Sailing ship in exclusive, tour around the Gulf of Orosei

If you’re looking for a way to experience Sardinia’s Gulf of Orosei that balances comfort, stunning scenery, and a touch of maritime charm, a sailing tour on the Dovesesto might just be your ideal option. This nearly 100-year-old vessel offers a unique perspective on the coastline, with its leisurely pace and carefully chosen stops, making it perfect for those who want more than just a typical boat ride. From the moment I read about the experience, I was drawn to the idea of a quiet, intimate cruise that emphasizes natural beauty and authentic beach visits.

Two things I particularly like about this tour are its small group size—limited to 12 passengers—which keeps it cozy and personal, and the focus on visiting less crowded beaches. It’s clear that the crew prioritizes a relaxed atmosphere, rather than chasing crowds or rushing through sights. Plus, the route includes some of the Gulf’s most famous spots, such as Cala Luna and Cala Goloritzè, but at times that hopefully avoid the busiest hours.

One consideration worth noting is that the tour doesn’t include lunch, so you’ll need to bring your own, and there are strict rules about no food or sunscreen on board—this helps keep the boat and water pristine but requires some planning ahead. Also, the price per group is quite high at over $2,700, which might seem steep, but for the exclusivity, stunning scenery, and the chance to relax aboard a historic sailing vessel, many will find it worthwhile.

Key points / Takeaways

• Small group size ensures personal service and a peaceful experience.
• Quiet beaches and caves visited during optimal times avoid the crowds, making for a more enjoyable visit.
• Historic vessel Dovesesto adds charm and character, offering a sense of maritime tradition.
• Carefully curated stops include beaches like Cala Luna, Cala Biriola, and Cala Goloritzè, with options for swimming, relaxing, or just soaking in views.
• Strict rules about no food or sunscreen on board mean you’ll need to plan your day and bring lunch and protective layers accordingly.
• Duration and logistics: An 8-hour cruise starting at 10:30 a.m., with check-in required by 9:45 a.m., makes for a full day of discovery and relaxation.

Exploring the Gulf of Orosei with the Dovesesto

The Dovesesto cruise in Sardinia offers a rare chance to see the Gulf of Orosei from a much more intimate and relaxed perspective than a typical boat tour. The vessel is nearly a century old, a detail that adds a certain romantic charm and authenticity to the experience. At 23 meters long and designed to carry just 12 guests, the boat feels roomy and comfortable, allowing you to lounge either in the shade of the awning or sunbathe on the deck. The small size of the group means you’ll likely enjoy a more personalized experience, with crew members and fellow travelers sharing stories and tips during the day.

The boat departs daily at 10:30 a.m. from Cala Gonone—the hub of marine excursions in Sardinia—and returns around 6 p.m. The experience is designed for leisurely exploration, with the captain selecting the best beaches and caves for stops based on weather and crowd conditions. This adaptive approach, combined with the quiet, comfortable vessel, lets you appreciate Sardinia’s coast without the chaos often associated with popular tourist spots.

The Route and Stops: Beaches, Caves, and Swimming

The itinerary covers a broad sweep of the Gulf, including well-known beaches like Cala Luna and Cala Sisine, but the real appeal is the timing of stops. In the morning, beaches tend to be more crowded, so the crew strategically stops at less busy spots like Cala Biriola and the Piscine di Venere for the first swims. The highlight for many is the long stop of about two hours at one of the quieter beaches—perhaps Cala Mariolu, Cala dei Gabbiani, or Sorgenti Beach—where you can enjoy a packed lunch, swim, or simply rest in a peaceful setting.

An interesting element is the visit to the famous Cala Goloritzè, with its iconic natural arch. Since this beach is part of a national park, access is only possible on foot, which means the boat approaches close enough for you to admire it from the water before a swim or photo opportunity. The captain respects the environment, and swimming from the boat is often possible, adding a spontaneous feel to the day.

Practicalities and Rules

The tour has strict guidelines designed to protect the pristine environment: no food on board (apart from your packed lunch during the beach stop), no smoking, and no sunscreen usage during the cruise—sunscreen can be applied two hours before departure to prevent damage. These rules might seem restrictive, but they serve to keep the waters clean and the boat in good shape.

Check-in is in Viale Colombo 10, Cala Gonone, at least 45 minutes before departure, and it’s wise to arrive early, especially during peak months when parking can be limited. From April to October, options include paid parking within the village or free parking plus a short shuttle, which adds a bit of planning but is manageable.

The Value and Who It’s For

While the cost per group is on the high side at over $2,700, that fee covers nearly a full day of exploring some of Sardinia’s most beautiful coastlines in a small, exclusive setting. For travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic experience with plenty of swimming and quiet beaches, this cruise offers excellent value. It’s especially suited to those who appreciate authentic maritime experiences, small-group intimacy, and well-curated stops.

This tour isn’t ideal if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more flexible schedule without packing a lunch. But for those wanting an authentic, scenic, and peaceful day at sea—away from the crowds and in the company of an experienced crew—this trip strikes a fine balance.

Who Would Enjoy This Experience?

If you love spending time on the water and want to see Sardinia’s coast from a different angle, this cruise will delight you. It’s perfect for couples, small families, or friends who enjoy a relaxed pace and a touch of history on their boat. The focus on quiet beaches and natural beauty makes it an excellent choice for nature lovers or anyone looking to escape the busier tourist areas.

However, if you prefer a flexible schedule or want to explore caves and beaches on your own, you might find some limitations here. Also, those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at Cala Goloritzè, as access is only on foot through a national park.

Final Thoughts

This sailing trip on the Dovesesto provides a superb way to enjoy Sardinia’s Gulf of Orosei in a peaceful, authentic manner. With its historic vessel, carefully timed beach stops, and careful environmental rules, it offers a day of gentle exploration and scenic beauty. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to combine comfort, intimacy, and a genuine maritime experience in one package.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How early do I need to check in?
Check-in for the 10:30 a.m. departure must be done by 9:45 a.m. at Viale Colombo 10. Arriving on time is essential as late arrivals cannot be refunded.

What should I bring?
Bring a packed lunch for the beach stop, as no food is allowed on board during the cruise. Also, pack sunscreen (to be applied before boarding), a towel, and swimming gear.

Is there a restroom on the boat?
While the provided details don’t specify a restroom, given the vessel’s size and typical standards, you might find basic facilities onboard, but it’s best to plan for comfort during your swim stops.

Can I swim from the boat?
Yes, swimming from the boat is often possible and is likely one of the highlights, especially at the Piscine di Venere and other quiet beaches.

Are there any restrictions on using sunscreen?
Yes, sunscreen is not allowed on the boat itself to protect the water quality. You should apply it at least two hours before departure.

What is included in the price?
Your tour includes visits to the most beautiful beaches, exploration of the gulf, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and descriptions of the area by the crew.

What is not included?
Lunch and visits to caves are not included. You must bring your own lunch and can choose to explore caves on your own if you wish.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed atmosphere and focus on swimming and beaches suggest it’s family-friendly, but parents should consider the boat’s small size and walking involved at some stops.

To sum it up, this sailing adventure offers a peaceful, scenic way to see Sardinia’s Gulf of Orosei without the crowds. Its small-group setting, historical vessel, and carefully selected beaches make it ideal for travelers who appreciate comfort, natural beauty, and a touch of maritime history. Perfect for nature lovers, small groups, and those seeking a genuine seaside escape—this cruise promises a memorable day on Sardinia’s stunning coast.