Capri: Shared boat tour from Sorrento – 7 hours

Thinking about a day trip to Capri but unsure whether a boat tour that lasts around seven hours is worth it? You’re in good company. We’ve looked into this well-rated experience, which offers a blend of scenic cruising, swimming, and free time on the island, and here’s what you need to know to decide if it fits your trip plans.

What we love about this tour? First, the small-group size—just 12 passengers—which promises a more intimate experience and better chances to ask questions or take great photos without crowds. Second, the variety of stops and sights—from the famous Faraglioni rocks to the Green Cave and the main port—ensures you see some of the most iconic parts of Capri. On the flip side, a possible drawback is the high optional extra cost for the Blue Grotto and other cave visits**, which can be lengthy and may not suit everyone’s schedule or interests. Still, this tour is best suited for travelers who want a flexible, scenic day on the water with some free time in Capri itself.

Key Points

• Intimate group setting enhances comfort and photo opportunities
• Balanced itinerary offers scenic cruising and ample free time on land
• Swimming and snorkeling gear provided makes it easy to cool off
• Affordable compared to private tours while still covering major sights
• Longer wait times for certain caves like the Blue Grotto could mean skipping some attractions unless you plan ahead
• Includes beverages and snacks, making the day comfortable without additional costs

What’s the Experience Like?

This seven-hour shared boat tour from Sorrento is a sweet way to tick off Capri’s most photographed sights without the hefty price tag of private charters. It’s organized by My Sorrento Holiday, a reputable provider, and is designed for small groups—usually around 6 to 12 passengers—which makes it feel less like a crowd and more like a leisurely cruise with friends.

The day begins early, with a meeting point at Ristorante Ruccio in Sorrento, and the boat departs around 9:00 am. From there, you’ll cruise along the Sorrentine coast, passing historical spots such as the Baths of Queen Giovanna, and taking in the charming fishing village of Marina di Puolo. These early sights set a relaxing tone and give you a taste of local life before reaching Capri.

The Itinerary in Detail

Cruising the Coast

The journey starts with a scenic sail around the coastline, where you’ll enjoy views of Vesuvius and the rugged cliffs of the peninsula. This part is especially enjoyable if you appreciate the sweeping Mediterranean scenery and want to get a feel for the island’s natural beauty from the water.

Visiting Capri’s Landmarks

Once in Capri, the boat stops in several notable spots:

• The main port of Capri—a lively hub full of cafes and shops, where you’ll have around 3 to 4 hours of free time. This is your chance to explore independently, grab a bite, or simply relax by the marina.

• The Green Cave—a stunning spot with shimmering green reflections in the water. It’s a quick stop, but one worth remembering.

• The lighthouse area—notable for being Italy’s second largest lighthouse, offering dramatic sea views and a touch of maritime charm.

• The Faraglioni rocks—the iconic trio of towering sea stacks, which you’ll see from the boat or from above if you visit the arch.

• The Natural Arch—a majestic rock formation that you can view from the boat or from the tip of the Tragara path, depending on your mood.

Swimming and Cave Exploration

The highlight for many travelers is the chance to swim or snorkel in the caves and grottoes along the coast. The boat provides gear, and the waters are known for their clarity. While the Blue Grotto is famously spectacular, this tour skips it due to long waits (about 90 minutes) and extra costs ($14). You can choose to visit it on your own if you want, but most reviews suggest that the boat crew focuses on other sights, with the cave visit being optional.

Free Time on Land

The dock in Capri allows for roughly 3 to 4 hours of independent exploration. Many travelers use this time to enjoy local cafes, shop for souvenirs, or relax on the beach. The boat returns to Sorrento in the late afternoon, so you’ll have plenty of daylight for your land adventures.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour covers the essentials: a professional skipper, water, soft drinks, beer, and snacks, along with snorkeling masks and a freshwater shower. Toilets are on board, which is a relief during a full day out.

However, there are some extra costs. The fuel surcharge ($35 per person) and embarkation/disembarkation tax ($15 per person) are unavoidable and should be factored into your budget. Lunch isn’t included, so plan to grab a quick bite on land—there are plenty of options at the port.

Pricing and Value

At around $102 per person, this tour offers great value for a small group. Compared to private options, it’s more affordable while still providing many of the highlights of Capri. Reviewers appreciate the price point, especially considering the included drinks and snorkeling gear. The limited group size also means you’ll likely get better personalized attention from your guides.

The Human Touch: Reviews Speak Volumes

Multiple travelers rave about the friendly and knowledgeable guides. One reviewer shared, “The guide was friendly and helpful throughout the day,” which makes a big difference when you’re unfamiliar with the area. Others mention how “stunning” the scenery is and how much they enjoyed swimming in Capri’s clear waters.

On the downside, some mention long waiting times for certain cave visits like the Blue Grotto, which the tour does not include in the standard package due to time constraints. One guest noted, “The Blue Grotto has long lines, so you might prefer to visit it yourself if it’s a priority.”

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits those looking for a relaxed, scenic day on the water with a good mix of sightseeing and free time. It’s perfect if you value small-group intimacy and want to avoid the crowds often associated with big tours. If you’re comfortable with some optional extra costs and a flexible schedule, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

It’s also a solid choice for travelers who appreciate snorkeling and swimming in beautiful waters, as gear is provided, and the boat stops in several picturesque spots. If you’re traveling with a family or a group of friends, this can be a fun, memorable day.

Final Thoughts

This shared boat tour from Sorrento to Capri offers a well-rounded, reasonable way to explore one of Italy’s most beloved islands. With its small group size, scenic cruising, and free time on land, it balances sightseeing with relaxation. While it doesn’t include everything (like the Blue Grotto), the value and experience seem to satisfy most travelers, especially those who appreciate a more personal touch.

If you’re a traveler who loves stunning vistas, swimming in pristine waters, and wandering the charming streets of Capri at your own pace, this tour could be just right. Just keep in mind the extra costs and plan accordingly—especially if cave visits are a must for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the relaxed pace, swimming opportunities, and small group size make it accessible for children. However, consider your kids’ comfort with boat rides and snorkeling.

How long do we spend in Capri?
You’ll have approximately 3 to 4 hours of free time on land, giving you a good window to explore shops, cafes, or relax on the beach.

Are drinks included in the tour?
Yes, soft drinks, water, beer, and snacks are all included, making the day more comfortable without additional purchases.

Can I visit the Blue Grotto?
The Blue Grotto is not included in this tour because of lengthy wait times (about 90 minutes). You can choose to visit separately, but it’s not part of this scheduled trip.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to around 6 to 12 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience compared to large group excursions.

What additional costs should I expect?
There’s a fuel surcharge ($35 per person) and a port tax ($15 per person), both payable on the day. Lunch isn’t included, so plan to eat on land.

In essence, if you’re after a scenic, flexible, and friendly way to enjoy Capri from the water, this tour hits the right notes. It’s perfect for those who want to avoid the crowds, enjoy some swimming, and have the freedom to explore the island at their own pace.