Tour of the islands of the archipelago with lunch and drinks

A Relaxed and Scenic Day Exploring Sardinia’s Archipelago

This sailing tour of Sardinia’s famous islands sounds like a wonderful way to spend a day, especially if you’re craving a blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic coastal scenery. The tour offers a carefully curated itinerary that takes you through some of the most iconic spots in the Maddalena Archipelago — including Santa Maria, Budelli, and Spargi — with the comfort of a small group, delicious onboard food, and plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and soak up the views.

What immediately stands out is the emphasis on personalized service and comfort. The tour caps group size at just 8 participants, which feels just right for keeping things intimate and relaxed, without feeling crowded. The professionalism and warmth of the crew seem to be a highlight, with reviews noting how skippers contact you in advance to discuss weather conditions, which adds a reassuring touch. Plus, the all-inclusive package — from aperitifs and drinks to a gourmet lunch — means you can fully unwind without worrying about extra costs.

Two things I really appreciate are the flexible itinerary, adapted to weather conditions, and the focus on quality experiences. The stops for swimming around the boat, snorkeling, or relaxing on the beaches are what make this tour particularly appealing. That said, if you’re someone who prefers a rigid schedule or dislikes floating in the sea, this might not be your ideal day out. Still, the promise of stunning scenery and a friendly crew makes this a tempting choice for many.

Key points / Takeaways

• Small Group Size: Limited to 8 people, ensuring a comfortable and more personalized experience.
• Flexible Itinerary: The captain chooses stops based on weather for maximum safety and enjoyment.
• All-Inclusive Offerings: Food, drinks, aperitif, and snacks are included, making it easy to relax and indulge.
• Spectacular Views: Expect breathtaking sights of white beaches, turquoise waters, and even Corsica from the boat.
• Authentic Experience: The crew’s passion for sharing their love of the islands adds genuine charm.
• Ideal for Relaxation and Adventure: Perfect for those who enjoy a mix of swimming, snorkeling, and scenic cruising.

Discovering Sardinia’s Archipelago by Boat

If you’re considering a day out on the water in Sardinia, this tour offers an experience I’d recommend for its combination of comfort, scenic beauty, and authentic coastal encounters. Here’s a deeper look at what makes this tour worth considering, and how it could fit your travel plans.

The Itinerary: A Well-Designed Route with Stunning Stops

The itinerary begins with a pickup from two convenient locations in Palau or La Maddalena, making it straightforward to join, whether you’re staying on Sardinia or in the local area. Once aboard, the journey starts with a scenic navigation toward Santa Maria, where you’ll have about 1 hour and 15 minutes to explore the largest white beach in the park. From here, you can choose to relax on the sand, go for a swim, snorkel around the boat, or even try out a Stand-Up Paddleboard.

What I love about this first stop is the view of Corsica on the horizon and the mouths of Bonifacio — a reminder that you’re in a part of the Mediterranean where coastlines blend seamlessly. It’s a picture-perfect moment, especially if you’re into photography or just enjoy the thrill of seeing distant islands from the deck.

Next, the boat heads south to Budelli, famous for its “Porto Madonna” and natural pools near Cavaliere Beach. The stop here is perfect for a leisurely lunch, a swim in the natural pools, or dolphin watching, depending on the day. The inclusion of a delicious onboard meal, with the chef choosing the first course, elevates the experience. You’ll also enjoy an aperitif with local products — a great way to get a taste of Sardinian hospitality.

The afternoon takes you to Spargi, where you get about 45 minutes to explore Cala Conneri, Cala dell’Amore, and the famous sculptures of Cala Corsara. The erosion-created sculptures like the “Bull-Dog,” “Witch,” and “Little Italy” are fascinating, turning natural formations into art. The stops here are ideal for relaxing on secluded beaches and taking in the scenery away from crowds.

Finally, the return journey passes through Punta Sardegna, Porto Raphael, and Nelson’s Bay, with views of iconic spots along the way. Before docking, there’s a final treat – a snack of seasonal fruit, cake, coffee, and digestives, perfect for winding down.

The Experience: Comfort, Authenticity, and Flexibility

The real charm of this tour is the crew’s dedication to making the day memorable. Multiple reviews mention how the skipper contacts guests beforehand to discuss weather, and how they do everything to accommodate wishes. That level of attention makes a difference when you’re out at sea, especially in unpredictable weather.

On top of that, the onboard atmosphere seems warm and friendly, often described as professional yet personalized. The inclusion of Wi-Fi, onboard toilet, and vegetarian/vegan options shows attention to convenience and dietary needs.

What Travelers Are Saying

Many reviews praise the stunning scenery and the quality of food and drinks, including excellent wine and seasonal fruit. One traveler shared, “The skipper did everything to give us a nice day and we snorkeled at beautiful places,” highlighting the focus on creating an enjoyable experience for everyone.

Another liked the relaxed pace and the chance to swim and snorkel at several stops, making the long day feel very worthwhile. The minimal crowd of 8 people means you’re not just another face in the crowd, which adds to the laid-back vibe.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a combination of scenic cruising, swimming, and good food in a small group. If you’re looking for a relaxing day on the water with the flexibility to choose what you do at each stop, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially ideal for those who value authentic, personalized service and want to see the islands without the crowds.

Price and Value

At $114 per person, the value mostly comes from the inclusions: a full day of sailing, a gourmet lunch, drinks, and the chance to see some of Sardinia’s most beautiful islands. Considering all the food, drinks, and the personalized experience, this is a reasonable price, especially given the small group size and the scenic stops.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book early — with only 8 spots per day, it fills up quickly.
• Bring your snorkeling gear if you love to explore underwater, but note that equipment might be available on board.
• Dress for the weather — light clothing, sun protection, and maybe a hat are essentials.
• Arrive punctually for pickup, as the tour starts early and runs smoothly.
• Be prepared for a full day — bring a camera, some cash for extras, and a sense of adventure.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers the boat trip, captain, fuel, tender, entrance ticket to the Maddalena Archipelago Park, onboard toilet, Wi-Fi, aperitif, lunch, drinks, seasonal fruit, coffee, and digestive. Vegetarian or vegan options are available on request.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7.5 hours, with the starting times depending on availability.

Where does the tour depart from?
Pickup options include Il Porticciolo in La Maddalena or Frante Pier in Palau, with a staff member guiding you onto the boat.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

Is this tour suitable for children or mobility-impaired travelers?
It’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or those over 75 years old. No mention of children, but families with older kids might find it enjoyable.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and maybe a waterproof camera. Towels are probably available onboard, but check in advance. Also, consider bringing some cash for extras or souvenirs.

In Closing

This sailing adventure through Sardinia’s archipelago offers a well-balanced mix of stunning scenery, authentic local flavor, and personalized service. The small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in the crowd, and the flexible itinerary means your experience adapts to the weather and your wishes. The inclusions of delicious food, drinks, and comfort amenities make this a more than reasonable investment for a full day of coastal bliss.

Whether you’re a lover of nature, a fan of good food, or simply seeking a peaceful escape on the sea, this tour promises a memorable slice of Sardinian life. It’s particularly perfect if you want to explore beyond the crowded beaches and experience the islands in a relaxed, authentic way.

If you’re after a scenic, slightly indulgent day with expert guidance and a small group, this trip could very well be the highlight of your Sardinian holiday. Just remember to book early and prepare for a day full of beautiful views, swimming, and tasty regional treats.