Da Santa Teresa Gallura: tour in motonave a La Maddalena

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear waters, dramatic rocky coastlines, and a chance to explore some of Sardinia’s most iconic islands, a boat tour in La Maddalena Archipelago might just be your best bet. We’ve looked into one of the most popular options, departing from Santa Teresa Gallura, and it’s clear this experience offers a fantastic blend of scenery, relaxation, and local charm.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the breathtaking panoramic views along the rocky coastline are a highlight — images of rugged cliffs plunging into turquoise waters are hard to beat. Second, the variety of island stops, including La Maddalena, Santa Maria, Budelli, and Spargi, means you get a taste of Sardinia’s diverse island life and untouched beaches. Third, the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters and stroll through quaint towns makes it a truly memorable day.

That said, a possible consideration is that the stops are dictated by the park authority, so your time on each island may be limited. If you’re looking for a highly flexible itinerary, this could be a minor drawback.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, want to see multiple islands in one day, and appreciate natural beauty combined with some light shopping and local culture. It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed yet visually stunning experience in Sardinia.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Stunning Views: Expect panoramic vistas of rocky coastlines and crystal waters throughout the day.
• Island Hopping: Stops at La Maddalena, Santa Maria, Budelli, and Spargi offer diverse scenery and activities.
• Time for Swimming: Plenty of opportunities to swim and snorkel in clear, calm waters.
• Cultural and Shopping Time: La Maddalena’s historic center provides a chance for a short exploration and shopping.
• Limited Flexibility: Island stop durations are set by park authorities, not the group.
• Included Lunch: A light seafood pasta meal is served on board, with options for different tastes or intolerances.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Departure

The trip kicks off from Santa Teresa Gallura, a charming seaside town known for its vibrant port and good parking options. The exact meeting point can vary depending on your selected departure location — either Via Fonte Vecchia or Via la Marina — so double-check your booking details. The tour begins early, with a 9 a.m. departure, and it’s essential to arrive at least an hour beforehand to avoid delays, as late arrivals aren’t tolerated.

The boat, a motor vessel called SEAGULL, is well-equipped with a captain and insurance, ensuring safety and comfort. The presence of a multilingual guide in English, Italian, and French helps keep the group informed and engaged.

The Exciting Stops and What to Expect

La Maddalena Island (Stop 3)

The first major stop, La Maddalena, is a highlight. After about an hour of free time, you can explore the historic town’s narrow streets, do some shopping, or simply soak in the scenery from the waterfront. Several reviewers mention that the town is picturesque and offers a charming mix of cafes and local boutiques. One reviewer noted: “I loved wandering through the tiny streets and picking up a few souvenirs.”

Santa Maria Island

Next, the tour takes you to Santa Maria, famous for its long stretch of white sand beach and transparent waters. If you’re feeling energetic, jumping in for a swim or snorkeling is a must. The clear seabed makes for fantastic underwater views, as many guests have pointed out. The water here is calm and inviting, perfect for a relaxing dip.

Budelli’s Porto della Madonna

The natural pools of Budelli are another incredible stop. Known for its pristine beauty, this area features calm waters and unique rock formations. While the actual “Pink Beach” — famous for its pink sand — is only a quick photo stop, it’s enough to leave a lasting impression. One guest shared, “The water’s transparency and the stunning rock formations made it feel like a hidden paradise.”

Spargi Island

The last island stop is Spargi, offering about 1.5 hours of free time. The island is less developed, providing a peaceful vibe alongside gorgeous scenery. You can unwind, swim, or take a walk along the shoreline. A reviewer mentioned that the inlet on Spargi was a perfect spot to relax away from crowds.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Onboard Experience and Meals

The highlight of the onboard experience is the light lunch served on the boat, which features seafood pasta, with options for those with dietary restrictions or intolerances. Guests have appreciated the chance to enjoy a meal while admiring the water views. Others mentioned that they could purchase additional dishes like caprese, cold cuts, or mussel soup if they preferred.

The Return Journey and Final Remarks

After the last stop at Spargi, the boat heads back to Santa Teresa Gallura, completing an 8-hour adventure filled with stunning scenery and island discoveries. The return trip offers more ocean views, and many guests find it a peaceful way to wind down after a busy day of sightseeing.

Practical Aspects and Value

Duration and Group Size

Spanning around eight hours, this tour balances sightseeing and relaxation. The group size is generally manageable, and since the stops are dictated by the park authority, everyone shares a similar experience. The organized nature ensures you don’t have to worry about navigation or planning — just enjoy the views.

Pricing and Inclusions

For the price, you get a comprehensive day of island hopping, a guided boat ride, island stops, and a light lunch. The cost is reasonable considering the multiple stops and the scenic value. However, be aware that landing taxes (2.50-5.00 EUR per person) are payable on board in cash, which adds a small extra expense. Drinks and additional food are available for purchase on the boat, so consider bringing some cash for extras.

What to Bring and What to Expect

Travelers should pack beachwear, sun protection, and a towel — the water is inviting! A small backpack or beach bag is recommended as large bags or coolers aren’t allowed onboard. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, due to the nature of the stops and boat travel.

Potential Drawbacks

The main limitation is that the island stop durations are fixed — you won’t have extra time to explore beyond the given period. If you’re seeking a very flexible itinerary, this could be frustrating. Also, since the trip departs early, an early wake-up is required, but the payoff is a full day of stunning scenery.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour offers a well-rounded view of La Maddalena Archipelago’s natural beauty. It combines scenic cruising, island exploration, and relaxation in crystal waters, making it an appealing choice for those who want to see Sardinia’s coast from the water without the hassle of planning multiple transports.

The inclusion of a light meal and the chance to swim in calm, clear waters adds significant value. While the schedule is somewhat fixed, most travelers find that the variety of stops and the breathtaking views more than compensate.

In summary, this tour is perfect for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a peaceful day on the water. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate a good balance of guided exploration and free time.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9 a.m. and returning in the late afternoon.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Santa Teresa Gallura, with the meeting point at either Via Fonte Vecchia or Via la Marina, depending on your booking.

Is there a lunch included?
Yes, a light seafood pasta lunch is served on board. Vegetarian options or special dietary requests should be communicated in advance.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, landing taxes (2.50 EUR per person in May, 5.00 EUR from June-October) are payable cash on board. Drinks and extra food are available for purchase.

Can I swim during the stops?
Absolutely. Several stops, including Santa Maria, Budelli, and Spargi, offer calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Are the stops flexible?
No, the duration and order of stops are set by the park authorities, so your time on each island might be limited.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for families, but large strollers, pets, and non-folding wheelchairs aren’t allowed. Also, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments.

What should I bring?
Bring beachwear, sunscreen, a hat, cash for extras and taxes, and a small backpack. Large bags, coolers, and bulky luggage aren’t permitted onboard.

Final Words

This La Maddalena boat tour offers a fantastic way to enjoy Sardinia’s natural beauty without the stress of self-navigation. With stunning vistas, charming island stops, and a relaxed pace, it’s ideal for travelers wanting a memorable day on crystal waters. Whether you’re after scenic photography, a peaceful swim, or just some relaxed island strolling, this experience delivers in both scenery and tranquility. Just remember to arrive early, bring your cash, and prepare for a day full of stunning views and peaceful waters.

You can check if your dates are available here: