From Positano: Full Day Private Boat Tour of Capri Island

Planning a day trip to Capri from Positano? This private boat tour offers a chance to see the highlights of the island while enjoying the freedom of a flexible itinerary. It’s ideal if you want to avoid crowded tours and prefer a more personalized experience—plus, plenty of swimming and snorkeling stops to keep things fun.

What we really like about this tour is the emphasis on expert guidance from a seasoned skipper and the three hours of free time to explore Capri’s inland streets and shops. The boat itself is a cozy Amalfi Coast “Gozzo,” perfect for a small group, with a canopy to shield you from the sun. On the downside, it’s not suitable for everyone—non-swimmers or those with mobility issues might find some parts tricky. Still, if you’re after a laid-back, scenic day on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim and explore, this could be a great pick.

This tour works well for couples, friends, or anyone who values a small, private group and a relaxed pace. If you’re looking for a more structured, preset schedule, or have specific accessibility needs, you might want to consider other options. But for those craving a tailor-made day around Capri’s most stunning sights, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Flexible Itinerary: You control the stops and pace, making the day suit your preferences.
• Expert Skipper: Guided by someone with plenty of local knowledge, which enhances the experience.
• Inland Exploration: Three hours to wander Capri’s streets, enjoy local food, and shop.
• Multiple Swimming Stops: Perfect for cooling off and snorkeling in clear waters.
• Small Group: Max 7 people, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.
• Includes a Traditional Boat: A cozy Amalfi Coast “Gozzo” with shade and a private toilet.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Off from Positano and Cruising to Capri

The adventure begins at Positano’s main pier, where a steward will assist with boarding your private boat. You’ll then hop aboard a traditional Amalfi Coast “Gozzo,” a comfortable vessel about 8 meters long with a canopy for shade. The 45-minute sail along the stunning Amalfi coast is part of the fun, offering great views of the coastline and the marine protected area of Punta Campanella.

The boat ride itself is smooth, and the scenic views make the journey enjoyable, even for those who aren’t used to boat trips. Some reviews mention that the ride is comfortable, and the captain’s local expertise adds to the relaxed vibe. The marine reserve is a highlight along the way, providing a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of this protected area.

Exploring Capri: The Main Stops and Highlights

The Blue Grotto (Optional Visit)

Once in Capri, the tour starts passing by Marina Grande, the main port of the island. The Blue Grotto is one of the first sights, and though optional, many travelers choose to visit. Keep in mind that accessibility isn’t guaranteed if the sea is rough or if long queues form, which can sometimes exceed an hour. If you do visit, prepare for a quick boat ride into the famous cavern, with the chance to see that unmistakably bright blue light.

Green Grotto and Snorkeling

Next, you’ll visit the Green Grotto, where crystal-clear emerald waters await. Here, you might choose to swim or snorkel, which is a highlight for many. The water stays deep green all year round, providing a striking backdrop for photos and relaxing dips. One reviewer noted, “The Green Grotto was a real surprise—absolutely beautiful, and the water was so clear I could see all the way to the bottom.”

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Marina Piccola and Lunch Break

Marina Piccola is the next stop, the most exclusive part of Capri. Here, you get about three hours to explore the town, enjoy a meal at a waterfront restaurant, and maybe do some shopping. Many say that this break allows for a leisurely look around, away from the busy tourist spots, and the chance to taste regional dishes. The peaceful setting combined with good food makes this one of the tour’s highlights.

Famous Landmarks: Faraglioni Rocks and Grotta Bianca

On the way back, you’ll pass near the iconic Faraglioni rocks, where many guests snap memorable photos. The White Grotto is another lovely sight, often quick to visit but worth the stop for the picture-perfect moment. These sights give you a true taste of Capri’s natural beauty, with plenty of photo opportunities.

The Return Journey and Tordigliano Beach

The day winds down with a scenic cruise back along the coast, stopping at the peaceful Tordigliano beach for a final swim, snorkel, and aperitif. The water here is especially clear, and many say it’s a perfect, relaxing way to end the trip.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The flexible itinerary is a major plus—you’re not locked into rigid schedules, which means you can customize stops based on your interests or weather conditions. The skipper’s guidance adds a layer of confidence and local insight, helping you appreciate hidden details and avoid pitfalls like long waits at busy sites.

The three hours of free time in Capri are precious, giving you the chance to walk through the narrow streets, browse boutique shops, or savor a gelato. This is a good balance for those who want a mix of sightseeing and leisure without feeling rushed.

The multiple swimming and snorkeling stops are well-loved by guests, who appreciate the chance to cool off and enjoy the pristine waters. Reviewers often mention how clear the water is and how relaxing it feels to float in these quiet spots.

The Experience on the Water

The boat itself provides a cozy yet functional environment, with shade and a private toilet—features that make a full day on the water more comfortable. The boat’s size (about 8 meters) means it’s intimate, perfect for small groups, and the capacity of seven people keeps the experience personal.

Guests frequently comment on how smooth the ride is, with many appreciating the captain’s professionalism and friendly attitude. Some reviewers mentioned that the boat’s pace is relaxed, ideal for soaking in the scenery rather than rushing from sight to sight.

The Cost and Value

While the tour isn’t the cheapest option available, it offers good value for a personalized experience. With the ability to tailor your stops and spend quality time at each location, you’re not just ticking off attractions—you’re really experiencing them. The small-group format also means you don’t have to deal with large crowds or noisy tour groups, which many find worth the extra expense.

Given the inclusion of a knowledgeable skipper, flexible itinerary, and private transportation, many consider the price justified—especially if you’re looking for a day that feels more like a private adventure than a canned tour.

Suitability for Different Travelers

This experience is best suited for those comfortable on boats and eager to explore at their own pace. It’s not ideal for wheelchairs or people with mobility issues due to accessibility constraints. Non-swimmers might feel more cautious, but with plenty of stops for swimming and the ability to stay on the boat, it can still work for some.

It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or friends who want to enjoy Capri without the crowds and with a more relaxed schedule. If you’re traveling with children, consider their swimming ability and comfort with boat rides.

Final Thoughts

For anyone craving a relaxed, intimate way to see Capri, this private boat tour offers a fantastic mix of scenic cruising, swimming, and inland exploration. The flexible itinerary and personal guide ensure your day can be tailored to your interests, making it a memorable, stress-free experience.

You’ll love the stunning views of the coast, the chance to snorkel in crystal waters, and the opportunity to wander Capri’s charming streets for three hours. The boat’s cozy size and comfort make the long day enjoyable, while the stops at iconic sites keep the experience exciting and visually stunning.

If you’re after a more personalized way to explore Capri—without the crowds—this tour is a solid option. Just be mindful of weather conditions and accessibility needs, and you’ll likely have a day to remember.

FAQs

Is the Blue Grotto guaranteed to be visited?
No, visiting the Blue Grotto is optional. Its accessibility depends on weather conditions, sea state, and queue lengths, which can sometimes exceed an hour.

How long does the boat ride take between Positano and Capri?
The cruise from Positano to Capri lasts about 45 minutes each way, making the total boating time roughly 1.5 hours for the round trip.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a private boat, the guidance of an experienced skipper, stops for swimming and snorkeling, and free time in Capri for three hours. Lunch and optional visits are at your own expense.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour features a flexible itinerary, allowing you to prioritize certain stops or skip others based on your preferences or weather conditions.

Is the boat comfortable for a full day?
Yes, the Amalfi Coast “Gozzo” boat is about 8 meters long, equipped with shade and a separate toilet, making it comfortable for a full day on the water.

Are there any restrictions on who can join?
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those over 350 lbs; non-swimmers may also find some aspects challenging, but many stops for swimming are available.

How much time do we spend in Capri itself?
You’ll have about three hours on land to explore Capri’s streets, enjoy a meal, or shop, giving a good balance of relaxing and sightseeing.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility in your planning.

If you’re seeking a day that combines scenic cruising, personalized exploration, and swimming in beautiful waters, this private boat tour from Positano to Capri could be just what you need. It’s a laid-back way to see one of Italy’s most charming islands without the hassle of large groups or rigid schedules.

You can check availability for your dates here: