Capri boat tour: a dream journey through sea, caves and wonders

Capri boat tour: the soul of the island told by the sea

Capri is a true symbol of the Italian dolce vita, an extraordinary island that rises from the deep blue of the Mediterranean like a mirage of beauty, wrapped in an aura of legend. Just a short distance from the coast of Naples, it’s famous for its stunning landscapes, sea caves, and breathtaking cliffs. Seeing the majestic Faraglioni appear on the horizon as you slowly approach by boat is already a special moment in itself.

As you sail along the coast, you can catch glimpses of the village too—with scenic terraces perched atop the cliffs, whitewashed houses, and colorful gardens hidden among narrow alleys. It’s an invitation to discover the island’s most intimate soul, its ancient history, and its timeless, understated charm.

And it’s precisely from the sea that you can best sense this bond between nature and civilization, admiring hidden caves, natural arches, and crystal-clear seabeds. To truly grasp the magic of Capri, there’s no better way than to set sail and see it from a unique and privileged perspective.

Far from the crowds and the beaten paths, a Capri boat tour is the ideal way to discover its most special side, moving slowly, accompanied by stories and anecdotes that weave together nature and history, while the landscape unfolds before your eyes like a living postcard.

Then, once ashore, it’s time to wander through the village streets, to lose yourself in the scents and colors, and to enjoy the island at a leisurely pace, guided only by curiosity and wonder. Because taking a Capri boat tour is the best way to soak in its most authentic atmosphere—living a magical moment that will become one of the most unforgettable memories of your trip to Italy.

How to reach the departure point for Capri boat tours

The meeting point for Capri boat tours is usually located in the square in front of Naples Central Station, in Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi. It’s a convenient and well-connected location, easily accessible by various means of transport.

- By train: if you're arriving by train, simply exit the station and you’ll be just a few steps away from the meeting point.

- By plane: from Naples Capodichino Airport, you can take the Alibus, the shuttle service that reaches the central station in about 20–25 minutes.

- By car: if you prefer to arrive by car, there are several paid parking garages around the station. Due to the area’s high foot traffic, it's advisable to book parking in advance.

- By local public transport: Metro Line 1 and several city buses stop at Garibaldi, making the area easily reachable from anywhere in the city.

Useful information for a Capri boat tour (FAQ)

How much is a Capri boat tour?
Prices range from €100-150 for shared group tours lasting a few hours, up to several hundred euros for private experiences with extended stops. Additional costs may include Blue Grotto entrance fees or snorkeling equipment rental.

Do you need to book a Capri boat tour in advance?
Yes, booking online in advance is highly recommended, especially if visiting Capri on a day trip and/or during peak season. This guarantees your spot and saves precious time by avoiding potential long queues. For last-minute visits, some shared tours may be available on arrival, but you’ll risk limited time slots or missing out entirely, while pre-booking ensures you maximize your day

Is Capri worth visiting?
Absolutely! Beyond the glamour, Capri offers breathtaking geology (Faraglioni sea stacks), 2000-year-old Roman ruins at Villa Jovis, and unique artisan workshops. The island's laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere invites you to savor exceptional local flavors, like the outstanding handmade limoncello.

How far is Capri from Naples?
Capri lies approximately 28 kilometers from Naples as the crow flies. The crossing time ranges between 50 minutes to 1 hour and 20 minutes, depending on whether you choose a speedy hydrofoil or traditional ferry. Departures leave from the Molo Beverello and Calata Porta di Massa piers, with frequent service throughout the day.

What to do in Capri for a day?
To experience Capri’s magic in just one day, timing and strategy are key. Begin in the early morning with the Blue Grotto, to beat both crowds and choppy afternoon waves. As the island awakens, head up to Anacapri for its quiet charm and the chairlift to Monte Solaro, where 360° views stretch to the Amalfi Coast. After that, descend to Capri town and lose yourself in the Piazzetta’s lively cafés, then stroll the Gardens of Augustus, where the Faraglioni frame the turquoise sea below. Reserve afternoon hours for what Capri does best: a private boat tour weaving through sea caves and limestone arches, with a sunset aperitivo at Marina Piccola.

How long is a boat tour around Capri?
A complete tour around the island lasts approximately 2 or 3 hours, with stops to visit stunning caves (Blue Grotto, Green Grotto, White Grotto) or for swimming. Private tours can extend to half a day and may include onboard dining.

