OLBIA: Unique excursions in the Gulf of Olbia

If you’re hunting for a boat trip in Sardinia that combines dolphin encounters, vibrant marine life, and a taste of local cuisine, this tour might just be your ideal match. Based out of Olbia, it offers an 8-hour adventure that whisks you through some of the most beautiful spots along the Gulf of Olbia, including Tavolara Island and Cala Moresca. What’s truly special about this journey is the chance to see free dolphins in their natural habitat—an experience that keeps many travelers coming back.

Two things I particularly like: first, how the tour is designed not just for sightseeing but for genuine connection with Sardinian nature—swimming, snorkeling, and dolphin watching. Second, the inclusion of professional video and drone shots makes it easy to relive those unforgettable moments later. A possible drawback? The tour isn’t suited for those who can’t swim or have mobility issues, as it involves a fair amount of water activity and outdoor exposure. Still, if you’re comfortable around water, this is a remarkably comprehensive way to explore the coast.

This experience offers great value by combining guided marine encounters, regional food, and personalized filming, all in a well-maintained, safe boat setting. Whether you’re a family, couple, or solo traveler seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation, you’ll find plenty to love here.

• Dolphin sightings in the wild make this tour stand out—many guests report seeing dolphins eat and play in their natural environment.
• Professional video and drone filming are included, offering a lasting record of your day at a modest extra cost.
• Authentic Sardinian food and drinks are served at multiple stops, making the tour as much about local flavors as scenery.
• The brand-new boat features safety and comfort with a locker, toilet, sun shades, and a friendly crew to handle every detail.
• The itinerary includes visiting key marine spots like Figarolo Island, Cala Moresca, and Tavolara, with plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling.
• Limited group size (up to 9 people) ensures a personalized experience, with multilingual guides making everyone comfortable.

Choosing a day on the water in Sardinia offers the kind of escape most travelers crave—clear waters, dramatic coastlines, and the chance to see wildlife in action. This tour, operated by SardinianBlue excursions, focuses on delivering an authentic experience that combines marine wildlife encounters, local culinary delights, and gorgeous scenery—all from a comfortable, well-equipped boat.

It runs from Moys harbor in Olbia, typically starting around 9:30 am and returning by late afternoon. The trip is perfect for those who love the outdoors, are comfortable in water, and appreciate a relaxed pace. With a rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 49 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find it a worthwhile splurge.

A day on the water—what to expect

This tour is a full package, packed with stops at natural highlights. After a brief safety briefing and boarding the new rib boat, you start your journey heading towards Golfo Aranci. Your first major highlight is the chance to see dolphins—many guests report these intelligent creatures eat and play near the boat, sometimes for extended periods, making dolphin sightings a true highlight.

Next, you’ll stop at Figarolo Island for swimming, snorkeling, and more dolphin watching. The waters here are teeming with fish and marine life, so bring your mask and snorkel if you want to get a closer look. Many reviews mention how Maurizio, the guide, is exceptionally friendly and accommodating, making the experience even more memorable. One guest noted that Maurizio’s extensive knowledge and personal touch helped create a relaxing and informative trip.

Following that, the tour pauses at Cala Moresca, where a Sardinian aperitif is served—think local meats, cheeses, and regional drinks. You’ll also snorkel and enjoy the scenery. The next stop is Tavolara Marine Protected Area—another stunning spot to swim, relax, and indulge in regional food and drinks, paired with local wines and beers. According to reviews, the guide also has a knack for pairing wines with local dishes, thanks to Maurizio’s background as a sommelier.

The itinerary continues with visits to Cala Girgolu and Molara’s ‘Natural Pools’, where you can snorkel in calm waters, explore coves, and enjoy regional pastries and liquors. The entire experience is designed for relaxation and discovery, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, lounging, and snapping photos.

The value of professional filming

One of the standout features is the video and drone filming service offered during the trip. For €50 per person, the guide and his daughter capture moments—dolphin encounters, scenic shots, underwater footage—and send the videos afterward. This is more than a nice extra; it allows travelers to focus on enjoying the day while knowing they’ll have a professional record of their adventure.

Comfort and safety on the water

The boat itself is a brand-new rib with powerful engines, sun shades, and a clean, modern toilet on board. It’s designed for safety and comfort, especially important in the often-windy waters of Sardinia. The crew is multilingual and attentive, ensuring everyone feels cared for.

Who will love this tour?

If you’re a nature lover or a family seeking a safe, guided experience that combines marine wildlife, regional food, and scenic stops, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially suitable if you appreciate small groups—limited to nine participants—enhancing the chance for personalized attention. Snorkeling gear is included, but don’t forget your towel, sunscreen, and beachwear.

Who might want to consider other options?

This trip isn’t for everyone. If you or someone in your group isn’t comfortable swimming or has mobility issues, this might not be suitable. Also, pregnant women, babies under 1 year, or people over 95 are advised to avoid due to water and activity levels. The tour also does not include access to beaches with the boat; it’s primarily about observing marine life and exploring coves.

At $158.60 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience. When you consider the included food, drinks, snorkeling equipment, professional filming, and the use of a brand-new boat, it’s a good deal for a full day of authentic Sardinian adventure. Many reviews emphasize the quality of the guides and the personal touches, like the wine-pairing and photos, which add value.

Starting Point at Moys: This central location makes it easy to access by car and provides a straightforward meet-up. The guide requests you to call or text upon arrival, ensuring a smooth start.

Figarolo Island: Its natural beauty and vibrant marine life make it a favorite stop. Guests love swimming and snorkeling here, with some noting that even windy days didn’t detract from the fun. The chance to see dolphins here is a bonus many mention.

Cala Moresca: Known for its calm waters and scenic beauty, it’s a perfect spot for a Sardinian aperitif—think cold meats, cheeses, regional drinks—and snorkeling. The marine life viewing opportunities are excellent, with many guests describing it as a peaceful, picture-perfect spot.

Tavolara Marine Protected Area: This protected zone offers pristine waters and a chance to learn about the underwater world. The INCLUDED regional food and drinks, along with wine tasting, turn this into an experience that appeals to both your senses and your sense of adventure.

Girgolu Cove and Molara Pools: These locations are often described as “hidden gems,” with calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Guests enjoy regional pastries and liquors, adding a sweet touch to the day.

Return to Moys: The tour concludes with a relaxed ride back, often with guests sharing their favorite moments and photos taken during the day.

Beyond the scenery, what makes this tour stand out is the authenticity. The guides’ local knowledge, the regional food pairings, and the focus on marine life create a genuine Sardinian atmosphere. Multiple reviews highlight how Maurizio’s personal touch—his background as a sommelier and his daughter’s photography skills—enhances the experience.

This Gulf of Olbia boat tour offers a well-rounded adventure that balances wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and regional flavors. It’s especially suited for those who value small groups, personalized attention, and quality filming of their trip. The chance to see free dolphins in a natural setting, combined with snorkeling, regional cuisine, and professional photo/video services, makes it a memorable outing worthy of your Sardinian itinerary.

While not the best choice if you’re uncomfortable around water or have mobility concerns, for most water lovers and nature enthusiasts, this trip provides a fantastic way to experience Sardinia’s coast in a relaxing, immersive way. It’s a smart choice for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a blend of adventure and comfort in one day.

Is this tour suitable if I can’t swim?
No, the tour involves snorkeling and swimming, so it’s best if you’re comfortable in the water.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides speak English, Spanish, French, German, and Italian, ensuring clear communication for international visitors.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, from about 9:30 am to 5:30 pm, with the start time depending on availability.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and a passport or ID. Oversized luggage isn’t allowed, so pack light.

Is food and drinks included?
Yes, regional food, snacks, and drinks are included at various stops, along with regional wines, beers, and liquors.

Can I see dolphins during the tour?
Many guests report dolphin sightings, especially in the first few stops around Golfo Aranci, making it a core highlight.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 9 participants, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot, but you can choose to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.