From Stintino: Asinara Vintage Sailing Boat Tour with Lunch

Discovering Sardinia’s Hidden Gem: The Asinara Vintage Sailing Boat Tour

If you’re seeking a day that combines stunning scenery, authentic wildlife encounters, and a taste of Sardinian culture, then the Asinara Vintage Sailing Boat Tour from Stintino deserves your attention. This 8-hour journey takes you to one of Sardinia’s most untouched islands aboard a charming vintage sailboat, offering a relaxed yet enriching way to experience the rugged beauty of Asinara National Park. I’ve looked into the details and reviews to help you decide if this adventure fits your travel style.

What I find appealing about this tour is how it balances scenic cruising with land visits—giving you a taste of the island’s natural and historical highlights without feeling rushed. Plus, the lunch included on board, featuring local Sardinian flavors, adds great value for the price. On the flip side, it’s important to remember that this trip is weather-dependent and involves sections on open water, so a bit of seasickness might be a consideration. Still, the opportunity to see wild donkeys, wild boars, and other animals in their natural habitat is a rare treat that makes it worthwhile.

Another aspect I love is the diverse stops at Cala Reale, Cala Barche, Cala d’Oliva, and Cala del Bianco. Each spot offers unique views—whether it’s the Roman shipwreck near Cala Reale or the crystalline waters inviting you for a swim. The guides, praised for their expertise, also add a friendly, informative touch to the day. However, expect a fairly full schedule packed into one day, so if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want more time on land, this might feel a bit rushed.

This tour seems a superb option for those who want a balanced mix of sailing adventure, wildlife spotting, and cultural exploration—all wrapped up in a comfortable, well-organized package. Now, let’s break down what you’ll actually experience during this full day out on Sardinia’s coast.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic wildlife encounters include seeing free-roaming donkeys, goats, horses, and wild boars.
• Historic landings at Cala Reale reveal remnants of a quarantine station and an ancient Roman shipwreck.
• Swim stops at Cala Barche and Cala del Bianco allow for refreshing dips into crystal-clear waters.
• Delicious Sardinian lunch with prawns, local spirits, and fruits offers great value for a day trip.
• Guided commentary by local experts enhances the understanding of the island’s natural and cultural significance.
• Weather and sea conditions can influence the schedule, so flexibility is key.

A Full Breakdown: What to Expect and Why It Matters

Starting in Stintino: The Launch Point for Adventure

The tour begins at Piazzale Guardia Costiera in Stintino, a small town known for its fishery port and proximity to pristine beaches. You’ll meet your guide dressed in the Blumare service uniform, ready for a day of exploration. The boat, a vintage sailboat, adds a nostalgic charm, making the cruise itself an experience worth savoring. The journey kicks off around 9:30 am, so arriving on time helps you settle in and enjoy the scenic coastlines on the way out.

First Stop: Cala Reale and the Roman Shipwreck

Your first stop is Cala Reale, about forty minutes into the trip. This spot is significant not just for its natural beauty but also for its history. The small port here has served various roles over the centuries, including a quarantine station and penal colony. An interesting highlight is the discovery of a Roman merchant vessel from the 4th century AD, lying just 26 feet below sea level. As you walk around, you’ll see remnants of the old Lazaretto buildings, providing a tangible link to the island’s past.

Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to see the white donkeys, which are symbols of the park, and visit the Sea Turtle Recovery Centre—a small but important conservation effort. The optional ticket for the center costs €2.50, and many reviews mention how touching it is to see these creatures being cared for.

The Midday Swim and Sardinian Lunch at Cala Barche

After about an hour and a half exploring Cala Reale, the boat heads to Cala Barche, arriving around noon. This cove is famous for its crystal-clear waters and white pebble beaches, perfect for a swim. You’ll have about 30 minutes here to cool off before enjoying a delicious Sardinian lunch on board, which includes a prawn sauce pasta, local wine, coffee, a digestif, and fresh fruits. Many reviews highlight how well the meal is prepared and the value of including drinks in the price.

Swimming here is a highlight for most travelers, and the calm waters make it accessible even for less confident swimmers. The relaxed pace allows you to soak in the scenery and savor the flavors of Sardinia—something that often surprises guests, given how much is packed into the day.

Exploring Cala d’Oliva and the Old Penal Colony

Later in the afternoon, the boat reaches Cala d’Oliva, a key landing point that has historical importance. Behind the turquoise beaches lie the buildings of the former penal colony, now serving as the Park’s headquarters and educational center. This stop offers a window into the island’s penal history and allows a leisurely walk around the port area. Expect about an hour here—long enough to explore and take photos.

Final Stop: The Emerald Waters of Cala del Bianco

The last swimming spot is Cala del Bianco, famed for its vivid blue and green waters that seem almost unreal. The sea here is tranquil and perfect for a final dip before heading back to Stintino. Many guests mention the “shimmering waters” as a highlight, and I agree that ending the day with a swim in such breathtaking surroundings makes the experience memorable.

Return Journey and Overall Timing

The return trip takes roughly an hour and a half, giving you a chance to relax and reflect on the day’s discoveries before arriving back in Stintino around 5:30 or 6 pm. The full schedule relies on weather conditions, so flexibility is essential. The guides are experienced, and reviews note that they manage the timings well despite changing circumstances.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who appreciate scenery and wildlife over long land-based tours. If you’re comfortable on boats, enjoy swimming, and want to see Sardinia from a different perspective, this trip hits the mark. It’s also a good choice for those interested in history and conservation, with stops at the Roman shipwreck and Sea Turtle Recovery Centre adding educational value.

Families with older children (over eight) tend to enjoy it, especially if they’re confident swimmers. Be aware that the tour isn’t suited for wheelchair users or those prone to seasickness, as the boat is open and relies on good weather. The price is reasonable considering the full-day itinerary, lunch, and guided commentary, making it a good deal compared to separate activities.

Practical Tips

• Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, and comfortable shoes for land walks.
• Pack a towel and beachwear for swimming.
• Carry cash for optional turtle center tickets or souvenirs.
• Arrive early to meet your guide and get settled.
• Be prepared for weather-dependent changes—flexibility is key.

Price and Value Analysis

At approximately $125 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience—including expert guidance, a hearty Sardinian meal, multiple stops for swimming, and wildlife encounters. Compared to costly private boat charters, it’s quite accessible, and reviews consistently praise the value, especially considering the unique stops and the opportunity to see the island’s wildlife.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-rounded day on Sardinia’s coast, combining sailing, swimming, and cultural sights, this tour from Stintino is an excellent choice. It’s especially appealing if you love authentic, outdoor adventures over structured museum visits. The chance to see free-ranging donkeys, explore historical sites, and enjoy pristine waters makes it more than just a boat trip—it’s a memorable slice of Sardinian life.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially for older children who are confident swimmers and enjoy outdoor activities. The tour lasts 8 hours, so be sure children are comfortable with a full day outside.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for land walks, sunglasses, sun hat, towel, sunscreen, water, beachwear, and cash for optional purchases.

Can I join if I don’t swim?
While swimming is optional, you’ll still enjoy the scenic views and land stops. Just inform your guide if you’re not comfortable with swimming.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the schedule can change based on weather conditions. The captain and guides do their best to keep on schedule but expect some flexibility.

How long are the stops?
Most stops last between 30 minutes and 1.5 hours, giving enough time to explore, swim, or relax. The lunch break is around an hour and a half.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, the tour offers guides in English, Italian, and Spanish, ensuring clear explanations for diverse travelers.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes expert guiding, a full Sardinian lunch with drinks, stops for swimming, and visits to the main ports and historical sites.

To sum it up, the Asinara Vintage Sailing Boat Tour from Stintino combines scenic beauty, wildlife, history, and authentic Sardinian flavors into a day that appeals to travelers craving a relaxed yet engaging sea adventure. It’s best suited for those who love being on the water, exploring natural habitats, and enjoying a good meal in a beautiful setting. With its high ratings and comprehensive itinerary, it’s a worthwhile investment for a memorable day on Sardinia’s coast.