Private tour of Capri & Anacapri with Scenic Shared Boat Ride

A private tour of Capri and Anacapri with a scenic shared boat ride offers a detailed and engaging way to experience Italy’s famed island. Priced at $485.86 per person, this approximately 6-hour journey is ideal for those seeking a comprehensive view of Capri’s highlights, from the rugged coastline to lush gardens and breathtaking vistas. While the tour requires travelers to arrange their own round-trip ferry tickets from Salerno, it includes several key experiences like a shared boat cruise, a ride along the iconic Mamma Mia Road, and a visit to the Blue Grotto when tides permit. This tour is best suited for visitors with moderate physical fitness who want a guided, all-in-one day trip without the hassle of arranging separate activities.

One notable aspect of this tour is its focus on personalized exploration within a structured itinerary. With professional guides leading the way, groups can enjoy the flexibility of private transport on the island and skip lines at popular sites like the Blue Grotto and Montesolaro chairlift. Travelers appreciate the combination of sightseeing, scenic drives, and leisurely walks—all packed into a well-organized day. However, weather conditions can influence certain experiences, such as the Blue Grotto visit, so a clear forecast enhances the enjoyment of this adventure.

Key Points

• Private guided day trip from Salerno to Capri and Anacapri
• Includes a shared boat cruise exploring sea caves and iconic rock formations
• Ride a chairlift up to Monte Solaro for panoramic island views
• Visit the Blue Grotto, pending tide conditions, with a quick walk into the sea cave
• Tour highlights include the Augustus Gardens and Capri’s main square, La Piazzetta
• Transport on the island is by private convertible car or minibus, providing flexible access

Starting Point: Marina Grande Capri and Ferry Arrangements

The tour begins at Marina Grande in Capri, where travelers meet their guide at the ferry gate. To reach Capri, participants need to purchase their own round-trip ferry ticket from Salerno, which costs extra and must be arranged in advance. The ferry journey offers scenic views of the coast, setting the tone for the day ahead. The departure time from Salerno is around 8:55 am to 9:15 am, depending on the departure port.

Once in Capri, the guide greets the group and leads them onto a private convertible car, which navigates the island’s narrow, cliffside Mamma Mia Road. This scenic drive offers stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and prepares visitors for the day’s highlights. The tour’s organized start helps maximize the use of time, ensuring a full day of sightseeing with minimal hassle.

Scenic Drive along Mamma Mia Road to the Blue Grotto

A major highlight is the drive along Mamma Mia Road, which offers spectacular cliffside views. This narrow, winding route is well known for its dramatic panoramas of the sea and coastline. The guide’s expertise makes the drive informative and relaxed, providing insights into the island’s geography and history.

The Blue Grotto is the next stop, where visitors can walk inside this world-famous sea cave if the tides are favorable. The cave’s captivating light effects occur when sunlight filters through an underwater cavity, casting a luminous blue reflection on the water. This natural spectacle is a key reason many choose this tour, though weather and tide conditions can influence access. When open, the walk into the cave offers a memorable moment of natural beauty.

Exploring Capri’s Iconic Sea Caves and Rock Formations

The shared boat ride around Capri is a central feature of the tour. It lasts about an hour and includes visits to notable sea caves like the White and Green Caves. Travelers also see the famous Faraglioni rock formations, towering stacks that rise dramatically from the sea. The boat cruise provides a fresh perspective of the island’s rugged coastline and offers plenty of photo opportunities.

This shared boat experience is especially valued for its relaxed pace and the chance to see Capri from the water—something that complements the land-based sightseeing perfectly. The guide typically helps with navigating the caves, making sure everyone gets a clear view of these natural wonders.

Visiting Anacapri and Choosing Lunch or Mt. Solaro

After the boat cruise, the group transfers to Anacapri, the quieter, more traditional town on the island. The drive takes about an hour, giving visitors time to wander through craft shops, enjoy the local atmosphere, and take in scenic views. Guests have the option to have lunch at a local restaurant (own expense) or continue on to the Montesolaro chairlift.

