From Santa Teresa Gallura: La Maddalena Full-Day Boat Tour

Imagine a day spent cruising through some of Sardinia’s most stunning waters, visiting pristine beaches and charming islands, all while enjoying a freshly cooked meal on deck. For just over $62, this full-day boat tour takes you on an exploration of the La Maddalena Archipelago, a protected area famed for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and dramatic coastlines. Departing from Santa Teresa Gallura at 9:00 am, you’ll spend around 8 hours immersed in nature’s beauty, with stops to swim, relax, and soak in the views.

What we love most about this experience is how smoothly it runs—thanks to well-organized logistics—and how much it offers for the price. The onboard lunch, featuring homemade pasta, is genuinely a highlight, giving you a taste of local flavors while you watch the islands drift by. Plus, the chance to swim in unspoiled waters at beaches only reachable by boat makes this trip stand out.

A small caveat is the additional landing fee of 5 euros per person, payable in cash, which isn’t included in the ticket price. While the boat itself is comfortable and equipped with toilets—important for a day out—be aware that diving from the boat isn’t permitted, so this isn’t an activity for those eager to snorkel or scuba.

This tour really suits travelers who appreciate scenic landscapes, enjoy swimming in calm waters, and like the idea of a relaxed, all-in-one experience. It’s especially good for families and groups of friends who want a taste of Sardinia’s natural splendor without fussing over logistics.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery and unspoiled beaches accessible only by boat
• Comfortable boat with onboard amenities, including toilets
• Authentic onboard lunch featuring pasta cooked fresh during the trip
• Multiple swim stops in crystal-clear waters
• Well-organized experience with multilingual guides
• Additional landing fee payable in cash, so come prepared

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring La Maddalena by Boat: A Practical Guide

If you’re visiting Sardinia, a trip to the La Maddalena Archipelago offers a memorable glimpse of some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful scenery. This full-day boat tour from Santa Teresa Gallura provides an excellent way to see multiple islands, enjoy swimming in protected waters, and indulge in tasty local cuisine—all in one package.

The Itinerary: What’s Included?

The trip kicks off early, with a meeting point at the Santa Teresa Gallura port, near the Coast Guard office. We recommend arriving at least 60 minutes before departure to get checked in and handle the cash payment for the landing fee (€5 per person). The boat departs around 9 am, heading across the Straits of Bonifacio—a scenic passage that sets the tone for the day.

Once underway, the boat makes its way to the main islands of the archipelago: La Maddalena, Caprera, Budelli, Santo Stefano, Santa Maria, Spargi, and Razzoli. The journey itself is a highlight, with ample opportunities for photos of rugged coastlines and turquoise waters. Guides provide multilingual commentary, so you’ll get a sense of the area’s natural and cultural significance.

The Stops: Beaches and Towns

The tour offers several stops, each with its unique appeal. One of the most celebrated sights is the Pink Beach—famous for its blush-colored sands and featured in Michelangelo Antonioni’s film Deserto Rosso. You’ll dock at beaches like S. Maria and Spargi via footbridges, making access straightforward and safe.

We loved the way the tour combines swimming opportunities with sightseeing. The water is described as “crystal clear,” perfect for taking a dip and cooling off after absorbing the sun. According to reviews, the beaches are accessible directly from the boats, with walkways onto the piers, making it easy for everyone to get in and out of the water.

For those interested in local culture, there’s a stop at the town of La Maddalena, which offers a brief look at the charming cobbled streets and local shops. While the time here is limited—about 45 minutes—it’s enough to grab a quick drink or explore a bit before heading back.

Food and Beverage: A Tasty Surprise

One of the unexpected delights of this tour is the onboard lunch, served during the cruise. The menu features pennette alla marinara or pasta in bianco with oil and Parmesan, cooked fresh on deck. Reviewers rave about how generous the portions are, and many note how tasty and satisfying the meal is after a morning of sightseeing.

Along With the included meal, there’s a bar where you can buy drinks—so bring extra cash if you want refreshments beyond water or the included wine. Keep in mind, no diving from the boat is allowed, but the chance to relax and watch the scenery is enough for most.

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The Experience: What to Expect

The boat is described as comfortable, with enough seats for everyone, even during busy days. The length of the trip—around 8 hours—means you’ll want to be prepared for a long, but leisurely, day. Some guests mention that the sea conditions are usually calm, making for smooth sailing, though weather can vary.

The multilingual guides help make the experience informative, and reviews emphasize the friendly staff and well-organized schedule. Since the tour is popular, it’s wise to book in advance, especially if traveling with a larger group or several families, to ensure everyone can stay together.

What Are the Downsides?

While the overall experience is highly positive, there are some points to consider. The additional cash fee for landing can catch you off guard if you’re not prepared, so pack some euros. Also, since the dive from the boat isn’t permitted, if snorkeling or diving is your priority, this tour might not suit you.

Some travelers mention that the short time at La Maddalena town can feel rushed, giving only a quick glimpse of the streets and shops. Plus, the lunch, while tasty, is simple and might not satisfy everyone’s gourmet cravings, so packing snacks is always a good idea.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers who want a scenic, relaxed day on the water. It’s perfect for those who appreciate beautiful beaches, enjoy swimming in calm, clear waters, and want a taste of Sardinian cuisine without fuss. Families, couples, and groups of friends looking for a value-packed experience will find it especially appealing.

If you love being on a boat, seeing islands from the water, and savoring a good meal with minimal hassle, this tour is a great match. However, if you’re eager to explore the islands on foot or snorkel extensively, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts: The Value of a Beautiful Day

This La Maddalena boat tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to experience Sardinia’s famed archipelago. The combination of stunning scenery, comfortable transportation, authentic local cuisine, and easy swimming makes it a solid choice for most travelers seeking a scenic, relaxing day at sea.

The value for money is noteworthy, especially considering the included meal and multiple swim stops. The fact that it’s run by friendly, multilingual guides adds to the feeling that you’re in capable hands, making the day both enjoyable and informative.

While it’s not a trip for serious snorkelers or those wanting extended time on land, it hits the sweet spot for those who want a beautiful, hassle-free day exploring Sardinia’s coast and islands.

FAQs

How early should I arrive for check-in?
It’s best to arrive at least 60 minutes before departure—around 8 am—to ensure enough time for check-in and payment of the €5 landing fee.

Is the onboard lunch included?
Yes, a lunch featuring pasta cooked on deck—either pennette alla marinara or pasta in bianco with oil and Parmesan—is included in the ticket price.

Do I need to bring cash?
Yes. You should bring cash to pay the landing fee (€5 per person), as credit cards are not accepted for this fee. Also, you may want extra cash for drinks or snacks at the bar.

Are there facilities on the boat?
Yes, all boats have toilet facilities, which are helpful for a day-long trip.

Can pets join the tour?
Small pets are allowed on the boat (except in August), but under no circumstances are they permitted on beaches.

How long is the whole trip?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, from departure around 9 am to return around 5 pm.

Is diving or snorkeling allowed?
No, diving from the boat is not permitted, though swimming in the designated beaches is encouraged.

What should I pack?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and cash. Sunscreen and a hat are also recommended for sun protection.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of stunning scenery, comfortable boat ride, authentic local lunch, and the chance to swim in pristine waters makes this experience memorable, especially for those looking for a relaxed day in nature.

In the end, this trip offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, comfort, and authentic Sardinian charm. It’s an excellent way to see the islands without hassle, perfect for travelers who value straightforward, high-quality experiences in a spectacular setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: