Step aboard a piece of Mediterranean history and discover the hidden coves of north-west Sardinia under sail.
This sailing boat tour from Alghero offers a rare blend of nautical heritage and coastal exploration along one of Sardinia's most scenic stretches of shoreline. Guests sail aboard a genuine vintage vessel, guided by a skilled skipper whose knowledge of Latin sailing traditions brings each manoeuvre to life.
The experience moves at a relaxed pace, allowing passengers to absorb the skipper's commentary on the history of Mediterranean commercial navigation while also trying their hand at basic sailing manoeuvres under close supervision. The combination of learning and leisure makes the outing accessible to guests with no prior sailing experience.
The route follows the north-west Sardinian coastline toward Fertilia and into the protected waters of the Porto Conte Park, culminating in a stop at Bombarde beach for swimming in clear turquoise water. An onboard aperitif of local produce rounds off the outing before the return to Alghero.
Two historic boats serve this tour: Lucia, built in 1930 with a 9-metre teak deck, and Santa Barbara, constructed in 1953 at 11.80 metres. Both vessels carry a maximum of 12 participants alongside two crew members, ensuring an intimate group setting throughout.
Tour Highlights
Sail on an authentic vintage vessel dating back to 1930 or 1953, preserved as a working example of Latin sailing heritage.
Receive engaging on-deck explanations covering the history of commercial navigation across the Mediterranean Sea.
Try out real sailing manoeuvres yourself under the direct guidance of an experienced skipper.
Swim in sheltered turquoise coves between Alghero and Fertilia, within the boundaries of the Porto Conte Natural Park.
Enjoy a curated aperitif board of local cheeses, charcuterie, seasonal vegetables, carasau bread, and two drinks per person.
Travel in a small group of up to 12 guests, keeping the atmosphere personal and the on-water experience unhurried.
Tour Itinerary
1
Departure from Alghero
The tour begins at the harbour in Alghero, where guests board the vintage sailing vessel and receive a brief orientation from the skipper before casting off.
2
Coastal Navigation toward Fertilia
The boat sails north-west along the coastline toward Fertilia. During this leg the skipper introduces the history of Latin sailing and invites guests to participate in basic manoeuvres.
3
Exploration of the Porto Conte Park
The route enters the south-eastern stretch of the Porto Conte Natural Park, where the protected waters and rugged cliffs provide a striking natural backdrop.
4
Swimming Stop at Bombarde Beach
The vessel anchors near Bombarde beach, one of the most admired spots on this coastline, giving guests time to swim in calm, clear water. The onboard aperitif is served during this relaxed pause.
5
Return to Alghero
The boat makes its way back to Alghero harbour, completing the four-hour round trip. The exact path may vary based on weather conditions and the skipper's assessment on the day.
What Is Included
Included
Four-hour guided sailing tour aboard a vintage vessel
Skipper and crew throughout the entire trip
Introduction to Latin sailing history and techniques
Additional food or beverages beyond the included aperitif
Transfer to and from the departure point
Important Information
The itinerary is subject to change based on weather conditions and the skipper's decision on the day. All changes are made with guest safety as the primary consideration.
Duration
The full outing lasts approximately 4 hours, including the coastal sail, swimming stop, and return to Alghero harbour.
What to Bring
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a light layer for cooler sea breezes. Non-slip footwear suitable for a boat deck is recommended.
Cancellation
Cancellation terms are provided at the time of booking. Tours may be cancelled or modified by the operator in the event of unsafe weather conditions.
Accessibility
Both vessels are equipped with a climbing ladder for boarding from the water. The tour takes place on a traditional wooden sailing boat, which may present limitations for guests with reduced mobility. Contact the operator prior to booking for specific requirements.
Age Range
The tour is rated Easy and is suitable for a wide range of ages. Guests should be comfortable spending time on a moving vessel at sea. Specific age restrictions should be confirmed directly with the operator.
Ready to Set Sail?
Secure your place on this historic sailing experience along the Sardinian coast and discover the Gulf of Alghero from the deck of a genuine vintage vessel.
No prior sailing experience is required. The skipper provides on-deck guidance throughout, and all manoeuvres are supervised. The tour is rated Easy and is designed for guests of all backgrounds.
Which boat will I be on, Lucia or Santa Barbara?▼
The specific vessel assigned depends on the operator's scheduling and group size on the day. Both boats are historic wooden sailing vessels with teak decks and climbing ladders, accommodating up to 12 participants plus two crew.
What happens if the weather is bad on the day of the tour?▼
The itinerary may be adjusted based on conditions, and the skipper makes the final call on routing. If conditions make sailing unsafe, the operator may cancel the tour in line with their stated cancellation policy.
Is the aperitif suitable for guests with dietary requirements?▼
The standard aperitif includes a board of cheeses, charcuterie, vegetables, fresh fruit, carasau bread, and two glasses of wine or beer. Guests with specific dietary needs should inform the operator at the time of booking.
Will there be time to swim during the tour?▼
Yes. The itinerary includes an anchored stop near the quietest coves in the area, including Bombarde beach, where guests can swim in the turquoise waters between Alghero and Fertilia.
Where exactly does the tour depart from?▼
The tour departs from the port of Alghero in north-west Sardinia. The precise boarding location will be confirmed when you complete your booking.
Sailing Tour AlgheroVintage Boat SardiniaGulf of AlgheroPorto Conte ParkBombarde BeachLatin SailingSardinia CoastMediterranean SailingFertilia CoastlineBoat Tour SardiniaEasy Sailing ExperienceAlghero Day Trip
This tour operates in Alghero, a historic coral city on the north-west coast of Sardinia, Italy. The sailing route travels along the Riviera del Corallo toward Fertilia and into the Porto Conte Natural Park, a protected marine and coastal area. The swimming stop is at Spiaggia delle Bombarde, one of the most visited beaches in the Alghero municipality, located approximately 8 kilometres from the city centre. The Porto Conte area is recognised for its biodiversity, clear waters, and limestone cliff formations, making it a flagship destination for eco-tourism and water-based activities in Sardinia.
Type: Sailing Day Tour | Region: Alghero, Sassari Province, Sardinia, Italy | Environment: Coastal, Marine, Natural Park | Difficulty: Easy | Duration: 4 Hours | Season: Spring to Autumn | Activity: Sailing, Swimming, Cultural Heritage, Gastronomy
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