Sailing tour and lunch on board Sorrento and Capri

Exploring the Sorrento and Capri coast by boat is one of those bucket-list experiences that combines stunning scenery with a touch of luxury. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve looked into what makes it stand out—and honestly, it seems like a fantastic way to enjoy the best of this iconic stretch of Italy’s coast.

What really caught my eye are the personalized touches like the onboard lunch featuring local specialties, and the insider access to beautiful spots like Capri’s famous Faraglioni rocks. Plus, the small group size (up to 8 people) promises a more intimate, relaxed vibe compared to larger tours.

That said, with a price tag around $1,150 for a group, it’s not exactly budget-friendly, so it’s best suited for those who want a special, private experience rather than a quick, budget morning cruise. Overall, if you’re craving an upscale-yet-relaxing day on the water with plenty of opportunities for swimming and sightseeing, this tour could be a real highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Personalized, private experience with a maximum of 8 guests, ensuring comfort and attention.
• Includes lunch and snorkeling gear, making for a hassle-free day.
• Great for lovers of scenery, with stops at iconic locations like Capri’s Faraglioni and Sorrento’s coast.
• A full-day adventure (around 10 hours) offering a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing.
• Knowledgeable guides (like Domenico) who enhance the experience with local insights.
• Weather-dependent — good weather is essential for the best experience and full enjoyment.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Initial Departure

The adventure kicks off at Castellammare di Stabia, a convenient spot close to Naples with easy access by public transport. From there, you’ll meet your skipper—Domenico, in this case—and hop aboard a spacious, comfortable yacht. The initial briefing sets the tone, giving you a quick rundown of the day’s plan and highlighting the key sights ahead.

The boat itself is described as very comfortable and spacious, which is a big plus. The review from Federica mentions that the boat is “comodissima e molto spaziosa” (very comfortable and spacious), and notes that you could even sleep onboard if you wanted to. This hints at the boat’s good design and ample room, making the day feel relaxed rather than rushed.

Scenic Navigation Along the Coast

Once underway, you’ll cruise along the Sorrento coast, passing by the edge of Seiano and Vico Equense. This part of the trip is all about the spectacular views of the coastline, with sheer cliffs, colorful villages, and lush greenery. The guide’s narration helps put these sights into context, sharing snippets of history and local lore.

The sailing close to the coast provides plenty of photo opportunities, especially for those of us who love capturing iconic scenery. The journey also offers a chance to hear about the area’s history, like the connection to the film “Bread, Love and Fantasy,” which adds a romantic, cinematic touch to the day.

The Highlight: Sorrento and Capri

One of the day’s main stops is Sorrento, a town famous for its lemon groves, vibrant markets, and panoramic views. You’ll anchor here to enjoy some leisure time—swimming, relaxing, and soaking in the scenery. The fact that Sorrento is less exposed to sea currents compared to Capri means calmer waters, which makes swimming safer and more enjoyable.

Then comes the star of the trip: Capri. Docking near the famous Faraglioni rocks, you’ll get to marvel at one of Italy’s most romantic landmarks. The guide mentions that this area was even used in Dolce & Gabbana commercials, giving it a sense of glamour. You’ll also have the chance to indulge in a typical local meal, with a focus on fresh, regional products.

Federica’s review highlights how Domenico prepared a lovely aperitif and a good lunch onboard, making the experience feel very personal. The boat crew serves the meal, which includes the iconic Caprese salad—fresh mozzarella paired with Sorrento tomatoes—a perfect taste of Italy.

Snorkeling and Swimming

The tour includes snorkeling gear and inflatable beds, so you can fully enjoy the crystal-clear waters. The opportunity to discover the seabed and swim in the coves is a big selling point. The guide notes that after swimming, you can relax, have a drink, and enjoy the sea from a different perspective.

The review mentions that the boat is equipped with a restroom, which is always a thoughtful touch for longer trips. The opportunity to snorkel in such a beautiful setting turns the day into a real adventure, especially if you love being in the water.

Afternoon and Return

In the afternoon, after another toast—often with champagne—the boat continues along the coast, stopping at some secluded coves for dips and photos. This part of the trip offers a more relaxed pace, perfect for taking in the views and enjoying some downtime.

The return journey concludes back at Castellammare di Stabia, with plenty of photo souvenirs and a sense of having experienced a day that balanced sightseeing, relaxation, and indulgence.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Personalized Service and Small Group Size: With only up to 8 guests, the experience feels intimate, allowing the crew (like Domenico) to focus on your needs. One review highlights how Domenico made the trip memorable with his kindness and local knowledge.

Inclusion of Food and Water Activities: Having lunch onboard built around local products, plus snorkeling gear, means you can relax without extra planning or expenses. The Caprese is a simple yet authentic highlight that embodies the flavors of the region.

Iconic Sights and Scenic Cruising: The route covers some of the most famous spots—Capri’s Faraglioni, Sorrento coast, Vico Equense—and offers plenty of photo ops. The boat’s proximity to these landmarks makes the experience feel exclusive and special.

Relaxed, Unhurried Pace: The 10-hour duration allows for a leisurely day—plenty of time for swimming, eating, and enjoying the scenery without feeling rushed.

The Price and Its Value

At over $1,150 per group, this tour isn’t cheap. But considering it includes private boat access, a full-day itinerary, a gourmet lunch, snorkeling equipment, and personalized service, it offers good value for those seeking a luxurious, memorable day.

Most travelers who enjoy this type of experience tend to value quality over quantity. If you’re used to standard group tours that stick to a packed schedule, this private option lets you set your own pace and enjoy the scenery without crowds.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers looking for a luxurious, intimate day on the water—perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a memorable adventure. It’s well suited for those who appreciate comfort, good food, and stunning scenery, and don’t mind paying a premium for a private, tailored experience.

While not explicitly family-focused, the calm waters and leisurely pace could make it suitable for travelers with older children who are comfortable on boats. However, younger kids might find the full 10-hour day a bit long, depending on their stamina.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a personalized, scenic, and relaxed exploration of the Sorrento coast and Capri, this tour ticks a lot of boxes. It combines the thrill of being on a private boat with the comfort of good food, stunning views, and the chance to swim in some of Italy’s most beautiful waters.

While the price might seem steep, the curated experience, friendly guides, and exclusive access make it worth considering for a special occasion—or simply for those who want to indulge in a memorable day out.

For anyone who dreams of sailing past the Faraglioni, savoring local flavors onboard, and having the freedom to swim in crystal waters, this voyage could be a highlight of their trip to Italy.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, especially if they’re comfortable on boats. The experience is designed for small groups, making it more personal and relaxed.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes the boat, snorkeling equipment, lunch, bottled water, and soda. Restroom facilities are onboard, adding to the convenience.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 10 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to the meeting point in Castellammare di Stabia.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a lunch featuring local specialties like Caprese salad, served onboard by your skipper.

What sights will I see?
You’ll visit Sorrento’s coast, the village of Vico Equense, and Capri’s Faraglioni rocks, with scenic cruising and swimming opportunities along the way.

Where does the tour meet and end?
It starts at Via Caio Duilio in Castellammare di Stabia and ends back there after a full day on the water.

If you’re craving a day of scenic sailing, authentic flavors, and intimate coastal exploration, this tour offers a wonderful way to enjoy Italy’s famed seaside in style.