Independent guide Disclaimer. This is not the official Capri Blue Grotto, ferry or tour-operator website. We are an independent travel guide. Bookings are handled by GetYourGuide, our booking partner. Prices and times shown are indicative and taken from official and operator sources — always confirm at checkout.

Skipper or self-drive

Boat rental around Capri

Skippered gozzo or a self-drive dinghy? What it costs, the licence rules, and which one actually suits your day.

Skippered or self-driveFrom ~€150Licence tips

See rental options → See all tours

Check Availability

Capri boat rental & charters

Skipper or self-drive

Renting a boat around Capri

Two very different things get called "boat rental" around Capri. The first is a skippered charter — effectively a private tour, where a licensed local drives and you relax. The second is a self-drive rental, usually a small dinghy (gommone) you can pilot yourself, sometimes without a licence below a certain engine size.

For most visitors, skippered is the smart call. Capri's coast has strong currents, busy boat traffic, protected marine zones and the tricky Blue Grotto entrance — a local skipper handles all of it and knows the quiet coves. Self-drive suits confident boaters who want independence for a few hours of gentle exploring in calm weather.

Whichever you choose, book ahead in summer, check exactly what's included (fuel, mooring, snorkel gear), and confirm the licence rules for self-drive before you turn up at the dock.

Skippered

from ~€500

per boat

Self-drive dinghy

from ~€150

half day, seasonal

Licence

sometimes none

small engines only

Best for

calm coves

+ swim stops

See rental & skippered options →

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Can you rent a boat in Capri without a licence?

Sometimes — small dinghies with limited engine power can often be rented without a licence, but rules vary by operator and change. Confirm before booking.

How much does it cost to rent a boat around Capri?

Self-drive dinghies start around €150 for a half day in season; skippered gozzo charters start around €500 per boat. Fuel and extras may be separate.

Is it better to rent with a skipper?

For most visitors, yes. Capri's currents, traffic and protected zones make a local skipper safer and more relaxing than self-driving.

Do I need to book boat rental in advance?

In summer, yes — boats and skippers sell out. Off-season you have more flexibility, but weather matters more.