Capri and Blue Grotto Small Group Boat Tour

Imagine cruising around one of Italy’s most glamorous islands, soaking up stunning coastlines, exploring secret caves, and enjoying a taste of local delicacies—all from the comfort of a well-equipped boat. That’s precisely what the Capri and Blue Grotto Small Group Boat Tour offers, and while we haven’t joined myself, a deep dive into the reviews and itinerary paints a picture of a memorable adventure.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides give added depth to each stop, making every story and sight more meaningful. Second, the spectacular scenery—from the Blue Grotto’s glowing waters to the iconic Faraglioni rocks—is truly breathtaking. Third, the value for money shines through considering the extensive itinerary, included snacks, drinks, and the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters.

One thing to consider is the group size of a maximum of 12 people, which is great for intimacy but means booking early is essential. Plus, since it’s a boat tour, the weather can impact certain stops, like snorkeling or visiting the Blue Grotto. Nonetheless, for travelers seeking a comprehensive, fun-filled day with authentic touches, this tour offers a compelling option to explore Capri beyond the usual crowds.

Good To Know

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Varied itinerary includes caves, beaches, historical sites, and scenic landmarks.
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary on each attraction.
• Snorkeling and swimming opportunities add a fun, refreshing element to the day.
• Inclusive drinks and snacks keep you energized without extra expenses.
• Weather dependency can affect some activities, especially visits to the Blue Grotto.

The Experience: An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Overall Logistics

This 8-hour tour departs from Positano, a classic Italian seaside town, and explores the island of Capri in a relaxed, small-group setting. The tour is priced at around $177 per person, which, considering everything included—guides, drinks, snacks, and stops for swimming—makes it an attractive option for those wanting a comprehensive day without the hassle of planning every detail.

The tour runs with a maximum of 12 guests, which means you’ll get more personalized interaction with your skipper and guide. Plus, the private pick-up and drop-off service from Positano adds convenience, removing the stress of logistics. The boat itself is well-equipped, with amenities such as restrooms, floatings, snorkeling gear, and beach towels, making the adventure comfortable and practical.

The Itinerary: From Early Highlights to Hidden Gems

First stop: Spiaggia Grande — Capri’s most famous beach, with soft sand and vibrant scenery, perfect for a quick photo and some initial relaxation. It’s a popular spot, but being one of the first to arrive—thanks to the early start—means avoiding the crowds that flock later in the day.

Next, the Bagni di Tiberio area — a historic bathing spot used by Roman emperors. The connection to ancient royalty gives this site a special feeling, even from the boat, and it’s a reminder of Capri’s long-standing appeal.

The highlight: Blue Grotto — the star attraction. This sea cave is famous worldwide for its glowing blue light, caused by sunlight passing through underwater openings. Reviewers mention that the early start helps beat the long queues, with some boats waiting just 10 minutes, compared to others that could wait hours. However, visualizing the cave’s play of light and crystalline waters, as described by many, makes it clear this stop is worth the effort. Note that admission tickets (around €18 per person) are paid separately on site.

Cala del Rio and the Heart Cave — a lesser-known but stunning cove, home to a rock with a carved heart, giving it a romantic feel. Reviewers appreciated the calm waters for swimming, with one noting how the natural surroundings create a peaceful, almost magical scene.

Punta Carena Lighthouse — a peaceful spot for photos and sightseeing. The lighthouse, dating back to 1867, is Italy’s second most powerful, and sunset views here are especially praised.

Grotta dei Santi — a cave filled with stalactites resembling praying saints, and vibrant marine life. The underwater world is a big draw, especially for snorkelers, with the cave’s turquoise waters inviting exploration.

The Green Grotto and other caves — visitors are enchanted by shimmering emerald waters and the interior stalactites. The Green Grotto (famous as the Cave of the Turks) is a true highlight, with its enchanting green glow—perfect for a quick swim and photo ops.

Punta Ventroso and Marina Piccola — the tour pauses here for relaxation, snacks, and the chance to dip in the water. Reviewers mention that the apertif, including prosecco and limoncello, along with snacks, adds a celebratory vibe.

Iconic Faraglioni Rocks — a must-see, with plenty of photo opportunities. The four towering formations are essentially Capri’s symbol. Many reviewers have expressed how awe-inspiring they find these natural sculptures, often calling it a “dreamlike” backdrop for photos.

Villa Malaparte — a modern architectural classic perched on a cliff, offering fantastic views of the Faraglioni. The historic and cinematic significance adds a cultural element, and many reviewers mention how striking it looks from the boat.

The White and Red Grottos — as their names suggest, these caves display stunning limestone and red rock formations. Their interior lighting makes for beautiful, almost surreal photos.

Cliff of Tiberius and the Statues — the tour includes a dramatic view of the cliff where Roman prisoners allegedly met their end, and behind this, a statue of Capri’s famous street urchin, symbolizing the island’s lively, welcoming spirit.

Experience Highlights: What Travelers Loved

Many reviewers praised the guides, like Valerio, Vincenzo, and Antonio, for their knowledge and friendliness. They made the trip engaging, sharing stories and ensuring everyone felt included.

The scenery consistently received high marks—crystal waters, dramatic cliffs, iconic rocks—and the chance to swim or snorkel was a recurring favorite. A few guests mentioned that the crew was flexible about disembarking or swimming, which added to the relaxed vibe.

The food and drinks onboard are a significant part of the experience—offering a brunch of local specialties, along with prosecco, limoncello, and soft drinks. Reviewers note that the apertif provided is generous, making for a fun, social atmosphere.

The Challenges: Weather and Itinerary Changes

Weather can influence the tour, especially the Blue Grotto, which is dependent on tides and sea conditions. Several reviewers mention that delays or closures are possible, and some had to skip the grotto altogether. While this could be disappointing, the crew usually provides alternative stops, like snorkeling or exploring other caves.

One notable review came from a guest who was unhappy with the experience, citing issues like a malfunctioning boat and unsafe sea conditions. Such reports are rare but serve as a reminder that weather and safety are priorities, and the crew’s professionalism usually shines through.

The Value for Money

At roughly $177 per person, this tour includes guided commentary, snacks, drinks, snorkeling equipment, and private transfer from Positano—an attractive package for an all-day adventure. Many reviews emphasize how comprehensive this experience is, especially compared to the hassle of arranging multiple separate activities or dealing with island lines.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love small-group experiences with personalized attention, you’ll appreciate the intimacy of this tour. It’s perfect for cruise fans, history buffs, or snorkelers eager to explore Capri’s underwater beauty.

However, expect a full-day commitment, and be prepared for some activities to be weather-dependent. If you’re seeking a luxury, all-inclusive experience with plenty of free time on land, this may not be ideal. But for those wanting a balanced, authentic boat trip with plenty of stunning sights, it delivers in spades.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a boat tour that includes disembarking in Capri?
No, this is a boat-only tour around the island, and guests do not disembark on land during the trip.

How much does the Blue Grotto entry cost?
The Blue Grotto ticket is not included in the tour price and costs about €18 per person, payable directly on site.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is 12 guests, which encourages a more personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a skipper, guide, drinks (water, soda, beer, prosecco, limoncello, spritz), snacks, a brunch with local specialties, snorkeling gear, beach towels, and private pick-up/drop-off.

Can I snorkel during the tour?
Yes, stops for swimming and snorkeling are part of the itinerary, with equipment provided.

What happens if the weather prevents some activities?
If bad weather affects the tour, some stops or activities—like snorkeling or visiting the Blue Grotto—may be canceled or altered. The crew prioritizes safety and will do their best to offer alternatives.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Most travelers can participate, and children over 18 are required to drink alcohol. The relaxed swimming stops are optional, so non-swimmers can enjoy the scenery from the boat and relax onboard.

Final Thoughts

This Capri and Blue Grotto Small Group Boat Tour offers a well-rounded taste of what Capri has to offer—without the chaos of overcrowded boats or land-based tourist traps. Many reviews emphasize the expert guides and stunning scenery, making it clear that this experience is as much about the journey as the destinations.

The inclusive drinks, snacks, and opportunities for swimming turn a sightseeing trip into a fun celebration of the Mediterranean’s natural beauty. Plus, the small group size ensures you’ll feel more like a guest than just another face on a crowded boat.

While weather can throw a wrench into some plans, the crew’s professionalism and the variety of stops ensure you’ll still leave with incredible memories. If you want a balanced, authentic, and scenic way to explore Capri by sea, this tour is a fantastic choice for couples, friends, or anyone seeking a relaxed yet immersive adventure.

In essence, this tour is best suited for those who value a personalized experience, love nature and scenery, and want to enjoy authentic Italian hospitality onboard. It’s perfect for travelers who don’t mind a full day out on the water, especially if they’re eager to see the island’s most iconic spots in a relaxed, friendly environment.