From Alghero: Full day sailing excursion with lunch

Exploring Sardinia’s Coral Riviera on a Sailing Day Trip from Alghero

Imagine spending a day on a well-equipped sailboat, drifting along Sardinia’s stunning coast, with the wind in your hair and the promise of crystal-clear waters ahead. This full-day sailing excursion from Alghero offers a delightful mix of scenic beauty, calming sea breezes, and genuine local flavors. With options for different routes—either westward or southward—you’ll get to see some of the most quiet, unspoiled coves and dramatic cliffs the island has to offer.

Two things I particularly appreciate about this tour are the thoughtfully planned stops at hidden coves like Cala del Lazzaretto and Cala Burantino, perfect for snorkeling or just basking on a mattress while gazing at the cliffs of Capo Caccia. The other highlight is the onboard lunch, which features Sardinian products and local wines—whether you’re a foodie or simply enjoy a good meal after splashing around, this makes the experience feel authentic and indulgent.

One potential consideration is the weather—it does influence the itinerary, especially the southern route, which is only possible in calmer conditions. It’s worth being flexible with your expectations for specific stops, but this is quite normal for sailing trips, and the crew is good at adjusting plans for safety and weather.

This sailing day trip balances adventure, relaxation, and flavor, making it a great pick for those looking to see Sardinia from a unique perspective—on the water, with plenty of comforts and local charm.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic Sardinian Experience: onboard lunch with local seafood and wines makes for a genuine taste of the island.
• Flexible Routes: choose between west or south itineraries, each offering different stunning stops and scenery.
• Snorkeling & Relaxing: ample opportunity to snorkel in crystal waters or lounge on mattresses amid scenic coves.
• Small Group Intimacy: limited to 10 passengers, ensuring a friendly, personalized vibe.
• Expert Crew and Guide: a warm, knowledgeable skipper enhances your understanding of the area.
• Weather-Dependent: the southern route may be canceled if it’s too windy, so flexibility is key.

If you’re after a day that combines sea, sun, and a slice of Sardinian life, this sailing trip is a fine choice. Running for about 8 hours, it promises a relaxed yet engaging experience on a 13-meter sailboat with a small group of fellow travelers. Before you book, keep in mind that the start times vary and depend on availability, so plan accordingly.

The Sailing Experience: A Perfect Balance of Adventure and Relaxation

The boat itself is a sturdy, modern vessel—built in 1994—with comfortable facilities like two bathrooms, a freshwater shower, and plenty of space for lounging. With a capacity of 12, but often fewer passengers, you’ll enjoy a feeling of intimacy and space that large tours can’t match. The skipper, often Sergio or a similarly experienced guide, is attentive and eager to share insights about the coast and marine life.

What sets this excursion apart from many others is the focus on authentic Sardinian highlights and hands-on experiences. You’ll glide past iconic sites like Capo Caccia’s jagged cliffs, exploring secluded coves such as Cala del Lazzaretto, known for its clear waters and calm ambiance. The audio guide enhances your understanding, sharing stories about the coast, its history, and natural features as you pass by.

Highlights of the Itinerary and Stops

The sailing trip offers two main routes, each giving a different flavor of Sardinia’s rugged coastline. The west route takes you to Cala del Rosso, Cala del Lazzaretto, and the impressive Cape Galera, plus several small beaches and coves. The southern route includes Cala Burantino, La Speranza beach, and other scenic spots. Both routes promise at least two stops for swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking in the views from the boat.

From the glowing reviews, it’s clear that guides like Sergio are a big part of the experience. “The crew was lovely, the food was amazing,” says Patra, capturing the warm, welcoming atmosphere. Kateryna highlights the “beautiful coast views” and “homemade Sardinian cuisine,” confirming that the onboard meal is a real treat.

Dining and Drinks: A Sardinian Feast at Sea

Lunch is a highlight—expect a pasta dish prepared with local seafood or land products, served with water, soft drinks, beer, or wine. Many reviewers rave about how tasty and fresh the food is, complemented by local wines recommended by the crew. A relaxed, communal dining experience on the deck, with good music and fine wine, makes this trip memorable.

Snorkeling gear is provided, and the crew encourages exploring the marine life beneath the surface. As Emer notes, “He had a mattress to relax on while sailing” and also provided snorkeling equipment, which means you can float comfortably in the calm waters or explore the underwater scenery in the bays.

Practical Details and Logistics

Meeting point is straightforward—at the Libeccio pier, with free parking nearby. The tour runs for about 8 hours, but start times vary depending on the day and availability. You’ll want to bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, towel, sunscreen, and beachwear. The boat provides snorkel accessories, inflatable swimming aids, and water, making sure you’re well-equipped for both active and relaxing moments.

Since the tour is confirmed with at least two participants, it’s a flexible option if you’re traveling solo or in a small group. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund, which is helpful if weather conditions turn unfavorable or plans change.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who enjoy a balance of gentle adventure and relaxation. It suits those curious about Sardinian marine life, food lovers keen on authentic local flavors, and anyone wanting to see the coast from a different perspective. The small group size guarantees a friendly atmosphere, and the knowledgeable crew makes for an engaging experience.

Families with children up to two years old might find it manageable, especially since the boat can warm bottles. However, it’s not suitable for pets, and quite a bit of the day depends on weather, so flexibility is key.

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, reviews indicate that the experience offers excellent value when you consider the included lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and the personalized attention of a small group. Compared to the cost of doing your own boat hire, this guided tour provides a well-organized, safe, and entertaining way to see Sardinia’s coast without the hassle of navigating yourself.

If you’re after a scenic, relaxing way to explore Sardinia’s coast, love good local food, and enjoy a small-group vibe, this sailing excursion hits the mark. It’s particularly suited for those who want to combine sightseeing with the comforts of a catered meal and the opportunity to snorkel in pristine waters. The knowledgeable guides and beautiful stops make it a memorable day out.

However, travelers looking for full-on adventure, high-energy activities, or a rigid itinerary might find this trip too laid-back. It’s best for those who appreciate authenticity, natural beauty, and a touch of luxury at sea.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a sailboat day trip, a skipper, fuel, lunch with local products, snorkelling accessories, inflatable swimming aids, and water.

How long does the trip last?
The excursion lasts approximately 8 hours, with starting times depending on availability.

Where do I meet the boat?
You meet at the entrance of Libeccio pier, where the skipper will accompany you to the boat. Parking is available nearby.

Are there options for dietary restrictions?
Yes, options are available for allergies, intolerances, or vegetarian diets if requested at least 24 hours in advance.

Can children participate?
Yes, children up to age two can join, and while no meal is provided for them, facilities are available to warm bottles onboard.

What should I bring?
Remember sunglasses, sun hat, towel, sunscreen, water, and beachwear to stay comfortable during the day.

What happens if the weather is windy?
The southern route specifically depends on calm weather, and the itinerary may change or the trip could be canceled if conditions aren’t suitable.

This full-day sailing trip from Alghero offers a wonderful way to see Sardinia’s coast with a good mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic local flavors. Perfect for those who want a memorable, small-group experience with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, lounge, and enjoy Sardinian cuisine—on the water, in the company of friendly guides, and surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery the island has to offer.