Excursion in the Gulf of Cagliari with lunch

Imagine a day spent gliding across sparkling waters, stopping at secluded beaches, and savoring authentic Sardinian flavors—all while being guided by a local with a passion for the sea. That’s exactly what this boat tour with Mafalda Sail boat offers. Although I haven’t personally boarded this vessel, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a compelling picture of a memorable adventure, perfect for those craving a mix of relaxation, discovery, and good food.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the expert guidance of a Sardinian captain ensures you get insider insights and a true taste of local hospitality. Second, the delicious included lunch and aperitif elevate the trip from simple sightseeing to a culinary delight. Third, the opportunity to use a SUP paddleboard adds a fun, active element to your day on the water.

That said, a potential consideration is the weather dependency—if winds pick up, some stops might be limited, especially to the Devil’s Saddle and Poetto beaches. This is common with boat trips, so a flexible attitude and a love for the sea are recommended. This tour appeals most to travelers seeking an authentic, relaxing day with stunning scenery, great food, and the chance to get a little active.

Good To Know

• Expert local guide: You’ll be guided by a Sardinian captain who shares insights and makes the experience more meaningful.
• Scenic stops: The itinerary includes iconic beaches like Devil’s Saddle, Poetto, Mari Pintau, Torre delle Stelle, and Solanas—each offering unique beauty.
• Inclusive eats: A traditional Sardinian aperitif (sausage, cheese, Guttiau bread) and a customizable on-board lunch provide excellent value.
• Activities on water: Access to a SUP paddleboard and snorkel equipment ensures fun in the water.
• Small group: Limited to 8 participants, your experience feels intimate and personal.
• Weather dependent: The plan may shift based on wind conditions, focusing mainly on Devil’s Saddle and Poetto if winds are strong.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This full-day adventure typically begins from the Cagliari port, where a friendly captain greets your small group. From there, the boat—Mafalda—is your floating base for exploring some of Sardinia’s most beautiful coastal spots. The tour is designed to maximize both sightseeing and relaxation, with a flexible itinerary that responds to weather conditions.

The Highlights of the Day

Devil’s Saddle:
This is often the star of the show, especially if the weather is calm. Known for its striking rock formations, Devil’s Saddle is a must-see spot that offers breathtaking views and a good chance for photos. Reviewers mention that, even when the wind is strong, the crew manages to make the most of the experience. One reviewer, Oriana, noted, “When there was wind we even got the sails up,” which hints at a lively, engaging experience.

Poetto Beach:
As one of the longest urban beaches in Europe, Poetto is a sprawling stretch of fine sand and clear waters. It’s perfect for a walk or a quick swim and provides a lively contrast to more secluded spots. Ryiah described it as “lovely,” emphasizing its appeal as a classic Sardinian beach.

Mari Pintau and Torre delle Stelle:
These lesser-known beaches are equally stunning, with their own charms—secluded coves, turquoise waters, and rocky outcrops. Guests often praise the quiet beauty and the chance to relax away from crowded tourist spots.

Solanas:
Weather permitting, this spot is celebrated for its pristine beaches and calm, crystal-clear waters. Reviewers highlight the flexibility of the tour to focus on what’s most enjoyable on the day.

Water Activities and On-Board Delights

Beyond sightseeing, the tour’s inclusion of a SUP paddleboard is a standout feature. Guests can paddle along the coast, taking in the scenery from a different perspective. Snorkeling equipment is also available, letting you explore underwater life if conditions allow.

Food and Drink:
The traditional Sardinian aperitif—featuring local sausages, cheeses, and Guttiau bread—is served on board, adding a touch of local flavor to your day. Many reviewers, such as Ryiah, appreciated the “plenty of water and good food,” which kept everyone energized.

Lunch is customizable to suit personal tastes, and the crew is attentive to dietary needs. One guest, David, noted, “Great guiding and hosting from Stefano,” which suggests a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

The Guide and Crew

Stefano, the guide highlighted in reviews, receives praise for his knowledge, friendliness, and ability to keep the group engaged. Oriana called him a “great host,” and Ryiah appreciated his local expertise. His efforts to keep guests fed and comfortable, even adjusting the trip based on weather, contribute significantly to the tour’s high ratings.

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Group Size and Flexibility

Limited to 8 people, this tour offers an intimate experience, perfect for those who prefer smaller groups over large, crowded excursions. Booking flexibility is another perk, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

Is This Tour Worth It?

At approximately $125 per person, considering the inclusions—boat travel, expert guiding, aperitif, lunch, and water activities—this tour offers excellent value. The quality of the experience, as reflected in a 4.9-star average from 66 reviews, suggests that most travelers find it worthwhile.

Guests consistently highlight the delicious local food, the stunning scenery, and the knowledgeable guides as the main reasons to book. The small-group format enhances the feeling of a personalized adventure, making it more than just a sightseeing cruise.

It’s particularly suitable for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day with opportunities to swim, paddleboard, and enjoy authentic Sardinian cuisine. If you’re interested in a flexible, weather-dependent itinerary that emphasizes comfort and local charm, this tour ticks many boxes.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour in the Gulf of Cagliari offers a wonderful way to experience Sardinia’s coast from a unique vantage point. The combination of beautiful beaches, active water sports, and delicious cuisine creates a well-rounded day out. The presence of an engaging local guide ensures you get insider tips and a genuine flavor of Sardinian hospitality.

The tour’s small group size and flexible approach make it appealing to those seeking an intimate, authentic experience. If you love being on the water, discovering secluded spots, and enjoying local food, this trip is likely to become a highlight of your time in Sardinia.

For travelers craving a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural authenticity, this tour provides a memorable and excellent value for your money.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately one day, with starting times that vary. Check availability for specific departure times.

What does the price include?
The cost covers the boat tour, a Sardinian aperitif, a customizable lunch, and access to a SUP paddleboard. Transportation to the departure point is not included.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
While not explicitly stated, water activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling are available if conditions permit. Smaller children should be supervised and might enjoy the calmer beaches.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to weather conditions. If winds are strong (particularly Mistral NW wind), the itinerary may focus only on Devil’s Saddle and Poetto beaches, or potentially be canceled for safety.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. You can also reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.

Do I need to bring anything?
Guests should bring sun protection, a hat, and swimwear if planning to swim or paddleboard. All water activities are provided with equipment.

This detailed review should give you a clear picture of what to expect from the Gulf of Cagliari boat tour. It combines scenic beauty, local flavor, and a small-group feel that makes for a genuinely memorable Sardinian experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: