What was supposed to be one of the highlights of a dream vacation in Capri, Italy, turned into a “terrifying” experience that an American couple will never forget.
Like thousands of visitors, Sherina Welch and her husband booked a trip to the island’s famous Blue Grotto in July 2026, expecting a peaceful journey to one of Italy’s most recognizable natural attractions.
The sea cave, known for its bright blue water, can only be accessed by transferring from a larger tour boat to small wooden rowboats that slip through a narrow cave entrance when conditions permit.
Welch, 49, told PEOPLE that there was no cause for concern at first because “everything seemed normal” and “the water seemed calm”but within moments, the trip took a scary turn.
Since the Blue Grotto frequently closes when the waves get too strong, Welch says he assumed operators would only allow boat access if it was safe.
She, her husband, another couple and the rowboat captain went in the small craft after arriving from the larger tour boat, relying on the experience of the crew. This confidence, however, disappeared almost instantly.
“We realized something was wrong when our boat hit the top of the rock and we swallowed water!”says Welch. “I was completely soaked and lying in a boat full of water.”
And as the water poured into the boat, panic quickly replaced the excitement of entering the world-famous cave.
“For a moment, we thought we were going to be stuck there“, admits Welch. “I actually asked before we went in what happens if you get in but can’t get out? And one of the employees mentioned that they would have to call in the divers.”
Inside the cave the confusion intensified as people shouted directions in Italian as the passengers tried to understand what was happening. Instead of reassuring those on board, Welch claims the captain initially tried to continue the tour.
“He kept on singing and paddling and showing us the grotto, all the while we were wet, confused and scared“, she says. “There was also a language barrier, so that didn’t help, but other boat guides in the cave, from other boats, were yelling at our guy and each other. The other couple in our boat started crying and I was trying to calm them down.”
And while the rescue itself only lasted a few minutes, Welch says, “It seemed like forever.”
Fortunately, relief finally arrived when another guide stepped in to help. “His boat came near us and he waved to us to get into his boat quickly, because ours was sinking!”, she recalls.
After they made it safely back to the main island, Welch says their original tour guide completely changed the tone of their day.
He apologized repeatedly, checked on the group, treated them kindly and even took them to a local shop where they were offered dry clothes so they could continue to enjoy Capri despite the ordeal.
Looking back, Welch hopes that other travelers will remember that even iconic attractions deserve careful consideration before boarding.
“You realize nothing is worth your safety,” she says. “And, by mistake, I put it on trusting others when I should have been paying more attention to the weather.”
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