One Day Private Excursion to the La Maddalena Archipelago

Looking for a personalized adventure in one of Italy’s most beautiful archipelagos? This private day tour from Olbia offers up to six travelers the chance to explore La Maddalena, Budelli, Razzoli, Santa Maria, and Caprera aboard a sleek, 8.5-meter speedboat—The Lounge. For a cost of around $696, you get a full day of flexible sightseeing, swimming, and island hopping, with no set schedule but plenty of options to customize your experience. The tour lasts about eight hours, with plenty of time for swimming, photo stops, and exploring villages, making it ideal for couples, families, or small groups looking for intimacy and personal attention.

What we love most about this experience are its tailor-made itinerary—deciding each stop based on weather and your wishes—and the luxurious boat setup, with a large sunbathing area and a convertible dining table. Plus, the guide’s local knowledge shines through, making each stop more meaningful. However, keep in mind that the price includes only the boat and some essentials—lunch, drinks, and fuel are extra—so budgeting accordingly is wise. This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, exclusive day on the water with the chance to visit iconic beaches and hidden gems, all at their own pace.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience for up to 6 people
• Includes visits to multiple islands and coves with flexible stops
• Luxury boat features like sunbathing, Bluetooth stereo, atmosphere lights
• Ideal for those seeking a relaxed, intimate day with plenty of swimming and sightseeing
• Cost includes park fees and snorkeling gear; other expenses are on you
• Excellent reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery

This experience made our article of What Are The Best Tours In Olbia? Our Top 15 Picks.

An In-Depth Look at the La Maddalena Archipelago Private Tour

When considering a boat trip along the La Maddalena Archipelago, the first thing that strikes you is how much this private tour emphasizes personalization. Unlike larger group excursions, where schedules are fixed and stops are pre-planned, this experience is tailored to your preferences. The boat, affectionately called The Lounge, becomes your floating sanctuary with spacious seating, a convertible dining table, sunbathing space, and mood lighting—perfect for relaxing or snapping memorable photos.

The Departure and Overall Experience

Starting at Marina Sintonia Porto Pozzo around 10 a.m., you’ll join a maximum of six guests aboard this sleek speedboat. The private nature of the tour means you won’t be hurried or herded along with other groups. Instead, the captain acts as your guide and chauffeur, ready to adjust the route based on your interests and the day’s weather. This flexibility is a significant plus, especially given the unpredictable nature of outdoor adventures.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

We particularly appreciate two aspects: the boat’s luxury and versatility and the engaging, knowledgeable guide. The boat’s large aft sunbathing area is perfect for soaking up the sun after swimming, while the Bluetooth stereo lets you choose your own playlist. The captain’s local insights, shared throughout the day, add a layer of depth to the experience—you may learn about the islands’ history, geology, or local legends.

Another highlight is the customizable itinerary. The route typically covers the most famous spots like Cala Corsara at Isola di Spargi, known for its unusual rocks and vibrant waters, and La Maddalena’s charming town, perfect for a leisurely lunch or exploring on foot. The guide will also suggest visiting the nearby Giardinelli island and Testa di Polpo beach—both ideal for a quick swim or a relaxing break.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Isola di Spargi

Just a few minutes into the cruise, your first stop is Cala Corsara. This cove is famous for its striking rock formations and vivid water colors, making it a favorite among photographers. The sheltered nature of this cove provides calm waters, excellent for swimming, and is often where travelers spend most of their time. Nearby coves like Cala Soraya, Cala Connery, and Cala Granara offer additional swimming spots or relaxing scenery.

According to reviews, many find this part of the trip particularly memorable. One guest exclaimed, “We saw so many beautiful beaches that we would not be able to get to from land,” highlighting the exclusive access only a boat can give.

Stop 2: La Maddalena Town

Next, your guide might suggest a visit to the historic town of La Maddalena. It’s a lively hub with narrow streets, colorful shops, and traditional restaurants—an ideal spot for lunch or a quick stroll. The nearby Giardinelli island and Testa di Polpo beach are great for a dip if time permits.

This stop is free of charge but offers a chance to explore local culture and enjoy some regional cuisine. One reviewer called this the “best place for a lunch break,” appreciating the opportunity to enjoy local flavors after a morning of swimming.

Stop 3: Budelli Island and Pink Beach

Perhaps one of the most iconic sights is Pink Beach on Budelli Island. While the beach itself is visible only from the boat, passing in front offers plenty of photo opportunities. The Natural Pools in front of Cavaliere beach provide calm, crystal-clear waters perfect for a quick swim.

