• Hydrofoils: Hydrofoils are fast and frequent, so they’re ideal if you want to optimize time. The trip between Capri and Sorrento takes about 20-25 minutes and the crossings are quite frequent.

• Fast ferry: The high-speed ferry is a slightly slower option (it takes about 30 minutes on the Sorrento - Capri route) but is a cheap ferry (the ticket price is a few euros less than the hydrofoil). It has a reduced timetable compared to the hydrofoil, therefore ferry crossings are less frequent.

• High season (April-October): Trips are frequent, with departures every 30-60 minutes from early morning until afternoon

• Low season: Ferry crossings are available in the winter with a slightly reduced timetable, therefore less frequent

• First ferry departure: Usually around 7:15 am from Sorrento

• Last ferry departure: Crossings usually run until around 7 pm, with the last ferry departing from Capri to Sorrento at 7:40 pm.

• From Sorrento: All ferry operators depart from the port of Marina Piccola.

• Arrival in Capri: Ferry companies dock at the port of Marina Grande. From there you can see the island’s main attractions by taking the funicular to the Piazzetta, or by taking a taxi or bus.

Where is the Port of Sorrento?

The Port of Sorrento, known as Marina Piccola, is the only public-transport embarkation point for traveling to the island of Capri and other destinations in the Gulf of Naples. It’s just a short distance from the city center and you can get there easily on foot, by taxi, or by public transport. The other port in Sorrento, Marina Grande, is used only for boat tours.

How to reach the Port of Sorrento from the city center:

On foot: The road to the Port of Sorrento starts at the centrally located Piazza Tasso. Take the long staircase that starts at the railing overlooking the sea. It’s about 100 steps, then there’s a stretch of road where you’ll walk downhill. Getting to the Port of Sorrento from Piazza Tasso on foot takes about 10 minutes.

By elevator: If you’re traveling with suitcases, small children, or you have mobility issues on large staircases, you can take the elevator at Villa Comunale (next to the church and cloister of San Francesco) to get to the port. It costs about one euro.

Bus: Several buses go to the port from the main train station and Piazza Sant’Antonino. The buses are run by EAV and Cooperativa Tasso. Tickets cost about 1.50 euros and you can buy them on board, cash only.

Although it’s easy to walk to the Port of Sorrento in order to embark on the hydrofoil to Capri, the return trip requires climbing steps and is more tiring. When you come back from Capri, we recommend taking the bus or the elevator to get back up.

If you’re not staying in Sorrento and you need to get to the Port of Sorrento, you can reach the city center with the Circumvesuviana, which is the local train that connects Naples to Sorrento, or with an EAV bus. A direct bus runs from Piano di Sorrento and Sant’Agnello to the Port of Sorrento.

Parking at the Port of Sorrento

If you’re coming by car, you’ll have to leave your car in Sorrento before embarking for Capri. During the period from Easter to the beginning of November, non-residents can’t bring vehicles to Capri. So, you’ll have to leave your vehicle in Sorrento. The closest parking lot to the embarkation pier for Capri is Garage Marina Piccola. The daily rate (24 hours) starts at 32 euros per day for small cars. There are also several parking lots in the center of Sorrento that offer a shuttle service to the port. They are definitely an option to consider because the road to the port is particularly winding and busy.

Next to the ticket offices there is a parking lot for scooters with a daily rate of 5 euros (from morning to evening).

Marina Piccola Parking:

• Location: The closest parking lot to the port

• Rates: About €40 euros per day

• Ideal for short stops and for those who want extra convenience

Economical parking lots with shuttle:

• Location: Outside the city center, with cheaper rates

• Services: Some offer a free or paid shuttle service to reach the port

• Ideal if you want to save money or plan to spend several days at the port

• Arrive at the port 30 minutes early if you need to buy a ticket or your reservation requires check-in at the ticket office

• Make sure you have a roundtrip ticket to return from Capri

• Sit on the left side of the hydrofoil to admire the view

• Check the weather, because rough seas can cause cancellations

• Hydrofoils: Air-conditioned interior spaces, comfortable seating, restrooms and a snack bar. Some hydrofoils also have outdoor seating, but it’s not possible to know in advance if yours will.

• Fast ferry: Panoramic outdoor areas (but no seating), vehicle transport, extra space for luggage, restrooms and a snack bar

• When to travel

• Spring and fall: Mild temperatures and fewer tourists, perfect for a more relaxed experience

• Summer: More frequent ferry crossings, but also lots of tourist crowds. It’s essential to arrive at the port in advance.

• How to book ferry tickets

• Online: Platforms such as Capri.com or Blublu.travel allow you to book easily and compare timetables and prices in real time.

• Ticket office: All ferry companies have ticket offices at the port of Marina Piccola

Yes, you can reach the island of Capri from Sorrento all year round thanks to frequent ferry and hydrofoil crossings. During high season (April-October), Sorrento-Capri there are departures every 30-60 minutes, ensuring a comfortable and punctual service. The main companies, such as Alilauro Gruson, SNAV, NLG (Navigazione Libera del Golfo), Laser Capri and Caremar offer hydrofoils, high-speed ferries and traditional ferries. Hydrofoils are best if you want to optimize time while traditional ferries are ideal for a more relaxed crossing or if you’re traveling with bulky luggage.

In addition to Capri, from Sorrento you can easily reach other destinations in the Gulf of Naples. There are regular crossings from Sorrento to Ischia and from Sorrento to Procida. If you want to visit the Amalfi Coast, there are frequent connections from Sorrento to Amalfi, Sorrento to Positano, and between Capri and Positano, perfect for an excursion along the coast.

Ferry crossings are also available from the ports of Castellammare di Stabia and Salerno, which are well-connected to Capri and other destinations.

The ferry crossings between Sorrento and the island of Capri vary greatly between high and low season, both in terms of frequency and availability.

Sorrento-Capri in high season (April-October)

• More frequent: During the spring and summer months, companies increase the number of departures to meet tourist demand. Departures are available every 30-60 minutes, from early morning until evening.

• Reservations recommended: Given the high number of tourists, especially on weekends and between June and September, booking in advance is key for finding availability and avoiding long lines.

• Boarding times: Show up at least 30 minutes before departure to allow ample time for boarding procedures, especially for the return from Capri, where the lines can be longer.

• Sorrento-Capri in low season (November-March)

If you’re dreaming of visiting Capri at its most relaxing and authentic, the winter months are ideal. There are still ferry crossings, but with a few things to keep in mind:

• Less frequency, more tranquility: The trips become less frequent, approximately every 1-2 hours, with reduced timetables (latest daily departure between 6 pm and 7 pm).

• No crowds, all relaxation: The low season is perfect if you want to avoid rushing and enjoy the island with fewer tourists.

• Unpredictable weather conditions: The hydrofoils are lighter and therefore more sensitive to rough seas, so always keep an eye on the weather forecast to avoid delays or cancellations.

Practical tips for both seasons

• Book online: In high season booking in advance is essential, while in low season you can easily purchase your tickets directly at the port. Even then, however, we recommend that you check your departure time to verify that it hasn’t changed due to inclement weather.

• Pay attention to the weather: In the event of bad weather you can call the ferry companies’ call centers to get updated on current conditions and timetables, especially in the winter months.

• Manage your luggage: During the summer, consider there may be supplements for large bags; in winter, the rules tend to be more flexible.

• Plan your return trip: Whether it’s summer or winter, make sure to choose a return time that gives you plenty of room to make any onward connections you might have scheduled in your journey. We also recommend you purchase your return ticket in advance.

The main companies that operate on the Sorrento-Capri route are Alilauro, SNAV, NLG (Navigazione Libera del Golfo), Laser Capri and Caremar. The differences between their services are minimal:

• Alilauro, SNAV and NLG (Navigazione Libera del Golfo): Fast hydrofoils, ideal if you’re looking for speed and comfort in a short crossing. They offer frequent departures and modernized services.

• Laser Capri: Motorboats and excursion boats, smaller boats. They operate mainly in the summer months (April-October). Slightly slower speed than hydrofoils. Ideal if you want to take a scenic tour. They have outdoor seating and also offer packages combining a transfer to Capri with a tour of the island.

• Caremar: The best choice for those traveling with bulky luggage or vehicles because of the ferries’ high capacity and ample outdoor spaces.

In addition to the main ferry companies on the Sorrento-Capri route, operators such as Laser Capri offer seasonal and customized crossings using smaller boats, which is ideal if you’re seeking a more intimate and authentic experience.

Laser Capri also departs from the port of Piano di Sorrento and other ports in the province of Naples.

• Reduced capacity: These boats carry between 50 and 100 passengers.

• Dedicated staff: There are hostesses and stewards on board to assist passengers.

• Moderate speed: Crossings are slower but have scenic views and outdoor seating.

• Advance booking: Reserving in advance is essential in high season, given the limited number of seats.

• Essential comfort: Less space than ferries, but breathtaking views and direct contact with the sea.

Crossing times and duration

What to do if you arrive late for the ferry

If you arrive late, immediately check the time of the next trip. During high season, departures are frequent (every 30-60 minutes), making it easy to find an alternative. Check the updated timetable online or at the port boards.

If you already have a ticket, many companies such as Alilauro, SNAV, NLG and Caremar allow you to change the time by paying a small commission.

Capri is very close to Sorrento, just nine nautical miles (about 16 km), making the crossing quick and comfortable. You’ll also enjoy scenic views.

The best way to admire the view is to sit on the left side during the crossing. From the left side of the boat you’ll be able to see the cliffs of the Sorrento Peninsula, the Bagni della Regina Giovanna, the village of Massa Lubrense and Punta Campanella.

Sitting on the left side of the boat also offers the best view as you approach the island of Capri. The Port of Marina Grande will be among the first views that grab your attention. The crossing is almost like a mini cruise, perfect if you want to start your day of exploration with a touch of natural beauty.

You’ll arrive in Capri at the Port of Marina Grande. From here you can easily reach the island’s main points of interest, such as Anacapri and the Piazzetta.

One carry-on bag is included in the ticket price, but larger bags may incur a supplement (usually between €2 and €5 per piece). Staff on board will instruct you on where to store large bags.

Pets are allowed on board, but must be kept on a leash and wear a muzzle (for dogs) or be transported in cages or carriers (for cats and small animals). Some companies apply a small supplement for transporting animals. You must have all the animal's documents with you.

Ferries and hydrofoils are generally equipped to accommodate people with reduced mobility. Staff are ready to help during boarding and disembarking.

Children are entitled to discounts or free tickets on Sorrento - Capri hydrofoils.

Gescab hydrofoils (Snav, Navigazione Libera del Golfo, Gescab)

• 0-2 years: Free

• 3-12 years: Reduced-price ticket

Caremar regular ferry and high-speed ferry

• Ages 0-5: Free

• Ages 6-12: Reduced-price ticket

The hydrofoil and ferry aren’t the only ways to reach Capri. An alternative is to book a tour with a private boat or join a small-group tour departing from Sorrento. Tours include a transfer from Sorrento to Capri (sometimes with direct pick-up from your hotel), a tour of the island, a stop for a few hours to visit the island on foot, and return trip to the port of Sorrento.

• Advance booking: Essential in high season to ensure availability

• Budget: Prices from €100 euros per person and up

• Weather: Choose a day with calm seas for an optimal experience

• Relaxing swims in the crystal-clear waters

• Exploration of fascinating caves such as the Green Grotto and the White Grotto

• Panoramic navigation around the Faraglioni, perfect for spectacular photos

Benefits

• Flexible choice of times and the chance to swim or explore hidden sea caves

• Exclusive access to coves and attractions such as the Faraglioni and the Blue Grotto

• Intimate atmosphere for romantic moments or private experiences with friends or family

What's included

• Professional skipper: Expert guide for exploring the best routes

• Equipment on board: Beach towels, snorkeling, drinks, and in some cases, snacks or lunch

• Duration: Half day (4 hours) or full day (6-8 hours)

Once you arrive at the port of Marina Grande you have various options for getting to the center of Capri or Anacapri.

To get to the Piazzetta:

• Funicular (ticket price €2.50): If the line is really long you can look for buses at Molo 21

• We absolutely do not recommend walking up to the Piazzetta because the climb is very steep and tiring

• Taxi (about 20 euros)

To get to Anacapri:

• Direct bus

• Taxi (about 25-30 euros)

To visit the Blue Grotto, you can choose between a boat tour departing from Marina Grande (about 20-25 euros), or arrive by land. For ground transport, at the Piazzetta take a bus to Anacapri, then another to the Blue Grotto, with a short final stretch on foot. The total journey lasts about 30 minutes and the total cost is 2-3 euros for each stretch.