The ferry schedules include several trips in the morning from Ischia to Capri, returning in the late afternoon. In the summer the first ferry leaves around 9 am and the return trip is usually in the afternoon around 5 pm. This service is perfect if you want to visit Capri for a day trip departing from Ischia. The crossing takes about 50 minutes and offers a scenic cruise through the Gulf of Naples with spectacular views of Vesuvius and the island of Procida.

There are several departure ports on the island of Ischia.

• Ischia Porto: This is the island’s main port, where hydrofoils and high-speed ferries dock. It’s the liveliest place on the island, with snack bars, restaurants, and shops, as well as car and scooter rental agencies.

• Forio: The port of Forio is located on the island’s west coast and is used by both commercial and private boats.

• Lacco Ameno: This is a small pier exclusively for private boats.

• Casamicciola: Located on the island’s north coast, this port can accommodate both commercial and private boats.

Sometimes the same ship stops at several of the Ischia ports so passengers can embark at the pier closest to where they’re staying.

In Capri, you’ll dock at the Port of Marina Grande, the islands main port. Once you disembark you can get to the center of Capri or Anacapri using the funicular, or by taxi or bus.

The ferry companies that offer crossings to Capri are:

• Alicost

• Alilauro

• Capitan Morgan

These companies use small hydrofoils and motorboats, which are suitable for transporting a small number of passengers and allow you to take in the scenic beauty of the Gulf of Naples during the crossing.

Large ferries, such as those operated by Caremar and Snava, are used for the crossings between Ischia and Naples.

• Book in advance: This route is very popular, so we recommend you buy your return ticket in advance.

• Arrive early: Show up at the port at least 20-30 minutes before departure to allow plenty of time for boarding procedures.

• Weather conditions: Always check the weather. In the event of rough seas, crossings may be suspended, however in this case your ticket is always refundable. You can call the ferry companies in advance to get information on current sea conditions.

Hydrofoils offer comfortable indoor seating and restrooms. Some boats also have an outdoor area where you can take in the view directly on deck and/or a small snack bar for refreshments.

The best time to travel by ferry from Ischia to Capri is between May and September, when the sea is generally calm and crossings are more frequent. In the winter months, direct crossings may be reduced or suspended.

An alternative to taking a ferry is a private tour to Capri. Renting a private boat with a skipper is the perfect option if you’re looking for an exclusive, tailor-made experience in complete privacy. This option lets you to choose the departure and return times that suit you best, giving you maximum flexibility.

Private boat tours include a tour of the island of Capri with stops to admire the Faraglioni and visit the Blue Grotto. You can then stop for lunch in a seaside restaurant, or dock at the port for free time on land.

The boats available for these tours range from small traditional gozzo boats to luxury yachts. Most boats provide various amenities during the trip, including refreshments on board, beach towels, snorkeling equipment, and ample areas for relaxing and sunbathing. A private boat tour is ideal for couples who want a romantic experience, for families looking for a memorable adventure, or for a group of friends that want to have a relaxing time at sea far from the tourist crowds. Prices start from around 800 euros for a medium-sized boat with skipper, but can vary based on the specific boat and any extra services requested.

On ferries between Ischia and Capri, one carry-on bag is included in the ticket price. For large bags, a supplement is required.

Children up to 12 years old are entitled to discounts on tickets, which vary between ferry companies.

Pets are generally allowed on ferries, but they require a reservation and small supplemental cost. They must have valid health documents and, in the case of dogs, travel with a leash and muzzle. Some companies provide areas especially for animals, making the journey more comfortable for them and other passengers.

Once you disembark at Marina Grande, you can:

• take the funicular to reach the island’s famous central square called the Piazzetta, and visit the Gardens of Augustus.

• take the bus to Anacapri to take the chairlift up to Monte Solaro.

• take a boat tour to visit the famous Blue Grotto or the Faraglioni.

We recommend you plan in advance what you want to see and do during your Carpi day trip so you can hit the ground running once you arrive and optimize the time you have to spend on the island.