Capri’s Blue Grotto: An Italian Wonderland That Could Turn Into a Nightmare for Tourists During High Tide

Published on July 26, 2025

A bucket list item for the ages, the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra) in Capri has dazzled visitors since Roman times with its iridescent waters and ancient aura. Just a hop, skip and a jump from the Amalfi Coast, Capri draws visitors the world over looking to enjoy the spoils of its dramatic natural beauty and sophisticated allure. But in the wake of a recent viral video, many tourists are reconsidering a visit to what has long been one of the island’s most iconic — and iconic selfie-worthy — attractions.

The Blue Grotto is a longtime attraction for tourists, attracting those who wish to see the intense blue light that decorates the cave. It happens because the sunlight enters through an underwater cavity and the water from inside of the cave, reflects back as slightly blue color water, making it glistering. Visitors regularly ferry over from the island’s Marina Grande in little rowing boats, and the experience inside the cave is said to resemble floating in the sky.

However, In a shared video, a boat operator struggles to navigate a small vessel through the narrow entrance of the cave, with waves making the situation precarious. The boat appears to be on the verge of capsizing, causing alarm among viewers.

According to local regulations and information from Italian tourism authorities, the Blue Grotto is accessible only when sea conditions are calm. The entrance to the cave is a low arch, standing at just one meter high, and boats must navigate it carefully. When the tide is high or the sea is rough, accessing the cave becomes difficult, and boats are often unable to enter. High winds and unpredictable sea conditions can make these visits dangerous, particularly for those unfamiliar with the area.

A tourist familiar with the site explained, “The cave is often closed during high tide or very rough seas to avoid accidents. That’s why it’s important to check the sea conditions before planning a visit.” Some viewers of the video even shared their concern, commenting on the potential dangers of visiting during high tides, with one user quipping: “You paid to get waterboarded in a cave. That’s wild!”

Despite the viral incident, many travelers still maintain that the Blue Grotto is a must-visit location. One visitor noted he had been to the Blue Grotto a few times but never during high tide. When the sea is calm, it’s one of the most beautiful experiences he had had in Italy. He could not imagine visiting during such conditions, but I’d go again on a calm day.

n response to the increasing number of such complaints, community leaders have reminded tourists that they must always check the sea before they take a boat. Maritime safety is first for the boatmen as for passengers, ascertains the official tourism site of the isle of Capri. All of the boat drivers are trained to judge the tides and react accordingly, the website said. Lose Out: The best time to visit the Blue Grotto is when the sea is quite calm due to safety concerns, so tourists are warned.

While some visitors have been scared off by the viral video, others continue to defend the Blue Grotto experience. A traveler shared that he could understand the fears after seeing the video, but I went to the Blue Grotto on a calm day and it was unforgettable. It’s a rare sight that everyone should see at least once.

Italy’s government and tourism bodies continue to promote safe travel experiences and encourage visitors to follow official advice regarding weather conditions. The Blue Grotto remains one of Capri’s most iconic attractions, with over 1.5 million people visiting the island annually, many of them seeking the magical experience of entering the cave.

Tourists who plan to visit Capri and the Blue Grotto in the future should consult the official tourism websites for up-to-date information on sea conditions and advisories. Several boat companies operate guided tours that prioritize safety, and they can offer guidance on the best times to visit.

In summary, the Blue Grotto is an ethereal and breathtaking experience, but heed caution for when you visit it – especially if you visit during high tide or when the sea is rough. The latest viral video is a reminder that this mind-blowing place should not distract from being safe too. Like several visitors noted, it is also important to look at the weather to see if it is safe to go out on a boat tour and enjoy this quintessential Italian adventure, but without the danger.