Tour of the islands of the archipelago with lunch and drinks

A Sail Through Sardinia’s Enchanting Archipelago: An In-Depth Review

Picture yourself aboard a comfortable sailing boat, gliding through crystal-clear waters around Sardinia’s most breathtaking islands. For around $117 per person, you can spend 7 hours exploring the La Maddalena Archipelago, stopping at some of the most iconic spots, enjoying lunch and drinks onboard, and taking in views that seem almost unreal.

What truly makes this experience stand out? First, the small group size—limited to 8 participants—ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, allowing for a more relaxed and intimate adventure. Second, the professional yet friendly crew, who are clearly passionate about sharing their knowledge and love for the islands, makes the journey both informative and fun.

A small possible consideration? The itinerary depends on weather conditions, meaning some stops might change or be skipped if the weather isn’t cooperative. This flexibility is designed for your safety but can alter your plan slightly. That said, if you’re after a personalized, scenic day out with delicious food, this tour is ideal for those who want to combine sailing, swimming, and authentic regional hospitality.

This tour is especially suited for lovers of nature and authentic experiences who don’t mind a relaxed pace and are comfortable swimming or snorkeling. It caters well to couples, families, or solo travelers who want to explore Sardinia’s waters without the hassle of organizing transport or finding hidden beaches on their own.

Key Points

• Small Group Comfort: Limited to 8 participants for a more personal experience.
• Flexible Itinerary: Weather conditions influence stops, ensuring safety and quality.
• All-Inclusive Value: Lunch, drinks, and entrance fees are included, making it easy to relax.
• Authentic Local Experience: Knowledgeable guides share insights and stories about the islands.
• Stunning Scenery: White beaches, turquoise waters, and natural sculptures await at each stop.
• Ideal for Relaxed Explorers: Perfect for those who want a leisurely, scenic day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Sardinia’s Archipelago: A Day to Remember

When we first considered this tour, what caught our attention was the promise of scenic beauty paired with a relaxed, small-group environment. It’s clear that the experience is designed to combine the thrill of sailing with the serenity of swimming in some of the Mediterranean’s clearest waters.

The Itinerary in Detail

The day begins with a pick-up from either Il Porticciolo or La Maddalena, making it convenient for travelers staying in or near Palau. Once on board, the crew, led by the captain and often with guides like Rita or Gianpiero, sets the tone with professionalism and friendliness.

The first stop typically is Cala Santa Maria, a spot that offers guided sightseeing, swimming, and snorkeling. Here, you’ll get the chance to learn about the calm, shallow waters, marvel at the white beaches, and perhaps spot some marine life. One traveler from the U.S. mentioned, “We made three fantastic stops for swimming,” which captures the essence of the trip’s leisurely pace and focus on quality time in beautiful spots.

Next, the boat heads toward Piscine di Budelli, a highlight of the tour. This includes aperitifs, wine, and a delicious onboard lunch—a first course prepared by the chef, often featuring fresh seafood like seabass or local pasta. Reviews praise the value for money, with one noting, “The food was incredible and the places they took us are breathtaking 100% recommended.”

From here, the boat visits Spargi, where a quick 45-minute stop allows exploration of Cala Corsara, famed for the sculptures shaped by nature—think the “Princesa” and “Witch’s Head.” The unique formations and natural beauty motivate many to snap photos and enjoy some serene time onshore or around the boat.

Later, the boat proceeds to Budelli, home to the famous Spiaggia Rosa (Pink Beach) and the Cavaliere beach. Some stops include Natural Pools at Porto Madonna, perfect for a quieter swim away from the more crowded beaches. One review highlights, “The beaches were absolutely stunning—crystal-clear water, white sand, the whole paradise vibe.”

Throughout the day, the crew often turns off the engine to sail in silence, allowing guests to truly appreciate the peaceful environment and dynamic scenery. One guest described it as “magical,” emphasizing how the boat’s movement with the wind creates an almost meditative experience.

Lunch arrives after the first few stops, with a fresh, homemade-style meal, often including seasonal fruits, local desserts, and digestifs. The onboard wine, beer, and soft drinks keep everyone refreshed during the journey back along the coast, passing landmarks like Punta Sardegna and Nelson’s Bay.

The final part of the trip involves stops at Spargi’s Cala Conneri and the Cala dell’Amore, offering opportunities to swim or relax, with the boat tying up near the Cala Corsara sculpture area—a favorite among travelers for its natural artistry.

The Experience and Why It Works

One of the many things we loved was the expert guidance. It’s not just a boat ride; it’s a curated exploration of some of Sardinia’s most beautiful spots, with guides who genuinely seem passionate about sharing their knowledge. For example, a reviewer from Germany mentioned, “Great guide, great food, great day,” summing up the overall feeling.

Another key highlight is the food and drinks. The onboard lunch—typically a first course chosen by the chef—receives numerous praises for its freshness and flavor. The included wine, beer, and seasonal fruits mean you can focus on relaxing rather than worrying about additional costs—though, for those interested, an open bar is not included.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

The group size—just 8 participants—means you’ll avoid the crowded, noisy tours that can sometimes dominate the scene. This size allows for a more personalized experience and easier interaction with guides.

The weather-dependent nature of the itinerary means that stops can shift depending on conditions. The captain’s discretion ensures your safety, but it’s worth being flexible with your expectations. Some guests noted that this made some days slightly different but still enjoyable.

The price of $117 is competitive considering the inclusions: fuel, entrance fee to the park, onboard toilet, water all day, lunch, drinks, and the guidance. When you factor in the quality of the scenery, the comfort, and the meals, it offers good value for a full day of outdoor enjoyment.

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What to Bring and What to Expect

Pack comfortable shoes and beachwear, plus sunglasses, a hat, and biodegradable sunscreen—the environment is a priority here. The tour does not permit pets or bikes, and pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those with mobility issues might find the trip less suitable.

Because of the small group size and flexible itinerary, expect a relaxed vibe, where you can swim, snorkel, or simply lounge on deck. The crew’s expertise ensures you’ll see the highlights without feeling rushed.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who cherish authentic scenery, expert guides, and good food. If you’re looking for a small-group, relaxing day on the water with excellent opportunities for swimming and exploring, this trip hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those who don’t mind a bit of flexibility and want a personalized, scenic experience of Sardinia’s best-kept secrets.

It’s less ideal for non-swimmers or those with mobility impairments, given the nature of the stops. If you’re seeking a luxurious, all-inclusive experience, this tour offers great value but isn’t a splurge on premium drinks outside of meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, with pickup arranged from nearby locations in Palau.

What’s included in the price?
Your fare covers the boat trip, captain, fuel, tender, entrance to the park, onboard toilet, water, aperitif, lunch, wine, beer, soft drinks, seasonal fruits, coffee, biscuits, and a local digestive.

Can I request vegetarian or vegan food?
Yes, vegetarian or vegan options are available upon request.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, non-swimmers, or people over 75. Children should be comfortable in the water and able to handle the boat’s movement.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, beachwear, sunglasses, a hat, biodegradable sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.

What happens if the weather isn’t good?
The captain may change the itinerary to ensure safety, which could mean different stops or a different route.

Is there a minimum group size?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, providing a more intimate experience.

Is transportation provided?
Pickup is included from specific locations near Palau; other transfers are not included.

Final Words

This sailing tour around the La Maddalena Archipelago offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, relaxed pace, and authentic regional hospitality. Its small-group size ensures you can truly savor each moment—whether swimming in clear waters, exploring natural sculptures, or enjoying a homemade Sardinian meal onboard.

If you’re after a low-key, scenic adventure with excellent guides and a chance to swim, snorkel, and relax, this experience is hard to beat. It’s especially valuable for those who want a personalized, memorable day on the water without sacrificing quality or comfort.

While flexible weather plans mean some variation, the overall quality of the experience consistently impresses visitors. For travelers seeking a genuine taste of Sardinia’s islands—away from overly commercialized tours—this boat trip is a smart choice.

Whether you’re visiting Sardinia for the first time or a seasoned explorer, this tour promises a beautiful, flavorful slice of island life—sailing, swimming, and savoring the Mediterranean in style.

You can check availability for your dates here: