Discover legendary coves, crystal waters, and the wild coastline of eastern Sardinia aboard a classic sailboat.
This full-day Gulf of Orosei sailing trip takes you along one of the most celebrated stretches of Mediterranean coastline, visiting secluded coves that are inaccessible by road and renowned for their remarkable clarity and natural beauty.
Departing from the port of Arbatax, the journey unfolds at a relaxed pace as the skipper navigates south toward the heart of the gulf. Guests are welcomed aboard with a drink before the sails are raised and the rugged limestone cliffs of the Orosei coast come into view.
Throughout the day, the boat anchors at selected coves, giving passengers time to swim, snorkel, and explore shallow seabeds teeming with marine life. A fresh fish lunch served on board rounds out the experience between stops.
The skipper may invite guests to take the helm and learn the basics of sailing, offering a hands-on dimension that distinguishes this trip from standard motor-boat excursions.
Tour Highlights
Anchor at Cala Goloritzè, famous for its natural limestone arch and vivid turquoise bay.
Visit Cala Mariolu, celebrated for its transparent seabed and multicoloured pebble shoreline.
Stop at Cala Biriola, a hidden inlet enclosed by dense Mediterranean maquis vegetation.
Swim and snorkel at the Piscine di Venere, a series of natural rock pools ideal for immersing yourself in clear seawater.
Try your hand at sailing under the guidance of the skipper on a 16-metre Jeanneau sailboat.
Enjoy a welcome drink and a fresh fish lunch prepared and served on board.
Travel with full safety equipment and an experienced skipper throughout the entire day at sea.
Itinerary
1
Departure from Arbatax Port
The day begins at the port of Arbatax, where guests board the Jeanneau sailboat and receive a welcome drink as the crew prepares for departure. Navigation begins along the scenic eastern Sardinian coastline toward the Gulf of Orosei.
2
Cala Goloritzè
The first potential stop is Cala Goloritzè, a UNESCO-listed natural monument distinguished by its iconic limestone arch and intensely blue waters. Guests may swim and snorkel directly from the boat in the sheltered bay.
3
Cala Mariolu and Cala Biriola
The boat continues to Cala Mariolu, one of the gulf's most photographed beaches, where the seabed is exceptionally clear and the pebble shore shifts between white and pink. Nearby Cala Biriola offers a quieter anchorage surrounded by wild coastal scrubland.
4
Piscine di Venere and On-Board Lunch
The Piscine di Venere are natural rock formations that create calm, pool-like swimming areas along the cliff base, ideal for snorkelling. A fresh fish lunch is served on board during the afternoon sailing segment.
5
Sailing Experience
Between stops, the skipper may invite guests to take an active role in sailing the boat, explaining basic manoeuvres and letting passengers feel the helm. This interactive element is offered at the skipper's discretion based on sea conditions.
6
Return to Arbatax
The sailboat makes its way back to Arbatax port in the late afternoon, completing the full circuit of the gulf's most celebrated coastal stretch. Guests disembark after approximately eight hours at sea.
What Is Included
Included
Full-day sailing trip aboard a 16-metre Jeanneau sailboat
Welcome drink on departure
Fresh fish lunch served on board
Snorkelling stops at selected coves
Opportunity to try sailing under skipper supervision
Skipper and crew throughout the excursion
Safety equipment on board
Dinghy for shore transfers
Stereo system on board
Not Included
Personal snorkelling equipment (recommended to bring your own)
Alcoholic beverages beyond the welcome drink
Travel insurance
Transport to and from Arbatax port
Any personal expenses on board
Important Information
Itinerary stops may vary depending on weather conditions and sea state. The skipper retains full authority over route decisions to ensure the safety and comfort of all guests.
Duration
Approximately 8 hours from departure to return at Arbatax port.
What to Bring
Swimwear, towel, sun protection, sunglasses, a hat, light layers, and non-marking deck shoes or bare feet are recommended. Personal snorkelling gear is advisable.
Cancellation
Cancellation terms are provided at the time of booking. Trips may be cancelled or rescheduled by the operator due to adverse weather conditions.
Accessibility
This activity takes place aboard a sailing vessel and involves boarding via a dock or dinghy. It may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility. Please contact the operator in advance.
Age Range
Suitable for participants of all ages. Children should be supervised at all times, particularly during swimming stops.
Ready to Set Sail?
Secure your place on this full-day sailing adventure along the Gulf of Orosei and discover Sardinia's most spectacular coastline from the water.
The sailing trip departs from Arbatax Port on the eastern coast of Sardinia. Exact boarding details are provided after booking.
Are all the coves guaranteed to be visited?▼
No. The itinerary and stops are subject to change based on weather and sea conditions. The skipper makes all routing decisions in the interest of passenger safety and comfort.
Is snorkelling equipment provided?▼
Snorkelling equipment is not listed among the included items. Guests are recommended to bring their own mask and fins to make the most of the swimming stops.
What type of boat is used for this excursion?▼
The trip is conducted aboard a 16-metre Jeanneau sailboat equipped with a Yanmar 100hp engine, one bathroom, a dinghy, a stereo system, and full safety equipment. Maximum capacity is 12 guests plus the skipper.
Is food included in the trip?▼
Yes. A welcome drink on departure and a fresh fish lunch served on board are included in the excursion.
Can beginners participate in this sailing trip?▼
Yes. No prior sailing experience is required. The skipper may offer guests the chance to try basic sailing manoeuvres, but participation is entirely optional. The difficulty level is rated easy.
Gulf of OroseiSardinia SailingCala GoloritzèCala MarioluArbataxBoat Trip SardiniaSnorkelling SardiniaEastern SardiniaDay SailMediterranean CovesPiscine di VenereSea Excursion Italy
This sailing excursion departs from Arbatax, a port town on the eastern coast of Sardinia in the province of Nuoro, Italy. The route explores the Gulf of Orosei, a protected marine area stretching roughly 40 kilometres between Capo Monte Santo in the north and Capo Sferracavallo in the south. The gulf is part of the Gennargentu and Gulf of Orosei National Park, recognised for its ecological significance and listed among the most scenic coastal environments in the Mediterranean. Key destinations along the route — Cala Goloritzè, Cala Mariolu, Cala Biriola, and the Piscine di Venere — are accessible only by sea or on foot via long mountain trails, making boat excursions the primary means of visiting them. The region attracts visitors throughout the summer season, with peak interest between June and September when sea conditions are most favourable for swimming and coastal navigation.
Type: Sailing & Boat Tour | Region: Eastern Sardinia, Italy | Location: Gulf of Orosei, departing from Arbatax | Activity Level: Easy | Duration: Full Day (8 hours) | Season: Summer (June–September recommended) | Highlights: Cala Goloritzè, Cala Mariolu, Cala Biriola, Piscine di Venere | Includes: Skipper, welcome drink, fresh fish lunch, swimming stops | Boat: Jeanneau 16m sailboat | Max Group: 12 guests
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