Capri by Sea: Private Tour from Sorrento or Positano

Imagine cruising along Italy’s shimmering coastline, surrounded by dramatic cliffs, charming villages, and a sense of exclusive adventure. That’s pretty much what you get with the Capri by Sea private boat tour — a well-reviewed, 8-hour escapade designed for those craving a blend of luxury, natural beauty, and authentic Italian charm.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the personal touch of having your own skipper and crew, which means flexibility and tailored adventures. Second, the stunning scenery around Capri, including the famous Faraglioni rocks and spectacular grottoes. And third, the delicious onboard snacks like fresh fruit, prosecco, and limoncello — perfect for toasting to a day well spent. That said, a potential snag could be the optional extras like the Blue Grotto entry fee, which isn’t included and might involve waiting in lines.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking comfort and exclusivity—perfect if you want to avoid crowded group tours, or if you’re celebrating a special occasion. It’s also a great pick for those who love to swim, snorkel, and explore at your own pace, with plenty of time on land and water to indulge.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with a dedicated skipper and crew.
• Flexible itinerary tailored to your preferences, with stops for swimming and exploring.
• Stunning views of Capri’s iconic Faraglioni rocks, grottos, and coastline.
• Quality onboard amenities including snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear.
• Cost reflects exclusivity — the price is per group up to 8 people, offering great value for a bespoke experience.
• Time on land in Capri is around 3 hours, giving enough opportunity to explore the town at your own pace.

A Closer Look at the Experience

If you’re tired of crowded, rushed excursions, this private boat tour could be exactly what you need. Starting from either Sorrento or Positano, the journey begins early in the morning at 9:00 am, giving you a full 8 hours to soak up the coast’s beauty. The tour is hosted by Sea You Aboard, a company with excellent reviews for professionalism, friendliness, and local knowledge, especially from skippers like Luigi, Antonio, and Edoardo — all praised for their flexibility and ability to tailor the trip to passenger preferences.

The Journey Begins: Sorrento or Positano to Capri

The first leg involves a scenic cruise along the Sorrento Peninsula, which sets a perfect tone with panoramic views of cliffs, colorful villages, and rugged coastline. Your skipper will share fun stories about the region, including legends of Sorrento, the Baths of Queen Giovanna, and Punta Campanella. This part of the trip isn’t just about the sights but also about feeling connected to the region’s history and mythology.

The Blue Grotto and Other Highlights

While the Blue Grotto entry ticket isn’t included (costing €18), many reviews mention waiting times and lines that can be frustrating — something to consider if visiting in peak season. The tour focuses instead on the outside beauty of Capri’s famous grottoes, such as the White and Green Grottos, which can be admired from the boat without the hassle of landings or waiting.

The Faraglioni Rocks and Snack Stop

One of the tour’s highlights is the stop at the Faraglioni rocks, those iconic limestone formations rising from the sea that are a must-photo moment. Here, the crew offers an aperitif of assorted snacks, fresh fruit, prosecco, and limoncello — a delightful way to toast your day. It’s a relaxed, joyful moment with plenty of opportunities for photos, as many reviewers have noted.

Free Time on Capri Island

After about four hours at sea, you’ll get around three hours to explore the island of Capri itself. You can choose to land and wander the Piazzetta, explore shops, or just relax at a local café. The flexibility here is a big plus, especially since the tour doesn’t include a guided land tour — but reviews suggest you’ll have plenty of guidance from your skipper, who often offers tips on restaurants and must-see spots.

Swimming and Snorkeling

The itinerary includes a stop for swimming and snorkeling, perfect for those who love to jump into the crystal-clear waters. Multiple reviews emphasize how these moments make the trip special, with some passengers even mentioning dolphin sightings, which add an extra layer of magic. Snorkel gear is provided, but it’s advisable to bring your own mask or fins if you prefer.

What Reviewers Love Most

Many reviewers rave about the knowledgeable guides like Luigi, Antonio, and Edoardo. Their stories and local insights, paired with their flexibility, make the trip feel personalized and effortless. For example, one reviewer mentioned how Luigi tailored the day around their preferences, which truly enhanced their experience.

