The sparkling blue waters of the Bay of Naples beckon visitors to the coastline of southern Italy. Nestled along these idyllic shores are the charming cliffside towns of Sorrento and the mystical isle of Capri, connected by regular ferry crossings that offer breathtaking views. Taking the ferry is the perfect way to hop between these two destinations and take in scenes of rocky outcroppings, azure seas, and pastel-colored villages.
Scheduling Your Ferry Trip from Sorrento to Capri
Frequent ferry services run between Sorrento and Capri, making island-hopping smooth and convenient. The journey takes only 20 minutes by swift hydrofoil or 40 minutes on slower ferries. Boats depart every 30-60 minutes during peak season, with options from ferry operators like Alilauro, SNAV, NLG and Caremar. Tickets generally cost €18-25 roundtrip and can be purchased on each company’s website, at Sorrento’s ferry terminal, or directly on boats. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to queue on busy days.
The closest port to Sorrento’s town center is Marina Piccola, a pleasant 10 minute walk or quick ride on the orange Alilauro shuttle from Piazza Tasso. Luggage space is limited onboard, so pack light. Check weather forecasts and sea conditions, as high winds can delay boats. Brave the queues in summer or visit in spring and fall for fewer crowds. Once on enchanting Capri, use the island’s buses or steep pathways to reach sights like the iconic Faraglioni rock formations.
Exploring the Captivating Isle of Capri
With its hilltop towns, jagged coastal cliffs and ethereal Blue Grotto sea cave glowing with unearthly neon light, Capri has beguiled visitors for centuries. Beyond the main harbor lies whitewashed Capri Town, filled with high-end shops and cafes lining the bustling central square of Piazza Umberto. From here, winding pathways and chairlifts climb up to Anacapri with its panoramic views, peaceful Villa San Michele gardens and the stunning natural arch of Monte Solaro.
Or escape to Capri’s more peaceful corners like the sleepy fishing village of Marina Piccola or the flowering trails of Arco Naturale and Via Krupp. Savor leisurely lunches of fresh seafood linguine, chilled local limoncello and the island’s famous torta caprese cake, as you take in picture-perfect Mediterranean vistas of glittering waves and dramatic limestone cliffs.
Sorrento, Gateway to the Island and the Amalfi Coast
Your journey across the Bay of Naples begins in Sorrento. This coastal resort town charms with its lively main plaza — Piazza Tasso — rimmed by buildings in shades of ochre and terra cotta. Winding cobblestone alleyways weave past elegant churches, as sounds of tarantella folk music spill from bustling trattorias. Stroll tree-lined paths in the lush Villa Comunale gardens that overlook the sea. The Foreigner’s Club promises phenomenal sunset views across the bay to Mount Vesuvius.
Just a short drive along cliffside roads lie the pastel-hued villages of the UNESCO-protected Amalfi Coast, like Positano and Amalfi itself. From Sorrento, ferries and hydrofoils also sail to famed destinations like Capri, Ischia, and Naples. Sorrento makes an idyllic base for exploring the region.
As you bask in warm winds aboard sleek ferries headed for an island escape, embrace Sorrento and Capri’s timeless beauty. Savor the saltwater breezes, sparkling blue seas and languid Italian culture as you sail across the Bay of Naples into a land of myth and wonder.
