Capri, an iconic Italian island located in the Bay of Naples, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, luxurious lifestyle, and rich cultural heritage. Famed for its crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and charming villages, Capri is a paradise that has captured the hearts of visitors for centuries. Fun fact: Capri is home to the famous Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra), a stunning sea cave that glows blue due to sunlight reflection! A cruise to Capri provides a unique opportunity to experience the island’s charm and elegance while allowing you to explore nearby coastal gems, all while enjoying the incredible amenities provided by your cruise ship.
Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Capri
- Norwegian Cruise Line operates a fleet of 20 ships, with 7 of them featuring itineraries that include Capri. The Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Pearl are noteworthy for their vibrant onboard atmosphere and exciting activities, offering everything from casino nights to Broadway-style entertainment. Norwegian Pearl, for example, boasts a variety of dining choices, ensuring that every palate is delighted. Departures typically occur from Athens or Rome, providing seamless access to this beautiful Mediterranean destination.
- Royal Caribbean Cruises includes a fleet size of 29, with 4 that sail to Capri. The Voyager of the Seas and Explorer of the Seas are particularly popular for their adventure-packed amenities, including outdoor rock climbing walls and surf simulators. These ships also offer a variety of dining options and entertainment experiences designed to keep guests engaged. Departures generally occur from Athens or Rome, ensuring easy access to enjoy the wonders of Capri.
- Princess Cruises boasts a fleet of 17 ships, with 4 featuring itineraries to Capri. The Sky Princess and Enchanted Princess stand out for their opulent dining experiences and exciting entertainment, such as outdoor films and engaging performances by talented artists. These ships usually depart from Rome or Southampton, allowing cruisers to begin their Mediterranean experience with ease.
- MSC Cruises operates a fleet of 23 ships, with 4 that highlight itineraries to Capri. The MSC Virtuosa and MSC Seaside are family-friendly vessels known for their spacious designs and diverse activity options, including water parks and themed dining venues. Departures commonly occur from Barcelona or Naples, giving you an easy pathway into the stunning waters surrounding Capri.
- P&O Cruises consists of 7 ships, with 1 dedicated to itineraries that visit Capri. The Azura is noted for its vibrant atmosphere and ample amenities, including multiple dining options and entertainment venues offering live performances. Departures usually take place from Southampton, enabling great convenience for UK travellers to head straight to the Mediterranean.
Luxury and Small Ship Options for Capri
- Seabourn operates a fleet of 5 ships, with 2 focused on luxury cruises to Capri. The Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Encore offer exquisite all-inclusive experiences, featuring gourmet dining and unparalleled service that guarantee every guest enjoys a luxurious journey. Departures commonly occur from Athens or Barcelona, providing a sophisticated entry into your exploration of the beautiful island.
- Oceania Cruises features a fleet of 8 ships, with 4 dedicated to itineraries including Capri. The Nautica and Sirena focus on elegant dining experiences and assistance with personalized service catering to your needs. Most departures typically happen from Miami or Rome, ensuring smooth transitions into the stunning Mediterranean sailing.
- Azamara Cruises consists of a fleet of 4 ships, with 2 offering itineraries to Capri. The Azamara Journey and Azamara Onward are well-known for their intimate cruise experience and immersive cultural exploration, usually offering late-night port stays. Departures generally occur from Lisbon or Athens, enhancing your experience sailing along the enchanting Italian coast.
- Explora Journeys operates a fleet of 2, both of which include itineraries that feature Capri. The EXPLORA I and II focus on wellness and luxurious amenities, ensuring a refined atmosphere throughout your cruise experience. Departures typically take place from Barcelona or Rome, providing a seamless transition into this charming island.
- Fred Olsen operates a small fleet with 3 ships, two of which provide itineraries that include Capri. The Balmoral and Bolette are appreciated for their classic cruising experience and welcoming atmosphere. Departures are typically from Southampton or Liverpool, making it convenient for UK guests to access this breathtaking Mediterranean destination.
Top Harbours and Activities in Capri
- Capri Town (Chora) – The heart of the island, Capri Town is known for its charming streets, luxury boutiques, and vibrant cafés. Visit the famous Piazzetta for a refreshing drink while enjoying people-watching, or take a funicular ride to the heights of Mount Solaro for stunning views over the Bay of Naples. Explore hidden corners filled with local art and enjoy delicious Gelato while you stroll about.
- Marina Grande – The main port of Capri, Marina Grande offers delightful beach clubs and a chance to soak up the sun. Rent a small boat or take a guided tour to explore the breathtaking coastline, including the stunning Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto). Enjoy local seafood dishes at one of the seaside restaurants for an authentic taste of Capri.
- Anacapri – A picturesque village just above Capri, Anacapri offers a more tranquil atmosphere. Visit the Villa San Michele for its beautiful gardens and panoramic views, or take the chairlift up to Mount Solaro for stunning vistas of the island and surrounding sea. This is a lovely area for picturesque walks amidst flowering trees and quaint shops selling artisanal crafts.
- Grotta Azzurra – One of the most famous attractions on Capri, the Blue Grotto is a stunning sea cave where the azure waters create a unique luminosity. Take a small rowboat into the cave to witness the magical effect firsthand. Due to space limitations within the cave, be sure to arrive early to avoid long wait times.
- Marina Piccola – This small beach and charming port are the perfect spot for relaxation. Known for its beautiful scenery and excellent swimming opportunities, it offers a calm atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle. Enjoy delicious snacks and drinks at beachfront cafés while soaking up the sun and enjoying the breathtaking views of the cliffs rising behind you.
The Best Times to Cruise to Capri
Capri has a Mediterranean climate, making it a delightful destination almost year-round. From January to March, temperatures are mild, typically ranging from 8°C to 15°C; this period is ideal for exploring the island with lower tourist traffic. Spring (April to June) brings warmer temperatures of 10°C to 24°C, perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the blooming flowers. The summer months (July to September) can be hot, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C; this is also peak tourist season, so expect vibrant nightlife and plenty of events. Autumn (October to December) cools down to 10°C to 20°C, offering pleasant weather for exploring more quaint locales as crowds start to decrease.
Costs of Cruising to Capri
A typical one-week cruise to Capri usually costs between £700 and £1,500, with prices depending on the cruise line and accommodation type. Luxury cruises generally start at around £3,000, potentially rising based on the level of service and included amenities. While on the island, you can expect to spend about £10 to £30 for meals at local restaurants, with drinks typically costing between £3 and £8, allowing you to sample authentic Italian cuisine throughout your stay.
With its breathtaking views, captivating culture, and delightful activities, Capri is a dream destination for any traveller. Now is the perfect time to book your cruise holiday through Cruise1st and set off on an extraordinary journey into the heart of the Mediterranean!