La Maddalena Archipelago Boat Tour from Palau4.7(589 Reviews)6 hours and 30 minutes
From€71.50per person
Listing ID : 57207
4.7(589 Reviews)
La Maddalena Archipelago Boat Tour from Palau
6h 30mDuration
Max 12 peopleGroup Size
English, ItalianSpeaking Guide
Mobile ticketAccepted
About this experience
Duration8 Hours
Group SizeSmall Group
Starts AtPalau
LanguagesEnglish, Italian
La Maddalena Archipelago — Sardinia, Italy
Motorboat Tour of the La Maddalena Archipelago from Palau
A full day of island discovery aboard a restored 1956 vintage motorship, sailing the pristine waters of northeastern Sardinia.
This La Maddalena Archipelago boat tour takes you from the port of Palau on a carefully planned voyage through one of the Mediterranean's most protected and celebrated marine environments, combining scenic navigation, guided commentary, and multiple swim stops.
Aboard a beautifully refurbished 1956 vintage motorship, the expert crew will accompany you throughout the day, sharing knowledge about the islands, their history, and their natural significance as you pass through waters that form part of a national marine park.
The route visits three distinct island destinations — Caprera, Budelli, and Spargi — each offering its own character, from sheltered coves ideal for snorkeling to beaches celebrated for their rare natural coloring.
The pace is relaxed and accessible, making this an ideal day trip for travelers seeking a genuine encounter with Sardinia's coastal wilderness without demanding any particular level of physical fitness.
Tour Highlights
Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Cala Serena on the island of Caprera, one of the archipelago's most sheltered natural bays.
Sail past the Fort of San Giorgio, Villa Marina Tower, and the former American NATO Military Base during the panoramic opening navigation.
Admire the famous Spiaggia Rosa on Budelli from the water, a protected beach renowned for its uniquely pink-tinted sand.
Snorkel the transparent waters around Spiaggia del Cavaliere near Budelli, with access to the beach by inflatable tender.
Spend two hours at Cala Connari on Spargi, a broad and beautiful cove accessible by swimming directly from the vessel.
Travel aboard a lovingly restored 1956 motorship, combining vintage character with modern comfort and safety standards.
Receive live expert commentary from the crew throughout the day on the geography, history, and ecology of the archipelago.
Itinerary
1
Departure from Palau — Panoramic Navigation
The tour begins at the port of Palau, with an approximately 30-minute panoramic sail between Santo Stefano and Capo d'Orso. The crew provides commentary as the boat passes the Fort of San Giorgio, the Villa Marina Tower, the former American NATO Military Base, and the Caprera Sailing Center.
2
Swim Stop at Cala Serena, Caprera
A 30-minute swim stop is scheduled at Cala Serena on the island of Caprera, offering calm, clear water in a naturally protected inlet. Guests can swim directly from the vessel at their own pace.
3
Island of Budelli — Cavaliere Beach and Spiaggia Rosa
After a 40-minute sail to Budelli, the boat anchors offshore at Spiaggia del Cavaliere for one hour and thirty minutes. Guests may remain on board, snorkel near the vessel, or reach the beach by inflatable tender accompanied by crew. The celebrated Spiaggia Rosa can be admired from the water.
4
Island of Spargi — Cala Connari
The tour continues to the island of Spargi, where a two-hour stop is made at Cala Connari. Guests may stay on board, snorkel around the vessel, or swim directly to the beach to explore this sweeping, unspoiled cove.
5
Return to Palau
The motorship makes its way back to the port of Palau, with arrival scheduled for approximately 5:30 p.m., concluding a full day among the islands of the La Maddalena Archipelago.
What Is Included
Included
Full-day boat tour aboard a refurbished 1956 vintage motorship
Expert crew guidance and live commentary throughout
Access to on-board services and facilities
Inflatable tender transfers to the beach at Cavaliere
Snorkeling opportunity at multiple stops
Not Included
Food and beverages (unless otherwise specified)
Personal travel insurance
Snorkeling equipment rental (if not provided)
Gratuities for crew
Important Information
This tour operates weather permitting. The itinerary may be adjusted by the captain based on sea and wind conditions on the day of departure.
Duration
8 hours in total, with return to Palau at approximately 5:30 p.m.
Meeting Point
Port of Palau, northeastern Sardinia. Specific berth details will be provided upon booking confirmation.
What to Bring
Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and non-marking deck shoes or sandals. A light layer is recommended for the return sail.
Cancellation
Cancellation terms will be specified at the time of booking. Weather-related cancellations are typically handled with a reschedule or full refund.
Accessibility
The tour is rated easy and is suitable for most fitness levels. Guests with limited mobility should contact the operator prior to booking to confirm suitability.
Age Range
Suitable for all ages. Children must be supervised at all times, particularly during swim stops and tender transfers.
Reserve Your Place on This Archipelago Voyage
Spaces aboard this vintage motorship are limited. Secure your spot in advance and prepare for one of Sardinia's most rewarding day tours on the water.
The tour departs from the port of Palau on the northeastern coast of Sardinia. Precise embarkation details are provided upon booking.
Which islands does the tour visit?▼
The itinerary includes stops around Caprera, Budelli, and Spargi, with multiple swim and snorkel opportunities at each location.
Can guests visit Spiaggia Rosa on Budelli?▼
Spiaggia Rosa is a protected beach within the La Maddalena National Marine Park and cannot be accessed on foot. Guests admire it from the water during the boat's offshore stop near Budelli.
Is snorkeling equipment provided on board?▼
Guests should check with the operator at the time of booking to confirm whether snorkeling equipment is available on board or should be brought independently.
What happens if the weather is unsuitable on the day?▼
The captain reserves the right to modify or cancel the itinerary in the interest of passenger safety. In the event of a weather cancellation, guests are typically offered a rescheduled date or a refund.
Is food available on board during the tour?▼
On-board services are available throughout the day, but guests are advised to confirm specific catering arrangements with the operator prior to departure and to bring their own snacks and water if preferred.
This tour operates from Palau, a coastal town on the northeastern tip of Sardinia, Italy, positioned directly opposite the La Maddalena Archipelago National Marine Park. The archipelago comprises over 60 islands and islets within the Strait of Bonifacio, bordered by Corsica to the north. Key destinations on this route — Caprera, Budelli, and Spargi — lie within a protected marine area celebrated for exceptional water clarity, rare marine biodiversity, and landscapes that have remained largely undisturbed. Palau itself serves as the main gateway for day excursions into the archipelago and is well connected by road to Costa Smeralda and Olbia airport.
Tour Type: Full-Day Boat Excursion | Region: Gallura, Northeastern Sardinia, Italy | Natural Area: La Maddalena Archipelago National Marine Park | Difficulty: Easy | Activity: Island Hopping, Swimming, Snorkeling | Vessel Type: Vintage Motorship (1956) | Suitable For: All ages, families, couples, independent travelers
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