and are looking for a day filled with breathtaking views and local stories. It’s a genuinely enjoyable way to see Capri beyond the usual crowded tours, making it a memorable part of your trip.

Remember: Book early, stay flexible, and come prepared for a day of beauty, fun, and a bit of adventure on the waters of Capri.