Mythology once called the small island of Capri the Isle of Sirens, a place where enchanting women were said to lure sailors with their beauty. Today, Capri—just off the Sorrentine Peninsula—still captivates visitors, but the island’s draw is different: visitors are lured by its dramatic coastline, crystalline waters, and personalized boat tours. One company in particular, Gianni’s Boats, offers custom excursions that bring travelers around and even into the island’s most celebrated coves and grottos, providing an authentic immersion in Capri’s culture and history.
Gianni’s passion for the sea began when his family settled on Capri decades ago. While studying economics at the University of Naples, he spent every spare moment on the water. His academic reputation grew, but so did his renown as a skipper, thanks in part to the convivial “gozzo parties” he hosted. These gatherings and his deep knowledge of local waters helped him build a loyal following.
Turning his love of sailing into a career, Gianni founded a private tour company originally called Gianni’s Boat. With family support, he created tailored experiences for visitors who wanted to explore Capri by sea. Each tour typically ended with a toast featuring mamma Rita’s homemade limoncello, a gesture that immediately charmed guests. As word of Gianni’s skill at navigating to hidden coves and lesser-known grottos spread, he expanded the operation, renamed it Gianni’s Boats, and developed a fleet that would become one of Capri’s most recommended operators.
Today, Gianni’s Boats runs a variety of tours around Capri and along the Amalfi Coast, accommodating groups of different sizes and preferences. For larger parties he often coordinates multiple vessels so everyone can travel together while enjoying the comfort of a smaller boat. The most popular option is a three-hour circumnavigation of Capri aboard an authentic gozzo. This itinerary includes a visit to the famous Blue Grotto—where Gianni’s experience often helps guests avoid long waits at the entrance—as well as stops at several lesser-known grottos, secluded coves, and carefully chosen swim spots timed for ideal sunshine and sea conditions.
Onboard, guests are welcomed like family. Many tours include homemade snacks and treats from Mamma Rita’s kitchen, and the crew shares stories of Gianni’s father, Antonio, and his brother Paolo—recounting both their sailing triumphs and a few memorable misadventures. Small practical touches contribute to the homey atmosphere: visitors are asked to place used linens and towels in a bin at the end of the voyage to make it easier for Mamma Rita, who continues to wash many items by hand.
Several special add-ons let guests personalize their time on the water—fresh fruit platters, onboard massages, picnic lunches, live serenades, and Champagne paired with seasonal fruit or oysters are all available. Gianni’s philosophy is simple and flexible: “If you want something, just ask. Anything is possible.” This commitment to customization and hospitality is what keeps visitors returning to experience Capri from the sea.
Whether you seek a relaxed swim in a quiet cove, an intimate exploration of sea caves, or a festive outing with friends and family, Gianni’s Boats offers carefully curated experiences that highlight the natural beauty and warm traditions of Capri. Each tour blends local knowledge, family hospitality, and a love for sailing into a memorable island experience.