Exploring Sardinia’s northeast coast by boat offers a blend of stunning scenery, relaxing stops, and the chance to see some of the island’s most famous beaches. This particular tour departs from Porto Rotondo and takes you to iconic spots like Elefante Beach, Liscia Ruja, and Cala di Volpe, with the option to visit the Prince’s Beach and the Mortorio and Soffi islands if weather permits. It’s a compact, well-organized trip — perfect if you want to enjoy Sardinia’s crystal-clear waters without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.
What I appreciate most about this experience is the combination of beautiful scenery and laid-back atmosphere. Both reviewers highlight how the friendly, knowledgeable guides, especially Gabriele, make the trip feel personalized and fun. Plus, the chance to enjoy a delicious aperitif while soaking up the views is a real bonus. On the flip side, the tour might not be ideal if you’re looking for a full-day adventure or want to explore further inland — this is a quick, scenic escape.
One thing to keep in mind is that the itinerary is flexible — the skipper will choose stops based on weather and conditions, which means you could visit different beaches on different days. It’s worth noting that the boat is small (only 8 participants plus the skipper), fostering an intimate experience, but it also means that if you’re seeking more extensive facilities or amenities, this might feel a bit basic. Still, the deck’s shaded awning, stereo system, and safety gear make it comfortable enough for a relaxed cruise.
Key Points / Takeaways
- Small group size enhances intimacy and allows for personalized attention.
- Flexible itinerary ensures you visit the best spots based on weather conditions.
- Expert guide like Gabriele adds local insights and a friendly atmosphere.
- Crystalline waters and beaches like Elefante and Liscia Ruja promise unforgettable swimming and snorkeling.
- Aperitif on board offers a relaxing break with scenic views, creating a memorable experience.
- Convenient meeting point with free parking and easy access by public transport.
Discovering Sardinia’s North-East Coast by Boat
If you’re a lover of coastal landscapes and calm, turquoise waters, this boat tour from Porto Rotondo is an excellent way to enjoy Sardinia’s natural beauty. It’s not a long tour — around four hours — but it’s packed with memorable sights and laid-back moments that make it well worth the price.
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A Well-Organized, Relaxed Itinerary
The journey begins with a comfortable motor boat trip along Sardinia’s famed coast. You’ll first head toward Elefante Beach, a hallmark of Sardinian beaches, known for its fine sand and incredible water clarity. The gentle scents of Mediterranean maquis fill the air as you glide past Liscia Ruja, another stunning bay often praised for its natural beauty. These stops come with ample swimming and snorkeling opportunities — bring goggles if you want to explore underwater.
The boat then proceeds to Cala di Volpe, one of the most exclusive beaches on the island, famous for its luxurious reputation. From there, you’ll pass the Prince’s Beach, a standout for its unique colors, set between dramatic granite rocks. The guide will typically choose three stops from a list that includes some lesser-known coves like Cala Fumagalli or Cala Petra Ruja, depending on weather conditions. If the trip includes a visit to the Mortorio and Soffi islands, you’ll find peaceful spots perfect for swimming and relaxing in the sun — and perhaps enjoying a glass of local wine or soft drink as part of the included aperitif.
What Makes This Tour Special
The real highlight is the combination of stunning scenery and small-group intimacy. Both reviews mention how the guides, especially Gabriele, are friendly and helpful, making the experience feel more like an outing with friends than a touristy cruise. One reviewer appreciated the snacks and aperitif served during swimming breaks, which adds a touch of sophistication to the relaxed pace.
You’ll also love the uninterrupted views of the coast and islands, with many stops offering excellent photo opportunities. The boat itself, a Gozzo Fundoni planing boat from 1988, is well-equipped with safety gear, freshwater shower, and a stereo system. It’s a practical boat designed for comfort and safety, fitting a small group comfortably.
Practicalities and Logistics
Meeting the skipper is straightforward, usually at a designated point near Porto Rotondo, with free parking nearby and easy access via bus (bus no. 5). The tour is suitable for travelers with a good sense of adventure and those who enjoy small-group experiences. It’s not recommended for children under three, pregnant women, or wheelchair users, due to the boat’s size and safety requirements.
Booking is flexible — you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, or reserve now and pay later, which is perfect if your plans are still flexible. The tour lasts roughly four hours, making it manageable even if you have a busy itinerary.
Who Would Love This Experience?
This boat tour is best suited for travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic escape rather than a long, activity-packed day. It appeals to those who want to see Sardinia’s coast from the water—crystal-clear beaches, unique coves, and quiet islands—without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple excursions. It’s perfect if you enjoy small groups, friendly guides, and simply soaking up incredible views with a chilled drink in hand.
It’s also a good choice for couples, solo travelers, or small groups wanting an authentic feel rather than a large tour bus experience. If your priority is seeing Sardinia’s renowned beaches with a touch of elegance and expert guidance, this tour offers excellent value for money.
Price and Value Considerations
Given the included aperitif, the small-group size, and the well-chosen stops, this tour offers good value. It’s not the cheapest way to explore Sardinia’s coast, but the intimate experience and quality of scenery justify the price. The fact that the itinerary can shift based on weather means you might visit different beaches on different days, maintaining a fresh experience each time.
Final Thoughts
This boat tour from Porto Rotondo strikes a nice balance between comfort, scenic beauty, and relaxed companionship. It’s a perfect way to spend part of a Sardinian holiday if you want an authentic, intimate glimpse of the island’s coastline. The friendly guides, stunning beaches, and optional aperitif make for a memorable outing that doesn’t require a full day’s commitment.
If you love beautiful beaches, calm waters, and small-group experiences, you’ll likely find this tour to be a highlight of your Sardinian trip. Just remember to bring your sun protection, swim gear, and a sense of adventure for an enjoyable day on the water.
FAQ
How long does the tour last?
The excursion is approximately 4 hours, so it’s a manageable half-day activity that fits well into most travel plans.
Where does the tour start?
The guide will meet you at a specified point near Porto Rotondo, which is easy to reach by car or public transport (bus no. 5). Free parking is available nearby.
Is it suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 3 years old or for pregnant women and wheelchair users because of the boat size and safety limitations.
What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a towel, sunscreen, water, beachwear, and a sun hat for comfort and protection. Snacks and drinks are included, but extra water or personal items are optional.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your travel plans shift unexpectedly.
What if the weather isn’t ideal?
The skipper will decide the stops based on weather conditions. If the weather prevents certain stops, the itinerary may change but the overall experience remains enjoyable.
What does the boat look like?
It’s a 7-meter Gozzo Fundoni planing boat from 1988, with a capacity of 9 people, equipped with safety gear, freshwater shower, and stereo system for comfort.
Is there a guide onboard?
Yes, an experienced skipper, often Gabriele, will guide the trip, provide insights, and ensure safety throughout the outing.
This boat tour offers an excellent way to enjoy Sardinia’s coastlines in a relaxed setting, with enough flexibility to tailor the experience to weather and group interests. Perfect for those wanting a taste of island life, stunning beaches, and a touch of local charm—all in just a few hours.