An Authentic Sardinian Sailing Adventure: Three Days on the Blue Magic
If you’re dreaming of escaping Sardinia’s weekend crowds and exploring its wild, untouched coastlines, this sailing weekend in Ogliastra offers a perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and genuine local beauty. For around $3,125 per group — up to six travelers — you get three days aboard the private Blue Magic sailboat, with all meals, drinks, and activities included. It’s a trip designed for those who love the sea, crave personalized experiences, and appreciate relaxing in a setting that’s both luxurious and authentic.
What we love most about this experience is how it combines the thrill of discovering secluded beaches like Cala Goloritzé and Cea Beach with the comfort of a well-equipped sailboat and the flexibility to set your own pace. The fact that it’s private means you can tailor your route and schedule — no crowded tour bus here — just your group and the ocean. Plus, the crew, especially the hosts Bobo and Giusi, are praised for their warmth and hospitality, making the whole experience feel like sailing with friends.
A possible consideration is the cost, which is on the higher end for a three-day trip, but when you consider the all-inclusive nature — meals, drinks, stops at prime locations, and the exclusivity — it’s a good value for those seeking a premium, personalized experience. If you’re comfortable with the idea of a small, intimate group on a comfortable sailboat and love the idea of combining relaxation with exploration, this tour will suit you well.
This experience is best suited for travelers who want to avoid mainstream tourist spots, enjoy authentic natural beauty, and appreciate the chance to customize their sea journey. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or small families longing for a peaceful, scenic escape with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and soak up the Sardinian sun.
Key Points
- Private and customizable route tailored to your preferences
- All-inclusive package covering meals, drinks, and activities
- Secluded beaches and coves like Cala Goloritzé and Cea Beach
- Comfortable sailboat with three double cabins and a dedicated skipper
- Authentic Sardinian experience away from crowds
- Ideal for small groups seeking personalized adventure and relaxation
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Exploring the Sailing Weekend in Ogliastra: A Deep Dive
Experience Overview and Setting
The three-day sailing trip begins in Santa Maria Navarrese or Porto Turistico — two charming starting points on Sardinia’s east coast. You’ll board your private sailboat, Blue Magic, a vessel that combines comfort and functionality. With three double cabins and a professional skipper, the boat is designed to provide both a cozy retreat and a platform for discovery.
This trip is priced at $3,125.53 per group, which might seem steep at first glance. But when you factor in the private nature, the tailored itinerary, and the all-inclusiveness — including meals, drinks, and stops at stunning sites — it offers good value, especially for those craving an exclusive, intimate experience. We loved that it is booked well in advance, with an average of 127 days ahead, reflecting its popularity.
What Makes This Experience Stand Out?
Two specific features really catch our eye. First, the secluded beaches and coves visited — Cala Goloritzé, Venus Pools, and Cea Beach — are genuine highlights. These are not your typical tourist spots; they’re natural, largely untouched, and only accessible by boat or hike. Second, the flexibility and personalization of the trip truly set it apart. As a private tour, you can choose the route, set the pace, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.
On the down side, the cost might be a barrier for some, but the experience’s exclusivity and the quality of the boat and crew make it worthwhile for travelers who prioritize comfort and authenticity over budget.
This tour will appeal most to those who value privacy, want to avoid crowded beaches, and love the idea of having a personalized voyage tailored to their interests. If you’re looking for a unique, relaxing, yet adventure-filled escape, this trip checks all the boxes.
Itinerary Breakdown: The Heart of the Experience
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- 1-Catamaran tour to the Maddalena Archipelago from Cannigione
- Luxury catamaran from Porto Rafael-Palau to the Maddalena Archipelago
- Catamaran excursions in the Asinara island National park
- 2-Catamaran tour from Cannigione to the Maddalena Archipelago
- Private Asinara and La Pelosa Sunset Sailing Tour
- Daily cruise on a sailing catamaran on the La Maddalena archipelago
Day 1: Setting Sail from Santa Maria Navarrese
Your adventure kicks off in the late afternoon with a warm aperitif on board, setting the tone for a relaxed, convivial weekend. Afterward, a hearty dinner is served, giving you an authentic taste of Sardinian cuisine. A safety briefing and itinerary overview follow, so everyone feels comfortable and ready. You’ll have time for a stroll in the village, soaking in local atmosphere before sailing begins.
This opening evening is appreciated for its casual, friendly atmosphere. As one reviewer noted, the experience felt like being on a “magical weekend aboard the Blue Magic”, with the hosts making everyone feel at home.
Day 2: Discovering the Coveted Cala Goloritzé and Venus Pools
The second day is packed with visits to iconic spots that are hard to beat in natural beauty. Cala Goloritzé, often praised as the most beautiful bay in the Gulf of Orosei, is only reachable by boat or on foot. The white sand and turquoise waters are complemented by the towering Punta Cariddi, creating a picture-perfect scene. You might find yourself swimming outside the buoys or taking a tender to nearby beaches like Lovers Beach, known for its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters.
Next, the Venus Pools — a natural sea swimming pool surrounded by high white rocks — are a favorite among visitors. From there, a quick dinghy ride takes you to the Grotta del Fico, a spectacular cave to explore.
The day’s final stop is the Monolite di Pedra Longa, a massive rock formation ideal for snorkeling and observing the local waterfall. The consistency of crystal-clear waters reported by reviews suggests that snorkeling here offers an impressive view of underwater life.
Day 3: Relaxing at Cea Beach and Isolotto Lunch
The last day is a gentle wind-down. Your boat anchors off Spiaggia di Cea, just beyond Bellavista Cape. Here, you can swim or snorkel around the big red rocks, enjoying the peaceful setting. The dinghy makes reaching the beach easy, and the waters are said to be especially suitable for snorkeling — another highlight according to reviews.
The grand finale is lunch at the Ogliastra Isolotto, a significant rock formation in the middle of the sea. It’s a magical spot for relaxing, swimming, and soaking up the sun before heading back to port. The experience of relaxing in this truly wild environment offers a perfect ending to your Sardinian sea adventure.
Practical Details: What to Expect
Transportation and Timing
Your journey begins in late afternoon on Day 1, with the opportunity to walk in Santa Maria Navarrese. The trip spans roughly three days, with each day carefully timed to maximize your experience of the coast and include ample swimming and snorkeling. Stops are flexible and weather-dependent, but the itinerary is designed to showcase Sardinia’s best hidden beaches and coves.
Group Size and Comfort
The boat can accommodate up to six guests, making it perfect for small groups seeking intimacy and personalized attention. The sailboat itself features three double cabins and a dedicated skipper, ensuring safety and comfort. Most reviews mention the luxurious feel of the boat and the friendly expertise of the hosts.
Cost and Value
At over $3,100, this package is an investment, but for those who value privacy, tailored experiences, and access to exclusive spots, the cost aligns well with the overall quality. The all-inclusive nature — covering meals, drinks, and excursions — simplifies planning and adds to the value, as there are no hidden costs or surprises.
Authentic Reviews and Guest Insights
Guests consistently praise the experience as “magical” and “relaxing”. One reviewer described it as “a first-time sailing trip they didn’t want to end,” highlighting the comfort and friendliness of the crew, especially Bobo and Giusi. The quiet mornings at Cala Goloritzé — with goats wandering and no crowds — seem to be a special highlight, capturing the essence of Sardinia’s untouched beauty.
The snorkeling spots receive particular mention, with clear waters and stunning underwater scenery. Guests also appreciate the gourmet meals and the chance to connect with nature and each other in this tranquil setting.
The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?
This sailing weekend is ideal for those who crave authenticity, privacy, and scenic beauty. It’s perfect if you’re looking to escape busy tourist spots and explore Sardinia’s coastline at a relaxed pace. It suits adventurous spirits willing to spend time swimming and snorkeling in pristine waters, as well as those who simply want to unwind on deck with good food and company. The small-group, private setting ensures a personalized experience that feels both exclusive and intimate.
While the price may be a consideration, the combination of luxury, natural splendor, and flexible itinerary makes it a worthwhile choice for travelers seeking a truly memorable Sardinian escape.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
Given the small group size and the nature of sailing, it may suit families with older children comfortable around water and boats. Always check with the provider for specific age restrictions.
What is included in the all-inclusive package?
The price covers meals, drinks, and stops at key sites. It’s designed to offer a hassle-free experience where everything needed for the trip is provided.
Do I need sailing experience to join?
No, you don’t need prior sailing experience. The boat is crewed, and the skipper handles navigation and safety.
Can I customize the route?
Yes, being a private tour, the route and pace can be tailored to your preferences, weather permitting.
What if the weather is bad?
If poor weather causes cancellations, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Safety always comes first.
How fit do I need to be?
Basic comfort with swimming and moving around the boat is helpful, but no advanced skills are necessary.
Are pets allowed?
Service animals are permitted, but check with the provider if you’re bringing a pet.
How do I get to the meeting point?
Both Santa Maria Navarrese and Porto Turistico are accessible by public transportation or car. Contact the provider for specific directions.
What is the group size?
Up to six people, making it perfect for intimate groups wanting exclusivity.
Can I join for fewer or more days?
The experience is designed as a three-day trip. Custom durations might be available upon request, but the standard package is three days.
This sailing weekend in Ogliastra offers a chance to see Sardinia from a different perspective — away from crowds, towards pristine, untouched coastlines. For those who appreciate quiet beauty, personalized adventures, and the thrill of the sea, this trip could be the highlight of your Sardinian journey.
More Sailing Experiences in Sardinia
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Sardinia
- Corsica Tour by Sailboat from Santa Teresa di Gallura
- Sailing day trip
- Guided day by boat in Carloforte with snorkelling and aperitif
- Sailing weeks in Sardinia (June, July, August, September)
- One day excursion on a sailing boat in the Gulf of Alghero
- Boat Trip: Grotta del Fico, Cala Mariolu, Gabbiani & Biriala
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