From Olbia: Tavolara or Cala Moresca Catamaran Tour

Exploring Sardinia’s Coast on a Catamaran from Olbia

This Tavolara or Cala Moresca Catamaran Tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Sardinia’s most beautiful coastal scenery without the hassle of driving or organizing individual boat trips. Operating from Olbia, this 7-hour adventure takes you across crystal-clear waters, past rocky silhouettes like Tavolara, and into secluded beaches and coves that are perfect for swimming, relaxing, or simply soaking in the views. With a well-rated crew, delicious local food, and the chance to see dolphins swimming free in their natural habitat, it’s a solid pick for anyone looking to combine comfort, exploration, and a taste of Sardinian life.

What I particularly like about this experience is how smoothly the day is organized, with everything from snacks to lunch included — no need to worry about bringing your own picnic or drinks. Also, the hosts get glowing reviews for their friendliness and knowledge, which makes the journey more informative and fun.

The only potential downside? If you’re prone to motion sickness or a little wary of boat trips, the open-water sailing might be a consideration, especially if weather conditions turn windy. But overall, the tour’s balance of comfort, scenery, and local flavor makes it a worthwhile adventure.

Key points / Takeaways

• Comfortable Catamaran equipped with all essentials, including sunbathing nets, shower, and climbing ladder.
• Authentic Sardinian Cuisine with fresh local ingredients, including wine, cheese, and pasta or rice salads.
• Dolphin-Sighting Possibilities in the protected marine area of Cala Moresca, adding a magical touch to the voyage.
• Expert Guides like Francesca and Fabio, known for their enthusiasm, local knowledge, and friendliness.
• Flexible Duration depending on season, with 6-hour trips from April to June and October, and 7.5 hours during peak summer months.
• Value for Money at around $135 per person, considering the included food, drinks, and the experience of sailing in style.

Entering The World of Sardinian Coastlines

From the moment you step aboard the pajot Maldives 32 Hakuna Matata, you realize this isn’t just a boat trip—it’s a chance to see Sardinia’s coast from a unique perspective. I love the way the crew, often composed of knowledgeable guides like Francesca and Fabio, makes you feel at home. They’re passionate about sharing the stories behind Tavolara’s rocky silhouette and the secluded beaches you’ll visit.

The boat itself is well-maintained and modern, with enough space for a group of 12 passengers. It’s equipped with comfortable amenities, making the long hours at sea enjoyable rather than exhausting. Plus, the included SUPs (stand-up paddleboards) are a thoughtful touch, offering a fun way for more active travelers to explore shallow waters.

The Itinerary: What Makes Each Stop Special

The tour begins at the Olbia quay, where you’ll meet your guides in the morning. After a short safety briefing, the boat glides out into the protected waters of Sardinia, heading toward Tavolara. Watching the rocky outline of Tavolara grow closer is impressive—the island’s dramatic crags seem almost surreal, especially in the soft morning light.

According to reviews, guides like Francesca and Fabio make the experience memorable by sharing detailed insights into the area’s geology and history, as well as suggesting great photo spots. Expect to see Dottore beach, a famous white-sand cove, and other scenic stops like Capo Coda Cavallo and Capo Ceraso. Many travelers appreciate how these stops allow plenty of time for swimming, sunbathing, and just relaxing in beautiful surroundings.

Moving northward, you’ll reach Cala Moresca Bay and the nearby Figarolo Islet. The chance to spot dolphins swimming nearby is a highlight—several guests mention how magical it is to see these friendly creatures in their natural environment. The waters around Mortorio Island, with its striking granite formations and emerald hues, also captivate visitors.

Throughout the trip, the crew offers a delightful onboard aperitif, a platter of cold cuts, cheese, and bruschetta, paired with local wines, beers, and soft drinks. It’s a leisurely way to enjoy the scenery and connect with fellow travelers.

What To Expect During Your Day at Sea

The experience is designed for comfort and ease. The boat features ample space for lounging and sunbathing, and the climbing ladder makes swimming or hopping into the water straightforward. As the tour progresses, you’ll have opportunities to snorkel and paddleboard—both popular with guests and a way to get closer to Sardinia’s underwater world.

Lunch is served around midday—expect a delicious pasta dish or rice salad, made with fresh ingredients, often sourced from local producers, as some reviews suggest. The included local wines enhance the meal, making it a true taste of Sardinian hospitality.

Guides like Joanne mention how “their hosts were very knowledgeable and welcoming,” which adds a layer of comfort and trust. Many guests note that the experience feels personalized rather than overly commercial, thanks to the guides’ genuine passion and attentiveness.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, well-organized way to explore Sardinia’s coast without the hassle of renting boats or planning multiple stops. It’s great for:

• Nature lovers eager to see dolphins, pristine beaches, and scenic islands.
• Food and wine enthusiasts looking to enjoy local Sardinian flavors in a casual, scenic setting.
• Families or groups (though not suitable for children under 6 or pregnant women) who appreciate a balanced mix of adventure and comfort.
• Photographers wanting to capture the dramatic landscapes and seascapes from a stable platform.

It might be less suitable if you prefer a more structured, activity-packed day or if you’re prone to seasickness, given the open-water sailing.

Pricing and Overall Value

At around $134.81 per person, this experience offers good value considering everything included: transportation, crew, fuel, SUPs, lunch, and drinks. The reviews highlight how fresh, local food and the chance to see Sardinia’s coast from a different angle make it worth the price. The half-day options in shoulder seasons also present a flexible alternative if a full day is too long or if weather conditions vary.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring essentials: sunglasses, sun hat, towel, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes.
• Book ahead to secure your spot, especially during peak months (July-September), when the tour runs longer.
• Arrive early at the meeting point near Olbia’s quay, where free parking is available.
• Notify the operator in advance if you have special dietary needs or allergies—vegetarian and vegan options are available with notice.
• Consider the weather: the tour depends on favorable conditions, so check the forecast if you’re sensitive to wind or seasickness.

The Sum Up: Who This Tour Is Best For

This catamaran trip from Olbia offers a delightful combination of scenery, relaxation, and authentic Sardinian flavor. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy the coast in comfort, surrounded by knowledgeable guides and fellow travelers. The chance to see dolphins, explore secluded beaches like Dottore and Mortorio, and sample local foods makes it a well-rounded choice.

If you’re after a laid-back day on the water that balances natural beauty with cultural touches, this experience will leave you full of memorable moments and fantastic photos. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate good food, scenic views, and a friendly atmosphere.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a highly structured itinerary with lots of activities, you might want to consider other options. For most, this tour will deliver a genuine taste of Sardinia’s coast and a relaxing break from the busy inland.

FAQ

Is there a minimum number of participants for the tour?
Yes, the tour is confirmed with at least four participants, so if you’re booking alone or in a small group, it might be helpful to check availability.

What is included in the price?
Your fare covers the catamaran excursion, crew, fuel, SUP boards, an aperitif with cold cuts, cheese, bruschette, and drinks, as well as a Sardinian lunch with wine, beer, water, and soft drinks.

Are vegetarian or vegan options available?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options can be requested with at least 2 days’ notice.

Can I see dolphins on this tour?
While dolphin sightings aren’t guaranteed, many guests report seeing dolphins swimming in the area of Cala Moresca, especially when exploring the marine protected zones.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sun hat, towel, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes. Remember, pets are not allowed aboard.

How long does the tour last?
From April to June and October, it runs about 6 hours, from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm. During peak summer months (July-September), expect a longer day, approximately 7.5 hours, from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
Not recommended for children under 6, pregnant women, or people with mobility issues due to the nature of the boat and seawater conditions.

This Olbia catamaran tour offers a fine balance of natural beauty, good food, and relaxed sailing — a charming way to experience Sardinia’s coast in style.