Exploring Capri by Ferry: An Honest Look at the Shared Tour from Sorrento
If you’re planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast or Sorrento, a visit to Capri is often at the top of the bucket list. This shared ferry tour offers a practical and budget-friendly way to experience one of Italy’s most glamorous islands without the hassles of booking separate tickets or navigating crowded ports. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve gathered plenty of details to help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.
What makes this experience stand out? First, it avoids the chaos of the busy Naples or Sorrento ferry terminals by departing from the quieter port of Nerano. Second, the scenic boat ride offers incredible views of Capri’s natural landmarks—like the grottos and the Faraglioni rocks—before you even set foot on the island. And third, the round-trip ferry simplifies planning, saving you time and stress. That said, it’s worth noting that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to bring a snack or plan to eat on the island.
This tour appeals particularly to travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day with a flexible schedule, especially if you’re keen to explore Capri’s natural beauty without the fuss of organized guided tours.
Key Points
- Convenient round-trip ferry from a less crowded port, saving time and avoiding queues.
- Six hours of free time on Capri for exploring at your own pace.
- Scenic boat ride past grottos, lighthouse, and iconic Faraglioni Rocks.
- Cost-effective option for visiting Capri, with all taxes and fuel included.
- No hotel pickup, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Nerano.
- Weather-dependent: the trip can be canceled if the weather is poor, with a full refund or alternative date offered.
Why You’ll Love This Capri Ferry Tour
We loved the way this tour balances simplicity and scenic beauty. Instead of joining a crowded boat tour with a set itinerary and guided commentary, you get the freedom to explore Capri on your own, with the added bonus of a boat ride that puts you close to the island’s famous natural sights. The ferry’s route near the grottos and lighthouse means you get some Instagram-worthy views from the water, making it a more immersive experience than just walking around the island.
Another highlight? The price point—at roughly $77 per person, this trip offers excellent value, especially considering the included scenic boat tour and the convenience of round-trip tickets. Plus, the review feedback emphasizes the enjoyable atmosphere aboard the boat, with staff who are attentive and informative, making the whole experience pleasant and relaxed.
A possible consideration? The lack of included lunch means you’ll want to bring your own snacks or plan to dine on Capri. Also, since this is a shared tour, groups can be up to 195 travelers, so if you prefer private or small-group experiences, this might not be ideal.
This tour is perfect for travelers who crave flexibility, love scenic journeys, and want to avoid the logistical headaches of booking multiple tickets. If you appreciate a relaxed pace and natural beauty, it’s a solid choice.
Looking for more options in Sorrento? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
In-Depth Look at the Itinerary
Departure from Nerano
The journey begins at the tranquil port of Nerano, a quiet spot on the southern Sorrentine Peninsula. The choice of departure point is a real plus—most ferries leave from Naples or Sorrento, which tend to be busy and crowded. Here, the more relaxed vibe makes waiting for your ferry less stressful, and the smaller port typically means fewer lines.
Scenic Boat Ride Near Capri
At 9:15 am, you’ll board a comfortable ferry with a group of up to 195 travelers. The boat’s route is designed to prioritize the natural beauty of the area. As you glide out of the harbor, you’ll pass Capri’s famous grottos—likely the Blue Grotto if weather permits—and the Punta Carena Lighthouse, which offers a striking maritime silhouette. The boat’s proximity to these sites allows you to marvel at them from the water, far from the hustle of the island’s crowded ports.
Free Time on Capri
Once you arrive at the island, you get about six hours to explore independently. This is a real advantage for those who like to set their own pace—whether that means wandering through the charming streets, shopping, or relaxing at a café. The itinerary doesn’t specify guided tours, so you’re free to choose your own adventure.
Sea Tour of Capri’s Natural Attractions
Later, you’ll hop back on the boat for a sea tour around Capri. This part of the experience offers additional views of the island’s most captivating natural sights, including the Faraglioni Rocks—the iconic sea stacks—and the Natural Arch, a must-see geological formation. Reviewers mention that the boat ride provides fine storytelling and insights, enhancing the experience without the pressure of a guided tour.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The price of $77.33 per person covers all taxes, fees, and fuel surcharges, making it a transparent deal. The round-trip ferry allows you to skip the fuss of finding your own return ticket, a common headache when planning day trips.
However, lunch is not included, so plan accordingly—whether that means packing snacks or grabbing a quick bite on Capri. The tour also lacks hotel pickup, so you’ll need to make your way to Nerano, which could involve additional planning depending on your accommodation location.
Traveler Insights and Authentic Feedback
One reviewer, Karina_B, described the experience as “Dejlig oplevelse” (a lovely experience), highlighting the friendly atmosphere on the boat. She appreciated how the staff took care of guests and shared stories about what they saw along the way, making it more than just a ferry ride.
Another reviewer emphasized the mood on the boat and the informative staff, noting that the storytelling added a layer of engagement. This suggests that while the tour is self-directed in terms of exploration, the boat staff make the journey special with their local knowledge.
Given the positive reviews and the focus on natural sights, this tour seems especially suited to travelers who love scenic watercraft experiences and prefer to explore independently rather than follow a strict schedule.
Practical Tips for the Day
- Arrive early at Nerano to avoid last-minute rushes.
- Bring water and snacks for the day, as lunch is not provided.
- Dress comfortably and consider bringing a hat or sunglasses for sun protection during the boat ride.
- Check the weather forecast before booking—poor weather could lead to cancellation for safety reasons.
- Plan your transport to Nerano in advance, especially if you’re staying farther away.
- Capture photos of Capri’s iconic rocks and grottos from the water—this perspective is truly special.
- Be prepared for a group experience—the boat holds nearly 200 travelers, so patience and a cheerful attitude will make the day more enjoyable.
The Sum Up
This Capri shared ferry tour from Nerano offers a well-rounded experience, combining scenic water travel with ample free time to explore the island at your leisure. Its affordability and focus on natural sights make it ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic way to see Capri without the constraints of guided groups or crowded ports.
If you’re after a stress-free day that balances scenery with flexibility, this trip is a smart choice. Just remember to bring your own lunch, dress for the weather, and be ready for a lively group adventure on the water.
For those who value stunning vistas, a taste of local maritime charm, and the freedom to explore on your own schedule, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s particularly good for travelers with a sense of adventure and an appreciation for natural beauty—not just the commercialized side of Capri.
FAQ
Do I need to arrange my own transportation to Nerano?
Yes, since the tour does not include hotel pickup, you’ll need to find your way to the departure point at Nerano, which might require pre-planning depending on where you’re staying.
What is the duration of the entire tour?
The total experience lasts around 8 hours, with approximately 6 hours of free time on Capri and a scenic boat ride as part of the journey.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The relaxed pace and scenic water ride suit families, but always check with the provider if you have specific concerns.
What should I bring for the day?
Bring snacks or a light lunch, water, sun protection like hats and sunscreen, and a camera. Since the tour is outdoors and on the water, dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour can also be canceled due to poor weather, with options for a different date or a full refund.
Is the ferry route near Capri’s natural attractions?
Yes, the ferry’s route passes close to grottos, the lighthouse in Punta Carena, and the Faraglioni Rocks, offering fantastic views from the water.
Is lunch included in the ticket price?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll need to plan to bring your own or find something to eat once on Capri.
In summary, this ferry tour strikes a nice balance between scenic water travel and free exploration. It’s best suited for travelers who prefer flexibility, natural beauty, and a relaxed pace. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a couple, or traveling with family, it offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience the magic of Capri without the extra fuss.
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