From Palau: La Maddalena Archipelago Day Tour by Boat

If you’re considering a day trip to explore the breathtaking La Maddalena Archipelago from Palau, this tour promises a mix of stunning scenery, refreshing swims, and authentic Italian charm. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, a deep dive into the reviews and itinerary suggests it offers genuine value—especially for those who love outdoor adventures and picturesque landscapes.

What really shines about this experience are the diverse stops at iconic beaches and natural pools, the knowledgeable guides who share insights in both Italian and English, and the great value for money at around $45.55 per person. A potential downside? The length of the day and busy boat might not suit travelers seeking a more relaxed or private cruise. Still, if you’re after a lively, well-organized exploration of Sardinian coastlines, this tour hits the right notes, especially for first-time visitors or those wanting a rundown of the area.

This trip is ideal for adventurers, beach lovers, and those keen on seeing multiple islands in one day. If you enjoy a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and a bit of Italian seaside culture, then consider this tour a solid choice.

Good To Know

• Diverse Stops: Visit Spargi Island, Santa Maria, La Maddalena town, and the famous Rosa Beach.
• Active & Relaxing: Opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing are well balanced.
• Expert Guides: Bilingual guides enhance the experience with interesting facts and tips.
• Excellent Value: Priced reasonably considering the full-day itinerary and multiple stops.
• Crowded but Fun: The larger boat can be busy, so early seating or patience might be needed.
• Bring Your Own Food: Lunch isn’t included, but snacks and drinks are available for purchase onboard.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Departure

The adventure kicks off from Palau’s port, with check-in starting at 9:00 AM in front of Pier1. The tour departs promptly at 10:30, so arriving early is crucial—delays or late arrivals might mean missing out. The boat, operated by Petagus, is a sizable vessel that carries quite a few passengers, which means you’ll be part of a lively group rather than a small, intimate cruise.

Stop 1: Cala Corsara on Spargi Island

The first stop is on Cala Corsara, known for its rounded shape and wild, untouched beauty. The granite cliffs sculpted by the wind create a dramatic backdrop for swimming, relaxing, and taking photos. Reviewers love Spargi for its natural charm—it’s the kind of place where you can snorkel among interesting rocks and enjoy unspoiled nature.

A typical swimmer’s review mentions that Spargi’s coast is perfect for snorkelling, and the island’s uncontaminated landscape is a highlight. One reviewer appreciated the flexibility of exploring, swimming, or simply lounging on the beach—”the trip was very well organized, and the places we visited were beautiful.”

Lunch Break

After spending about 70 minutes on Spargi, the boat returns to the vessel for about 20 minutes to head toward the next stop. Lunch isn’t included, so most travelers either bring a picnic or purchase snacks on board, where options include pasta, sandwiches, and drinks. Reviewers note that the price of onboard food is reasonable, but some suggest bringing your own for a more satisfying meal.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Stop 2: Santa Maria Island

Next, the tour takes you to Santa Maria, famed for its crystal-clear sea and pristine white beaches. This stop offers an excellent chance to swim, relax, or snap photos of the island’s peaceful beauty. Reviewers have described Santa Maria as a “conqueror” thanks to its unspoiled, bright scenery that makes for a memorable visit.

Stop 3: La Maddalena’s Natural Pools

The highlight for many is the visit to Piscine di Budelli, where you can swim in the famous natural pools. Known worldwide, these pools are said to restore your body and spirit—a perfect way to refresh after several hours on the water. Visitors often comment on the crystal-clear waters and the breathtaking scenery. A review mentions, “a dip in the pools feeds your energy reserves,” emphasizing how refreshing the experience is.

Rosa Beach Viewing

From the natural pools, the boat proceeds to Rosa Beach, renowned for its vivid pink sands. Although it’s been closed since 1993 to protect its ecosystem, the tour includes a panoramic view—a chance to admire its unique hue from afar. Many reviewers laud this as one of the most iconic sights of the archipelago, with some wishing for more time to walk along the sands.

La Maddalena Town and Return

The final stop is in Cala Gavetta on La Maddalena Island itself, known for its charming historic center. Here, you can stroll through the quaint streets, enjoy a coffee, or soak up the local atmosphere. The tour concludes with a return to Palau around 5:45 PM, ending a full day of exploration.

What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour, priced at $45.55, covers a boat trip that touches on the best of the archipelago’s islands. Guided in both Italian and English, the crew shares insights and fun facts about all the stops. The boat is equipped with toilets—a small but important detail for comfort during the 7-hour journey.

Snacks and drinks are available for purchase, and you’re encouraged to bring your own lunch if you want a more substantial meal. A cash disembarkation fee of 5 euros is payable upon boarding, covering the permit for La Maddalena.

While the experience is well-organized, some reviews note the crowded nature of the boat, especially in high season, and the seating can be cramped. Arriving early guarantees a spot on the open deck, which many consider the best place for views and fresh air.

The Authenticity and Unique Aspects

A standout feature of this tour is the knowledgeable bilingual guides—reviewers repeatedly praise their friendliness and ability to share interesting insights about each island and rock formation. One reviewer mentioned that the guides made the trip “hilarious, chatty, and very kind,” which adds a personal touch often missing from larger tours.

The variety of stops ensures you get a balanced experience—from wild beaches to natural pools and historic towns—without feeling rushed. The large boat size might feel busy, but it also guarantees a safe, comfortable ride for most.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive early—check-in starts at 9:00 AM and closes at 10:00 AM. Late arrivals risk missing the trip.
• Bring your own lunch or snacks to enjoy during the day, as onboard food is available but not included and can be pricey.
• Wear comfortable clothing and sun protection—hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are must-haves.
• Secure a good seat early if you want to sit outside, as seating isn’t allocated.
• Prepare for crowds—the boat can be busy, especially during peak season.
• Cash only for the €5 disembarkation fee.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for first-time visitors eager to see a broad swath of Sardinian scenery in one day. It’s also great if you enjoy active beach time—swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on unspoiled shores—without the hassle of planning each stop independently.

Families will appreciate the well-organized itinerary, although those with mobility issues or in wheelchairs might find the experience less accessible due to the boat’s layout and the nature of stops. The value for money combined with friendly guides makes this a compelling choice for budget-conscious travelers.

Final Reflection

This La Maddalena Archipelago boat tour from Palau offers a fantastic way to experience Sardinia’s highlights without overextending yourself. The blend of natural beauty, informative guides, and good value makes it an appealing option for a variety of travelers, especially those wanting a full day filled with swimming, scenic views, and a touch of Italian coastal charm.

While it’s not perfect—crowd levels and some basic amenities could be improved—the positives far outweigh the negatives. If you’re looking for a fun, active, and scenic day with plenty of opportunities to snap pictures and dip in the sea, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

How early do I need to arrive for check-in?
Check-in opens at 9:00 AM and closes at 10:00 AM. Arriving early ensures you get a good seat and avoid missing the departure.

Is lunch included in the tour price?
No, lunch is not included. You can buy snacks and drinks onboard or bring your own packed meal for a more substantial lunch.

What’s the disembarkation fee?
A cash fee of 5 euros per person is payable at boarding to cover the permit for La Maddalena.

Are the guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both Italian and English, sharing interesting facts and tips throughout the day.

Is the boat comfortable for a full-day tour?
The boat is sizable and equipped with toilets, but some reviews mention that seating can be cramped, especially on the upper deck.

How much time do we spend at each location?
Stops vary from around 5 minutes (for Rosa Beach) to over an hour (in La Maddalena town). The longest stops are on Spargi and La Maddalena, offering plenty of time for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing.

Is this tour suitable for children or travelers with mobility issues?
While it’s great for active families, the tour isn’t designed for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, due to the boat’s layout and nature of stops.

This full-day boat trip from Palau to La Maddalena Archipelago balances scenic beauty with engaging activities, making it a solid choice for travelers eager to see Sardinia’s incredible islands without fuss.

You can check if your dates are available here: