Santa Maria Navarrese: Baunei Coast Cruise with Swim Stops

Planning to explore Sardinia’s coast? This Baunei Coast Cruise with Swim Stops from Santa Maria Navarrese offers an unforgettable day on crystal-clear waters, packed with scenic views, beach hopping, and local flavor. Whether you’re a beach lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply after a relaxing day on the water, this tour has plenty to offer.

We’re particularly drawn to three aspects: the chance to visit some of Italy’s most breathtaking beaches, the knowledgeable guides who make every stop engaging, and the inclusion of local Sardinian treats during the trip. That said, the 8-hour duration could be long for those with mobility issues or limited stamina, so it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with a full day out at sea.

If you love discovering hidden spots, enjoy authentic local food, and want a guided experience that balances adventure with relaxation, this tour ticks a lot of boxes. Just remember, capacity and weather can influence the itinerary, so flexibility is key.

Good To Know

• Spectacular Beaches: Visits to Cala Mariolu, Cala Biriala, and Cala Sisine showcase Sardinia’s finest coastlines.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Christian make the experience informative, fun, and personalized with stories and local insights.
• Authentic Aperitivo: Enjoy Sardinian homemade bread, wine, cheeses, and meats—often prepared by guides’ families.
• Flexible Itinerary: Stops and routes may vary based on weather and crowd levels, offering a slightly different experience each time.
• Value for Money: At just over $112, this tour offers a full day of scenic beauty, swimming, and local culture.
• Family Friendly: Not suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues, but ideal for active, adventure-loving travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Baunei Coast Cruise

Exploring Sardinia’s coastline by boat is one of the most captivating ways to appreciate its rugged beauty. This tour from Santa Maria Navarrese promises a full day (approximately 8.5 hours) of scenic cruising, beach hopping, and swimming in some of the Gulf of Orosei’s most famous spots. It’s operated by Baebeni Wild Baunei, a company known for small-group, personalized experiences, making it ideal for travelers who want to avoid large, touristy crowds.

Meeting and Departure

The day kicks off early, with guests meeting at the Port of Santa Maria Navarrese around 8:15 AM, just in time for the 8:30 AM departure. The meeting point is straightforward—right in front of the bar at pier D. The tour ends back at the same location around 5:00 to 5:30 PM, making it a well-structured full-day experience.

Transport and Group Size

One of the highlights of this tour is the intimate size of the boat. Smaller vessels mean more personalized attention from guides and easier access to secluded spots, which larger tours might overlook. This creates a more relaxed and friendly atmosphere, especially if you’re traveling with a small group or family.

The Itinerary: A Day of Stunning Views and Beach Bliss

The route is designed to maximize sightseeing and swimming opportunities. The cruise takes you past towering cliffs and striking limestone formations—think of dramatic Pedralonga Spire and the Baus Waterfalls. You’ll also have the chance to peer into the Cave of the Pigeons, a natural marvel that’s as photogenic as it is intriguing.

Cala Goloritzé is the star attraction—famous for its untouched beauty, it’s often called a true marine paradise. Voted Italy’s most beautiful beach in 2016, this cove’s turquoise waters and striking cliffs promise plenty of photo-worthy moments. Many reviews highlight how peaceful and almost private the beach feels because of the careful timing of stops, helping you avoid crowds.

Other stops include Cala Mariolu, known for its pristine sands and excellent swimming conditions, and Cala Biriala, which is tucked between caves and lush greenery—a perfect backdrop for a relaxing dip. Cala Sisine stretches along a long stretch of golden sand, ideal for lounging or a leisurely walk.

Additional stops at Piscine di Venere—a sought-after cove—allow for some of the clearest waters you’ll see, making it ideal for swimming or snorkeling. The optional visit to Grotta del Fico (at a small additional cost) offers cave exploration in a limestone setting, a favorite among adventure seekers.

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Local Flavors and Cultural Touches

What makes this tour stand out, beyond the scenic coastline, is the storytelling and local flavor. Guides like Christian are praised for their friendly demeanor, multilingual skills, and personal stories. One reviewer mentions how Christian shared his family’s homemade wine and bread during the aperitivo, giving travelers a taste of Sardinian hospitality.

