Picture yourself atop a beautiful wooden sailboat, the sky painted in hues of orange and pink, as Sardinian waters gently rock you. That’s the essence of the Sunset Sailing Tour with Dinner from Calasetta, a memorable way to combine relaxation, scenic beauty, and local flavors into one enriching experience. While I haven’t personally been on this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of how special it truly is.
Three aspects stand out: the chance to enjoy stunning coastal views and a peaceful sunset, the delicious selection of local Sardinian cuisine and wine, and the opportunity to swim and snorkel in clear waters. The only potential drawback? The price tag, which might seem steep at nearly $2,000 for a group of up to 12, but considering the value in experiences and exclusivity, it’s often justified. This tour suits travelers seeking a luxurious, authentic Sardinian evening with intimate moments on the sea, perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a special occasion.
Good To Know
- Beautiful Wooden Sailboat: The “Schatzli II” offers a charming, classic sailing experience with modern comforts.
- Gourmet Sardinian Dinner: Enjoy fresh seafood, local sweets, and regional wines prepared onboard.
- Breathtaking Coastal Views: Witness sunset over the sea, with stops at iconic sites like the lighthouse of Mangiabarche and Faraglioni Nido dei Passeri.
- Swimming & Snorkeling: Relax with dips in sheltered coves and snorkel in clear waters.
- Flexible & Private Experience: The tour is exclusive for private groups, lasting about 3 hours, with flexible scheduling.
- Practical Tips: Bring swimwear, towels, and comfortable clothes—sunscreen isn’t allowed, and sand contamination is penalized.
The Experience in Detail: Setting Sail from Calasetta
The adventure begins in Calasetta, a lovely seaside town on the island of Sant’Antioco. The boat, named “Schatzli II,” is a beautifully maintained wooden vessel with two masts, measuring around 18 meters—an elegant blend of classic charm and modern comfort. The reviews describe it as a vessel that invites relaxation, with plenty of sunbeds and shaded areas to settle into, creating a cozy yet adventurous atmosphere.
Boarding generally occurs in the late afternoon or early evening, with timings varying depending on the season. Hosts typically contact guests beforehand to confirm the exact meeting point, which is usually near the boat with its distinctive creamy hull and two black masts. Guests often mention how easy it is to find, and the crew’s friendliness helps transition into the sailing mood.
The Itinerary: What to Expect on the Water
The tour’s route is deeply influenced by weather conditions, but most commonly, the sail heads along the coast of Calasetta toward notable landmarks like the lighthouse of Mangiabarche and the impressive Faraglioni Nido dei Passeri. These natural and man-made features provide fantastic photo opportunities—guests often comment on how the views surpass expectations.
The main highlight is, of course, the sunset. As the sky changes color, guests can sip local wine and nibble on Sardinian sweets or cannelloni, all prepared by the onboard chef. Many reviews praise the quality of the food, describing the seafood as exceptionally fresh and the accompanying regional wines as well-chosen. One guest noted, “The dinner was simple but flavorful, with the fish tasting of the sea itself.”
Before or after dinner, guests are encouraged to take a refreshing swim in a calm, sheltered cove, using the boat’s ladder or SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard) if available. The clear waters make snorkeling appealing, and reviews mention how peaceful and scenic these spots are. If the weather permits, the boat might anchor in Saline Beach’s bay, a quieter, more intimate setting for swimming and relaxing.
The Views and Atmosphere at Sunset
Watching the sunset from a boat is a different experience than from land. The open water offers an unobstructed view of the horizon, often with panoramic sights of islands like San Pietro. Reviewers frequently remark that the sunset is truly magical, casting gilded reflections across the water, making it perfect for romantic moments or peaceful contemplation.
Onboard, the atmosphere is laid-back but elegant. Guests generally sit back with a glass of Sardinian wine, enjoying the gentle sea breeze while the crew expertly navigates. The boat’s classic design makes for a picture-perfect scene, especially as the sun dips below the horizon. The combination of natural beauty and delicious food creates a memorable, Instagram-worthy moment that many find well worth the cost.
Food and Drink: Sardinian Flavors on Board
The onboard dinner isn’t just a snack—it’s a thoughtfully prepared meal highlighting local ingredients. Reviews highlight the freshness of the fish, often caught locally, and the regional sweets like Canestrelli from Carloforte. The wine selection typically features local wines paired to enhance the flavors of the seafood and Sardinian specialties. Guests praise the chef’s ability to craft a meal that feels both indulgent and authentic.
The included water, coffee, and sweets add a nice finishing touch. Guests also have the option to purchase additional drinks on board, with the caveat that they must pay in cash. This setup means you can enjoy a more relaxed, all-inclusive experience without worrying about extra expenses during the cruise.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyAdditional Activities and Comforts
For those who love staying active, the shared use of SUPs offers a fun way to explore the calm waters. The experience is designed to provide a good balance of relaxation and adventure, with plenty of opportunities to swim, take photos, or just soak in the scenery. Reviewers often mention how the boat’s comfort and crew’s friendly attitude make the trip feel exclusive and personalized.
In terms of timing, the tour lasts about 3 hours, which is enough to enjoy the highlights without feeling rushed. The flexibility in schedule means you can opt for an early or late sunset, depending on your plans.
Practical Considerations and Tips
Since the tour is quite exclusive and private, it’s important to arrive prepared. Pack swimwear, a towel, and comfortable clothes. Sunscreen isn’t allowed onboard, likely to protect the boat’s equipment and environment, so consider wearing protective clothing or using spray sunscreen beforehand. Bringing your own snorkeling gear is recommended if you want to explore underwater.
Be punctual—delays aren’t accepted, and the tour policies are strict about late arrivals. If the weather looks unfavorable—wind, rain, or rough seas—the trip may be canceled, and rescheduling might be available if weather permits. Keep in mind that the experience is best for those who can handle a boat trip and are comfortable in a small group setting.
Price and Value Analysis
At nearly $2,000 for up to 12 people, this experience isn’t cheap. However, considering the private nature, the quality of the boat, the curated onboard dinner, and the scenic exclusivity, many guests find it offers good value—especially for special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries. The American-style approach of combining a scenic sail, gourmet meal, and water activities makes it a well-rounded experience worth considering if your budget allows.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This sunset sailing adventure suits travelers who appreciate intimate, scenic experiences combined with good food and wine. It’s ideal for couples seeking romance, small groups celebrating a special occasion, or anyone wanting a peaceful yet luxurious outing on Sardinian waters. If you enjoy being on the water, exploring natural landmarks, and savoring regional flavors, you’ll find this trip well worth the investment.
However, it’s less suitable for families with very young children, those with mobility issues, or travelers on tight schedules. The 3-hour duration and the small group setting mean it’s not a large tour or day-long adventure—it’s about quality over quantity.
Final Thoughts
The Calasetta Sunset Sailing Tour offers a luxurious, authentic way to experience Sardinia’s coast in a relaxed setting. With its classic wooden boat, stunning views, and delicious Sardinian cuisine, it’s a memorable choice for those wanting a special night on the sea. While the price might be a consideration, the intimate atmosphere and personalized service make it a worthwhile splurge for romantic nights or celebrating milestones.
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape, beautiful scenery, and regional flavors in a setting that feels both exclusive and welcoming, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s a chance to see Sardinian coastlines from a new perspective, with the added pleasure of fine food and wine—truly a curated experience to treasure.
FAQs
Is the tour suitable for children?
The experience is not recommended for children under 4 years old, and it’s best suited for older children who are comfortable on boats.
What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and comfortable clothes. Since sunscreen isn’t allowed onboard, it’s smart to wear protective clothing or apply it beforehand.
Can I snorkel during the trip?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is not provided but you’re welcome to bring your own. Guests often enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the sheltered coves.
What is included in the price?
The 3-hour experience, onboard dinner, local wine and water, coffee, and Sardinian sweets are all included. SUPs are shared among guests for water activities.
How flexible is the scheduling?
Departure times vary based on the season, and you should confirm your start time in advance. The tour can be rescheduled in case of bad weather, subject to availability.
Is there a dress code or special requirements?
Comfortable clothes and swimwear are recommended. Be punctual, as delays aren’t accepted, and bring cash if you wish to buy additional drinks onboard.
In sum, this sunset sailing tour from Calasetta offers a blend of scenic beauty, regional gastronomy, and relaxing activities—all aboard a charming vessel. Whether for a romantic evening or a small celebration, it’s a memorable way to soak in Sardinia’s coastal magic.
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