Sardinia isn’t just about stunning coastlines and ancient ruins; it’s a place where you can find exceptional tours that bring the island’s natural beauty and local culture vividly to life. Whether you’re floating on a boat past pink beaches, snorkeling in marine protected areas, or learning to make traditional culurgiones, Sardinia offers a diverse range of experiences. One of our favorites is the From Sardinia: La Maddalena Archipelago Full-Day Boat Tour, which combines scenic vistas, beach stops, and cultural exploration — perfect for those who want an all-in-one day on the water.
In this list, we’ve gathered 15 of the best tours across Sardinia, covering everything from sailing and dolphin watching to culinary classes and island adventures. We’ve focused on tours with excellent reviews, unique features, and genuine value, so you can choose the experience that best suits your interests and travel style.
1. From Sardinia: La Maddalena Archipelago Full-Day Boat Tour
This full-day adventure from Palau or La Maddalena is a stellar way to see the La Maddalena Archipelago with a local multilingual guide. The tour includes visits to the islands of Budelli, Spargi, and Santa Maria, with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing on sandy beaches. You also get a chance to explore La Maddalena’s historic town at your own pace, with time for shopping and strolling. The boat itself is noted for its cleanliness, and reviews highlight how friendly and informative the guides are—perfect for families and first-time visitors.
The itinerary includes several beach stops, like Cala Granara and Budelli, known for their natural pools and emerald waters. The tour is priced at just under $57 per person, offering fantastic value given the duration and variety of stops. If you love a mix of scenery, culture, and water activities, this trip is hard to beat. Bottom line: ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive day on the water with plenty of swimming and exploring.
2. 1-Catamaran tour to the Maddalena Archipelago from Cannigione
Rated a perfect 5.0/5 from over 900 reviews, this small-group catamaran tour offers an intimate, luxurious way to see Sardinia’s coastline. For about $149, you’ll cruise for roughly 8 hours, visiting stunning spots like Pink Beach, Spargi, and Razzoli. The highlight is the chance to see Pink Beach, famous for its coral-colored sands and natural protection from the park service—no walking on it, but fantastic photo opportunities.
The tour includes a Sardinian-style lunch with vegetarian and fish options, and wine or beer to accompany your meal. The small group size (max 12 people) ensures a relaxed atmosphere, plenty of personal attention, and the ability to swim in crystal-clear waters. Guests mention the crew’s friendliness and the excellent itinerary — making it a top choice for travelers who want a laid-back, personalized day at sea. Bottom line: a premium, all-inclusive experience with a focus on comfort and exclusive scenery.
3. Sailboat tour from PALAU to the Maddalena Archipelago
Rated 5.0/5 from 582 reviews, this sailing trip offers a relaxed, authentic way to explore Sardinia’s famed archipelago. Departing from Palau, the tour lasts about 7 to 8 hours, with a traditional Sardinian pasta lunch, wine, and soft drinks included. The focus is on enjoying the sea breeze as you stop at Spargi and the iconic Pink Beach, with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and taking photos of the stunning coastal scenery.
Guests love the friendly crew, especially the guides’ knowledge and the chance to escape crowded tour boats. The tour is capped at 12 participants, ensuring a personalized experience in a beautiful setting. This is perfect for those who enjoy sailing, want to relax, and see Sardinia from a different perspective. Bottom line: ideal for travelers who prefer a classic sailing experience combined with excellent food and fewer crowds.
4. Luxury catamaran from Porto Rafael-Palau to the Maddalena Archipelago
With a 5.0/5 rating from over 500 reviews, this luxury catamaran tour combines comfort with adventure, costing around $149. It includes a full day of sightseeing with stops at Spargi’s bays, the Pink Beach, and Razzoli for snorkeling in pristine waters. The onboard Sardinian lunch features seafood and vegetarian options, and you can enjoy Sardinian wine, coffee, and liqueurs.
Guests consistently praise the professional crew, the quality of the boat, and the stunning scenery. The tour emphasizes escape from crowds and offers a relaxed, high-end atmosphere. The snorkeling gear and photo stops make it a favorite among travelers wanting a stylish way to see the archipelago. Bottom line: perfect for those seeking a comfortable, all-inclusive day exploring Sardinia’s natural wonders.
5. Boat trip La Maddalena Archipelago – Departure from Palau
Rated 5.0/5 from 455 reviews, this guided boat tour provides a well-rounded overview of the archipelago in about 7 hours. It features stops at Budelli, Spargi, Santa Maria, and La Maddalena itself. The trip includes narration in multiple languages, making it ideal for international travelers wanting context along with the scenery.
The itinerary offers swimming in turquoise waters and free time to explore La Maddalena’s town with local shops and cafes. Reviewers mention the friendly staff and the beautiful beaches, making this a great value at around $64 per person. Bottom line: a reliable, informative tour perfect for first-timers wanting a balance of water activities and cultural exploration.
6. Cagliari Boat Tour 4 Stops .Possible Sighting of Dolphins
Rated 5.0/5 from 340 reviews, this short but lively 3-hour 15-minute tour is perfect for travelers with limited time. It focuses on Cagliari’s coastline, with stops at Cala Bernat, Calamosca Beach, and Poetto, with the chance to see dolphins if conditions permit. The boat is fast, safe, and designed for quick access to the best swimming spots.
Reviewers appreciate the fun, friendly crew, and the chance to swim in clear waters while enjoying some local stories. Priced at just over $69, it’s a great way to combine sightseeing with water fun. Bottom line: a quick, engaging option for those who want a taste of Sardinia’s coastal waters and wildlife.
7. Tavolara Boat Tour and Snorkeling
Rated 5.0/5 with 289 reviews, this scenic day trip from Olbia offers about four hours of boating, snorkeling, and sightseeing. The tour explores the marine protected area of Tavolara, with stops at Molara Island, Doctor’s Beach, and Porto Istana. You’ll enjoy snorkeling in beautiful, well-protected waters, with all gear provided, along with traditional Sardinian snacks.
Reviewers highlight Francesco’s enthusiasm and the quality of snorkeling, often mentioning dolphin sightings and plenty of time for relaxing in the water. The small group size makes it a personalized option. Bottom line: ideal for snorkelers and wildlife lovers seeking a focused Marine Park experience.
8. Catamaran excursions in the Asinara island National park
Rated 5.0/5 from over 280 reviews, this eco-friendly day on a limestone island focuses on exploring the Asinara National Park. Starting from Stintino, the tour includes swimming, snorkeling, and a visit to the animal rescue center, where wild donkeys roam freely. The boat is intimate, with a maximum of 12 passengers, and the onboard seafood lunch is highly praised.
The highlights are the crystal waters, the chance to see local wildlife, and the unspoiled coastlines. Perfect for nature lovers and eco-conscious travelers. Bottom line: a nature-focused tour with a personal touch and a focus on marine life and conservation.
9. Culurgiones Cooking Class Cagliari
Rated 5.0/5 from 263 reviews, this culurgiones cooking class offers a hands-on experience of Sardinia’s famous pasta dumplings. Led by Damiano, you’ll learn how to make and seal culurgiones, then enjoy your creations with local wine. The class lasts about 3 hours and is perfect for foodies eager to take home authentic recipes.
Guests praise the friendly hosts, the delicious food, and the cultural insight into Sardinian cuisine. It’s an excellent option for travelers who want a practical skill and a tasty meal in a relaxed setting. Bottom line: a fun, authentic culinary experience for food lovers.
10. 2-Catamaran tour from Cannigione to the Maddalena Archipelago
This 8-hour catamaran trip from Cannigione offers similar highlights as other sailing tours, with stops at Spargi, Pink Beach, and the pink sands of the Maddalena. The itinerary emphasizes sailing, swimming, and scenic photo stops, with an onboard lunch and drinks. Reviewers love the spectacular scenery and the peaceful sailing experience.
Ideal for travelers seeking a full-day, scenic adventure with plenty of time for swimming and relaxing aboard. The boat’s comfort and crew’s friendliness consistently earn praise. Bottom line: a top choice for sailing enthusiasts who want a premium day on the water.
How to Choose Your Sardinian Tour
Picking the right tour depends on your budget, interests, and time available. If you want a full-day, comprehensive experience with cultural stops, the From Sardinia: La Maddalena Archipelago Full-Day Boat Tour offers excellent value. For a luxury sailing or catamaran experience, go for the Luxury catamaran from Porto Rafael-Palau, which combines comfort with scenic beauty.
If your time is limited but you want dolphin sightings and snorkeling, the Observation of Dolphins and Snorkeling in a rubber boat in Olbia offers a short, lively trip. Budget travelers might prefer the Boat trip La Maddalena Archipelago – Departure from Palau, which provides a reliable, well-reviewed experience at a lower price point.
For those eager to connect with Sardinian culture through cuisine, the Culurgiones Cooking Class in Cagliari combines hands-on cooking with local flavors. And if you’re passionate about wildlife and conservation, the Catamaran excursions in the Asinara island National park offer a rare glimpse into Sardinia’s protected marine environment.
Final Thoughts
Sardinia’s diverse array of tours means there’s something for every traveler—whether you’re seeking adventure on the water, a culinary journey, or a wildlife encounter. The options listed above range from budget-friendly day trips to luxurious sailing excursions, each delivering a memorable slice of Sardinian life and landscape.
For families, the La Maddalena boat tours and dolphin-watching excursions are especially appealing. Foodies will appreciate the cooking classes in Cagliari, while adventure seekers can’t go wrong with snorkeling or sailing trips. Be sure to book early, especially in peak season, so you don’t miss out on these highly-rated experiences. Whatever your style, Sardinia’s waters and landscapes promise a truly unforgettable adventure.