The snacks and drinks served on board are often homemade or locally sourced, including cheese, meats, and wines, which adds an authentic touch that elevates the experience beyond just a boat ride.

Swimming and Snorkeling

The crystal-clear waters are a major draw. Reviewers mention how many stops are dedicated to swimming, with ample time to relax on beaches or float in the calm seas. Bringing your own snorkel gear is recommended—many travelers wished they had brought theirs, as the underwater visibility is impressive.

Optional Extra: Cave of the Fico

The Grotta del Fico is an optional stop that adds a bit of adventure to the day. The 50-minute visit costs around €10 for adults, which is a reasonable price considering the cave’s limestone beauty. It’s a good choice for those interested in exploring the coastline’s geological features.

Weather and Flexibility

Given the outdoor nature of the tour, weather plays a role. The itinerary may change depending on sea conditions or the crew’s assessment for safety reasons, which is common with boat trips. This flexibility helps ensure you have a safe, enjoyable experience, but it also means some stops could be altered or skipped.

Cost and Value

At just over $112 per person, this tour offers excellent value for a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and local tasting. The inclusion of a local guide, fuel, and typical aperitivo is a good deal, considering the boat, stops, and personalized service. Additional costs like cave or beach entry tickets are minimal and transparent.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking an active day out with plenty of opportunities to swim, relax, and learn about Sardinian culture. It’s well-suited for those comfortable on boats, with at least moderate mobility, since the day involves some walking and swimming. Families with older children who love beaches and adventures will also find this trip rewarding.

However, it might not be ideal for people with mobility issues, very young children, or those sensitive to long boat rides. The full 8.5-hour schedule requires stamina, but most reviews affirm that the stunning scenery and intimate feeling make it worthwhile.

In The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This boat tour balances scenic beauty with authentic local experiences. You’ll visit some of Italy’s most breathtaking beaches, swim in waters praised for their clarity, and enjoy the stories and hospitality of guides like Christian. The small-group approach ensures a relaxed, personal day on the water, making it perfect for travelers craving a blend of adventure and culture.

While the day can be weather-dependent, the careful planning and flexible itinerary mean you’re likely to see some of Sardinia’s best sights, even if minor adjustments are needed. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to explore the Gulf of Orosei from a different perspective, away from crowded beaches and tourist traps.

If you’re after a full, immersive day that combines scenic beauty, local flavor, and expert guidance, this cruise from Santa Maria Navarrese delivers on all fronts.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children? While it’s generally family-friendly, it’s best for older children who can handle a full day on the water and swimming. Very young children or mobility-impaired travelers may find it challenging.

How long is the boat ride? The total duration is about 8 hours and 30 minutes, including stops for swimming, sightseeing, and optional cave exploration.

What’s included in the price? The cost covers fuel, a local guide, and typically an aperitivo with Sardinian bread, cheese, meats, and wine.

Are there any additional costs? Yes, tickets for Grotta del Fico (€10) and Cala Mariolu (€1) are not included. You should also bring cash for personal expenses or optional extras.

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear? Yes, bringing your own snorkel and water shoes is recommended, as many reviewers wished they had.

What should I bring? Pack sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), a camera, comfortable clothes, drinking water, food and drinks, and an umbrella for shade.

Are the stops fixed? No, the itinerary may change based on weather, crowds, and sea conditions, but guides aim to include the main highlights.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues? No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or very young children due to the physical nature of the trip.

What language is the tour guided in? The guides speak Italian, English, and French, accommodating most travelers’ language needs.

How many people are on the boat? It’s a small-group experience, which means fewer than a typical large tour, fostering a more relaxed atmosphere.

In brief, this boat tour offers an authentic, scenic, and fun way to explore Sardinia’s coast. It’s a fantastic choice if you want to see the stunning beaches, enjoy local flavors, and have a guide who makes the day both informative and memorable. Just pack your sense of adventure and a smile—you’re in for a magnificent day.

You can check if your dates are available here: