Private Capri Excursion by boat from Sorrento

Exploring Capri by Boat from Sorrento: An Honest Look at This Private Excursion

If you’re dreaming of seeing Capri’s famous sights without the hassle of crowded tours or packed land excursions, a private boat trip could be just what you need. We haven’t personally taken this exact tour, but based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it seems like a solid way to enjoy the island’s natural beauty.

What we love about this experience is its flexibility—you get free time to explore at your own pace and the chance to see some of Capri’s most iconic sights from the water. Plus, the stunning views of the coast and bays are hard to beat from a boat. A minor consideration is that the Blue Grotto wasn’t available on one of the reviewed days, which is a common caveat with boat trips—sometimes things don’t go as planned, but that’s part of the adventure.

This tour is best suited for those who value personalized experiences, enjoy scenic boat rides, and want to avoid large group excursions. It could be perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone looking for a more intimate way to see Capri’s highlights.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience offering flexibility in how you spend your day.
• Stops for swimming and snorkeling give you a chance to cool off and enjoy the clear waters.
• Visit iconic sights like the Faraglioni, the White, Green, and Blue Grottoes, plus the Punta Carena lighthouse.
• Time at leisure in Capri’s town center allows for exploration, shopping, or relaxing at local cafes.
• Duration of about 7 hours balances sightseeing with enough free time.
• Language options include Italian and English, with a friendly, private group setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

A private boat tour from Sorrento to Capri offers a different perspective of the island—viewing its colorful cliffs, secluded bays, and famous rock formations from the sea. You’ll meet at the Seremar Tickets Office, conveniently located at coordinates 40.629234, 14.374934, ready for a day of adventure.

The main highlight is the boat trip around the island, which allows you to see Capri’s most scenic spots—the Faraglioni, the majestic sea stacks that have become synonymous with Capri, and the Blue Grotto, one of the world’s most photographed caves. Although the Blue Grotto is often a must-see, it’s worth noting that it may be closed when you visit, as it was during one reviewer’s trip. If that happens, your guide should still offer alternative stops, which might include swimming spots or other grottos like the White or Green Grottoes.

One of the standout features is the opportunity to stop for swimming or snorkeling. If you love the water, this is a real bonus—being able to dip into the crystalline sea, float around, or explore marine life makes the day more memorable. The timing for these stops is flexible, and you’ll be able to enjoy these moments without feeling rushed.

The free time on land in Capri’s town center is also a big plus. After the boat tour, you’ll have some hours to stroll through the narrow streets, browse shops, or just sit at a café and soak in the atmosphere. The tour is designed to give you a taste of the island’s charm without the stress of rigid schedules.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour’s duration of around 7 hours is well-balanced. It generally begins with a boat departure from Sorrento, heading straight for Capri. Depending on the day, your boat might cruise past the Faro di Punta Carena, the lighthouse with incredible views, or glide past the cliffs that drop into the sea.

The sightseeing part of the boat ride is where the scenery truly shines. You’ll get the chance to see Capri’s signature rock formations up close. The Faraglioni, in particular, are awe-inspiring—these towering stacks are iconic for a reason. Many travelers mention that the views from the boat are better than what you’d see from land, especially since some of the island’s best vistas are accessible only by water.

Stops for swimming or snorkeling are typically included, and you can choose whether to jump into the water or just relax onboard. The water here is often crystal-clear, inviting you to cool down after a morning of sightseeing.

The Blue Grotto is included in the itinerary, but be aware that weather or operational issues like closures can affect this part of the trip. One reviewer noted they couldn’t visit the Grotto because it was closed that day, which can happen unexpectedly. Still, the boat will usually take you nearby, and you’ll have a chance to see the cave’s entrances from the water.

The land visit is flexible, giving you free time to explore Capri’s vibrant town. Whether you want to wander the shops, enjoy a local pastry, or simply take in the views from a terrace, this part of the trip allows for your personal touch.

The Experience Provider and Reviews

Operated by SeReMar Sailing Company, this tour carries a reputation for attentive service. One reviewer from the United States praised the staff, especially Federicca, for their attentiveness. They appreciated the timing—arriving at Capri with four hours to explore was considered perfect—allowing just enough time to enjoy the funicular ride up to the town before it gets crowded.

While most reviews are glowing, one mentioned a slight disappointment about the limited swimming time, which was due to the boat needing to return by 5:00 pm. It’s worth noting that these trips are often weather-dependent, and the schedule might be tight due to logistical considerations.

Price and Value

Although the specific tour price isn’t listed here, considering it’s a private experience, it tends to be more costly than group tours. However, the personalized nature and the flexibility in organizing your day could make it worth the extra. With only a small group or private boat, you avoid the crowds and get a more tailored experience—something many travelers find enhances their day and feels more immersive.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Book This Tour?

This excursion is best suited for those who value privacy, want a customizable schedule, and love water-based sightseeing. If you’re traveling with a partner, friends, or in a small group, this is a fantastic way to see Capri without the chaos of larger tours. It might be less ideal if you’re on a tight budget or looking for a very strict itinerary with fixed stops, but if flexibility and comfort matter, it’s a winner.

The Sum Up

A private boat tour from Sorrento to Capri offers an intimate look at the island’s stunning coastline and famous rock formations. You’ll enjoy the freedom to swim, snorkel, and explore at your own pace, with the added bonus of being able to see the most iconic sights from the water—views that often surpass what’s visible from land.

This experience is especially suited for travelers who prioritize comfort, flexibility, and personalized attention. While weather or operational issues might affect specific stops like the Blue Grotto, the overall journey promises memorable scenery and a chance to escape the crowds.

If you’re eager for a relaxed, scenic adventure that balances sightseeing with leisure, this tour is a worthwhile choice. It’s not a hurried dash around the island—it’s a curated, flexible experience that allows you to soak in Capri’s beauty on your own terms.

FAQ

What is the meeting point for this tour?
You’ll meet at the Seremar Tickets Office, located at coordinates 40.629234, 14.374934, making it convenient to find and start your day.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs for approximately 7 hours, giving enough time to see the main sights and enjoy some free exploration in Capri.

Are there stops for swimming or snorkeling?
Yes, the tour includes stops where you can swim or snorkel, which many travelers find adds a refreshing touch to their day.

Can I customize my day on Capri?
Absolutely. The tour is flexible, allowing you to organize your visit as you prefer—whether that’s relaxing on the boat, exploring the town, or enjoying the water.

What sights will I see during the boat trip?
You’ll get to see the Faraglioni, the White Grotto, the Green Grotto, the Blue Grotto, and the Punta Carena lighthouse, among others.

What happens if the Blue Grotto is closed?
If the Blue Grotto isn’t accessible, the guide will likely suggest alternative stops or viewing points. One reviewer shared that they couldn’t visit the Grotto that day, but still enjoyed the overall trip.

If you’re after a personalized, scenic way to explore Capri with the freedom to swim and relax, this private boat tour from Sorrento might just be your ideal choice. Just keep in mind the weather and operational schedules — but even then, the views and the company make it worthwhile.

You can check availability for your dates here: