Sorrento to Capri Day Trip Review: Is it Worth It?

Dreaming of turquoise waters and scenic coastlines? So, a day trip from Sorrento to Capri could be just the ticket! Yet, it’s almost always good to check if the reality matches up to the postcard-perfect pictures. As someone who recently did that exact boat excursion, I wanted to share my insights. Hopefully, it helps you make an informed choice on whether or not this particular outing suits you. That, is a story of sun, sea, and a few surprises along the way!

Setting Sail from Sorrento: Initial Impressions

So, the adventure began bright and relatively early in Sorrento’s harbor. The harbor which, by the way, is already a pretty sight with colorful boats bobbing gently in the morning light. Checking in was easy-peasy. Then, we boarded the boat. A boat, which was comfortably sized, and felt safe, too. Initial vibes were pretty good; a buzz of anticipation among the other passengers, families mostly, and couples mostly speaking Italian and English. Just a little sunblock, a bottle of water, and cameras ready is everything one needs. You see, as we pulled away from the harbor, the views of Sorrento disappearing behind us were pretty amazing. That’s a cluster of buildings clinging to the cliffs! Very quickly, it sunk in that it was going to be a spectacular day.

Cruising the Bay of Naples: Coastal Views and Sea Breezes

Anyway, cruising across the Bay of Naples was something special. Is that the salty air whipping through your hair as the boat picks up speed that makes it so pleasant? Very likely. Yet, too it’s perhaps the changing views as the coastline unfolds. More or less, everything is worth looking at. That is dramatic cliffs, cute little coves, and the seemingly endless blue of the water stretching to the horizon. We even passed some places which I gather are Roman ruins along the coastline. According to our guide, they told little anecdotes. As a matter of fact, one memorable thing was learning some snippets of local history, it made the scenery more impactful. Now, I understand not all tours have a guide. I do think that if you get one, it really does add to the experience. Very occasionally, it offers context and color to what you are viewing.

First Stop: Capri – A Whirlwind Introduction

So, arriving at Capri, just a little overwhelming in some respects. Is that from the sheer number of other boats and tourists who seemed to have arrived simultaneously? Yet, it’s possibly that unmistakable air of glamour that hangs over the place. Capri is very fancy, even in the harbor! That’s the time to brace yourself. You may have just a limited amount of time to explore the island. As I was saying, this particular trip gave us about four hours. Honestly, it did not feel like quite enough. Clearly, rushing around can mean missing some of the best things. Basically, before the trip, get a really, really solid plan of what you want to see and do. We made a beeline for the funicular up to Capri town, which was very wise, and a very necessary shortcut.

Exploring Capri Town: Piazzetta and Shopping

The Piazzetta, you see, is Capri’s main square, a place of people-watching and soaking up the atmosphere. What’s great, too, is finding cafes where you could grab a quick bite. Anyway, they tend to be on the pricey side, no surprise there. Clearly, the views from the square are something to photograph for social media. We did a quick spin to window-shop at the designer boutiques. Let me just say, there are very fancy names! More or less, these are not places to find budget souvenirs! That said, if the kind of trip you like is one with an indulgence then Capri, in general, and Capri Town, specifically will work.

Optional Excursion: The Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra)

Arguably, no trip to Capri is really complete without a visit to the Blue Grotto, or Grotta Azzurra. Typically, this involves transferring to a smaller boat. Then, entering the cave mouth on a tiny rowboat. We did not, you see, visit it this time, as the wait was over an hour. Too, I heard that sometimes the sea conditions mean it closes completely. Anyway, from what I understand it is incredibly popular! Most travelers say it’s the highlight of their entire trip to Capri. I guess I will save it for next time?

Back on the Boat: Circling the Island

Now, after our time on Capri, we headed back to the boat to circumnavigate the island. What’s worth doing, even if you’re a little tired, is craning your neck to admire the rock formations. More or less, it’s something of a spectacle. Too, the boat swings relatively close to the coastline. Therefore, you can get close-up photos. You’ll be able to check out spots you simply can’t reach on land. What happened for us was that the captain pointed out some points of interest. He said that one villa used to be owned by someone really, really famous. You see, circling the island from the sea gave us a completely unique perspective.

Swimming and Sunbathing: Time for Relaxation

The boat, still, stopped in one of the coves. That, by the way, was so that everyone could have the opportunity to swim in the Mediterranean. Now, that was quite the experience. Why? Because the water was so clear and refreshing. People jumped in and cooled down. As a matter of fact, the tour usually provides floats, you know, if swimming is something of a challenge. Yet, too you may want to simply lie on the deck and enjoy the warmth of the sun. Anyway, this downtime was a wonderful opportunity to really relax.

Food and Drink Onboard

Frankly, on this particular tour, you had some complimentary drinks. That, by the way, was juice and water. Is that why it was a good idea to bring extra refreshments, and some snacks? Anyway, a longer tour might include lunch. As a matter of fact, checking what is on offer is good. Especially, if, for example, you have very specific dietary needs or desires.

Final Thoughts: Is the Sorrento to Capri Day Trip Worth It?

So, after that full day, what is the ultimate conclusion? Arguably, the trip from Sorrento to Capri is worth it, provided that you come in with eyes open. We liked seeing the coastal views from the sea. We did admire the clear waters. We too saw just a glimpse of Capri’s glamour. However, too, bear in mind that Capri gets a lot of tourists. Honestly, you do not have as much time on the island as you think. Finally, factor in the cost. Excursions such as this are not something that one should do if on a very tight budget. All the same, do I have strong memories? Yes. So, as a very special day out, in conclusion, yes I would recommend it.

#Sorrento #Capri #Italy #Travel