Half day Private boat tour to visit Maddalena Archipelago

Discovering Sardinia’s Maddalena Archipelago or South Corsica by Private Boat

When it comes to enjoying the tranquil beauty of Sardinia, a half-day private boat tour around the Maddalena Archipelago or south Corsica offers a unique way to see some of the most breathtaking spots without the crowds. For around $644 per group (up to 10 people), this 4-hour tour provides a tailored experience on a maxi rib boat, leaving from Palau’s harbor. Whether you’re after crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, or a taste of local maritime charm, this adventure promises both relaxation and discovery.

What we love most about this tour are the personalized routes designed daily based on weather and guest preferences—meaning each trip is uniquely suited to the group’s desires. The second highlight is the expert local guide and skipper, who ensures safety and provides insightful commentary about the islands and their protected status. It’s perfect if you enjoy a mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and quiet beach time.

A possible consideration is the additional gasoline cost—ranging roughly from 70 to 180 Euros—which you’ll pay directly. For travelers on a tight budget, this might feel like an extra expense, but it’s worth noting that the price primarily covers the private experience and the personalized route.

This tour is best suited for those who value privacy, flexibility, and a more intimate experience. It’s ideal for couples, families, or small groups wanting to explore at their own pace, avoiding crowded boat tours and large group itineraries. If you love personalized adventures with the freedom to choose your stops, this is a strong choice.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Up to 10 guests enjoy a tailored 4-hour trip.
• Flexible Route: Itinerary is personalized daily based on weather and guest preferences.
• Highlights: Visit stunning spots like Spargi, Budelli, Razzoli, Santa Maria, or south Corsica islands like Lavezzi, Cavallo, and Bonifacio.
• Snorkeling & Relaxation: Includes snorkeling masks, ice box, and multiple stops for swimming and relaxing.
• Cost transparency: Gasoline is paid separately, offering flexibility in planning.
• Language options: Tours are available in English, French, Italian, and Spanish.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Maddalena Archipelago and South Corsica by Private Boat

If you’re imagining a day on the water exploring some of the Mediterranean’s most captivating islands, this tour delivers just that—without the hustle and bustle of larger group tours. Starting from Palau’s harbor, the skipper and guide—who are highly praised for their politeness and professionalism—will set the tone for a relaxed yet exciting day.

What to Expect on Your Private Boat Tour

The voyage begins with a quick safety briefing and an overview of the Maddalena National Park rules. From there, the itinerary is tailored to the day’s conditions and your preferences. This means you could be cruising past the famous white sands of Budelli, known for the Rainbow Beach, or exploring the coves of Spargi with crystal-clear waters that invite snorkeling.

The route may include stops at Santa Maria, famous for its idyllic beaches, or even cross over to south Corsica, visiting islands like Lavezzi and Cavallo. The decision to include Corsica hinges on weather conditions, especially the wind, as crossing the strait can be choppy. The given reviews mention how the flexibility to choose the route is a major advantage—“we loved the way the skipper tailored the day to our wishes,” one traveler noted.

The Experience of Snorkeling and Beach Relaxing

The boat is equipped with snorkeling masks and an ice box, so you can jump into the water whenever a spot looks inviting. Expect 4 to 5 stops during the trip—each carefully selected for its beauty and tranquility. Whether you want to float above colorful fish or simply nap on a sun-warmed deck, the experience is designed for comfort and fun.

Reviewers appreciated this flexibility, with one commenting, “We enjoyed snorkeling at several spots and relaxing on tiny beaches, far from crowds.” The boat’s capacity keeps the experience intimate and avoids the noise and bustle of larger tours.

Pricing and Value

While the $644 price for a group of up to 10 might seem steep initially, it covers the entire private experience, including the services of a knowledgeable guide, national park entrance fee, snorkeling gear, and water. The gasoline cost is separate, and travelers should budget around 70-180 Euros if they wish to cross to Corsica or visit specific islands. This transparency allows you to assess whether the experience fits your budget, especially if you’re splitting costs among friends or family.

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Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers seeking privacy, a personalized itinerary, and a relaxed pace. It’s also well-suited for small groups who want to escape tourist crowds and enjoy quiet beaches and clear waters. Because it’s customizable, it’s particularly appealing if you have specific interests—like snorkeling, photography, or simply unwinding in secluded spots.

In-Depth Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting at Palau’s harbor, the boat departs with a small group, led by a friendly and professional skipper. The initial moments involve safety instructions and a quick chat about the day’s possibilities. The personalized nature of the trip means the route can vary daily—sometimes favoring Maddalena’s islands, other times crossing over to Corsica if the weather allows.

Maddalena Archipelago is renowned for its stunning white beaches and transparent waters. The islands of Budelli and Razzoli are famous for their natural beauty, with Budelli housing the Rainbow Beach, a striking stretch of sand with a spectrum of colors caused by the mineral deposits. Santa Maria offers calmer waters and an idyllic setting for swimming and sunbathing.

Spargi Island often features in the itinerary for its relatively secluded beaches and excellent snorkeling. The green junipers near the shore contrast beautifully with the bright sands and waters, making it a photographer’s paradise.

If the weather is suitable, the boat might venture across the strait to south Corsica, visiting Lavezzi, Cavallo, and Isola Piana. These islands are known for their rugged beauty, medieval villages such as Bonifacio, and quiet coves. The crossing can be a highlight, especially if the sea is calm, but travelers should be aware that strong winds could limit this part of the tour.

Throughout the four hours, expect about 4-5 stops for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing on small beaches. The boat’s snorkeling gear is available for everyone, and the crew makes an effort to find less crowded spots, which adds to the feeling of exclusivity and tranquility.

Authenticity and Authentic Experiences

One of the main attractions of this tour is its authentic local flavor. The guides are knowledgeable about the protected status of the islands and share insights about their natural environment and history. The fact that the route adapts to weather and guest preferences means you’re not just following a preset itinerary but experiencing the area in a way that’s responsive and personal.

Additional Practical Details

• Meeting Point: Search for the boat Athena Sail at Palau harbor.
• Inclusions: Guide, park tickets, snorkeling masks, water, and an ice box.
• Not Included: Gasoline (pay locally), lunch, drinks beyond water, towels.
• What to Bring: Passport or ID, credit card, cash, sun protection, towel.
• Restrictions: Not suitable for people with mobility issues or over 95 years old.
• Languages: Tours are offered in English, French, Italian, and Spanish.

What Real Travelers Say

The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5/5 rating from two recent travelers. One from Brazil called it “Really cool,” praising the politeness and correctness of Giovanni and Lúcia. A Norwegian traveler noted that the boat captain was excellent, though they also mentioned that additional fuel costs make it a bit pricey for a four-hour trip.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love the idea of a private, customizable boat trip with a small group, this tour checks many boxes. It’s ideal for families, couples, or friends who want to explore without the constraints of larger groups or rigid schedules. Snorkeling enthusiasts will appreciate the gear and multiple stops, while those longing for peace and quiet will enjoy the secluded beaches.

It’s also suitable if you’re willing to budget for the gasoline cost and seek a more authentic, personal experience rather than a generic sightseeing tour. Just be aware that weather conditions might influence whether you cross to Corsica, so flexibility is key.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour offers a rare chance to see Sardinia’s Maddalena Archipelago and possibly south Corsica in a way that feels personalized and relaxed. The small group size, personalized route, and expert guidance make it an excellent choice for travelers seeking intimacy and authentic experiences. While the additional gasoline expense can add up, the overall value lies in the freedom to explore beautiful spots at your own pace.

Whether you’re after snorkeling in clear waters, lounging on secluded beaches, or simply soaking in stunning scenery, this tour promises a memorable day on the Mediterranean.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, starting and ending at Palau’s harbor.

What islands or places will we visit?
You’ll explore key spots in the Maddalena Archipelago like Spargi, Budelli, Razzoli, and Santa Maria. If weather permits, crossing over to south Corsica to visit Lavezzi, Cavallo, and Bonifacio is possible.

Is the route fixed?
No, the route is personalized daily based on weather conditions and guest preferences, ensuring the best experience each time.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the guide-skippers, national park tickets, snorkeling masks, water, and an ice box for your refreshments.

What costs are additional?
Gasoline costs, which range from 70 to 180 Euros, are paid directly at the gas station. Lunch and drinks are not included.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, credit card, cash, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and towels.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or over 95 years old due to the boat’s setup.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are available?
Tours are conducted in English, French, Italian, and Spanish, making it accessible for many travelers.

In the end, if you’re craving a relaxed, personalized adventure on Mediterranean waters with the chance to snorkel, bask on quiet beaches, and explore islands away from tourist crowds, this private boat tour is well worth considering. It offers a wonderful blend of nature, comfort, and flexibility — perfect for those who want to make the most of their time in Sardinia or south Corsica.

You can check availability for your dates here: