Hand holding a shell filled with Sardinian pasta and seafood against the turquoise waters of La Maddalena Archipelago.
Elegant catamaran anchored in the clear blue waters of La Maddalena Archipelago, perfect for a scenic excursion.
Gourmet Sardinian charcuterie board with cheeses, meats, and olives on a catamaran in La Maddalena Archipelago.
Modern catamaran sailing in the La Maddalena Archipelago, perfect for a scenic excursion from Palau.
Spacious catamaran interior with dining area, offering comfort and style for La Maddalena Archipelago tours.
Listing ID : 57508

Activity

Duration7 hours 30 minutes
Group SizeMax 12 passengers
Starts AtPalau or La Maddalena, Sardinia
LanguagesEnglish, Spanish, French, Italian
Sardinia Sailing Experience

Catamaran Excursion in the La Maddalena Archipelago

A full day of sailing, swimming and discovery through Sardinia's most celebrated national park waters


A La Maddalena Archipelago catamaran excursion from Palau delivers one of the most complete ways to experience the protected coves, turquoise shallows and remarkable geology that define this corner of northern Sardinia. Departing in the morning and returning after a full day at sea, the journey covers multiple islands and anchorages in a single outing. The modern Ecess11 catamaran, built between 2023 and 2024, provides a stable and spacious platform suited to all comfort levels.

The route threads through the islands of Spargi, Budelli and Santa Maria, each offering a distinct character ranging from wild rocky inlets to sheltered sandy coves. Passengers spend the majority of the day in the water or relaxing on deck, with the skipper selecting the best anchoring positions based on conditions. Welcome coffee, an aperitif and a full on-board lunch are served during the excursion, removing any need to plan meals independently.

The famous Spiaggia Rosa on Budelli Island, now a protected reserve, is observed from the water as the catamaran passes close to its shoreline. The natural pools of Porto della Madonna provide a quieter, lagoon-like setting ideal for snorkelling. Santa Maria Island rounds out the itinerary with the sheltered arc of Cala Santa Maria before the return to port.

With a difficulty rating of easy and a maximum capacity of twelve passengers plus two crew, this tour suits families, couples and groups seeking a relaxed but immersive day on the water. No sailing experience is required, and the on-board hostess ensures the pace remains comfortable throughout.

Tour Highlights

Swim and snorkel at Cala Corsara, Cala Granara and Cala Soraya on Spargi Island, three secluded coves accessible only from the sea.

View the legendary Spiaggia Rosa from the boat, one of the rarest pink-sand beaches in the Mediterranean, protected within the national park.

Explore the calm natural pools of Porto della Madonna, a sheltered anchorage perfect for relaxed swimming in crystal-clear water.

Enjoy a welcome coffee, mid-day aperitif and a full lunch served on board by the dedicated hostess throughout the excursion.

Travel aboard a modern 12-metre catamaran launched in 2023-2024, fully equipped with safety gear, a fresh-water shower and a tender.

Visit Santa Maria Island and the crescent-shaped Cala Santa Maria, one of the most photogenic anchorages in the entire archipelago.

Itinerary Overview

1
Departure from Palau

The catamaran leaves from the port of Palau and heads into the protected waters of the La Maddalena National Park. The skipper briefs passengers on the day's planned route and safety procedures.

2
Spargi Island: Cala Corsara, Cala Granara and Cala Soraya

The first stops are three distinct coves along the coastline of Spargi, each reachable by swimming from the anchored boat. The water here is shallow, clear and sheltered, making it well suited for snorkelling and free swimming.

3
Budelli Island: Spiaggia Rosa and Natural Pools

The catamaran passes Cala di Roto before drawing alongside Spiaggia Rosa, visible from the sea only due to its protected status. The natural pools of Porto della Madonna follow, offering a calm lagoon environment for a longer swim stop.

4
Santa Maria Island: Cala Santa Maria

The final anchorage is at Cala Santa Maria, a wide bay framed by white sand and low dunes on the northernmost inhabited island of the archipelago. Passengers have time to swim before the boat turns back toward port.

5
Return to Palau

The catamaran sails back to the departure port in Palau, completing a full circuit of the northern archipelago. The skipper may adjust the order of stops based on wind, sea state and congestion at anchorages.

What Is Included

Included

  • Full-day catamaran excursion lasting approximately 7 hours 30 minutes
  • Skipper and hostess on board throughout
  • Welcome coffee on departure
  • Mid-morning or midday aperitif
  • Lunch served on board
  • Use of snorkelling equipment
  • Fresh-water on-board shower
  • Safety equipment as required by regulation

Not Included

  • Personal travel insurance
  • Additional drinks beyond those listed
  • Gratuities for crew
  • Transfer to and from the departure port
  • Any items of a personal nature

Important Information

The itinerary and stops are subject to change at the skipper's discretion due to weather or sea conditions. Coves are accessed by swimming from the anchored catamaran, as direct landing is not possible at most stops.
Duration
Approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes from departure to return at Palau.
Meeting Point
Palau harbour or La Maddalena, as confirmed at booking. Precise meeting details will be provided after reservation.
What to Bring
Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, a light layer for the return journey and any personal medication. Non-marking, soft-soled shoes are recommended on deck.
Cancellation
Cancellation and refund terms will be confirmed at the time of booking. In the event of cancellation due to adverse weather, an alternative date or refund is typically offered.
Accessibility
Swimming ability is required to access the coves. The tour is rated easy, but boarding and disembarking may involve steps or a ladder. Guests with mobility concerns should contact the operator before booking.
Age Range
Suitable for participants of most ages. Children must be supervised at all times, particularly during swimming stops. Age restrictions, if any, will be confirmed by the operator.

Reserve Your Place on the Catamaran

Spaces on this excursion are limited to twelve passengers per departure, so early booking is strongly recommended during peak summer months. Secure your spot and look forward to a full day exploring the La Maddalena Archipelago by catamaran.

Book Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need sailing or swimming experience to join this tour?
No sailing experience is required, as the catamaran is operated by a professional skipper. Basic swimming ability is needed to access the coves, which are reached by entering the water from the anchored boat.
Can I visit Spiaggia Rosa beach during the excursion?
Spiaggia Rosa on Budelli Island is a protected nature reserve and landing on the beach is not permitted. The catamaran passes close to the shoreline so passengers can admire it from the water.
Is food provided during the excursion?
Yes. A welcome coffee, an aperitif and a full lunch are included and served on board by the hostess. Additional drinks beyond those provided may not be included.
How many passengers are on board at one time?
The catamaran carries a maximum of 12 passengers alongside the skipper and hostess, keeping group sizes small and the experience personal.
What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my booking?
The skipper has authority to adjust or cancel the excursion if sea or weather conditions are deemed unsafe. In such cases, guests are typically offered an alternative date or a refund according to the operator's cancellation policy.
Where exactly does the excursion depart from?
The tour departs from Palau or La Maddalena harbour in northern Sardinia. The precise meeting point and any additional logistical details will be confirmed after your booking is completed.
La Maddalena ArchipelagoCatamaran ExcursionSardinia Boat TourPalau SailingSpiaggia RosaSpargi IslandBudelli IslandNational Park SardiniaSnorkelling SardiniaFull Day Boat TripSanta Maria IslandNorth Sardinia
Last updated: June 2025 | Product ID: palau-lamaddalena-catamaran-excursion

Activity

Availability

You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Additional Information

Physical: Wheelchair Not accessible

Duration

7 hours and 30 minutes

Languages

English - Speaking Guide

Spanish - Speaking Guide

French - Speaking Guide

Italian - Speaking Guide

Additional Information

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Cancellation Policy

Select Date

Meeting Point

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

End Point

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

Reviews

Share this experience

Check Availability

Select Participants

  • Adults (10-99)
    Age 10 - 99
    0
  • Children (3-9)
    Age 3 - 9
    0
  • Infant (0-2)
    Age 0 - 2
    0

Select Participants

Select Date

Select Time
logoBlack

Extraordinary experiences,
beautifully gifted

dreamimg
Nearby Icon