Capri and Blue Grotto Small Group Boat Tour

The Capri and Blue Grotto Small Group Boat Tour offers a full-day exploration of this famous island, departing from Positano for $176.69 per person. With a duration of approximately 8 hours, this tour promises an intimate experience with a maximum of 12 travelers, guided by knowledgeable skippers and hosts. It includes numerous stops at natural wonders, historical sites, and scenic viewpoints, making it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive and relaxed day on the water.

While you won’t land on Capri itself, the tour excels at showcasing Capri’s most stunning coastal highlights from the comfort of a boat, with opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and enjoying local drinks and snacks. The tour’s strong reviews highlight friendly guides, beautiful scenery, and well-paced stops, though the itinerary depends on weather conditions, and some specific attractions like the Blue Grotto may be affected by tides or crowds.

Key Points

• Full-day boat tour around Capri with approximately 8 hours of cruising and sightseeing
• Small group of up to 12 people, ensuring personalized attention from the crew
• Multiple stops including the Blue Grotto, Faraglioni rocks, Punta Carena Lighthouse, and Grotta Verde
• Snorkeling equipment and swimming opportunities at various coves and beaches
• Includes drinks, snacks, and brunch, with aperitifs like limoncello, Prosecco, and local specialties
• Blue Grotto ticket is not included; purchase at the site for €18 per person

Starting Point and Group Size: Easy Access from Positano

This tour begins with private pickup and drop-off from Positano‘s docks, making logistics smooth for travelers staying in the area. The group size is capped at 12 guests, allowing for a more intimate experience compared to large boat excursions. Skippers and hosts are on hand to answer questions and provide informative commentary throughout the day.

The mobile ticket makes it convenient to access the boat at the scheduled time, and the guided tour ensures you’re kept informed about each stop and the history behind the sites.

The Itinerary: A Day Full of Iconic Capri Stops

The tour visits many of Capri’s most notable sites, beginning with the Spiaggia Grande beach, where travelers can relax and soak in the stunning scenery. Not far from Marina Grande, the Bagni di Tiberio area is famous for its historical Roman baths, once favored by emperors Augustus and Tiberius.

Blue Grotto: The Most Famous Natural Wonder

One of the key highlights is the Blue Grotto, a natural sea cave famous for its shimmering blue light created by sunlight filtering through an underwater opening. The admission ticket to enter the grotto costs €18 per person and is paid directly on site. The timing of the visit can vary depending on tides and crowds, but the experience of gliding into this glowing, mystical space remains unforgettable.

Cala del Rio and the Heart Cave

The boat stops at Cala del Rio, known for its calm waters and dramatic cliffs. Here, visitors can admire the Villa of Dolce and Gabbana, and explore the Grotta Iannarella, or Heart Cave, noted for the rock outline of a heart carved inside, making it a unique photo opportunity.

Punta Carena Lighthouse and Sunset Views

The Punta Carena Lighthouse, first lit in 1867, is the second largest lighthouse in Italy and is a peaceful spot away from crowds. The best time to visit is at sunset, when the sun dips into the sea, creating a tranquil scene with panoramic views.

The Saints Grotto and Green Grotto

Further along the coast, the Grotta dei Santi features stalactites shaped like praying figures, while the Green Grotto enchants visitors with emerald waters illuminated by natural light. The Green Grotto is also called the Cave of the Turks, and exploring its stalactites and stalagmites offers a moment of quiet wonder.

Punta Ventroso and Marina Piccola

A break at Punta Ventroso involves relaxing on board with music, snacks, and prosecco while enjoying swimming in the calm waters or simply soaking up the sun. The nearby Spiaggia di Marina Piccola features the famous Mermaid’s Rock, a legendary spot associated with Odysseus‘ myth.

Hidden Caves and the Famous Faraglioni

The Grotta Albergo dei Marinai provides a peek into Capri’s maritime past, with walls that tell stories of fishermen and sailors. The Faraglioni rocks are the island’s most iconic rock formations, representing Capri’s natural grandeur. The tour pauses here for photo opportunities, with selfies and videos against the legendary backdrop.

Villa Malaparte and the White and Red Grottos

The Villa Malaparte, designed by Adalberto Libera, is an architectural highlight perched on a cliff with breathtaking views of the Faraglioni. The White Grotto with its white limestone walls and the Red Grotto with crimson rock showcase the island’s diverse natural colors. Both caves are accessible for short visits and provide stunning photo ops.

The Experience on Board: Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere

Guests can enjoy a variety of beverages including water, soda, beer, prosecco, and limoncello, alongside snacks and a brunch featuring local specialties. The aperitivo creates a lively, relaxed atmosphere, often with music and friendly crew.

Swims and snorkeling are available in several calm coves, with floating gear provided, allowing travelers to cool off in the crystalline waters. The crew is praised for being friendly, informative, and attentive, making the day both fun and comfortable.

The Blue Grotto Visit: Timing and Crowds

The Blue Grotto is a highlight but depends heavily on tides and weather. The admission fee is paid separately on site, and wait times can vary — arriving early helps skip longer queues. In some reviews, the Blue Grotto has been closed due to high tides, so flexibility is advised.

The Guide and Crew: Knowledgeable and Friendly

Reviews emphasize the professionalism and warmth of the skippers and hosts, with Vincenzo, Valerio, Ortiz, and Antonio singled out for their friendly attitudes and informative commentary. Many mention how guides explain the sites’ history and make everyone feel at ease during the cruise.

The crew also manages safety, comfort, and timely stops efficiently, which is especially appreciated given the small group size. Their music playlists and friendly banter contribute to a lively, enjoyable atmosphere.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour includes restroom facilities onboard, beach towels, insurance, and safety equipment. Most travelers can participate, and bad weather could lead to cancellations or itinerary adjustments—such as skipping the Blue Grotto if conditions are unsafe.

Extra costs may include lunch at a restaurant if travelers choose to disembark, or Blue Grotto tickets paid on site. The tour offers assisted pickup and drop-off to make logistics easier, especially for visitors staying in Positano.

Comparing This Tour to Other Options

This small-group experience stands out for its personalized approach and extensive itinerary, including rare caves, iconic rock formations, and scenic spots. The cost is competitive considering the number of stops, snacks, and drinks provided.

Compared to larger boat trips, this tour’s limited group size makes for a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere. The guides’ knowledge and friendly service are highly praised in reviews, often making the difference between a good and an excellent day.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This Capri and Blue Grotto boat tour is perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive and personal experience of the coastline, caves, and iconic sites of Capri, without the hassle of land-based excursions. It suits those who value good company, beautiful scenery, and informative guides.

While not ideal for those wanting to disembark on Capri, the tour offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing with drinks and snacks. Be prepared for variable weather conditions and potential delays at the Blue Grotto.

This tour provides a well-rounded day on the water, mixing scenic beauty, cultural sights, and leisure, making it a solid choice for those visiting Positano and seeking a memorable maritime adventure around Capri.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Blue Grotto included in the tour price?
No, the Blue Grotto ticket costs €18 per person and is paid directly on site. The tour does not include the entrance fee.

Can I disembark on Capri during this tour?
No, this boat tour does not include landing on Capri; it focuses on sea and coastal sights around the island.

What should I bring for the day?
Guests should bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and personal essentials. The tour provides snorkeling gear and beach towels.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Bad weather could lead to cancellations or itinerary changes. If canceled, a full refund or rescheduling is offered. Some stops may be skipped for safety.

How many people are on each boat?
The group size is limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience with attentive crew and guides.