Nestled along the northern coast of Sardinia, the La Maddalena Archipelago offers some of the most captivating scenery in Italy—if not the entire Mediterranean. From Palau, this full-day boat tour takes you on a journey through crystal-clear waters, pink sands, and charming towns. For around 70 euros, you’ll spend roughly seven hours aboard the modern Lady Luna 3, visiting four of the archipelago’s most iconic spots. The tour includes stops at Spiaggia Rosa, Cala Santa Maria, Cala Granara, and La Maddalena town, with plenty of opportunities to swim, relax, and explore.
What we really love about this experience are the meticulously planned stops, which balance sightseeing, swimming, and free time, and the quality of the boat and crew—the vessel is only a year old, very comfortable, and the staff genuinely professional and helpful. Plus, the live multilingual commentary enriches the trip with stories about the islands’ past and present.
One potential drawback is the crowd size—with capacity for 150 passengers, it’s a group experience, which might feel busy at times, especially during peak season. Also, the lunch options are available for purchase on board, but bringing your own food is an easy way to avoid extra costs and tailor your meal preferences.
This tour is perfect for travelers who love scenic boat rides combined with beach time and are happy to share space with fellow visitors. Perfect for families, couples, and anyone eager to see the highlights of the archipelago without the hassle of independent boat rentals or multiple bookings.
Key Points
- Beautiful Stops: The tour visits iconic spots like Spiaggia Rosa and Cala Granara, known for their stunning scenery and calm waters.
- Comfort and Safety: The Lady Luna 3 is brand new, well-maintained, and built for both comfort and security.
- Multilingual Guides: Live commentary is offered in four languages, making the experience accessible and informative for diverse travelers.
- Water Activities: Expect plenty of swim time, snorkeling, and relaxing on sandy beaches.
- Local Flavors: Onboard lunch options are available, but bringing your own is simple and customizable.
- Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with no penalty, which adds peace of mind to your plans.
Exploring the La Maddalena Archipelago: What to Expect
From the moment you board the Lady Luna 3 in Palau, you’ll notice how modern and clean the vessel is. Built in 2025, the boat offers a notably smooth ride and ample space for relaxing while cruising between islands. The staff’s professionalism shows in the way they manage the group, explain the itinerary, and keep safety top of mind. During the entire trip, you’ll enjoy a live guide providing commentary in your preferred language—an especially appreciated touch, earning compliments from many travelers.
Planning more time in Palau? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Itinerary, Step-by-Step
Start in Palau: The tour begins early morning from the harbor, with boarding at 9:30 am. The short 35-minute sail to Budelli is an appreciated warm-up, giving you a chance to settle in and enjoy views of the islands ahead.
Spiaggia Rosa on Budelli: This is the star of the show—a pink sand beach that’s truly surreal. The reviews frequently mention how striking this beach looks in photographs, with some describing it as “the most Instagram-worthy spot in Sardinia.” The boat anchors nearby, giving you plenty of time to take photos, walk along the unique sands, and enjoy the scenery. The rocky formations, like Roccia del Coccodrillo, add drama to the landscape. Splashing into the cool waters for a swim or snorkeling here is a highlight, with natural pools perfect for relaxing.
Piscine Naturali (Natural Pools): During the stop at Budelli, you’ll have the chance to swim in these natural formations. Many reviewers mention the clarity of the water and the beauty of wildlife viewing, such as marine life and seabirds.
Cala Santa Maria: After a scenic transfer, you’ll arrive on Santa Maria Island, where a long beach offers sunbathing, relaxing, or a gentle walk along the shore. You’ll have about 75 minutes here—ample time to unwind and take in the warm Mediterranean atmosphere. Many guests say they appreciated this uninterrupted stretch for soaking up the sun and people-watching.
Lunch Break: The boat provides a chance to purchase Sardinian dishes—pasta, salads, antipasto—or you can bring your own food. The reviews mention the onboard pasta as “tasty,” but some suggest bringing your own to skip the queues or cater to dietary preferences.
Cala Granara on Spargi: The next stop is Spargi Island, known for its tranquil, emerald waters and sandy beaches protected from the wind. Many reviews praise Cala Granara for its calmness, ideal for sunbathing and swimming. The protected waters make it especially suitable for families or less confident swimmers. Wildlife viewing, such as marine life, adds an extra layer of enjoyment.
Testa della Strega: A quick scenic drive offers a photo stop of this rugged promontory, giving you a chance to admire the dramatic landscape and snap some memorable photos.
La Maddalena Town: The final stop is the town on La Maddalena Island, where free time allows for wandering through colorful streets, browsing souvenir shops, and gazing at the busy marina filled with boats. Many reviewers mention how charming and lively the town is—an authentic Sardinian experience after a day of exploring nature.
Return Journey: On the way back, the boat glides past Santo Stefano and Caprera islands, with some visual appreciation of Sardinia’s high-end lifestyle. The trip wraps up around 5:15 pm back in Palau.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out
The combination of comfort, scenery, and organized stops makes this tour an excellent value. The Lady Luna 3’s modern design ensures a relaxing day, free from the discomfort of older, overcrowded boats. Many travelers comment on the professionalism of the staff and the quality of the commentary, which enriches the experience without feeling overwhelming.
The itinerary covers some of the most iconic locations in the archipelago—Spiaggia Rosa, Cala Granara, and La Maddalena town—each offering a different flavor of the landscape, from pink sands to lush green islands. The stops are timed well enough that you won’t feel rushed, but there’s enough activity to keep the day lively.
The swimming and snorkeling opportunities are a major draw. The waters are described as “crystal clear” and perfect for both lounging or exploring marine wildlife. Many reviews mention how the natural beauty and tranquility of these beaches are worth the trip by themselves.
The Food and Extras
Onboard, you have the option to buy Sardinian specialties, but many guests prefer to pack their own snacks—especially since the menu can be limited and the price for onboard meals is modest but not included in the ticket. The national park fee of 5 euros per person is payable in cash, a small but necessary cost to access these protected areas.
Wi-Fi is available for free, which is helpful if you want to share photos or check your itinerary. The tour is accessible in four languages, ensuring you understand the stories behind each island, which many travelers find adds depth to the visit.
More Great Tours NearbyConsiderations and Tips
The group size can be quite large, and during peak season, it might feel crowded, especially at popular stops like Spiaggia Rosa. If you prefer a more private experience, consider bringing your own gear and arriving early. Also, jellyfish warnings are occasionally mentioned, so bringing your snorkeling gear and a lightweight cover-up is wise.
The tour departs at 10:30 am and ends at about 5:15 pm, with a 9:30 am meeting time for priority boarding—arriving early is advisable, particularly for parking in Palau, which fills up quickly.
Who Is This Tour Perfect For?
Travelers seeking a relaxed, well-organized day exploring Sardinia’s most beautiful islands will find this tour ideal. It’s especially suited for those who want a mix of beach time, scenic views, and culture without the hassle of planning each stop themselves. Families with kids will appreciate the safety and calm waters, while couples can enjoy romantic moments on pink sands and lively strolls through La Maddalena town.
If you’re someone who values quality guides, comfortable boats, and authentic scenery, this tour offers a compelling blend of all those elements. It’s a solid choice whether you’re on a short visit or want a convenient way to see the archipelago without losing time on logistics.
FAQ
How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, departing at 10:30 am and returning around 5:15 pm.
Where do I meet for the tour?
You meet in front of the maritime station at Piazza del Molo in Palau, near the ferry terminal, at 9:30 am for priority boarding.
Is food included in the price?
No, meals are not included. You can buy Sardinian dishes onboard or bring your own food to enjoy during stops.
How much is the national park fee?
It costs 5 euros per person, cash only, payable on the day of the tour.
What languages are the guides available in?
Guides provide live commentary in English, French, Spanish, and Italian.
Can I swim and snorkel at the stops?
Absolutely. Many travelers mention the waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and wildlife viewing.
Is the boat suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally safe and suitable for families, with calm waters and protected beaches.
What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, cash, and snorkeling gear are recommended.
Final Thoughts
This boat tour from Palau to the La Maddalena Archipelago offers a fantastic way to see Sardinia’s most iconic islands comfortably and efficiently. The modern vessel, knowledgeable guides, and thoughtfully planned stops make for a memorable day. It balances stunning scenery, relaxing beach time, and cultural highlights, all at a reasonable price considering the quality of the experience.
While the group size might feel busy at times, the overall atmosphere remains friendly, and the natural beauty of the islands truly speaks for itself. Whether you’re a first-time visitor eager to tick off must-see sights or someone who cherishes unspoiled beaches and authentic local flavor, this tour is a solid choice.
For those looking for an easy, enjoyable way to explore Sardinia’s famed archipelago—without the stress of self-driving or arranging multiple trips—this tour provides excellent value, comfort, and unforgettable views.
You can check availability for your dates here: