Experience the Beauty of Sardinia with the Stintino & Asinara Dream Sailboat Tour
Imagine spending a full day on a 15-meter sailing yacht exploring the rugged coastlines of Sardinia, from the famous La Pelosa Beach to the wild interior of Asinara National Park. For about 8 hours, you’ll glide along turquoise waters, stop for swimming and snorkeling in secluded coves, and enjoy a genuine Sardinian lunch onboard, prepared with local ingredients. Guides like Mario and Claudia — with over 20 years of sailing experience — ensure that your journey is safe, personal, and packed with authentic moments.
What we love most about this experience is the combination of adventure and relaxation. The stops at quiet beaches are perfect for taking a break from busy travel schedules, and the onboard meal offers a taste of Sardinian culinary heritage that’s both fresh and satisfying. Plus, the small group size makes it feel like a private trip, with the crew paying genuine attention to each guest.
A potential consideration? As with most boat trips, you’ll want to be comfortable with seasickness and bring sun protection, since you’ll be exposed to plenty of sunshine. The tour isn’t suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, but it’s ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers who love nature and the sea.
If you’re looking to explore Sardinia from the water, enjoy wildlife encounters, and savor local cuisine while cruising in comfort — this tour feels like a genuine slice of island life. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate a personal touch, scenic beauty, and hands-on experiences.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Authentic Sardinian experience: A full day of sailing with local guides Mario and Claudia who bring warmth and knowledge.
- Unforgettable scenery: From La Pelosa Beach to Asinara’s wild landscapes, the views are truly captivating.
- Culinary delight: Enjoy a freshly prepared, local Sardinian lunch featuring cheeses, seafood pasta, and pastries.
- Secluded swimming spots: Snorkel and swim in hidden coves with clear waters, away from crowds.
- Expert crew: Guides have over 20 years of sailing experience, ensuring safety and a friendly atmosphere.
- Limited suitability: Not recommended for children under 5, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues.
In-Depth Review of the Stintino & Asinara Dream Sailboat Tour
Setting the Scene: What Makes This Tour Special?
Imagine departing from the L’Ancora marina in Stintino, a charming seaside town known for its stunning beaches. The boat, a well-maintained 15-meter yacht, offers plenty of space for comfort and movement. As you set sail, the guide — often Mario or Claudia — will share stories about Sardinia’s coastline and the island’s biodiversity, instantly making you feel connected to the place.
The tour’s main highlights include cruising along the coast toward La Pelosa Beach, arguably one of Sardinia’s most iconic beaches, and then heading toward Asinara National Park, a protected area teeming with wildlife, including wild donkeys and albino donkeys. The journey itself is a highlight: the gentle sway of the boat, the salty breeze, and the stunning vistas make it clear why Sardinia’s coast is so beloved.
The Itinerary: A Balance of Relaxation and Exploration
The day begins with a meet-up at Viale Pelosa 12, inside the L’Ancora Club. From there, the crew will take you on a cruise along the coast, giving you ample time to snap photos of La Pelosa’s famous turquoise waters — perfect for both a swim and some memorable shots.
After enjoying the first swim in La Pelosa, you’ll sail toward Asinara National Park. The boat anchors near the island, where you’ll have free time for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring. The snorkeling gear is provided, and the waters promise excellent visibility, giving you a chance to see marine life in its natural habitat. Many reviews mention the pleasure of stopping at quiet coves and the stunning clarity of the water, making it ideal for both novice and experienced snorkelers.
You’ll also have the opportunity to walk on the island, where you might see wild donkeys or the rare albino donkeys — a unique sight, as one review mentions. The climb to see these animals is described as “a nice climb, but worth it,” thanks to the chance to experience Asinara’s untouched wilderness.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Onboard Sardinian Lunch: A Culinary Treasure
One of the most memorable parts of this tour is the lunch onboard, which is a true reflection of Sardinia’s culinary heritage. The menu features local cheeses such as Pecorino Sardo, crostini with cured mullet roe, sun-dried tomatoes, and artichoke spread, along with fresh seafood pasta like shrimp or catch-of-the-day. Desserts include Amaretti and Papassini, traditional pastries that showcase the island’s sweet side.
The meal is prepared with seasonal, local products, emphasizing freshness and authenticity. Reviews like Massimo’s highlight how generous and tasty the lunch was, with praise for the combination of the meal, aperitif, and desserts. Many guests appreciate that the hearty, local food really added to the experience, making the day feel more like a shared celebration than just a tour.
Snorkeling and Swimming: The Hidden Gems
Throughout the day, the boat makes multiple stops for swimming and snorkeling in carefully chosen coves. These spots are generally away from crowded beaches, offering a sense of privacy and peace. Guests consistently mention how much they enjoyed floating in waters that are clear, warm, and full of marine life.
Massimo’s review captures this well: “The context and sailing route are paradise,” emphasizing how the stops in secluded waters can feel like a private retreat. The snorkeling gear provided makes it easy for all skill levels to enjoy the underwater scenery.
Guides and Atmosphere: Personal, Knowledgeable, Friendly
Mario and Claudia are praised for their warmth, professionalism, and local knowledge. They aim to create a relaxed, inviting atmosphere, blending adventure with comfort. Their experience — over 20 years — translates into smooth sailing and insightful commentary, which makes the day more meaningful.
Guests often note the attentiveness of the crew, with one reviewer stating, “Mario, his daughter, and Claudia were really attentive,” which helps create a friendly, family-like environment onboard. Several reviews mention how they go out of their way to accommodate dietary needs or special requests, adding a personal touch.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip is ideal for adventurers and nature lovers who enjoy being on the water, exploring wildlife, and trying local cuisine. It’s best suited for those comfortable with boats, as seasickness could be a concern for some. It’s also not suitable for very young children or people with limited mobility.
If you’re looking for a romantic outing, a family adventure, or a small-group experience that combines scenic beauty, wildlife, and excellent food, this tour ticks all those boxes.
Practicalities: What You Need to Know
- The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, providing plenty of time for each activity without feeling rushed.
- Departure is from Porto Torres or Stintino, but most bookings start from Stintino.
- The price is $170 per person, which includes a full onboard Sardinian lunch, local wines, snorkeling gear, and exploration time.
- The tour is conducted in multiple languages: Italian, English, Spanish, and Romanian, ensuring accessibility for many travelers.
- Booking in advance is recommended, especially in peak season, and you can reserve and pay later.
The meeting point is inside the L’Ancora Club, with clear instructions to bring essentials such as passport, sunscreen, swimwear, towel, hat, camera, and water. It’s wise to avoid bringing pets or smoking on board.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value
At $170, this experience packs an impressive mix of scenic sailing, wildlife, local cuisine, and cultural insight. Guests consistently describe it as “a total package of relaxation, fun, and magic,” and reviews highlight how the guides’ genuine care and local knowledge elevate the experience.
Compared to other boat tours, the small group size and personalized approach mean you’re not just a face in a crowd. You’ll enjoy authentic Sardinian hospitality, stunning vistas, and a chance to truly unwind in nature’s lap.
The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?
This sailing trip is perfect if you’re seeking an authentic, laid-back day on the water with memorable scenery and excellent food. It’s best for those who value small-group intimacy, wildlife encounters, and local culinary traditions. If you’re comfortable with boats and enjoy exploring secluded beaches, this will likely be a highlight of your Sardinian trip.
It offers a wonderful balance of adventure and relaxation, making it an excellent choice for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want to experience Sardinia’s coastal beauty in a friendly, informal setting.
For travelers eager to see Sardinia’s wild side and indulge in its flavors, this tour delivers an experience that feels both special and authentic. Just be sure to bring your sun protection, a sense of curiosity, and a camera to capture the unforgettable views.
FAQ Section
Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. The meeting point is at Viale Pelosa 12 inside the L’Ancora Club in Stintino.
What should I bring with me?
Bring your passport or ID, hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, water, comfortable clothes, and beachwear. Weather-appropriate clothing is also recommended.
Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided for guests to explore the underwater scenery during stops.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving plenty of time for sailing, swimming, exploring, and enjoying lunch.
Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, which offers flexibility for your travel plans.
Is this tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 5 years old due to the nature of the activity and safety reasons.
What language is the tour conducted in?
Tours are offered in Italian, English, Spanish, and Romanian, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.
In essence, the Stintino & Asinara Dream Sailboat Tour offers an authentic taste of Sardinia’s coast and wilderness, combined with warm hospitality and delicious local cuisine. Whether you’re seeking relaxing scenery, wildlife encounters, or a taste of island life, this trip delivers in all those aspects.
You can check availability for your dates here: