Private Boat Tour of Capri from Positano

If you’re dreaming of taking a day trip from Positano to explore the stunning island of Capri, this private boat tour might catch your eye. Designed for those who want flexibility and a bit of luxury, it offers a personalized way to see the highlights of Capri while avoiding the busy ferry crowds. We’ve looked at the details, reviews, and what you can realistically expect to help you decide if it’s worth the splurge.

What we really like about this experience is the chance to leave from Positano directly—no long waits for ferries and more time to enjoy the scenery. Plus, the tour’s flexible itinerary means you can tailor your day to match your interests, whether that’s swimming in secret coves or marveling at the iconic Faraglioni rocks. On the flip side, the price tag is on the higher side, especially with extra surcharges and optional tickets. It’s best suited for travelers who really value comfort, privacy, and a customized experience.

If you’re considering a trip to Capri and want a more intimate, guided day by the sea, this tour could be a good fit. Just keep in mind that it’s a private experience limited to groups of up to seven, so it’s not ideal if you’re on a tight budget or traveling solo. It’s perfect for those who want to indulge in the scenery with some expert local insights along the way.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience allows you to choose your own pace and stops.
• Departure from Positano saves time and avoids crowded ferries.
• Includes snorkeling gear and towels, perfect for cooling off in the clear waters.
• Skipper is knowledgeable, providing insights into Capri’s landmarks.
• Price reflects a more upscale, private experience, with additional charges for fuel and taxes.
• Ideal for travelers seeking comfort and flexibility over a group tour.

Setting the Scene: What’s the Tour All About?

This tour offers a full, approximately 8-hour day exploring Capri by boat, departing from Positano. It’s designed for those who want to experience Capri’s beauty without the hassle of large group tours or crowded ferry rides. Instead, you get a private boat with your group—up to 7 people—and a skipper who guides you through the highlights, all at your own pace.

The experience starts comfortably in Positano at 10:00am, with the boat ready to go. You’ll then cruise along the coast, taking in breathtaking views of the Amalfi coastline before heading toward Capri. The flexibility is a big plus here—you can decide how much time to spend at each stop, whether that’s lingering longer at the Blue Grotto or spending more time swimming off the boat.

What makes this tour stand out is its personalized approach. Unlike group excursions, you’re not bound to a fixed itinerary. Instead, your skipper can adapt the day based on your preferences. This level of customization is perfect if you want to explore specific sites or just relax and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Blue Grotto

The Blue Grotto is probably what most people picture when they think of Capri. It’s a natural sea cave about 60 meters long, with a tiny entrance that’s only about two meters wide and one meter high. Visitors reach it via small rowing boats, which can hold up to four people. Once inside, the sunlight filters through an underwater opening, illuminating the water with a striking blue glow. It’s visually stunning and truly one of those “must-see” spots.

From reviews, we gather that visiting the Blue Grotto might be a bit of a gamble—it’s dependent on the wait time, and the skipper might advise skipping it if the lines are too long. One reviewer noted, “He didn’t want to go to the Blue Grotto because he said the wait was too long,” which is worth considering if seeing this natural wonder is a priority.

Stop 2: White Grotta

Next, your boat might glide into the White Grotta, a less crowded but equally interesting cave. Named for its white rock formations, it features stalactites shaped by natural forces and atmospheric erosion. Inside, you’ll see a sculpture resembling a Madonna, a natural art piece created by nature. Best of all, access is free, and the cave’s beauty lies in its unique formations.

Stop 3: The Faraglioni

No trip to Capri is complete without marveling at the Faraglioni rocks. These towering sea stacks are roughly 100 meters high, rising majestically from the water. One of the more iconic features is the natural underpass in the central stack, which you can pass through on your boat—perfect for photos. Many reviews, including one from Shae_C, highlight the “fantastic day on the water” and loved the way the Faraglioni accentuate the landscape.

Stop 4: Punta Carena Lighthouse

This historic lighthouse, second in importance in Italy after Genoa’s, is known for its brightness and strategic location. It’s a great spot to admire the rugged coastline and learn about its role in maritime navigation. The lighthouse itself is a charming octagonal structure, and your skipper will probably share some tidbits about its history.

Stop 5: Spiaggia di Marina Piccola

Boating into Marina Piccola offers a chance to see a lively beach scene with stunning views. This stretch faces the southern side of Capri and gets sunlight year-round. The famous Scoglio delle Sirene, a rocky promontory, juts into the sea, providing a picturesque setting. Depending on your timing, you could relax here, dip into the water, or just enjoy the scenery.

Stop 6: Li Galli Islands

The Li Galli archipelago is a favorite among boaters and photographers. These small islands, situated between Capri and Positano, are renowned for their beauty and exclusivity. The tour includes a brief stop here to admire the scenery—an added bonus for those who love dramatic landscapes.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Onboard, you’ll find snorkeling gear, towels, drinks, and snacks, making it easy to cool off and relax. The boat also features facilities like a toilet and a fresh water shower—small luxuries that make a big difference during a full day at sea.

Your skipper is there to guide you and share insights into the sites, making the experience more enriching. The included snorkeling kit is great if you want to explore beneath the surface, and the drinks and snacks help keep everyone comfortable.

However, it’s worth noting that there’s a —EUR 300 surcharge for fuel, payable upon arrival, which is common in private boat rentals. Also, a small tourist tax of 5 euros per person applies if you choose to disembark on Capri itself.

Price & Value: Is It Worth It?

At just under $1,100 for a private group of up to seven, this tour is an investment. For many, it’s a more luxurious and flexible way to see Capri compared to public ferries or larger group tours. The value lies in the privacy, the ability to customize your day, and the comfort of your own boat with a knowledgeable skipper.

One reviewer, Baylee_S, described it as a “10 star experience,” highlighting the patience, kindness, and fun attitude of the captain. That personal touch is hard to put a price on, especially if you want a relaxed, personalized adventure.

Nevertheless, some travelers, like Mahnaz_Q, felt that the price wasn’t justified given the guide’s limited English and the inability to visit the Blue Grotto due to wait times. So, if your primary goal is just to get to Capri and see the sites at a lower cost, this might not be the best choice.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who prioritize comfort and a tailored experience. If you enjoy having control over your schedule and want the privacy of a small group, this is a strong option. It’s particularly good for couples, friends, or small families who can split the cost and enjoy a scenic, leisurely day.

It’s less ideal for budget travelers or those who prefer a more structured, guided group tour with fixed stops. Also, keep in mind the extra charges—fuel surcharge and tourist tax—when planning your budget.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour of Capri from Positano offers a flexible, intimate way to explore one of Italy’s most beautiful islands. The ability to customize your day and avoid the crowds makes it appealing, especially if comfort and privacy are top priorities. The highlights—Blue Grotto, Faraglioni, and the scenic coastline—are genuinely breathtaking, and having a local skipper to share insights adds value.

While the cost is on the higher side, many reviews confirm that the experience is worth it, especially when shared with friends or family who appreciate the personalized touch. Just be aware of the extra fees and the possibility of missing certain sites if timing doesn’t work out.

If you’re after a relaxed, tailored day on the water with good company, this tour could be a fantastic choice. But if you’re on a tight budget or prefer more structured, budget-friendly options, you might want to explore other ways to get to Capri.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore and relax.

What is included in the price?
Your experience includes the boat, skipper, snorkeling gear, towels, drinks, snacks, a toilet, and a fresh water shower.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Yes, the maximum capacity of the boat is 7 people, making it a private, intimate experience.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, there’s a EUR 300 fuel surcharge paid upon arrival and a 5-euro tourist tax per person if you disembark on Capri.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to be flexible, so you can choose your pace and stops with your skipper.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 100 days ahead, especially in peak season, to secure their preferred date.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this suitable for children?
The tour is private and small, so it can be suitable for families with children, provided they’re comfortable on a boat and can follow safety instructions.

How do I find the meeting point?
The tour starts from Positano Spiaggia, with details provided upon booking.

In the end, this private boat trip offers a special way to see Capri’s highlights in a relaxed setting. Perfect for those who value privacy, flexibility, and comfort, it’s an experience many travelers feel is well worth the investment, especially if you enjoy personalized adventures on the sea.