How many hours do you need to explore Capri?
While you can see highlights in 4-6 hours, a fulfilling visit requires at least 8-10 hours: you can start early with the Blue Grotto, then explore Capri town, visit Villa Jovis (Tiberius' cliffside palace), and take an afternoon boat tour around the Faraglioni. 

What time should I go to Capri?
The ideal period runs from April to October, with May-June and September being perfect for avoiding crowds. July and August are busier but offer calm seas and enchanting evening events.

What to see and do during a Capri boat tour

A Capri boat tour, departing from and returning to Naples, is an experience filled with magic from the very first moment. The journey across the breathtaking Gulf of Naples is a spectacle in itself, with sunlight dancing on the waves and the first glimpses of the Faraglioni rocks appearing on the horizon.

Upon arrival, the adventure continues as you explore hidden sea caves and dramatic coastal cliffs. The Blue Grotto, with its mesmerizing glow, is just the beginning: the Green Grotto and White Grotto will also dazzle you with their play of light and color.

Along Capri’s eastern coast, the Statue of the Scugnizzo, a bronze figure of a Neapolitan boy with his arms outstretched toward the sea, seems to welcome passing boats with typical local charm. Here, the call of the crystal-clear waters becomes irresistible, and diving into the pristine coves feels like an unmissable rite! If your tour includes stops on land, you can also discover Anacapri’s breathtaking views from Monte Solaro or wander through Capri’s charming boutiques and flower-filled gardens.

Whether you choose a short excursion or a full day between sea and land, every moment becomes an unforgettable memory. Tours departing from Naples offer the advantage of a seamless experience, where everything is arranged to showcase the very best of Capri: its sea, history, and timeless beauty.

Best tours to discover Capri

Gliding across turquoise waters, leaving Naples behind to find yourself surrounded by sea caves, dramatic cliffs, and breathtaking views: exploring Capri by boat is an experience that blends nature, history, and a touch of adventure. Several daily excursions departing from Naples offer the chance to enjoy the island from unique perspectives, with swimming stops, guided tours, and moments of pure relaxation.

1. Capri: boat tour with swim stop + round-trip from Naples

This boat tour from Naples lets you discover Capri’s coastline, with stops for a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters and a chance to admire the island’s stunning sea caves.

2. Capri: island tour + blue grotto and lunch from Naples

Experience the wonders of Capri with a full-day tour including hydrofoil transportation, a scenic boat ride with live commentary, a visit to the famous Blue Grotto, a three-course lunch, and public transportation on the island.

3. Capri and Anacapri: guided tour from Naples

Explore both Capri and Anacapri with an expert guide on an excursion that includes round-trip transportation from Naples, a detailed island map, minibus transfers, entrance to the Gardens of Augustus, and, if selected, a boat tour around the island.

4. Capri and Sorrento: day trip from Naples

Enjoy an unforgettable day exploring the beautiful coastlines of Capri and Sorrento, with hydrofoil rides between Naples, Sorrento, and Capri, and the support of a local tour operator throughout the trip.

5. Capri Island and Pompeii: guided tour + round-trip from Naples

Combine a visit to the island of Capri with a guided tour of the archaeological site of Pompeii. This 9-hour tour includes transportation from Naples, hydrofoil tickets, entrance to the Gardens of Augustus, and a transfer to Pompeii for a deep dive into one of the world’s most remarkable ancient sites.

Capri: where imperial grandeur meets timeless glamour

The island of Capri is a breathtaking stage where history and charm have intertwined for millennia. Even Emperor Augustus fell under its spell, choosing it as his vacation retreat. Later, Tiberius transformed Capri into his primary residence, commissioning the construction of several villas, including the majestic Villa Jovis, perched on a sheer cliff overlooking the sea. From here, the emperor withdrew from public life, delegating the empire's governance to his advisors, while the villa became the setting for legends and tales that still captivate imaginations today.

This imperial legacy has left an indelible mark on the island, creating an aura of exclusivity that, in the 20th century, drew writers, artists, and celebrities. Today, Capri embodies a refined and authentic luxury, its allure revealed in a leisurely stroll through the historic center, a moment of relaxation in the Piazzetta, or a sunset admired from one of the island’s many scenic viewpoints.

What truly makes this place unique is its ability to turn every moment into a cherished memory—whether it's a swim in the crystal-clear waters or an evening at a restaurant where culinary traditions have been passed down for generations. Because in Capri, even simplicity carries the flavor of eternity.