Porto Vecchio: Boat Tour to Maddalena Archipelago (Sardinia)

This full-day boat trip from Porto Vecchio takes you across the Strait of Bonifacio into the stunning Maddalena Archipelago in Sardinia. Priced at around $199 per person and lasting roughly 9 hours, it offers a balanced mix of swimming, sightseeing, and leisure, guided by professional sailors. The boat varies between models like the Santa Maria or Sperenzà, both providing a comfortable platform to enjoy Sardinia’s natural beauty.

What we love most about this trip are the swim stops at Toro and Budelli, which are often skipped on standard tours. These give you a real taste of Sardinia’s pristine waters, plus the 2 hours of free time in La Maddalena allow for exploring the charming town at your own pace. The relaxed atmosphere, combined with snorkeling gear, paddles, and sea scooters included, makes this day feel both casual and adventurous.

A potential consideration is the lack of included lunch, meaning you’ll need to budget for food if you want to dine ashore or pack your own picnic. Also, the small group size of just 12 participants could be a plus or minus depending on your preference for social interaction.

This tour suits travelers looking for a balanced day of marine activity and sightseeing, especially those who enjoy a personalized experience with knowledgeable guides. It’s excellent for those who appreciate authentic coastal scenery and water-based adventures rather than just passing through.

Key Points

• Authentic Marine Experience: Snorkeling gear, paddles, and sea scooters are included, enabling you to explore the marine life at your own pace.
• Unique Swim Stops: Toro and Budelli are rarely part of standard tours, offering rare access to Sardinia’s crystal-clear waters.
• Free Time in La Maddalena: You get two hours to explore, relax, or dine at your leisure—an ideal break from the boat.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: With a maximum of 12 people and professional sailors guiding, the vibe is friendly and intimate.
• Scenic Crossings: Crossing the Strait of Bonifacio promises stunning views and a taste of both Corsican and Sardinian coastlines.
• No Lunch Included: Be prepared to bring your own food or purchase during your free time in La Maddalena.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Departure and Setting Sail

The adventure begins at the Corsica Sud Croisière ticket office in Porto-Vecchio’s port. After a brief safety briefing and introductions, you’ll board either the Santa Maria or Sperenzà, cozy boats built for day trips and leisurely cruising. The limited group size, capped at 12, ensures a personal touch — you’ll often find yourself exchanging stories with fellow travelers and your guides, who are fluent in French and eager to share insights.

Crossing the Strait of Bonifacio

This stretch of water is famous for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise sea. The boat gently cuts through the waves as you enjoy refreshing drinks and canistrelli biscuits, traditional Corsican treats, served on board. The journey offers some of the most beautiful sea vistas in the region, with steep limestone cliffs towering above and the sun shimmering on the water — perfect for photo enthusiasts or anyone wanting a memorable view.

Toro Island: First Swim Stop

Once in Sardinian waters, the boat drops anchor at Toro Island, renowned for its calm, clear waters and peaceful ambiance. Here, you can swim, snorkel, or just relax on deck. The reviews highlight the quality of the experience — one traveler simply called it “really great,” and appreciated the alternation between swimming and sightseeing. The coffee and traditional biscuits served during this stop add a cozy, authentic touch.

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The Stunning Island of Budelli

Next, the boat heads toward Budelli, famous for its Pink Beach, a highlight often featured in travel magazines. Although access to the beach itself is restricted at times, the boat’s proximity allows you to take photos and enjoy the scenery. Before reaching La Maddalena, there’s a Corsican aperitif paired with local charcuterie and wine, a chance to sample regional flavors while soaking in the views. As one reviewer noted, the pace of the day is well managed, allowing for a gradual build-up of excitement.

Free Time in La Maddalena

After several hours at sea, the boat arrives at La Maddalena, a picturesque Italian town with colorful buildings and quaint streets. You get two hours of free time here, which many find invaluable. You can stroll along the waterfront, explore shops, or simply relax at a café with a gelato. It’s a perfect opportunity for a seaside lunch or a quick souvenir hunt. Travelers have appreciated the friendly environment and the chance to stretch their legs after a morning on the water, as one review enthusiastically noted, “Having a maximum of 12 people made it really friendly.”

