Sleeping on a boat in the bay

Sleeping on a boat in the bay – a floating night under the stars in Sardinia

Imagine drifting off to sleep on a boat, with the gentle lapping of the waves and a sky full of stars overhead. That’s exactly what this overnight experience in Sardinia offers—a chance to spend a night in total tranquility, away from crowds and noise. We haven’t taken this trip ourselves, but based on the detailed reviews and itinerary, it seems like a truly special way to connect with nature.

What we love about this experience is the sense of complete freedom it promises—being alone with the sea, enjoying spectacular sunsets, and waking up to the dawn’s first light. The chance to stay on an uninhabited, wild island like Isola dei Cavalli adds a touch of exclusivity. Plus, the fact that it’s a private group adventure makes it feel personalized and relaxed.

One thing to consider is that the boat’s interior is quite small, with only 1.3 meters of headroom in the sleeping cabin. This isn’t a luxury hotel; it’s an authentic, minimalist night at sea—so if space and comfort are your top priority, this might not be for you. But if you’re seeking a unique experience that combines adventure, privacy, and natural beauty, this could be perfect.

This tour is ideal for travelers looking to escape the usual tourist spots, lovers of the sea, or those craving a one-of-a-kind overnight on a boat surrounded by Sardinian wilderness.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Unique overnight experience on a small open boat in Sardinia’s pristine bay
• Privacy and tranquility on uninhabited Isola dei Cavalli, with no other boats around
• Spectacular natural scenery: sunsets, starry skies, and sunrises create unforgettable moments
• All essentials included: linens, towels, hygiene products, breakfast, and transfer service
• Flexible options: stay overnight or extend your visit with personalized tours
• Limited space: the boat’s interior is small, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with minimal accommodation

An in-depth look at the experience

Starting point: Wave Marina Porto San Paolo

The journey begins at Wave Marina in Porto San Paolo, a popular spot for boat lovers and a convenient launch pad for exploring the surrounding islands. The pickup and transfer arrangements include a short five-minute airboat ride, making the transition onto the boat quick and smooth. Reviews note that the transfer is well-organized, which helps set the tone for a hassle-free adventure.

Reaching Isola dei Cavalli

Once aboard, the boat heads toward Isola dei Cavalli, a tiny, uninhabited island just south of Olbia. The choice of this location isn’t accidental—it’s a well-guarded secret among sailors and those seeking privacy, including some Hollywood celebrities like Anna Hetaway, Margot Robbie, and Bradley Cooper. The fact that the island is still wild and untouched makes it a perfect setting for an escape.

The boat reaches the bay around 5 pm, after most other vessels have left, ensuring you get the prime quiet spot. The experience described by previous guests highlights the serenity of the surroundings, with many mentioning how the lack of crowds and the clarity of the water make it feel like your own private paradise.

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Sleeping on the boat

The boat itself is a modest 8.5 meters long—small but cleverly designed for comfort. The external spaces are quite generous, especially the large sundeck at the bow, where you can lounge, star gaze, or simply soak up the sun. Inside, the sleeping cabin is cozy—about 1.3 meters high—meaning you’ll need to crouch, but this adds to the feeling of adventure and intimacy.

Guests affectionately describe the experience as living like a “savage” for a night—totally in touch with nature, free from modern comforts, but with the essentials provided: linens, pillows, towels, and hygiene products. The morning breakfast, an authentic Italian spread, is a delightful perk, giving you energy to start the day.

Sunset, stars, and sunrise – a natural spectacle

What makes this trip stand out is the natural spectacle. The sunset over the water is described as “spectacular,” with vibrant colors reflecting off the sea. After sunset, the sky transitions into a starry canvas—many reviewers mention how clear and vast the night sky appears, offering a perfect moment for stargazing.

Waking up to the sunrise is equally breathtaking, providing a peaceful start to the day. Some guests have commented on how these moments create lasting memories—feeling like they’ve had an exclusive window into Sardinia’s untouched beauty.

Flexibility and extras

If spending only one night isn’t enough, there’s an option to stay on the boat during the day or extend the experience by booking personalized island tours. The host, Luca, is flexible and willing to tailor the tour to your preferences, which adds a layer of customization often appreciated in such intimate adventures.

Practical details and considerations

The experience is priced at around $339.86 per person, which covers the transfer, linens, breakfast, and some amenities. While this might seem steep for a single night, the exclusivity and natural immersion make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a one-of-a-kind experience.

It’s not suitable for those with mobility issues—given the small, open boat and low ceilings—and non-swimmers should exercise caution. The boat’s open design and the lack of shelter mean you’ll want to bring weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a charged smartphone or power bank.

You’ll need to pay for parking if arriving by car, and the return transfer to Porto San Paolo is available for a fee, which adds to the overall cost but ensures convenience.

What reviewers say

One guest noted, “The tranquility was unmatched—lying on the deck watching the stars was worth every penny.” Others appreciated the personalized service, with Luca providing a friendly, unobtrusive host who made sure everything went smoothly. Some mentioned that the small size of the boat adds to the intimacy but also requires a willingness to accept limited internal space.

Who should consider this experience?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who crave privacy and are comfortable with minimalistic accommodations. It’s ideal for those who want to truly disconnect, enjoy natural beauty, and have a unique story to tell. If you prefer a plush hotel room or need more space, this might not be your best choice.

Couples, solo explorers, or small groups looking for an authentic, peaceful escape will find it particularly appealing. It’s also perfect for anyone interested in a different kind of overnight—one that combines adventure with a touch of luxury in its exclusivity.

The Sum Up

Sleeping on a boat in Sardinia’s quiet bay offers a rare chance to connect deeply with nature and experience the island’s raw beauty overnight. The combination of stunning sunsets, star-studded skies, and the peaceful solitude of Isola dei Cavalli makes this adventure truly special. It’s not about luxury—rather, it’s about authentic, unfiltered immersion in the sea and sky.

For those seeking a memorable escape, willing to embrace a small, simple space, and eager for a night of natural wonder, this experience delivers in spades. It’s an authentic, intimate journey that will leave you with stories to tell and memories to cherish.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the overnight experience?
The total duration is approximately 14 hours, starting around 5 pm and returning the next morning.

What’s included in the price?
The experience includes transfer to and from the island, linens, towels, hygiene products, an icebox with ice and water, and a breakfast in the morning.

Can I stay longer on the boat?
Yes, there’s an option to stay during the day or extend your visit by booking additional tours with Luca, tailored to your needs and availability.

Is this experience suitable for non-swimmers?
It’s not recommended for non-swimmers, as the boat is open and the water is an integral part of the experience.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, food and drinks, sunscreen, beachwear, insect repellent, weather-appropriate clothing, and a charged smartphone or power bank.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, people over 287 lbs (130 kg) or 95 years old, and those over 309 lbs (140 kg). It’s also not advisable to bring oversize luggage, make fires, or litter.

This boat experience blends adventure, serenity, and a genuine connection to Sardinia’s wild side—perfect for those ready to embrace the sea and sky in a truly authentic way.

You can check if your dates are available here: