From La Maddalena and Palau: Tour of Budelli & Santa Maria offers an engaging half-day adventure exploring some of Sardinia’s most iconic islands. Starting at 10:00 a.m. from La Maddalena or Palau, this 7-hour boat trip takes you past the famous Pink Beach of Budelli, into natural pools, and along scenic coastlines, with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and photography. The tour costs around a moderate price, but what you get — stunning vistas, a relaxed pace, and a tasty Sardinian lunch — makes it a worthwhile splurge for lovers of nature and scenic charm.
Two features truly stand out: first, the ability to photograph the uniquely colored Pink Beach—a sight that’s hard to find anywhere else—and ample swimming opportunities in calm, transparent waters that are perfect for lounging or snorkeling. Second, the layout of stops—which balances sightseeing with free time—means you can enjoy each place without feeling rushed.
A possible consideration is the limited time at each stop; if you’re a serious snorkeler or beach lover, you might wish for a little more time, especially at the beaches. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for those prone to seasickness or over 95 years old, given the boat experience. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed day of scenic views, light activity, and good food, all set against Sardinia’s stunning backdrop.
Key Points
- Stunning scenic stops including Pink Beach, natural pools, and Cala Corsara.
- Ample swimming and snorkeling opportunities, with easy access to the water.
- Relaxed itinerary with plenty of time to enjoy each location.
- Delicious Sardinian lunch included, with pasta and shrimp sauce.
- Guided commentary in English and Italian enhances the experience.
- Suitable for those seeking scenic beauty and leisure, but not for seasick-prone travelers or the very elderly.
The Journey Begins: What to Expect
This tour kicks off at 10:00 a.m. from La Maddalena or slightly later at Palau, giving you options depending on where you’re staying. The boat departs with a friendly guide, and from the start, you’ll notice the professionalism and welcoming attitude of the crew — several reviews mention how courteous and helpful staff are, which sets the tone for the day.
Your first glimpse of the Pink Beach of Budelli comes even before you hop off the boat — the captain passes close enough for everyone to capture photos of the sand’s distinctive blush hue. This is a highlight, as many travelers agree that the sight of Pink Beach is unforgettable. It’s a quick, but dramatic visual, and a perfect reason to keep your camera ready.
Exploring Natural Pools and Santa Maria
Next, the boat stops at the Porto Madonna, also known as Piscine Naturali. Here, the calm, clear waters invite you to jump off the boat and swim. The natural pools are shallow and protected, making them ideal for families or those new to swimming. The ease of climbing back into the boat via a ladder is a bonus, and the water temperature is usually comfortable.
Afterward, the boat heads towards Santa Maria Island, where you’ll have about an hour and a half to explore Cala Santa Maria beach. The reviewers highlight this stop as one of the most enjoyable — the water is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and the scenery offers plenty of opportunities for relaxed walks and photography.
One traveler noted, “There was more than enough time to enjoy 3 swims, including jumping off the boat,” which is great for active travelers who love to take full advantage of a scenic stop.
Lunch and Scenic Sailing
Post the Santa Maria stop, everyone reconvenes on the boat for the included lunch, which features pasta with shrimp sauce. The meals are simple but satisfying, with reviews mentioning the freshness and quality of the food. Some travelers appreciated that the crew even checked if they wanted a second portion, all for just a small extra cost, making the meal feel generous and personalized.
In the afternoon, the boat heads south toward Spargi Island. The stop here at Cala Corsara lasts about two hours — plenty of time to relax on the beach, explore the surrounding rocks, or enjoy a swim. The scenery is often described as picture-perfect, with rocky formations shaped by eons of weather, providing excellent photo opportunities.
The Return and Reflection
The trip wraps up around 5:00 p.m. at Palau or La Maddalena, leaving you with a full day of scenic beauty and light adventure. Many reviews mention how well-organized the tour is — departing late enough to avoid the busiest times, but still punctual. The crew consistently receives praise for their friendliness and professionalism, which enhances the overall experience.
More Great Tours NearbyWhy This Tour Works for You
This boat tour is a solid choice if you love scenic coastlines, swimming, and a relaxed pace. It’s especially appealing if you’re keen on photographing unique sights like Pink Beach or want to enjoy the natural beauty of Sardinian islands without the hassle of separate bookings or multiple excursions. Food lovers will appreciate the included lunch, which adds value to the experience, especially since some reviews indicate it’s both tasty and ample.
However, keep in mind that the time at each stop is somewhat limited — roughly 1 to 2 hours — so if you prefer a longer stay at beaches or more in-depth snorkeling, you might find you want a different tour or to allocate extra time on your own. The tour is also not suitable for very elderly travelers or those with significant seasickness, given the boat ride.
Final Thoughts
In all, this tour balances scenic beauty, light activity, and good value, making it ideal for travelers who want to see Sardinia’s highlights without a hectic pace. The combination of stunning photo opportunities, refreshing swims, and a delicious Sardinian meal makes it a memorable day out. The friendly guides and smooth organization further boost its appeal.
If you’re the type of traveler who loves relaxed sightseeing, natural beauty, and a bit of adventure in a comfortable setting, this tour will serve you well. It’s especially perfect for those who appreciate authentic experiences—like swimming in natural pools and snapping photos of rocks shaped by nature—rather than overly commercialized attractions.
FAQs
How long is the tour?
The whole experience lasts about 7 hours, with departures around 10 a.m. from La Maddalena or Palau.
Are there swimming opportunities?
Yes, there are multiple stops where you can dive into clear waters, including the natural pools at Porto Madonna and the beaches on Santa Maria and Spargi.
Is lunch included?
Lunch, featuring pasta with shrimp sauce, is included in the price. You can also purchase drinks on board.
What is the best time to join?
The tour departs in the late morning and ends early evening, making it suitable for a full day of relaxing and sightseeing.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes, especially children who enjoy swimming and beach time. However, it’s not suitable for those prone to seasickness or over 95 years old.
What language is the tour guided in?
Guides speak both English and Italian, with commentary provided in both languages.
How much time do we spend at each stop?
Expect about 30 minutes at the Pink Beach, 1.5 hours at Cala Santa Maria, and 2 hours at Cala Corsara; the natural pools are shorter stops but perfect for quick swims.
Can I take my camera or phone?
Absolutely. The scenic stops provide fantastic photo opportunities, but be cautious around water to keep your devices safe.
In summary, this boat tour from La Maddalena and Palau offers a relaxed, scenic, and family-friendly way to experience Sardinia’s iconic islands. With stunning vistas, refreshing swims, and a tasty meal included, it’s a great choice for travelers seeking a well-organized day of natural beauty and light adventure in Italy’s Mediterranean jewel.
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