Marine Adventures in Santa Maria Archipelago

The cruise continues through Santa Maria’s breathtaking islands, with the final swim stop at Porto Novo, a pristine cove only accessible by boat. Here, you can snorkel, paddle, or use the sea scooter to explore Sardinia’s vibrant underwater life. The free gear makes it easy for even novice swimmers to get in on the fun.

The Return and Coastal Views

As the day winds down, you’ll pass by Stunning coastlines of Santa Giulia and Palombaggia, both known for their dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches. Watching the coastline roll by, you’ll appreciate the variety of scenery and the relaxed pace that sets this tour apart from more hurried excursions.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour provides masks, snorkels, paddles, and sea scooters, allowing you to explore underwater without extra cost — a real value. The professional sailors ensure safety and add a level of expertise, especially for water activities.

However, lunch is not included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to dine in La Maddalena. Drinks and the aperitif are part of the package, adding a social, relaxed vibe to the day.

Note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to organize your own transportation to the meeting point. The tour operates in French, but the small group and friendly guides help bridge any language gaps.

What the Reviews Say

Most travelers come away with a positive impression. One said, “Thomas, our captain, was lovely. The pace of the day was really good,” highlighting the personalized service. Others echo similar sentiments, praising the stunning views, the friendly atmosphere, and the well-organized schedule.

A few less favorable comments mention that the La Maddalena visit might be a bit disappointing if you’re expecting more swimming or snorkeling time there instead of town exploration. Still, for those who want a balanced mix of activities, it works well.

Practical Tips

• Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera — the sun can be intense.
• Pack swimwear and a towel for the stops.
• Consider bringing snacks or lunch if you prefer a full meal during your free time.
• Be prepared for a small group atmosphere; it’s intimate but might be tight for those who prefer larger, busier tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits adventurous travelers who enjoy water activities and want to explore Sardinia’s marine environment. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate authentic, small-group experiences where guides are knowledgeable and approachable. If you’re looking for a relaxed day with plenty of swimming, this tour delivers.

It may be less appealing for those seeking a luxury experience with included meals or who prefer more extensive town sightseeing. Also, travelers with mobility issues or those who don’t enjoy boat travel should weigh the journey’s length and boat stability.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This boat tour strikes a fine balance between adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery. You’ll leave with a sense of Sardinia’s stunning coastlines and vibrant marine life. The small group size, friendly guides, and included gear make it a worthwhile option for those wanting an authentic, fun-filled day on the water.

While the lack of included lunch might be a drawback for some, the flexibility to explore La Maddalena and the chance to snorkel and swim in unspoiled waters add strong value. It’s particularly suited for travelers who prioritize immersive natural experiences over structured sightseeing.

Overall, if you’re after a memorable day trip that combines beautiful scenery, marine activities, and a relaxed vibe, this tour is a solid choice that offers a good mix of all three.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup or drop-off included?
No, you need to organize your own transportation to the meeting point at the Corsica Sud Croisière ticket office in Porto-Vecchio.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, camera, and sunscreen. Pack some snacks or plan to buy food during your free time in La Maddalena.

Are water activities included?
Yes, masks, snorkels, paddles, and sea scooters are provided at no extra cost, making it easy to enjoy underwater exploration.

How long is the free time in La Maddalena?
You get approximately 2 hours to explore the town, relax, or enjoy a seaside lunch.

Is there an age limit for this tour?
Children under 3, pregnant women, and people with mobility impairments or in wheelchairs are not suited for this experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility to adapt your plans.

This boat trip from Porto Vecchio to Sardinia’s Maddalena Archipelago provides a well-rounded taste of the region’s coastlines, marine life, and charming towns. It’s perfect for those who want to combine water-based fun with authentic Italian scenery, especially if they value small-group settings and flexible schedules.

You can check availability for your dates here: