Boat tour of the La Maddalena Archipelago

If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear waters, secluded beaches, and a day spent exploring Italy’s stunning island gems, this boat tour of the La Maddalena Archipelago could be just what you need. While we haven’t personally set sail ourselves, reviews and detailed itineraries suggest this trip ticks many boxes for lovers of natural beauty and relaxed boat rides.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the comfortable boats — Orient Express and Paradiso — are equipped with bars and toilets, ensuring a smoother ride. Second, the diverse itinerary includes stops at iconic beaches and charming towns, offering a good mix of swimming, sightseeing, and cultural moments. Third, it’s priced reasonably at around $65 per person, which for a full day of exploration provides solid value — especially considering the lakes, beaches, and scenic views you’ll encounter.

However, some travelers note that the older boats can feel a bit dated, and the experience inside the boat might be less glamorous than other options. It’s also a daytime tour, so if you’re after a more immersive or educational experience, you might find it slightly lacking in commentary or interpretative content.

This trip suits those who love relaxed, scenic days on the water, especially if you’re eager to see several islands without the hassle of planning multiple transfers. Families, couples, and groups of friends will find it a straightforward way to enjoy Sardinia’s coast — with some caveats about the boat’s age and the need to arrive on time.

Good To Know

• Comfortable boats with amenities like a bar and toilets
• Visiting multiple islands in a single day, including La Maddalena town and pristine beaches
• Flexible itinerary on certain days, with unique stops like Cala Coticcio (Tahiti)
• Good value for the price, especially considering the beautiful scenery
• Group size capped at 90 for a not-too-crowded experience
• Some reviews mention issues with timing and signage at the pier, so arrive early

What You Can Expect from the Itinerary

La Maddalena Town (1 Hour)

The tour kicks off with a ground stop in La Maddalena’s historic center. This is your chance to soak in its quaint streets, colorful buildings, and lively atmosphere. Travelers love how this offers a quick taste of local Sardinian life, and some even say it’s more charming than Palau, despite the latter being the usual starting point.

A reviewer, Juan, noted that they enjoyed spending time in La Maddalena more than Palau, emphasizing its beautiful streets and relaxed vibe. The admission is free, so you can wander freely, snap photos, or grab a quick coffee before heading back on the boat.

Isola di Spargi (1.5 Hours)

Next up is Spargi Island, renowned for its stunning beaches and clear waters. You get roughly an hour and a half to relax and dip into the sea. Reviewers highlight how spacious and uncrowded the beaches are, with plenty of room for everyone to spread out.

One traveler, Liberata, shared that there’s no need for water shoes since the beaches are so inviting. They appreciated the relaxing atmosphere and staff’s attentiveness. The beach here is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or just floating in that perfectly warm Sardinian sea.

Spiaggia Rosa (Photo Stop)

For a brief few minutes, the boat approaches the famous Spiaggia Rosa, a nature reserve since 1994. It’s a quick photo stop, but the unique pink hue of the sand makes for memorable pictures. Reviewers agree that it’s a short but worthwhile peek at one of the island’s most iconic sights.

Island of Budelli (30-Minute Swim)

From the boat, guests have a chance to swim from the boat at the Port of Madonna on Budelli Island. This is a quick 30-minute stop, but many find it enough to enjoy a refreshing dip and snap some photos of the rugged coastline.

While some reviews suggest the boat’s age can impact comfort, the natural beauty of Budelli’s coastline compensates. It’s a great way to cool off amidst spectacular scenery.

Santa Maria Island (1 Hour 15 Minutes)

Depending on the day, you’ll stop at Santa Maria Island for some beach time. This stop is approximately an hour and fifteen minutes (excluding Fridays and Saturdays, when it’s replaced with Cala Coticcio). Travelers love the tranquility and natural beauty here, perfect for swimming or sunbathing.

A reviewer remarked, “We arrived with enough time to enjoy the beaches and appreciated the relaxed vibe.” The clarity of the water and the peaceful environment make this a highlight for many.

Cala Coticcio (Only on Fridays and Saturdays)

On weekends, the tour replaces the Santa Maria stop with Cala Coticcio in Caprera, often called “Tahiti” for its lush surroundings and turquoise waters. The 30-minute stop allows visitors to explore the stunning cove, but the admission fee isn’t included.

It’s a more exclusive experience, ideal for those wanting to see a bit of hidden Sardinian paradise. Reviewers mention it as a beautiful, Instagram-worthy spot — perfect for a quick dip or photo session.

The Boat Experience: Comfort, Group Size, and Practicalities

Boats and Amenities

The tour uses two boats: Orient Express and Paradiso, both equipped with basic amenities like a bar and toilets. While some reviews mention the boats are somewhat older, they are well-maintained enough to provide a comfortable day on the water. The boats aren’t packed, and the upstairs seats are favored for their views — one reviewer called them “great for enjoying the scenery.”

Group Size and Timing

With a maximum of 90 travelers, the tour isn’t overcrowded, which means you can enjoy the scenery without feeling squeezed. However, some reviewers note that signage and organization at the pier can be confusing, so arriving early is advisable.

Departure Points and Schedule

The tour departs daily from Baja Sardinia, Palau, and La Maddalena at different times, with departures starting from 09:30 in Baja Sardinia, 10:00 from Palau, and 11:00 from La Maddalena. On Fridays and Saturdays, the route includes Cala Coticcio, replacing the Santa Maria stop.

It’s worth confirming your departure point and time beforehand, especially if you’re arriving from elsewhere in Sardinia.

Duration and Value

The full trip lasts about 7 hours, making it an excellent full-day activity. For $65, you get access to multiple islands, beaches, and scenic viewpoints. Given the multiple stops, swimming opportunities, and the chance to explore some of Sardinia’s most picturesque spots, most reviewers find the price reasonable — especially for such an active, scenic experience.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Arrive early at the pier to avoid missing the boat due to signage issues.
• Bring swimwear, towels, and sun protection — the beaches are the main attraction.
• Although food and drinks aren’t included, many travelers enjoy bringing snacks or purchasing drinks onboard.
• If you want to sit at the front or upstairs, arrive early for the best seating.
• Weather matters — the tour is dependent on good sea conditions, and cancellations due to poor weather are possible.
• The older boats might have less modern interiors, but they’re functional and equipped for a day at sea.
• Timing on beaches varies, so plan accordingly if you want to maximize your swims and photos.
• Watch out for signage and pier organization, as some travelers have experienced confusion.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat tour appeals most to travelers seeking beautiful scenery, easy access to multiple islands, and a relaxed pace. It’s suitable for families, couples, and groups of friends who want an affordable way to experience Sardinia’s coast without too many logistical hassles.

It’s also ideal if you enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and scenic photos. However, if you’re looking for a luxurious or highly interactive experience with detailed commentary, this might fall slightly short. The focus here is on natural beauty and comfort rather than educational depth.

The Sum Up

This La Maddalena Archipelago boat tour offers a solid mix of scenic beauty, relaxed swimming, and island exploration at an accessible price point. The stops are well-chosen to showcase Sardinia’s iconic beaches and landscapes, and most travelers find the experience to be value-packed and enjoyable.

The boats may be older and the organization at the pier could be smoother, but these are minor inconveniences compared to the stunning scenery and the laid-back vibe you’ll enjoy on board. It’s perfect for those who want to see a lot of Sardinian coastlines in one day without fuss.

If you love crystal waters, scenic stops, and a taste of island life, this tour delivers on those fronts. Just plan ahead, arrive early, and bring your sense of adventure — Sardinia’s archipelago awaits.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, including stops for swimming, sightseeing, and exploring.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Baja Sardinia, Palau, and La Maddalena, with specific times depending on the departure point.

Is food included?
No, food and beverages are not included, so consider bringing snacks or drinks if you wish.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the landing tax at the beaches and stops like Cala Coticcio are not included in the tour price.

What is the group size limit?
The maximum number of travelers is 90, helping ensure a comfortable experience.

Can I swim at each stop?
Yes, most stops like Spargi and Budelli are perfect for swimming and relaxing on the beaches.

Is the boat comfortable?
The boats are equipped with bar and toilets, but some reviews note they are somewhat older — still suitable for a day on the water.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

How early should I arrive?
Arrive early, especially at the pier, to avoid confusion and ensure you catch the boat.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The itinerary is fixed, with some variations on Fridays and Saturdays, but the stops are generally consistent.

This boat tour of the La Maddalena Archipelago is a wonderful way to experience Sardinia’s natural beauty with ease, comfort, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. Whether you’re soaking up the sun or snapping shots of pink sands, this trip offers a memorable day out on Italy’s stunning coast.