Capri & Blue Grotto Small Group Full-Day Boat Tour from Positano

The Capri & Blue Grotto Small Group Full-Day Boat Tour from Positano offers an engaging way to explore the iconic island of Capri without the hassle of ferry lines. Priced at $150.94 per person, this 8-hour adventure is perfect for those looking for a relaxed yet comprehensive experience. With a maximum of 12 travelers, the tour emphasizes intimacy and personalized attention, guided by experienced crew members. It departs early in the morning at 8:30 am from Via del Brigantino, positioning guests to enjoy the island’s highlights before it gets overly crowded.

This tour stands out by skipping the typical ferry ride, opting instead for a direct boat from Positano, which means more time on the water and less waiting in queues. Along the way, guests are treated to free drinks, including Prosecco, and the chance to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. While the Blue Grotto entrance fee (extra €18) is paid separately, the tour offers accessible visits to several stunning grottos and natural formations, making it a flexible and scenic way to see Capri.

Key Points

• Small-group experience with a maximum of 12 passengers, ensuring comfort and personalized service
• Includes visits to the White Grotto, Green Grotto, Natural Arch, and Faraglioni rocks
• Swim and snorkel opportunities in turquoise waters with supplied towels
• Drinks included, such as water, soda, and Prosecco for celebrating
• Departure at 8:30 am, with check-in at 08:10 am at the Cassiopea booth on Positano’s main beach
• Blue Grotto is a highlight, but entry costs €18 and can involve long waits during high season

Easy Access from Positano Without Ferry Hassles

This tour departs directly from Positano’s main beach, avoiding the crowded ferry system that often causes delays and long lines. The meet-up point is at the Cassiopea booth on Spiaggia Grande, with check-in at 08:10 am. The boat boards around 08:20 am, giving travelers a comfortable start to their day. The convenience of a small boat allows for a more relaxed pace compared to larger tour vessels.

The group size is limited to 12 people, which makes for a more intimate experience with the crew. The boat ride itself offers sweeping views of the Amalfi Coast’s shoreline, making it an ideal choice for those wanting to enjoy the scenery without feeling overwhelmed by crowds.

The Itinerary: Grottos, Land Exploration, and Iconic Landmarks

The tour’s highlight is the Blue Grotto, where visitors can opt to pay an extra €18 for a 5-minute inside visit. Be aware that waiting times for entry can extend over an hour during peak season, so flexibility is key. The White Grotto offers a 5-minute view and is free to see, giving guests a chance to admire Capri’s natural beauty.

Next, the boat stops at the Natural Arch, also a 5-minute viewing point, showcasing the island’s rugged coastline. The Faraglioni rocks are easily recognizable, famously appearing in commercials and movies, and make for excellent photo opportunities during a 10-minute stop. The Green Grotto provides a 5-minute visit to see the grotto’s iridescent green waters caused by the sunlight.

Along With sightseeing, the boat allows for swimming and snorkeling in the calm, turquoise waters. Towels are supplied by the crew following strict COVID-19 protocols, ensuring safety and comfort for all.

Onboard Experience: Drinks, Relaxation, and Scenic Cruising

Guests aboard the small boat enjoy complimentary bottled water and soda, along with the option of Prosecco to toast the day. The relaxed atmosphere encourages lounging and enjoying the stunning shoreline from the deck. The crew provides commentary and points out notable landmarks, although the experience is not strictly narrated, allowing for spontaneous moments of admiration.

The boat’s size lends itself to less crowding and more space for everyone to relax. The captain, often praised for their friendly demeanor and local knowledge, guides the vessel close to the grottos and rocky formations, giving guests a personalized view of Capri’s coast.

Visiting Capri and Anacapri: Free Time on Land

The tour includes free time on the island, with about three hours to explore Capri town or Anacapri. Guests can stroll through narrow streets, visit local shops, or enjoy a meal at a seaside café. Since the boat drops off and picks up at the same point, it allows for a flexible schedule, perfect for those wanting to visit specific landmarks or simply soak in the atmosphere.

Keep in mind that Capri can be crowded, especially during high season, so some patience and flexibility are beneficial. The tour offers a balance of guided sightseeing and independent exploration, making the most of the time on land.

The Blue Grotto: Optional, But with Caveats

While the Blue Grotto is one of Capri’s most famous sights, it is an optional stop requiring an additional €18 per person. Visitors must purchase tickets directly at the grotto entrance, with the visit lasting about 5 minutes. Be aware that during busy periods, wait times can exceed an hour, and the boat tour does not guarantee entry.

Many reviews note that the tour does not include the Blue Grotto entrance fee, and some guests find the long wait and extra cost to be a disappointment, especially if they hoped for a more comprehensive visit. It’s advisable to decide in advance whether to prioritize the grotto or focus on other scenic spots.

Swimming, Snorkeling, and Water Activities

One of the tour’s highlights is the chance to swim in Capri’s famous waters. The crew supplies towels, and guests are encouraged to dive into the water during the cruise back from the island or at designated stops. The crystal-clear waters and calm environment make this a favorite feature, with many reviews praising the opportunity to cool off after sightseeing.

Snorkeling gear is not explicitly mentioned as provided, but the water clarity and protected bays make this activity enjoyable and accessible. This element adds a fun and refreshing aspect to the trip, especially during warmer months.

Crew and Guide: Friendly, Knowledgeable, and Local

The crew members are frequently praised for their friendly demeanor and local knowledge. Guides like Francesco and Stefano are noted for their warm personalities and informative commentary, enhancing the overall experience. Guests appreciate the personalized attention and relaxed style compared to larger, more crowded tours.

While the tour doesn’t feature a narrated commentary at every stop, crew members often share interesting facts and recommendations during the cruise, making it both informative and enjoyable. The captain’s skillful handling of the boat is also a highlight, especially when navigating close to the grottos and rock formations.

Practical Tips: Booking, Weather, and Physical Requirements

Booking this tour 42 days in advance is typical, indicating high demand. Travelers should arrive early for check-in at 08:10 am, and confirm details with the Cassiopea team via WhatsApp or email up to 48 hours prior.

Participants should have a strong physical fitness level, as the tour involves getting on and off the boat and walking on uneven terrain on land. Weather can influence the experience; poor weather may lead to cancellations or rescheduling with full refunds. Seasickness remedies are recommended for sensitive guests.

The Value Proposition: What Makes This Tour Special

This small-group boat tour offers a more relaxed and intimate way to see Capri compared to larger vessels or crowded ferries. The personalized service, combined with free drinks and the opportunity for swimming, adds to its appeal. The scenic stops at grottos and the photo opportunities of the Faraglioni rocks are highlights.

However, some reviews point out that the Blue Grotto visit may not meet expectations due to long wait times and additional costs. The overall value depends on how much one prioritizes limited land time versus scenic cruising. For those seeking a leisurely day on the sea with flexible land exploration, this tour offers a good balance.

The Sum Up: A Relaxed, Scenic Day with Limitations

The Capri & Blue Grotto Small Group Full-Day Boat Tour from Positano provides a personalized, scenic way to visit Capri, emphasizing comfort and flexibility. The small boat and friendly crew create a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for those wanting to avoid crowds and enjoy the shoreline from the water.

While the tour includes many beautiful sights like the Grotta Verde, White Grotto, and the Faraglioni rocks, the Blue Grotto can involve long waits and additional costs. Guests should be prepared for crowds on land and variable weather, which can impact the experience.

This tour suits water lovers, those seeking a less crowded alternative to ferry trips, and visitors who enjoy scenic cruising with free drinks. It offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and land exploration, making it a solid choice for a memorable day on the Amalfi Coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
Guests receive bottled water, soda, and Prosecco on board, along with towels following strict COVID-19 protocols. The Blue Grotto entrance fee is not included, and guests purchase tickets directly at the grotto.

How long does the Blue Grotto visit last?
The inside visit to the Blue Grotto lasts about 5 minutes, but waiting times during peak season can exceed an hour.

What stops are part of the itinerary?
The tour includes White Grotto, Natural Arch, Faraglioni rocks, and Green Grotto. It also allows for swimming and snorkeling in crystal waters.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring comfortable clothing, sun protection, and a good attitude for some waiting during the grotto visit. Seasickness remedies are advisable if sensitive.

Are there any physical requirements?
Participants should have a strong fitness level for getting on and off the boat and walking around on uneven terrain on land.

Can I visit Capri for longer than the free time?
The tour offers about three hours on land, enough for a quick exploration or relaxing walk — but not in-depth sightseeing.

Is the Blue Grotto guaranteed?
No, since entry depends on weather and wait times. The tour does not promise a visit, only the option to pay for entry if possible.

What makes this tour different from others?
The focus on small-group cruising and direct departure from Positano provides a more personal experience with less crowding and more water-based sightseeing.

How do I book this tour?
Booking 42 days in advance is recommended, with check-in at 08:10 am. Confirm your details with the Cassiopea team via WhatsApp or email to ensure smooth coordination.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable or rebookable for a different date.

Would we recommend this tour?
Yes, especially for water lovers and those seeking a more relaxed, personal way to enjoy Capri’s coastline and grottos — as long as they are aware of the potential grotto wait times and extra costs.