The chairlift ride up to Monte Solaro offers stunning vistas of Capri and the surrounding sea. It’s a highlight for those seeking panoramic photos and a sense of the island’s topographical grandeur. The walk around the Piazza di Capri and visits to the Augustus Gardens add cultural and scenic charm, with breathtaking views of the Bay of Salerno.

Discovering the Gardens of Augustus and the Main Square

The Augustus Gardens are among the tour’s most photogenic spots. Here, visitors can stroll through beautifully maintained gardens that overlook the sea and the iconic Faraglioni rocks. The gardens’ panoramic outlook is perfect for soaking in the beauty of Capri.

Later, the tour includes a walk through the Piazzetta di Capri, the island’s lively main square. This area buzzes with cafes, boutique shops, and street life, giving guests a taste of Capri’s vibrant atmosphere. The guide provides context and tips for shopping or relaxing in cafes before heading back to Marina Grande.

Returning to Salerno: Ferry and Final Transfer

The tour concludes back at Marina Grande, where travelers can enjoy some free time at the beach or explore nearby shops. The group then boards the ferry for the return journey to Salerno, with departure times flexible to suit individual plans. The ferry ride provides a relaxed end to the day, allowing travelers to reflect on the many sights and experiences packed into this approximately 6-hour adventure.

Participants need to arrange their own ferry tickets for both directions, which are not included in the tour price. The guide’s drop-off at the marina ensures a smooth transition for those ready to head back to the mainland.

What Sets This Tour Apart: A Well-Rounded Capri Experience

This tour combines several key facets of Capri—scenic drives, boat rides, and visits to top attractions—into a single day. The inclusion of private transport on the island allows for flexible, comfortable sightseeing, while the shared boat cruise adds a memorable water perspective. The Monte Solaro chairlift and Augustus Gardens provide sweeping views and lush surroundings that define Capri’s charm.

The professional guide enhances the experience by facilitating skip-the-line access to the Blue Grotto and other sites, ensuring guests spend more time enjoying the sights than waiting in queues. Despite weather-dependent cave visits, the overall itinerary balances land and sea adventures effectively.

Limitations and Practical Tips

A key consideration is that round-trip ferry tickets must be purchased separately—these are not included in the tour price. Travelers should also be aware that tide conditions can impact the visit to the Blue Grotto, and flexibility might be necessary. The tour requires moderate physical fitness for walking and the boat ride, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

While the tour runs year-round, clear weather enhances the experience, particularly for the Blue Grotto and scenic drives. Booking 45 days in advance is typical, reflecting the tour’s popularity.

Is This Tour Right for You? A Balanced View

This guided day trip suits those eager to explore Capri without the stress of self-organizing transportation or multiple bookings. It offers a comprehensive glance at the island’s highlights within a manageable timeframe. Visitors who appreciate scenic drives, water-based sights, and comfortable guided experiences will find this trip rewarding.

However, travelers seeking a more flexible or in-depth exploration might find the schedule tight, especially if weather disrupts certain activities. It’s ideal for those comfortable with moderate walking and physical activity, as well as those willing to arrange their ferry tickets independently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to buy ferry tickets separately?
Yes, you are responsible for purchasing your round-trip ferry tickets from Salerno, as these are not included in the tour price.

What happens if the Blue Grotto is closed?
If tides or weather prevent access to the Blue Grotto, the guide will suggest alternatives or adjust the schedule accordingly, ensuring you still enjoy the day’s other highlights.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult and should be comfortable with walking and boat rides. The tour involves moderate physical activity.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a professional local guide, transport by private convertible car or minibus, a shared boat ride around Capri, chairlift tickets to Monte Solaro, and admission to the Augustus Gardens.

How long does the entire tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at 10:00 am from Marina Grande and returning in the late afternoon, depending on ferry schedules.

This guided day trip from Salerno to Capri and Anacapri combines scenic drives, water excursions, and cultural sights into a balanced adventure. While weather can influence certain experiences, the overall itinerary offers a well-rounded glimpse of Capri’s natural beauty and charming towns, making it a worthwhile choice for those eager to see the island with ease and expert guidance.