One-day tour on a vintage cruise in Tavolara and Molara

Experience the Charm of Sardinia on a Vintage Cruise to Tavolara and Molara

Imagine gliding across crystal-clear waters aboard a beautifully preserved vintage boat, surrounded by the scent of the sea and the chirping of seabirds. This one-day tour in Sardinia takes you on a leisurely 7-hour voyage starting from Porto San Paolo, exploring the captivating islands of Tavolara and Molara. Led by a knowledgeable and friendly captain, you’ll visit pristine beaches, natural pools, and secluded coves, all while enjoying the quiet luxury of a small group—just six passengers max. The tour costs about $163 per person, a fair price for the personalized experience and the stunning scenery you’ll encounter.

Two things we really love about this trip are the intimate group size and the engaging storytelling from the captain, who makes each stop come alive with fascinating tales. Plus, the opportunity to taste authentic Sardinian products along the way—think local wines, cured meats, and fresh seafood—adds a delicious local flavor to the day. The only consideration? It’s dependent on weather conditions, especially wind, so if a blustery day is forecast, some stops might be more or less accessible.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate authentic, relaxed days on the water, love discovering lesser-known corners of Sardinia, and enjoy a touch of luxury combined with natural beauty. If you’re someone who values meaningful scenery over crowded tourist spots, this trip is a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Stunning scenery across multiple beaches, coves, and islands.
• Authentic experience with Sardinian land and sea products and stories from the captain.
• Flexible itinerary that adapts to weather, showcasing the best views and hidden spots.
• Ideal for those seeking a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural insight.
• Good weather is essential for fully enjoying all stops and swimming opportunities.

A Detailed Look at the Sardinian Vintage Cruise

The Starting Point: Porto San Paolo

Your adventure begins at the quaint Sailing San Paolo Wave marina, a convenient spot close to public transportation. From here, you’ll hop aboard your vintage boat at 10:00 am, ready for a day filled with stunning vistas and memorable stories. With a maximum of just six passengers, the trip is designed for intimacy and comfort, avoiding the crowds typical of larger boat tours.

Tavolara Island: A Limestone Marvel

Our first stop is Tavolara, an island famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs and striking silhouette. We get to go ashore, walk around this unique geological formation, and soak in the panoramic views. The landing is included in the ticket price, so you can spend about an hour exploring at your own pace. Many reviews, like Luisa’s, highlight the breathtaking scenery and the friendly captain’s storytelling as major highlights.

Molara and Its Natural Pools

Next, we cruise to Molara, a small, uninhabited island with pristine waters and natural pools perfect for swimming. Here, you can dive into the crystal-clear sea, surrounded by breathtaking colors of the marine environment. The group usually has about an hour for this stop, which is often paired with a relaxed lunch—featuring Sardinian delicacies—on board or nearby. Reviewers mention the excellent environment for swimming and the peaceful atmosphere, making it a favorite stop for those seeking tranquility.

Porto Istana and Spiaggia del Dottore: Seaside Serenity

Depending on weather conditions, the captain might steer towards Porto Istana, a cove with calm, shallow waters, ideal for a quiet break or a swim. Later, the tour visits Spiaggia del Dottore, known for its vivid water colors, especially when the wind is from the northwest. These beaches are perfect spots to unwind, enjoy a glass of local wine, or relax in the sun. As one reviewer noted, “the water colors are the best in these weather conditions,” which makes these stops particularly memorable on clear, windy days.

Hidden Coves of Capo Ceraso and Punta Don Diego

If the weather permits, the boat navigates to Capo Ceraso, a promontory dotted with secret inlets—ideal for those who love discovering untouched spots where fewer boats venture. This stop often features quiet, crystal-clear waters and rugged coastline.

Next, the Punta Don Diego beach, located near the Don Diego hotel, offers a perfect shelter when the wind is from the northwest and is a favorite for enjoying a relaxed pause with local wine and cured meats. The boat’s maneuvering emphasizes looking for conditions that favor the best views and comfort.

The Enchanting Turtle Beach and Cala Suaraccia

The tour continues along Porto Taverna, giving you a chance to admire the changing shapes of Tavolara from the sea. One of the most iconic spots is Spiaggia della Tartaruga, famous for its turtle-shaped rock. The captain shares the story behind this symbol, enriching your connection to the area. Many guests mention the stunning scenery and the peaceful ambiance as highlights.

For those seeking less crowded spots, Le Farfalle (Cala Suaraccia) offers a tranquil alternative. Its quiet waters and fragrant Mediterranean scrub create a relaxing environment, perfect for lounging and enjoying nature’s scents.

Capo Coda Cavo and Cala Brandinchi: Spectacular Endpoints

Capo Coda Cavallo is often considered the best day-shelter during sirocco winds. The water’s transparency here is extraordinary—you can see each grain of sand—and you’ll get spectacular views of both the eastern side of Tavolara and the surrounding sea.

Finally, if everyone agrees, the group might make a longer trip out to Cala Brandinchi, about an hour and a half away. Known as “Little Tahiti,” its pristine sands and shallow, warm waters make for an idyllic end to the day. This stop is selectively included, which means it’s a special treat reserved for good weather and group enthusiasm.

The Return and Reflection

After a full day of exploring, swimming, and tasting Sardinian specialties, you’ll head back to Porto San Paolo around 5:00 pm, feeling relaxed and enriched by your coastal discoveries.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

What sets this tour apart is the personal touch—a small group, an experienced storyteller captain, and the chance to explore less touristy but incredibly scenic locations. The vintage boat adds a nostalgic charm, making the journey feel both exclusive and charmingly old-fashioned.

You’ll love the deliberate pacing—not rushed, allowing you time at each stop to breathe in the scenery, chat with your companions, or just relax. The meals—featuring typical Sardinian products—add a delicious local flavor, making the trip a feast for all senses.

In terms of value, at about $163, the price covers a full day of personalized exploration, with admission to all stops, and the expert storytelling that makes the experience memorable. Given the small group size, the focus on authentic spots, and the flexible itinerary, this is a great investment for those wanting more than just a boat ride.

What Reviewers Say

Luisa highlights the “beautiful tour with an amazing boat and a very friendly captain”, emphasizing how the day brought her “joy and relaxation.” This reflects the experience’s balance of scenic beauty and comfort. Many reviews point out the stunning views and the excellent opportunity for swimming and tasting local wines, adding to its appeal.

Who’s It For?

This tour is perfect if you’re seeking a peaceful, scenic day with a touch of adventure, especially if you enjoy small-group experiences and authentic Sardinian flavors. It suits travelers who value storytelling, quiet beaches, and exploring hidden corners of the coast. However, if you’re heavily dependent on perfect weather or prefer large, organized tours, this might not be your ideal choice.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the small group size and relaxed pace make it suitable for families, especially if your kids enjoy swimming and boat rides.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, your swimwear, and a windproof jacket if the weather looks windy. Don’t forget your camera and a sense of adventure.

Is lunch included?
Lunch generally coincides with the Molara stop, where you can enjoy Sardinian products, though it’s advisable to clarify if you want specific dietary accommodations.

How many people are on the boat?
The tour is limited to 6 travelers, ensuring a cozy and personalized experience.

Can I swim at every stop?
Most stops offer swimming opportunities, especially at Molara, Turtle Beach, and Capo Ceraso, weather permitting.

What if it rains?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the boat accessible for those with mobility issues?
This detail isn’t specified, but given the small size of the boat and the nature of landings, it’s best to inquire beforehand.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 62 days ahead, so plan early to secure your spot.

What is the cost compared to other tours?
While $163 might seem high, it reflects the small group setting, personalized experience, and multiple stops, offering good value for an authentic day on the water.

Final Thoughts

This vintage cruise across Tavolara and Molara offers a delicate balance of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and relaxed luxury. The small-group format ensures that every traveler feels special, while the engaging captain makes each stop meaningful with stories and local knowledge. The chance to swim in pristine waters, explore secluded beaches, and sample Sardinian delicacies makes this a standout experience for anyone craving authentic, peaceful seaside adventures.

It’s an experience best suited for those who cherish quiet beauty, enjoy culture, and appreciate the personal touch that comes with small-group tours. If you’re looking for a day of unspoiled coastlines, delicious local flavors, and a touch of nostalgia aboard a vintage boat, this trip will leave you with lasting memories of Sardinia’s stunning marine landscape.

Plan ahead, pack a sense of curiosity, and prepare for a day that balances relaxation with discovery in one of Italy’s most beautiful corners.