Discover Sardinia’s Coastline with a Group Boat Tour from Arbatax
Imagine spending a full day exploring the rugged and beautiful coast of Sardinia, hopping from one breathtaking cove to another, with the wind in your hair and the sea as your backdrop. That’s exactly what a group boat tour with Nautilux Boat Rental offers. Based out of Arbatax, this 8-hour excursion combines scenic stops, swimming opportunities, and glimpses into some of Sardinia’s most iconic spots, all aboard a comfortable rubber dinghy with a maximum of 12 people.
What I particularly like about this trip is the small-group vibe — it feels intimate enough to enjoy personalized attention and spontaneous adventures while still sharing the fun with fellow travelers. Plus, the inclusion of skipper services, fuel, and some stops for swimming really boosts the value. I also appreciate how the itinerary is flexible; the skippers can tweak stops based on weather, which means you’re not just stuck with a rigid schedule.
One potential drawback I’d mention is that the tour doesn’t include lunch or beverages, so you’ll want to bring your own snacks, drinks, and towels. Also, the tour’s pace is quite full with many stops, so if you prefer a leisurely day, this might feel a bit brisk. Lastly, this experience isn’t suitable for everyone — pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or prone to seasickness should consider their comfort before booking. Still, for those who love boat adventures and stunning coastal scenery, this is a fantastic choice.
Key points / Takeaways
- Small-group intimacy: Limited to 12 people, ensuring a more personal and flexible experience.
- All-inclusive skipper and fuel: You won’t have to worry about extra costs for the boat or navigation.
- Multiple scenic stops: From caves to beaches, each landing offers chances to swim and explore.
- Flexible itinerary: The route can be adjusted based on weather and sea conditions for safety and enjoyment.
- Bring your essentials: Sunscreen, a packed lunch, towels, and water are recommended to make the most of the day.
- Ideal for adventure lovers: Perfect for travelers seeking an active, scenic day on the water rather than a passive cruise.
Exploring Sardinia on a Rubber Dinghy in a Small Group
If I had to pick one way to experience Sardinia’s coast, a boat tour like this one from Arbatax might be at the top of the list. It offers a chance to see the coast from a different perspective — up close and personal with the sea’s natural beauty. The boat used is a rubber dinghy, small enough to feel adventurous but with enough space for comfort. The maximum group size of 12 means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the skipper, who is fluent in both English and Italian, provides a friendly and informative touch.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Arbatax.
The Itinerary: A Day of Stunning Stops
The day kicks off early at the Port of Arbatax, giving you a chance to get on board around 8:30 AM. The initial stretch is a brief cruise to the first stop, the Grotta dei Colombi, a cave that’s perfect for photos and marveling at the natural rock formations. From there, the boat moves along to multiple highlights, each offering a different experience.
One of the standout moments is visiting the Cala Goloritzé, famous for its striking limestone pinnacle and clear waters. This stop is mainly for swimming or snapping photos, as the tour includes a 10-minute stop here. Similarly, Cala Mariolu offers an hour of swimming and photo opportunities, allowing you to truly soak in the beauty of Sardinia’s coastline.
The tour also features the Pools of Venus, a natural swimming pool formed by rocks, with a 30-minute stop for both pictures and a refreshing dip. The Cala Sisine is the longest break, offering two hours for swimming, relaxing, and possibly enjoying a packed lunch on the boat or nearby.
Another highlight is the Cave of the Contessa, which can include a guided tour for an extra fee, providing an even richer experience of Sardinia’s underground marvels. The final stops include the Cala Biriàla and the Ogliastra Islet, with opportunities for more photos, swimming, and simply enjoying the sea breeze.
The Experience: What to Expect
Throughout the day, the skippers do their best to make each stop worthwhile, adjusting for weather and sea conditions. The boat has an awning and umbrellas to provide shade, and you can request a cooler bag for your snacks and drinks. The stops are well spaced so that you’re not rushing — most include about 30 to 90 minutes for swimming, exploring, or relaxing on the boat.
A bonus for many travelers is the aperitif served before the lunch break, a nice touch that adds a bit of local flavor and conviviality. The lunch break at Cala Sisine is about 90 minutes, giving you time to eat, relax, and enjoy the surroundings.
Practical Details: Logistics and Tips
The tour costs include the skipper, fuel, and basic amenities. You’ll want to bring your own beverages, packed lunch, and beach towels, as these are not included. The tour is a full 8 hours, with departures around 8:30 AM, returning around 5:00 PM. Be sure to check availability beforehand, as the starting times can vary.
The meeting point is at the Port of Arbatax, and the experience ends back there too. The tour is suitable for most travelers except those with mobility issues, pregnant women, or anyone prone to seasickness. Also, bring sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes for rocks, especially if planning to land on beaches.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This tour is perfect if you’re looking for an active day of sightseeing and swimming, rather than a passive boat ride. It’s ideal for adventure lovers, small groups seeking an authentic experience, and those wanting to see Sardinia’s coastline without the hassle of organizing multiple boat rentals or guides. Families with older children, couples, or friends will all find value in the shared journey and the chance to explore hidden gems.
Price and Value
While the tour price covers the boat, skipper, and fuel, it’s worth considering the additional costs for lunch, drinks, towels, and optional extras like a guided cave tour. It’s a good value for the experience, given the number of stops, the small group size, and the chance to visit multiple spots in a single day. The inclusion of swimming opportunities and scenic photo stops makes it a worthwhile investment for those eager to explore Sardinia’s coast intimately.
Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?
This boat trip is best suited for travelers who crave an active, immersive day at sea with a manageable group size. It’s perfect for those who want to see Sardinia’s most iconic spots without the crowds, enjoy swimming in crystal waters, and prefer a flexible itinerary. If you’re comfortable on boats, enjoy scenic landscapes, and want a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, this tour offers great value.
However, it’s not ideal for travelers who need special assistance, are sensitive to motion, or travel with very young children or pregnant women. If you’re looking for a more leisurely, less hands-on experience, consider whether a larger cruise or land-based tour might suit you better.
FAQ
Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. You should bring your own packed lunch or plan to buy something during your stops.
What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sunscreen, swimwear, towels, water, snacks, a cooler bag if needed, and shoes suitable for rocky beaches.
Are beverages provided?
No, beverages are not included, so bring your own drinks for the day.
How long is the whole tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, starting at 8:30 AM and returning by 5:00 PM, depending on weather conditions.
Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for older children and teens comfortable on boats. Very young children or those prone to seasickness may not find it ideal.
What happens if weather conditions are bad?
The itinerary can be adjusted or the tour might be canceled if weather conditions are unsafe — always check the forecast and communicate with the provider.
Can I join if I don’t speak Italian?
Yes, the tour is conducted in English and Italian, so language should not be an issue.
Is the boat comfortable?
The boat is a rubber dinghy with an awning and umbrellas for shade, offering a comfortable and stable experience for small groups.
Are there any optional extras?
Yes, you can pay extra for a guided tour of the Cave of the Fico if interested.
Do I need to be physically fit?
Basic mobility and comfort on boats are necessary. Bring shoes for rocks and be prepared for some walking or climbing on landings.
This group boat tour from Arbatax offers an authentic way to take in Sardinia’s stunning coast, combining adventure, natural beauty, and a small-group atmosphere. It’s a memorable way to see caves, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy the sea with like-minded travelers.