Porto Vecchio: Boat Tour to Maddalena Archipelago (Sardinia)

This boat tour from Porto Vecchio promises a full day of exploring some of the most stunning islands in the Mediterranean, combining Corsican charm with Sardinian beauty. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-rounded, scenic, and engaging experience — perfect for those who love marine adventures, picturesque towns, and a touch of local flavor.

What really makes this tour stand out are the rarely included swim stops at Toro and Budelli, the free time on La Maddalena to explore at your own pace, and the chance to enjoy the water with snorkeling gear and sea scooters provided at no extra charge. The professional sailors guiding the trip also add a layer of confidence and expertise, making it feel both safe and authentic.

One consideration is that meals are not included, so you’ll want to plan for lunch during your free time. This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of leisurely boat time, scenic exploration, and marine activities, all wrapped in a small-group setting that keeps things intimate and friendly.

Good To Know

• Unique swim stops at Toro and Budelli are uncommon in standard tours, offering special access to less crowded spots.
• Free time in La Maddalena provides flexibility for shopping, dining, or simply wandering.
• All marine equipment—snorkels, masks, paddles, sea scooters—is included, making the marine experience accessible for all levels.
• Expert guidance from professional sailors enhances the safety and local insight of the journey.
• The 9-hour duration balances sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation without feeling rushed.
• Cost-value ratio is favorable considering the inclusions of drinks, aperitifs, and guided commentary.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Your day begins in Porto Vecchio, where you’ll meet at the Corsica Sud Croisière ticket office in the port. From there, the journey kicks off aboard a comfortable sailboat — either the Santa Maria or Sperenzà — with a maximum of 12 participants, ensuring a cozy and friendly atmosphere.

As you set sail, the adventure quickly gets exciting with a swim stop at Toro Island. Reviewers mention that this is a highlight, as the clear waters and calm surroundings make for an ideal swimming spot. On board, you’ll be served coffee and traditional canistrelli biscuits, a Corsican specialty, which adds a charming local touch to the experience. This initial refreshment sets the tone for a relaxing day at sea.

The crossing of the Strait of Bonifacio is a scenic highlight, offering spectacular views of the rugged coastline and the shimmering waters. As you approach Sardinia, the vibe shifts from Corsican to Sardinian, with the next stop being the famous Budelli Island. Known for its pink sands, Budelli is often a postcard image, and the included Corsican aperitif with local charcuterie and wine makes this stop both visual and flavorful.

Exploring La Maddalena

After reaching La Maddalena, travelers are given two hours of free time. This is your chance to stroll through the charming streets, browse local shops, or relax by the waterfront. Reviewers appreciate how the small group size makes the experience more personal and inviting — one even mentioned it was “really friendly” because of the maximum of 12 participants.

While some opt for a seaside picnic, others head to a local restaurant (note that meals are not included), making this a flexible stop tailored to your mood. The town itself offers scenic views, vibrant cafes, and authentic Italian atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely exploration.

The Marine Adventure Continues

Back on board, the tour takes you through the Santa Maria archipelago, with stunning views of unique rock formations and secluded coves. The final swim stop is in Porto Novo, a pristine cove accessible only by boat, where the water is notably clear — perfect for snorkeling, paddling, or simply relaxing on deck.

The marine equipment provided allows you to enjoy underwater encounters without additional cost, making it accessible whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or trying it for the first time. Reviewers consistently mention the sea scooters and snorkeling gear as a real bonus, helping you cover more ground and add fun to your marine exploration.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Scenic Return and Coastal Views

On the way back, you’ll enjoy views of the coastlines of Santa Giulia and Palombaggia, two highlights of Corsican scenery. The relaxed pace of the trip, combined with the scenic views and marine activities, means you’ll finish feeling both invigorated and relaxed.

Practical Details and Why They Matter

Transportation & Duration

The tour departs from the Porto Vecchio ticket office with no included hotel pickup, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point. The 9-hour duration offers a comprehensive glimpse of the islands without being overly long — perfect for a full day but still manageable for most travelers.

Small Group & Guided Experience

Limited to 12 participants, the small-group format ensures a more intimate and engaging atmosphere. The tour also features live French commentary, providing insights into the area’s geography, local culture, and marine environment — a nice touch for those interested in learning more.

Cost & Inclusions

At $199 per person, the price includes snorkeling masks, paddles, sea scooters, drinks, and an aperitif, which add significant value. However, lunch is not included, so you’ll need to plan accordingly. Many reviews highlight that the included drinks and snacks, along with the professional guidance, make the overall experience worthwhile.

What You Need to Bring

Travelers should pack essentials like sunglasses, hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. Since pets and children under 3 aren’t allowed, the tour is best suited for older kids and adults seeking a relaxed marine day.

Real Experience Insights from Reviewers

Many travelers highlight the knowledgeable guides and friendly crew, with one mentioning that Captain Thomas provided “good explanations and safe sailing.” The spectacular scenery was a common theme, with one reviewer stating they “really enjoyed the boat trip and visiting different bays,” although some found the visit to La Maddalena slightly disappointing compared to the swim and snorkel stops.

The quality of the marine gear gets high praise, with multiple people noting how much fun they had using the sea scooters and paddles. The drinks and aperitif served on board seem to enhance the relaxing atmosphere, giving it a more authentic Mediterranean feel.

The Bottom Line

This boat tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic sailing, marine activities, and free exploration, all within an intimate small-group environment. It’s ideal for travelers who want a taste of Sardinian islands without the hassle of multiple tours or complicated logistics.

While the lack of included lunch might be a minor inconvenience for some, the overall value — considering the included gear, expert guiding, and access to rarely visited spots — makes it a worthwhile addition to your Sardinian adventure.

If you’re looking for a relaxed yet adventurous day at sea, with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and explore, this tour delivers in spades. It’s perfect for those who enjoy marine life, scenic views, and local flavors, all wrapped in a personalized, friendly setting.

FAQ

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, the tour starts at the Corsica Sud Croisière ticket office in Porto Vecchio, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the port.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately 9 hours long, balancing sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing time.

What’s included in the price?
Snorkeling masks, paddles, sea scooters, drinks, and an aperitif are all included, offering good value for marine equipment and refreshments.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so you should plan to eat during your free time in La Maddalena or bring your own picnic.

Are marine activities suitable for beginners?
Yes, snorkeling gear and sea scooters are provided for free, making marine activities accessible whether you’re a beginner or experienced.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to 12 participants, ensuring a small, friendly environment.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding flexibility to your planning.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 3 years old, and those with mobility issues or pregnant women should consider their comfort level, as it’s a boat-based activity.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, a camera, and any personal essentials. Pets are not allowed on this tour.

This tour from Porto Vecchio offers a delightful mix of scenic sailing, marine adventure, and cultural exploration, making it an excellent choice for travelers eager to experience the Maddalena Archipelago in a relaxed, authentic way.

You can check if your dates are available here: