Olbia is a fantastic place for boat trips and cruises because of its prime location along Sardinia’s northeast coast, offering easy access to some of Italy’s most stunning islands and protected marine areas. Whether you’re after a sporty sailing experience, a family-friendly cruise, or a peaceful eco-tour spotting dolphins, Olbia’s waters won’t disappoint. We especially love the Sailing boat from Santa Teresa di Gallura to the Maddalena Archipelago, which combines environmental focus with comfort and adventure, giving visitors a memorable way to experience Sardinia’s natural beauty.
If you’re eager to explore Sardinia’s coastline and its islands, you’re in luck. Many tours include swimming, snorkeling, and leisurely exploring some of the most iconic scenery in the area. For a full-day outing, the Day trip on a sailing catamaran in Sardinia offers a relaxed cruise with the option for paddleboarding and kayaking, which suits those who want more active fun. Looking for a family-friendly outing? The Olbia: Gulf of Olbia boat tour is a quick, affordable option for a scenic two-hour cruise that covers local sights without breaking the bank.
Quick Overview
This list includes a variety of sailing and boat tours, from luxurious sailing adventures to eco-friendly dolphin spotting trips and short sightseeing cruises. Each offers its own flavor — some focus on exploring the Maddalena Archipelago by boat and land, while others emphasize active recreation with snorkeling or eco-conscious dolphin tours. For more details, check out the specific tours below.
1. Sailing boat from Santa Teresa di Gallura to the Maddalena Archipelago
At number 1, this elegant sailing experience offers an exclusive, sporty way to enjoy Sardinia’s famed Maddalena Archipelago. The tour departs around 9:30 am from Santa Teresa di Gallura, a scenic port just a short drive from Olbia, making it a perfect getaway for those wanting a full-day sailing adventure. What makes this tour stand out is its commitment to environmental sustainability combined with comfort — you’ll be sailing all day, stopping at noteworthy spots like the Pink Beach, which is famous worldwide but protected and not accessible for swimming.
The itinerary includes a visit to the Parco Nazionale dell’Arcipelago di La Maddalena, where you might enjoy a swim in a natural turquoise pool, and explore the coves of Isola di Spargi for snorkelling. The crew prepares a Sardinian fish lunch onboard, making it a true local flavor experience. Reviewers praise the crew’s friendliness and the pristine condition of the boat, with many noting how memorable the swimming and snorkelling were.
This tour is suited for travelers seeking a sporty, eco-friendly way to see Sardinia from the sea, with plenty of swimming, snorkelling, and relaxing. The price of around $103 provides excellent value for a full day on the water, including lunch and all equipment.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a balance of adventure, comfort, and environmental consciousness on a small-group sailing trip.
2. Sailing ship from Porto San Paolo (S.Teodoro-Olbia) to Tavolara, Molara
Number 2 on our list is a sailing trip that takes you from Porto San Paolo, conveniently located between Olbia and San Teodoro. Starting from the Marina of Porto San Paolo, this tour explores the protected marine areas of Tavolara and Molara. Departing around 9:30 am, the trip is designed for lovers of natural beauty and tranquility.
You’ll enjoy stops for swimming in some of the most scenic bays, including Porto Istana, Cala Girgolu, and Capo Ceraso, with the skipper choosing locations based on the wind conditions for the best experience. The highlight is a swim and a relaxed lunch in front of Tavolara, with the island’s distinctive profile providing a stunning backdrop. The crew is praised for their attentiveness, and the boat’s comfort makes it suitable for families or couples seeking a peaceful day at sea.
What makes this tour unique is the combination of sailing, swimming, and a focus on the marine protected areas. The trip often includes dolphin sightings, adding a dash of excitement. Reviews mention the professionalism of the crew and the pristine condition of the boat, with travelers appreciating the flexibility of stops.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a quiet, scenic sail with swimming and potential dolphin sightings in a protected marine environment.
3. Day trip on a sailing catamaran in Sardinia
Number 3 offers an all-day small-group sailing adventure aboard a comfortable catamaran. Departing from Olbia, this trip focuses on Tavolara Island and the Golfo di Marinella, ideal for travelers who enjoy active fun combined with relaxing sails. This is a longer, more leisurely experience, running about 9 to 10 hours, and caps group size at just 8 people for personal attention.
The itinerary includes stops for swimming, snorkelling, paddleboarding, and kayaking, with all equipment provided. The trip starts with a cruise along the Gulf of Olbia, passing landmarks like La Isola Bocca and the lighthouse. If the weather permits, the crew sails to Tavolara, a small kingdom in itself, known for its climbing opportunities and rugged beauty. The trip also visits the Isola di Molara, famous for its turquoise waters and swimming pools.
Guests love the flexibility of activities and the chance to relax or explore at their own pace. The onboard lunch is a highlight, featuring fresh, tasty food that complements the day’s adventure. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, perfect for families, couples, or friends wanting to spend a full day on the water.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers who want a full day of swimming, paddling, and relaxing on a comfortable catamaran with a small group.
4. Olbia: Gulf of Olbia boat tour
Number 4 is a quick two-hour boat cruise that covers Olbia’s local sights. Starting from Molo Bosazza, this affordable tour offers a glimpse into the Gulf of Olbia’s coastal environment, including the lighthouse at Isola Bocca and the shipyards area. It’s a straightforward, relaxing way to see local scenery without leaving the port area.
The tour is ideal if you’re short on time or traveling with kids, as reviews highlight the friendly crew and the informative commentary about Olbia’s environment and industries. Priced at $34 per person, it’s an inexpensive way to enjoy a scenic ride and learn about the region’s maritime activity and mussel farms.
While it’s not a long adventure, it provides a pleasant snapshot of Olbia’s waters and is suitable for anyone wanting a quick, engaging trip. The main drawback is the short duration, but for those looking for a taste rather than a full-day experience, it hits the mark.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a short, budget-friendly introduction to Olbia’s waterfront scenery and local industry.
5. Olbia: ecological boat trip for dolphin spotting
Number 5 offers a two-hour eco-tour aimed at spotting dolphins in their natural habitat. Departing from Olbia, this trip emphasizes sustainability and animal welfare, providing an educational experience about marine life. The boat heads toward Figarolo Island, where there’s over a 95% chance of seeing dolphins, according to reviews.
The focus here is on responsible wildlife watching, with guides explaining dolphin behavior and marine conservation. Travelers love the chance to see dolphins up close without disturbing them, often accompanied by breathtaking scenery along the way. Reviewers praise the professionalism of the crew and the fact that the trip is designed to be eco-friendly.
This tour suits nature lovers and families who want a quick but meaningful experience connecting with wildlife. While sightings are highly probable, they depend on the weather and dolphin activity, so patience is key. The trip costs less than many full-day tours, making it a popular choice for those with limited time.
Bottom Line: An excellent, eco-conscious choice for wildlife enthusiasts and family travelers seeking a responsible dolphin-spotting experience.
6. Olbia: Boat Tour to Maddalena Archipelago with Minibus Transfer
Number 6 is an all-day tour combining boat and land exploration of Sardinia’s famous Maddalena Archipelago. Starting with a minibus transfer from Olbia, you’ll cruise through the islands of Caprera, Santo Stefano, Spargi, and Budelli, with stops for swimming, sightseeing, and free time on La Maddalena island.
This tour is a comprehensive way to soak in the scenery, with a focus on the most scenic and iconic islands of the national park. Guests praise the smooth organization, round-trip transportation, and included lunch, which adds great value for a full-day adventure. Many mention the incredible views of beaches and coastlines, describing the experience as a “magnificent, well-organized trip.”
Ideal for travelers who want a mix of boat time and on-land exploration without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. The price of around $166 offers good value considering the length and inclusions, especially when factoring in the transport and lunch.
Bottom Line: A hassle-free way to see the best of the Maddalena Archipelago with transportation and a full day of swimming and sightseeing.
How to Choose the Perfect Boat Tour in Olbia
Choosing between these options depends on your priorities: if you want sailing and environmental sustainability, the Santa Teresa to Maddalena or Porto San Paolo to Tavolara tours are excellent. For active water fun, the catamaran day trip offers paddling, snorkelling, and swimming. If your time is limited or you prefer a quick overview, the Gulf of Olbia cruise is a practical choice. For wildlife lovers, the dolphin eco-tour provides a responsible, immersive experience, and for a comprehensive day with land and sea, the Maddalena Archipelago tour is the way to go.
Think about your budget, whether you want a full day of activity or a short scenic ride, and your interest in wildlife, sailing, or simply relaxing. Booking early is recommended for popular tours, especially in peak season, to secure your spot.
In summary, Olbia offers a fantastic range of boat tours and cruises that cater to all interests. Whether you’re after a sporty sailing adventure, a peaceful eco-dolphin watch, or a full-day exploration of Sardinia’s most beautiful islands, you’ll find an option that suits your style. For most travelers, a combination of these experiences can turn a trip to Sardinia into an unforgettable maritime adventure. Be sure to book early, especially for the more popular tours, and get ready to enjoy the crystal-clear waters and spectacular scenery Sardinia is famous for.