Asinara Island Full-Day Wooden Boat Excursion from Stintino
Crystal waters, wild donkeys, and Sardinian flavors aboard a classic wooden vessel
This Asinara Island boat excursion offers a full day of exploration across one of the Mediterranean's most protected and pristine natural reserves, departing directly from the port of Stintino aboard a traditional wooden vessel.
The Gulf of Asinara shelters some of northwestern Sardinia's most remarkable coastal scenery, from shallow natural pools to secluded coves accessible only by sea. The island itself carries a layered history as a former penal colony and national park, giving every landing a sense of discovery.
An experienced skipper guides the journey with local knowledge, coordinating swim stops in translucent waters and a ground visit to either Cala Reale or Cala d'Oliva, where the island's iconic white and gray donkeys roam freely. The pace is relaxed and the atmosphere convivial throughout the nine-hour outing.
Lunch is served on board and draws from local Sardinian producers, with cold cuts, aged cheese, grilled vegetables, a fish pasta course, wine, water, dessert, coffee, and a digestive all included. The combination of natural beauty and culinary tradition makes the day as satisfying off the water as it is on it.
Tour Highlights
Swim in the Natural Pools of Fornelli, a shallow turquoise lagoon inside the Asinara Marine Protected Area.
Explore the historic landing site of Cala Reale or the fishing hamlet of Cala d'Oliva, both rich in island history.
Encounter the rare white albino donkeys that have roamed Asinara freely since the island's national park designation.
Enjoy a full Sardinian lunch on board featuring locally sourced charcuterie, fish, regional wine, and traditional sweets.
Multiple swim stops at Punta Galetta and Cala del Bianco in waters rated among the clearest on the Sardinian coast.
Travel aboard a traditional 10-metre wooden vessel skippered by a local expert familiar with every inlet of the gulf.
Visit a designated national park and marine reserve, keeping the natural environment intact for future generations.
Itinerary
The wooden boat sets off from Stintino harbour and heads into the Gulf of Asinara, passing the coastline of the Asinara National Park as the island comes into view.
The first anchor drop is at the celebrated Fornelli natural pools, where calm, shallow water makes for easy and scenic swimming. The skipper shares the ecological history of this protected marine zone.
A second swim stop at Punta Galetta is followed by an extended two-hour anchor at Cala del Bianco, where the on-board Sardinian lunch is served and guests are free to swim between courses.
Guests step ashore for roughly one hour to explore the island on foot. Depending on conditions, the landing is at the former penal colony buildings of Cala Reale or the quieter inlet of Cala d'Oliva, where the island's white and gray donkeys are frequently seen.
The last water stop is at Cala Barche Napoletane, a sheltered cove offering one more chance to swim before the return leg begins.
The boat makes its way back across the gulf to Stintino harbour, completing the nine-hour circuit of the Asinara coastline.
What Is Included
Included
- Full-day guided wooden boat excursion from Stintino
- Experienced local skipper throughout the journey
- Multiple swim stops in protected marine waters
- Land visit at Cala Reale or Cala d'Oliva
- On-board Sardinian lunch with antipasto, fish pasta, wine, water, dessert, coffee, and digestive
Not Included
- Personal travel insurance
- Transport to and from Stintino
- Gratuities for the skipper or crew
- Any meals or drinks beyond those listed in the lunch menu
- Personal expenses during the land stop
Important Information
Ready to Discover Asinara?
Secure your place on this full-day wooden boat journey through one of Sardinia's most protected and visually striking island reserves. Availability is limited and fills quickly during the summer season.
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