Since the Pink Beach is protected and cannot be visited directly, the boat’s pass-by view becomes a highlight. Travelers have expressed fascination at seeing this natural wonder from the water, describing it as “something you’ll never forget.”

Stop 4: Island of Santa Maria

This island offers several stops, including Cala Marras, a small, almost circular cove resembling a private pool—an excellent spot for shallow, safe swimming. The color-changing waters here—from vibrant blue to emerald—are frequently praised for their beauty. Small islets like Paduleddi add to the scenic diversity.

The guide’s flexibility means your group can choose to linger at spots that catch your eye. Reviewers note that this part of the trip offers “stunning views,” and the varied stops keep the day engaging.

Stop 5: Razzoli Island

Razzoli presents opportunities to visit Cala Lunga and pass through Passo del Topo, which is a narrow passage between islands. This stretch adds a bit of adventure and a chance to see more secluded spots. Visitors often find these less crowded areas more peaceful and intimate.

Stop 6: Caprera Island

The final island on the route is Caprera, known for Garibaldi’s house museum and its rugged, natural landscape. The beaches here—Cala Coticcio, Cala Serena, and Cala Napoletana—are perfect for a last swim or a walk along the coast. Many reviews highlight how this island offers a wild, untouched feeling, contrasting with the more populated La Maddalena.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour fee covers snorkel masks and snorkels, bottled water, and fees for the Natural Park visit—a significant value for those wanting to explore the underwater world. However, lunch, drinks beyond water, and fuel costs are extra, so you might want to plan accordingly. Some reviewers suggest bringing towels or extra drinks to improve comfort during swimming breaks.

The Experience and Reviews

This tour has a perfect 5-star rating based on 44 reviews, with travelers praising the knowledgeable captain Alberto, the stunning scenery, and the flexibility of the itinerary. One guest shared, “Alberto worked through a boat issue with grace and skill,” which highlights the importance of having a skilled guide. Many reviewers emphasize how the water’s incredible clarity and beautiful beaches made this the highlight of their trip.

Travelers also appreciated the informal, friendly atmosphere—it feels like exploring with a knowledgeable friend rather than a tour guide, which makes the experience all the more enjoyable.

Pricing and Value

At approximately $696 for a group of six, this tour offers considerable value for an exclusive, private experience. The price includes park fees and snorkel gear, which are often overlooked costs in other tours. Since the itinerary is flexible, you’re paying for a day tailored specifically to your interests, rather than a one-size-fits-all schedule.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for small groups or couples who want a private, relaxed day on the water. If you’re looking for stunning scenery, the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters, and personalized attention from your guide, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s particularly popular among travelers who value authentic, unhurried exploration and want to avoid crowded tourist spots.

The Sum Up

This private boat tour in La Maddalena offers a rare blend of comfort, flexibility, and intimacy that appeals to travelers eager to customize their day. With a luxury boat, knowledgeable guide, and access to some of the most stunning beaches and islands in Italy, it’s a memorable way to experience the archipelago’s natural beauty.

If you’re someone who appreciates beautiful waters, secluded coves, and charming towns, this trip delivers on all counts. The ability to tailor the stops and the high comfort level make it suitable for families, couples, or small groups wanting a more personal adventure than a typical group tour.

While the price might seem steep for some, the inclusion of park fees, snorkel gear, and the exclusivity make it good value for a special day. Just remember to budget for lunch and drinks, and you’re all set for a day of unforgettable island hopping.

In short, if you’re after an authentic, scenic, and flexible experience on the water, this private La Maddalena tour could be the highlight of your Sardinian trip.

FAQ

How many people can join this private tour?
Up to 6 travelers, making it ideal for small groups, couples, or families seeking a personal experience.

What is included in the price?
The fee includes the boat, snorkel masks and gear, bottled water, and the fee for visiting the Natural Park. Additional costs are for lunch, extra drinks, and fuel.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the stops and route are decided together with the captain based on your preferences and weather conditions, ensuring a personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Towels for swimming, sun protection, and perhaps some extra drinks or snacks. The boat has atmosphere lights and a Bluetooth stereo to set your mood.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s appropriate for families, and many reviews mention traveling with kids who enjoyed the swimming and relaxed pace.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This private day in La Maddalena is a fantastic way to experience the archipelago on your terms—quiet, luxurious, and full of jaw-dropping scenery. Whether you’re seeking romance, family fun, or a peaceful escape, this tour offers a memorable slice of Sardinian paradise.