La Maddalena is a sailor’s paradise. Its crystal-clear waters, breathtaking islands, and permanent breeze make it a natural choice for anyone wanting to explore Sardinia by boat. Whether you’re after a luxurious full-day private cruise or a fun group outing with snorkeling opportunities, La Maddalena’s sailing tours deliver. We’re especially impressed by tours that combine comfort, natural beauty, and local flavor — like the Five Star Relax Cruise for a personalized, all-inclusive experience, or the Tour Sailboat 15 mt. BOARDING FROM LA MADDALENA islands Archipelago for a classic day on the water with spectacular stops.
If you’re considering a day at sea, these experiences offer a taste of different styles, from relaxed private charters to lively group excursions, each with their own unique charm.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we’ll cover five of the best sailing experiences in La Maddalena. You’ll find options ranging from luxury private yachts to fun, social group tours, with prices from around $105 to $325 per person. Whether you want to snorkel in clear waters, visit iconic beaches like Spiaggia Rosa, or enjoy a gourmet onboard lunch, there’s something here for every budget and travel style. Now, let’s dive into each experience.
1. Tour Sailboat 15 mt. BOARDING FROM LA MADDALENA islands Archipelago
For about $105, the Tour Sailboat 15 mt. offers a full 8-hour day navigating the Maddalena archipelago on a 15-meter sailing yacht. This tour is perfect if you’re seeking a classic sailing experience with a knowledgeable crew. You’ll board from Marina di Cala Mangiavolpe or Palau and get to visit some of the archipelago’s most stunning spots. The itinerary includes an hour at Spargi, where you can snorkel or swim in incredibly transparent waters, and a photo stop at the Pink Beach, famous for its coral-colored sands and protected status. The tour emphasizes natural beauty, with plenty of dips and swims, and the reviews highlight a friendly crew, delicious local food, and a well-organized day out.
What makes this tour stand out is its authentic sailing feel—you’ll actually use the sails, not just motors—and the chance to experience the Maddalena from the deck of a real yacht. The onboard crew is praised for their friendliness and expertise, making this a top choice for sailing purists and families alike.
Bottom Line: If you want an immersive, natural sailing day with a friendly crew and iconic stops, this tour delivers excellent value for its price and a truly authentic experience.
2. Catamaran tour Archipelago Maddalena (lunch included)
At number two, the Catamaran tour Archipelago Maddalena offers a luxurious, modern experience for around $138. This 7-hour trip is led by a sailing catamaran that boasts shallow draft and spacious decks, perfect for relaxing, socializing, and enjoying the scenery. Unlike typical tours, this one emphasizes customization, with the skipper adjusting stops based on weather and passenger preferences, including swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging.
The itinerary is flexible, with stops at Spargi Island, Budelli, Santa Maria, or Razzoli, depending on wind conditions. The highlight is the three hours spent in the Maddalena natural pools, giving plenty of time to cool off in clear waters or snorkel amid marine life. Guests rave about the attentive crew, the delicious onboard lunch, and the intimate group size, capped at 12, which keeps the experience personal.
This tour is ideal for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and good company. The modern catamaran also makes it accessible for those who prefer stability and easy movement on deck.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, relaxed sailing day with gourmet food and the chance to explore multiple islands in style and comfort.
3. Five Star Relax Cruise Sailing Yacht Islands of La Maddalena
For around $325, the Five Star Relax Cruise offers a private, full-day sailing adventure that’s perfect if you’re seeking exclusivity and personalized service. Led by Francesco and Paola, this tour is tailored to your preferences, including a gourmet onboard lunch and all-day drinks, making it a luxury experience at its best.
This private charter covers the main islands like Spargi, Budelli, and Caprera, with stops for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on beaches like Spiaggia Rosa. Reviews mention the hosts’ warmth, the delicious food, and the chance to enjoy Sardinia in a very intimate setting. Since it’s a private tour, it’s best suited for families, couples, or groups wanting to celebrate or simply indulge.
While the cost is higher, the personalized itinerary, luxury touches, and flexible schedule make it a great value for those looking for a premium experience.
Bottom Line: If privacy, comfort, and a customized day on the water are your priorities, this tour offers a memorable, indulgent escape.
4. Sailing Cruise in Maddalena Archipelago from Maddalena
At around $118, the Sailing Cruise in Maddalena Archipelago offers a small-group experience ideal for those who want to explore with a more personal touch. This 7-hour tour starts from Maddalena and includes stops at Santa Maria, Cala Granara, and Spiaggia Rosa, with swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing ashore.
The crew is multilingual and attentive, with reviews praising the friendly attitude and well-planned stops. It features lunch, drinks, and an onboard aperitivo, making it a perfect choice for independent travelers or couples who want a flexible, well-organized day on the water without the expense of a private yacht.
The tour’s highlights include snorkeling from the deck at Cala Santa Maria and the chance to walk at Spiaggia Rosa, all in a capped group of 14. The itinerary can shift with weather, but that flexibility is part of the charm.
Bottom Line: A balanced mix of comfort, flexibility, and natural beauty, suitable for those who prefer a lively group atmosphere but still want personalized touches.
5. Tour to the islands of the La Maddalena Archipelago by sailing boat
For about $118, the Tour to the islands of La Maddalena Archipelago emphasizes freedom and flexibility. Aimed at those who want a laid-back, well-rounded day, this 7-hour tour offers three stops—possibly Santa Maria, Spargi, and Budelli—depending on weather conditions.
You’ll snorkel, swim, or just relax in the sun, with an included aperitif, first course, and snack. The crew is known for their attentiveness, and reviews mention the good value, with plenty of food and drinks. This tour works well for travelers who want to customize their day without the high cost of private charters, and who enjoy a mix of activities like snorkeling, beach visits, and lounging.
It’s best suited for those comfortable with flexible schedules, who want a relaxed day with all the essentials covered.
Bottom Line: A flexible, enjoyable day for those who want to explore multiple spots at their own pace, with good food and camaraderie.
How to Choose Your Perfect La Maddalena Sailing Tour
Picking the right sailing experience depends on your budget, interests, and how much privacy you desire. For a traditional sailing experience with authentic feel, the 15-meter yacht is hard to beat. If you prefer a luxury, private day with tailored stops, the Five Star Relax Cruise delivers a truly pampering experience.
Travelers with a taste for comfort and flexibility might enjoy the catamaran tour, which balances modern amenities with relaxed exploration. Those on a budget or seeking a social group experience will find the small-group sailing cruise offers good value, with a friendly crew and ample time in the water. Lastly, if you want more freedom and local flavors, the standard sailing boat tour with flexible stops might be your best fit.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular dates in spring and summer. Consider your preferences — whether it’s a private luxury day or a group adventure — and match that with what each tour offers.
La Maddalena’s sailing options are diverse, so you can find a trip that perfectly matches your style, whether you’re in for a luxury private cruise or a fun group outing. With clear waters, stunning beaches, and reliable crews, it’s impossible to go wrong. Just pick the one that excites you most, and get ready for some of the best days on the water Sardinia has to offer.