Although Capri is the second largest of the islands in the Bay of Naples (after Ischia), it’s by far the most famous and popular to visit. Located only about 20 nautical miles from the coast of Naples, the island of Capri is an Italian dream. To reach Capri from Naples you can take a regular ferry, fast ferry, or hydrofoil, choosing from a variety of ferry companies. You can also opt for a private transfer, which is a special VIP option that’s the most fun and flexible.
Getting to Capri from Naples by ferry
Taking the regular ferry offers the cheapest ticket prices for getting between Naples and Capri. This is also the best option for those who tend to get seasick because the larger vessel makes for a smoother ferry trip. Regular ferries run year round, while other options are available during high season only. The regular ferry is the slowest way to travel between the island and mainland. It takes about 80 minutes for the direct ferry to cross the Gulf of Naples to the port of Capri.
Ferries to Capri (Naples-Capri ferries) mainly depart from the Calata Porta di Massa port in Naples. High-speed ferries also depart from this port, which are an option between regular ferries and hydrofoils in terms of stability, speed, and cost. The company that operates on the Capri ferry route route is Caremar.
What if seas are rough?
Regular ferries are the only routes that continue to run when sea conditions are choppy. They are also the only ferries that allow passengers to board vehicles. Hydrofoils are passenger-only fast ferries.
Ferries that run between Naples and Capri have restrooms, unguarded luggage storage, snack bars, and indoor/outdoor seating. There are numerous ferries that depart each day, depending upon the season and sea conditions. We suggest checking the ferry schedules and timetables shortly before departure either by checking the ferry company website or calling the ticket office directly.
Getting to Capri from Naples by hydrofoil
The high-speed ferry or hydrofoil is a faster way to travel from Naples to Capri, or vice versa. These routes take only about 40 minutes to make the crossing. Hydrofoils have higher ticket prices than regular ferries and the vessels are smaller. Since they are lighter, they tend to be more unstable when seas are rough, which is something to keep in mind if you tend to suffer from seasickness.
Generally, passengers are not allowed to sit on the external decks on hydrofoils, and there is not always snack bar service; however, restrooms are always available.
Molo Beverello
High-speed hydrofoils set sail from Naples' Molo Beverello port, located in the heart of Naples near the Maschio Angioino castle. You can reach Molo Beverello from the Capodichino airport or Napoli Centrale train station via the 3S bus or metro line 1 towards Piscinola (get off at the Municipio station, located about 100 meters from the port). Alternatively you can take a taxi, just make sure to request the fixed fare for the departure port (porto), which is about 20 euros from Naples Capodichino Airport and 12 euros from the Naples central train station. A taxi is a good option if you have little time or if you are traveling with heavy bags.
All regular ferries, high-speed ferries, and hydrofoils dock at Marina Grande port on Capri, where you can catch a variety of transportation options into Capri, including the funicular to the Piazzetta as well as buses and taxis for Capri and Anacapri.
Getting to Capri from Naples by private transfer
The fastest and most stress-free way to get from Naples to Capri is via an all-inclusive private transfer, where you’ll avoid public transport delays and crowds. With a private transfer, you can choose your departure time and relax on a private boat during the crossing. You won’t have to deal with the hassle of coordinating ferry schedules, timetables, and other travel details between Naples and Capri or vice versa. Private transfers generally include pickup at the airport or train station and private car service to the port, speedboat crossing with an English-speaking skipper to Capri, and transport from Marina Grande (port of Capri) to your island hotel, generally via a traditional open-top island taxi. The price per person is typically higher than ferry ticket prices, but for a large family or group of friends or fellow travelers, a private transfer is often not much more expensive than purchasing individual ferry tickets.
Once on Capri?
If you only have one day to visit the island, use this helpful itinerary:
Capri Day Trip - A One-Day Itinerary
If you have more time, this itinerary is a good place to start: