La Maddalena Archipelago offers some of Italy’s most rewarding boat excursions, running daily from both Palau port and La Maddalena Island. These well-organized tours showcase crystal-clear Mediterranean waters and hidden coves that make this area special.
The best options are the small-group motorboat tours, which I especially like for their intimate atmosphere and local charm. These provide the perfect mix of swimming stops and scenic cruising, while avoiding the crowds of larger vessels. The private boat tours, though pricier, are worth considering for families or small groups who want to set their own pace.
For those interested in local culture, several land-based tours connect visitors with authentic Sardinian food and traditions, particularly in nearby Olbia. Each tour includes convenient pickup options and straightforward cancellation policies.
Let’s look at our favorite tours of La Maddalena…
Good To Know
- Daily boat tours from Palau exploring the La Maddalena Archipelago, including options to visit La Maddalena town or Cala Coticcio Beach.
- Private motorboat tours of the La Maddalena Archipelago accommodating up to 9 people, with a range of included amenities.
- Highly-rated “Angels and Demons” tour in Rome, featuring an informative guide and customizable itinerary.
- Private full-day tour to Bonifacio, Corsica, showcasing the diverse cultures and Genoese-built Old Town.
- Gastronomic experiences in Sardinia, including farm-to-table dinners and Olbia region food and wine tours.
Angels and Demons Tour
For those seeking an immersive experience into the captivating world of Dan Brown’s “Angels and Demons,” the Angels and Demons Tour in La Maddalena, Italy, is a must-try.
This highly-rated tour boasts a 97% recommendation rate from past travelers, earning it a Badge of Excellence.
Beginning at the meeting point in Rome, the tour takes guests on a journey through the city’s iconic landmarks, providing insights into the novel’s key locations.
Praised for its informative and engaging guide, Cecilia, the tour offers a chance to walk in the footsteps of Robert Langdon and uncover the secrets hidden within the city’s architecture and history.
While the tour may not exclusively feature filming locations from the movie, it still provides a unique and customizable experience, with the flexibility to accommodate individual preferences.
With prices starting from €108 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Angels and Demons Tour is a captivating option for those eager to explore the world of Dan Brown’s masterpiece.
Read our full review: Angels and Demons Tour Review
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Boat Tour La Maddalena Archipelago From Palau
Set out on a captivating day trip to the stunning La Maddalena Archipelago, departing from the charming town of Palau.
Explore every island in the archipelago, with swim breaks and beach stops throughout the tour. Choose between two itineraries – visit the town center of La Maddalena Island for gelato or bask on the pristine Cala Coticcio Beach.
The tour includes live commentary, restrooms, fuel surcharge, and snacks, catering to a maximum of 90 travelers. Priced at $47.64 per person, with an additional €5 landing fee, the experience also offers the option to purchase alcoholic drinks and lunch.
Accessibility is ensured, with wheelchair-friendly accommodations and nearby public transportation.
Reviews praise the staff’s friendliness, helpfulness, and knowledge, as well as the stunning views and well-timed beach stops.
However, some guests have noted occasional crowding on the boats and accessibility challenges to the beaches.
Read our full review: Boat Tour La Maddalena Archipelago From Palau Review
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La Maddalena Archipelago Daily Boat Tour From La Maddalena Island
Departing from the charming port of La Maddalena, this daily boat tour invites travelers to explore the stunning landscapes of the La Maddalena Archipelago.
With a 90% recommendation rate from previous guests and a Badge of Excellence, this 42-review tour promises an unforgettable experience.
The tour starts at 11:30 AM, with check-in from 10:15 AM to 11:00 AM directly on board near the Nelson Café.
Passengers can enjoy the scenic boat ride, which includes access to beautiful swimming spots and friendly crew members.
The tour lasts approximately 4-5 hours, ending back at the meeting point.
Priced from €50.00 per person, the tour includes VAT and passenger insurance.
While food and drinks are available for purchase on board, guests are advised to bring cash due to potential network issues affecting electronic payments.
The tour is accessible for strollers, and infants can sit on laps, though it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers.
Read our full review: La Maddalena Archipelago Daily Boat Tour From La Maddalena Island Review
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La Maddalena Archipelago Boat Tour From Palau
Travelers seeking to explore the stunning La Maddalena Archipelago can embark on a daily boat tour departing from the picturesque port of Palau.
With over 950 reviews and a 94% recommendation rate, this tour offers a chance to discover crystal-clear waters, rugged landscapes, and the famous Spiaggia Rosa (Pink Beach) on the island of Budelli.
The tour runs daily, with check-in from 8:45 am to 9:30 am and departure at 10:00 am. Visitors can expect to return to the Palau port by 5:30 pm.
While the tour includes VAT, passenger insurance, and disembarkation fees, an optional pasta lunch with drinks is available for an additional cost. Guests should note the limited parking and bring €10 in coins.
The itinerary may adjust due to weather or National Park directives, and high-season tours may visit alternative coves on Tuesdays.
With an overall 4.7-star rating, the tour is widely praised for its friendly staff, comfortable boat, and stunning scenery, making it a highlight of any Sardinian trip.
Read our full review: La Maddalena Archipelago Boat Tour From Palau Review
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Bonifacio – Excursion From Sardinia
For those seeking to venture beyond the borders of Sardinia, a private excursion to the coastal town of Bonifacio in Corsica offers a captivating glimpse into the diverse cultures and landscapes of the Mediterranean region.
This full-day private tour takes travelers on a journey across the sea, where they’ll explore the clifftop town’s Genoese-built Old Town, wander its winding streets, and admire the picturesque marina with its yachts, bars, and boutiques.
Along the way, guests will discover the stunning Corsican coastline, experiencing the natural beauty that defines this unique destination.
The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, with pickup from hotels, residences, ports, and private houses in the Gallura area.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and welcomes service animals.
With a maximum of 4.0 stars from 2 reviews, this excursion provides a memorable experience for most travelers, though some areas for improvement may exist.
Read our full review: Bonifacio – Excursion From Sardinia Review
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Rock Super Tour – Complete Tour of the Archipelago
Nestled in the stunning Maddalena Archipelago, the Rock Super Tour offers visitors a captivating and comprehensive exploration of this enchanting island chain.
With a rating of 4.8/5 based on 126 reviews and a 95% recommendation rate, this tour is a must-do activity for those seeking to discover the natural beauty of La Maddalena.
Priced at €70.00 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 60 travelers and departs at 10:00 am from the meeting point, which is easily accessible by public transportation.
The tour includes a variety of inclusions, such as a restroom on board, landing and facility fees, and the option to purchase lunch and refreshments.
Catering to a wide range of travelers, the Rock Super Tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and even allows for service animals.
With confirmation received at booking and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start, this tour provides a seamless and flexible booking experience.
Read our full review: Rock Super Tour – Complete Tour of the Archipelago Review
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Catamaran Tour Archipelago Maddalena (Lunch Included)
Those seeking to further explore the stunning Maddalena Archipelago can embark on the Catamaran Tour Archipelago Maddalena (Lunch Included).
This 5-star rated tour provides an opportunity to witness the archipelago’s breathtaking scenery from the comfort of a catamaran. The tour includes a delectable Sardinian-style lunch, featuring a selection of local specialties such as salame, pecorino cheese, carasau, and guttiau, accompanied by white wine, vegetarian pasta, caffè, and mirto.
The tour departs from the meeting point at Moonlight II – Gite a Vela Palau, Porto Turistico di Palau, with a maximum of 12 travelers on board.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions, most travelers can participate. Snorkeling equipment is provided, allowing guests to explore the archipelago’s vibrant underwater world.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and a lowest price guarantee, this tour promises a memorable experience in Sardinia.
Read our full review: Catamaran Tour Archipelago Maddalena (Lunch Included) Review
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Tour & Dinner In A Farm Of North Sardinia
Although the Catamaran Tour Archipelago Maddalena (Lunch Included) offers a captivating glimpse of the Maddalena Archipelago, travelers seeking a more immersive experience can embark on the Tour & Dinner In A Farm Of North Sardinia.
Priced at €440.00 per group (up to 8), this tour promises a unique culinary adventure in the heart of North Sardinia. The menu features a delectable starter of Zuppa Gallurese, a traditional dish from the Gallura region, followed by roasted suckling pig with roasted potatoes and myrtle leaves. The full dinner, including wine, desserts, and liquors, is priced at €35 per person.
The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and pickup from hotels, residences, ports, and private houses in Gallura and most of northeast Sardinia.
The experience is accessible, with wheelchair and stroller access, as well as accommodations for infants. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
This immersive farm-to-table experience offers a chance to savor the flavors of North Sardinia in a picturesque setting.
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La Maddalena Archipelago Tour With Motorboat DC12
Travelers seeking to explore the captivating La Maddalena Archipelago can embark on a private tour aboard a motorized DC12 boat. This 9-person group tour departs at 9:30 AM from a specified meeting point in La Maddalena, Italy.
Priced at $1,164.43 per group, the tour includes an aperitif tasting with snacks, cold meats, cheeses, and wine, as well as the use of snorkeling equipment and a stand-up paddleboard. Park entrance fees are covered, and the tour operator accommodates any special food and drink requests.
The 5-star rated tour offers a flexible pickup option, with participants able to head directly to the meeting point or request a pickup. The activity ends back at the original meeting location.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and located near public transportation. Infants must sit on laps, but most travelers can participate.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a lowest price guarantee, this La Maddalena Archipelago tour promises an unforgettable private exploration of this stunning Italian destination.
Read our full review: La Maddalena Archipelago Tour With Motorboat DC12 Review
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Tour Of Olbia + Typical Sardinian Dinner
Explore the captivating Olbia region and indulge in a traditional Sardinian dinner on this private full-day tour.
Ideal for travelers short on time, the tour focuses on food and wine experiences, highlighting Olbia’s historical center, archaeological museum, Romanesque church, and ancient tombs.
You’ll also visit a charming fishing village resort.
For an additional expense, enjoy a 5-course dinner on a local farm, featuring mouthwatering Sardinian specialties like appetizers, pasta, soup, roast suckling pig, boiled sheep, vegetables, desserts, and regional wines and liqueurs.
The air-conditioned transportation is wheelchair accessible, with stroller and infant seats available.
Confirmation is provided within 48 hours, and you can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
This private tour is limited to a maximum of 8 participants, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable outing for most travelers.
Read our full review: Tour Of Olbia + Typical Sardinian Dinner Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit La Maddalena?
The best time to visit La Maddalena is during the spring and summer months, when the weather’s warm, the seas are calm, and the island’s natural beauty is on full display. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities and soak up the Mediterranean atmosphere.
How Do I Get to the La Maddalena Archipelago From Olbia?
To reach the La Maddalena Archipelago from Olbia, travelers can take a ferry from the Olbia port. The ferry ride takes about 45 minutes, and ferries run regularly throughout the day, making it a convenient option for visitors.
Are There Any Eco-Friendly Tour Options in the Archipelago?
There are several eco-friendly tour options in the La Maddalena Archipelago. Visitors can take guided kayak or snorkeling tours to explore the islands’ crystal-clear waters and marine life while minimizing their environmental impact. Guided hiking and birdwatching tours are also available.
Can I Customize My Tour to Visit Specific Islands?
Yes, many tour operators in the La Maddalena archipelago offer customizable tours that allow visitors to explore specific islands. These personalized experiences cater to individual interests and preferences, providing a unique and fulfilling way to discover the natural beauty of this stunning Italian destination.
What Are the Must-See Sights in the La Maddalena Archipelago?
The must-see sights in the La Maddalena archipelago include the stunning beaches of Cala Corsara and Cala Francese, the charming town of La Maddalena, and the dramatic rock formations at Capo Testa. Visitors can also explore the nearby islands of Caprera and Santo Stefano.
The Sum Up
The La Maddalena archipelago offers a diverse range of tours to suit various interests, from boat tours exploring the stunning islands and beaches to excursions to the nearby town of Bonifacio. Visitors can enjoy a catamaran tour with a included lunch, a farm-to-table dining experience, or a motorboat tour of the archipelago. With so many options, there’s something for all to discover the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this remarkable destination.