Spotlight on Capri, Italy
A picturesque island off the coast of southern Italy, Capri charms unlike any other yachting destination—renowned for its dramatic cliffs, grottoes, and luxurious resort vibe.
Tucked in the Gulf of Naples off the Amalfi Coast, the luxurious island of Capri is defined by its breathtaking landscapes and upscale beach resorts. The volcanic island sits pretty between the Marina Grande and Marina Piccola harbors. Besides upscale boutiques and abundant seafood cafés, the island delivers discerning travelers unsurpassed natural beauty and rich history.
A Rich History
With a rich history dating back to prehistoric times, Capri became a storied resort for Roman emperors Augustus and Tiberius, who built lavish villas on the island, most notably the Villa Jovis. After the Roman Empire, Capri was known for exchanging hands between various kingdoms and republics —the Republic of Amalfi, the Kingdom of Naples, and the French—before ultimately becoming a celebrated resort destination. The island also charms locals, with a little over 12,000 permanent residents, many of whom make their living as writers and artists, cafe owners, and proprietors of boutiques, beach clubs, and restaurants.
A Favorite of the Rich & Famous
Since the nineteenth century, Capri became a popular vacation spot among the rich and famous for its stunning natural beauty, iconic Blue Grotto, and incredible views. Over the years but particularly since the latter half of the nineteenth century, Capri has attracted artists, writers, and jetsetters alike, leading to its reputation as a glamorous and exclusive getaway for celebrities. Famous residents include the German painter Karl Wilhelm Diefenbach and the Swedish physician Axel Munthe, who built the renowned Villa San Michele and tended to its beautiful gardens. Today, it’s quite likely you’ll spot many famous faces—from Hollywood celebrities to high-profile athletes—dining in the Piazzetta or relaxing on the island's exclusive beaches.
Don’t Miss the Evening Ambience
The small size of SeaDream’s intimate twin yachts allows guests a Capri experience that larger ships cannot replicate. As often as possible, SeaDream Yacht Club docks alongside in Capri until late at night or even overnight, so guests can step off the yacht and into Capri with ease. This unique experience provides the ultimate freedom to linger longer and explore more. For those who may not be familiar with the island, Capri offers a sophisticated charm that comes alive in the evening. A guest favorite includes boarding the funicular that runs between the port in Marina Grande and the Piazzetta in Capri town above, where incredible views, buzzing bistros, and luxe boutiques await.
Charming Anacapri
The village of Anacapri, located high on the hills to the west, offers ample opportunity to take in museums, wine bistros, and art galleries. Visitors can continue up to Mt. Solero, the island’s highest point, for breathtaking views. Ascend the infamous 921 Phoenician Steps, linking the port of Marina Grande with Anacapri, which for thousands of years provided the only means of reaching the village before the carriageway was completed in 1874.
Take the Chairlift up to Monte Salero
One of the most incredible views on Capri can be found from the summit of Monte Solaro, a 12-minute ride via chairlift from Piazza Vittoria in Anacapri. As the highest spot on the island, the panoramic view extending across Capri, the Bay of Naples, and over the Amalfi Coast beyond is breathtaking. If you prefer to hike, the route to the summit takes a little over an hour. The nearby Cetrella Hermitage, a rustic seventeenth-century religious refuge surrounded by wild lemon-scented herbs, is worth a stop on your way up the mountain.
Historic Gardens of Augustus & Villa San Michele
While in Capri, be sure to visit the Gardens of Augustus (Giardini di Augusto to locals), Certosa di San Giacomo, an Carthusian monastery founded in 1363, and the Villa San Michele, originally the dream home of Swedish physician Axel Munthe. Munthe built his villa on the ruins of an ancient chapel and dedicated it to San Michele, following a series of sketches made on the wall. This villa has breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples and hosts a number of ancient artifacts. In the garden there is a Greek tomb and a granite Sphinx that gazes out over the entire Island.
Nature Beckons: Faraglioni Rocks & the Blue Grotto
Capri’s natural beauty is best approached by sea, where hidden sea caves, picturesque coves, and dramatic rock formations, including the Faraglioni Rocks, can be seen. The Blue Grotto dates to the Romans and was used by the Emperor Tiberius. The sunlight passes through a small hole in the cave wall at precisely the waterline, resulting in the most surreal electric blue light glowing in the water.
Are you ready to experience the charms of Capri and the Amalfi Coast yourself? SeaDream provides you with an intimate view of these destinations unlike any other boutique travel line. Click here to check availability and reserve your next voyage.