Catamaran tour Asinara island national park Buriana Charter

A Fresh Perspective on the Sardinian Sea: The Asinara Island Catamaran Tour

This review explores a highly praised 8-hour catamaran excursion around Sardinia’s stunning Asinara National Park, offered by Buriana Charter. Known for its crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and rugged wildlife, Asinara is a place I’ve seen many travelers fall for. What makes this particular trip stand out are its intimate size—limited to just 12 guests—and the combination of relaxing sailing, active snorkeling, and a chance to step ashore to meet the island’s native animals.

Two aspects I especially like are the luxurious yet laid-back ambiance of the traditional sailboat, with an expansive net for sunbathing, and the personalized experience that comes with a small group. Plus, the inclusion of a hearty, seafood-focused onboard lunch adds real value to the day. One thing to consider is the weather dependency—since the tour’s success hinges on favorable conditions, it’s worth checking the forecast before booking.

This tour promises a balanced mix of scenic sailing, marine adventure, and land exploration, making it excellent for travelers seeking both relaxation and authentic moments in the wild. It’s an experience that offers more than just sightseeing; it’s about feeling like a privileged guest on a private yacht, with plenty of opportunities for close encounters with nature.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Small group size ensures a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere.
• Expert guides help you spot dolphins, whales, and other marine creatures.
• Snorkeling equipment included makes it easy to explore marine life in the clear waters.
• Seafood lunch with wine offers a taste of local flavors without leaving the boat.
• A relaxed sailing experience on a beautiful catamaran with a large sunbathing net.
• Opportunities for land visits to see island animals and visit the marine animal rescue center.

Why This Catamaran Tour in Asinara Stands Out

When I consider a day at sea, I look for a mix of comfort, authentic encounters, and memorable scenery. This tour checks all these boxes. From the moment you step onto the beautiful grey catamaran, you’ll notice the spacious deck and the large net for sunbathing—a simple pleasure that turns a boat ride into a floating lounge. The vessel, called AQUA, is intentionally kept to a maximum of 12 guests, which means you won’t feel like just another face in a crowd. Instead, you get a tailored, relaxed experience.

What makes this trip especially appealing is the focus on marine and land wildlife. You’ll cruise the park’s bays, stopping for snorkeling in waters renowned for their clarity. Here, you can expect to see fauna like the noble pen shell or a variety of colorful fish, with the possibility of spotting dolphins or even whales, as the reviews mention. The guides are praised for their knowledge and attentiveness, making it easier to spot and understand the creatures in their natural environment.

The lunch onboard is another highlight. It’s not just a quick snack but a full meal featuring antipasto of mussels, a fresh fish pasta, and a sweet dessert, complemented by a bottle of local wine. Given that lunch is included, the overall value is excellent for a full day of adventure and relaxation on the water.

One potential drawback is that the itinerary can vary depending on weather conditions, which is common for most boat tours. If the weather turns stormy, parts of the experience—like snorkeling or land visits—might be limited. But this is a small risk compared to the overall quality and exclusivity of the experience.

What to Expect on the Day

The tour begins early, with a 10 a.m. departure from the Porticciolo Privato, near the beautiful Spiaggia della Pelosa. From there, you’ll set sail on the Aqua, a vessel that promises comfort and style. Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy several stops in the park’s most picturesque bays—the perfect spots for swimming and snorkeling.

The bays are designated for anchoring on moorings, so you won’t need to worry about boat handling—just relax, snorkel, or soak up the sun on the net. During these stops, it’s common to see dolphins or the occasional whale, especially in the right season, which the guides are eager to point out. You might also visit the marine animal rescue center if it’s open, offering a chance to learn more about local conservation efforts.

A highlight for many is the chance to step ashore for about an hour to walk around, see the wild animals of Asinara—such as the local feral horses—and explore the island. The guides, praised for their friendly professionalism, make sure guests are well-informed about the island’s history and ecology.

Lunch is served mid-day, and it’s a true treat—seafood lovers will appreciate the delicious fish pasta and fresh mussels. The included wine and a sweet finish make the meal feel more like a special occasion than just a boat buffet.

As the day winds down, the sailing home features a veleggiata finale—a gentle sail with the wind in your hair and the setting sun casting a glow—perfect for unwinding and soaking in the last views.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for those who appreciate small-group experiences and want to avoid the crowds often associated with larger tour boats. If you enjoy snorkeling in pristine waters, wildlife spotting, and are looking for a relaxed, intimate atmosphere, you’ll find this tour a delightful way to explore Asinara.

It’s well-suited for travelers who are comfortable with a full day at sea and like the idea of combining marine adventures with some land exploration. Since the tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year or people over 70, it’s best for active, healthy travelers with a sense of adventure.

The inclusion of a lunch and drinks makes this a good value, especially considering the small group size and the personalized attention. Plus, the knowledgeable guides contribute significantly, helping you spot wildlife and get the most out of your day.

Price and Logistics: Worth the Investment?

At $113.29 per person, this tour offers a good balance of value and experience. The small group setting and all-inclusive lunch elevate the price beyond typical large-group excursions, but the quality of the boat, the marine wildlife encounters, and the personal touch by the guides make it worthwhile.

Departure from a private port near La Pelosa Beach is convenient, and the 8-hour duration allows ample time to explore the bays, snorkel, walk on the island, and enjoy a leisurely sail back.

Keep in mind, the tour times vary (check availability), and weather can influence the day’s itinerary. It’s advisable to reserve in advance and be prepared for a day of both relaxation and activity.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a small-group, authentic experience in the stunning surroundings of Asinara, this catamaran tour by Buriana Charter is a standout. The combination of beautiful sailing, close encounters with marine life, and time ashore to see the island’s animals offers a well-rounded day for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

The friendly, knowledgeable guides and the inclusion of a delicious seafood lunch make it not just a boat ride, but a memorable Sardinian experience. Whether you’re snorkeling among schools of fish, relaxing on the net with a glass of wine, or wandering the wild landscape, this tour captures the essence of Sardinia’s best-kept natural secrets.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting around 10 a.m. and returning in the late afternoon, around 6 p.m., depending on weather conditions.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat ride on a small, comfortable catamaran, snorkeling equipment, and a full onboard seafood lunch with wine. Tickets for the marine animal center or other land sites are not included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for travelers over 1 year old who are comfortable with a day at sea. It’s not recommended for those over 70 or with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), swimwear, a towel, and possibly a light jacket for the return sail. The boat provides snorkeling gear, but you can bring your own if preferred.

Can I see marine animals like dolphins or whales?
There is a good chance to spot dolphins and possibly whales, as the guides are attentive and experienced in wildlife viewing.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour can be affected by weather, and the itinerary might change. It’s wise to check the forecast and confirm the trip’s status before departure.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour departs from the Porticciolo Privato, near La Pelosa Beach, easily accessible from Stintino. The boat is a grey catamaran with a black mast, a distinctive sight in the harbor.

In essence, this is a high-value, intimate day of sailing, snorkeling, and island exploring that offers a true taste of Sardinia’s natural beauty. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing, craving a blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic encounters.