The stunning scenery gets consistent praise, with travelers noting that seeing Capri’s coast from the water is a unique perspective — especially when accompanied by the sound of gentle waves and the sight of iconic formations.

Another highlight is the onboard hospitality — snacks, prosecco, and limoncello, combined with friendly service, turn the cruise into a celebration by the sea, not just a sightseeing trip. Many mention the quality of the boat (it’s clean and well-maintained), and the crew’s attentiveness.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration and Timing

Starting at 9:00 am, the tour lasts roughly 8 hours. This means you’ll have plenty of time to relax, explore, swim, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The flexible land stop allows for a leisurely 3 hours on Capri, giving ample opportunity to stroll around or find a cozy spot for lunch.

Price and Value

At around $1,186.83 for up to 8 people, the tour offers good value for an exclusive, private experience. Compared to crowded group tours, this setup ensures comfort, flexibility, and personalized attention. The price includes the skipper, snacks, drinks, and snorkeling equipment — but remember that some extras like land excursions or the Blue Grotto are additional costs.

Group Size and Privacy

With up to 8 people, this tour strikes a balance between intimacy and social atmosphere. It’s ideal for families, small groups of friends, or couples wanting a romantic day on the water. The private nature means you can customize your stops and timing to suit your mood and preferences.

Weather and Cancellation

The tour is weather-dependent, with a full refund offered if canceled due to poor conditions. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours beforehand, which provides peace of mind if weather forecasts look uncertain.

Why This Tour Works

This private boat trip combines the best of all worlds: stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, flexible schedule, and onboard comfort. It’s especially appealing if you value privacy and personalized service over crowded group outings.

The reviews consistently highlight the professionalism of the crew, with many mentioning specific skippers like Luigi or Edoardo, who go out of their way to make the experience special. The combination of natural beauty and friendly service creates a memorable day that many travelers say they’d happily repeat.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for small groups or couples who want a relaxed, luxurious day on the water. It’s ideal if you prefer customizable itineraries, love swimming, and are eager to see Capri’s coastal wonders without the hassle of land-based tours. It also suits travelers looking for local insights and a personal touch.

If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want an authentic, scenic adventure away from crowded tourist spots, this private cruise is a solid choice. Keep in mind that optional extras like the Blue Grotto are separate and may involve waiting times, so plan accordingly.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes the skipper, snacks, soft drinks, prosecco, limoncello, and snorkeling equipment. The boat is exclusive to your group, and you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and swim.

How much time do I get on Capri?
You get around 3 hours for exploring the island, which is enough to walk the Piazzetta, relax at cafes, or shop. The exact time depends on your preferences and the skipper’s flexibility.

Can I visit the Blue Grotto?
While you can see Capri’s famous grottoes from the boat, the Blue Grotto entrance fee (€18) isn’t included, and waiting times can occur. Many reviews suggest enjoying the outside views instead.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is available for use, which is great for swimming in the clear waters around Capri.

What are the boat’s amenities?
The boat is described as clean and well-maintained, with space for up to 8 guests. Onboard snacks and drinks add a touch of luxury.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, your skipper is praised for flexibility, so you can suggest stops for swimming, photo sessions, or land exploration.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Most travelers can participate, especially since snorkeling and swimming are optional. It’s best to check with the provider if you have very young children or non-swimmers.

How far in advance should I book?
This tour is typically booked around 28 days in advance, so plan ahead, especially in peak season.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a luxurious, flexible, and scenic experience around Capri, this private boat tour ticks many boxes. With attentive skippers, stunning vistas, and onboard treats, it offers a personalized way to discover Italy’s breathtaking coast.

While the price may seem steep compared to group options, the exclusivity and comfort make it worth considering — especially for celebrating special moments or traveling in a small group. The mix of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxed land time makes for a balanced, memorable day.

This tour is best suited for travelers craving a tailored, intimate experience — those who cherish natural beauty, great service, and authentic Italian moments on the water. With high praise from past guests, it’s a solid choice for a truly special day in the Amalfi Coast region.

Note: Always check the weather forecast before booking, and consider potential extra costs like the Blue Grotto or land tickets. Booking ahead ensures you secure your spot for this highly-rated, memorable Capri adventure.