From Cannigione: Sailboat Tour in La Maddalena Archipelago

Planning a day out on Sardinia’s sparkling waters? This sailboat trip around La Maddalena Archipelago promises an intimate, scenic, and flavorful experience—perfect for those who love the idea of cruising in style, discovering hidden beaches, and tasting local delicacies. Although the journey lasts around seven and a half hours, it’s packed with enough beauty and relaxation to make every minute worthwhile.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines luxury sailing with authentic Sardinian flavors—you’re not just sightseeing, but also savoring fresh, local food on board. The small group size (max 10 guests) ensures a personalized experience, and the calm, crystal-clear waters make for fantastic swimming spots. Plus, the friendly crew’s attention to detail makes it feel like a day with friends rather than a typical tourist trip.

One thing to consider is the weather dependency—since it’s a sailing adventure, rough seas or bad weather could affect the itinerary. Also, travelers should pack essentials like sun protection and towels, as these aren’t included. If you’re someone who appreciates charming, well-organized tours with excellent reviews, this experience is ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting to escape the crowds and indulge in Sardinia’s natural beauty.

Who this suits best? Nature lovers, foodies, and those craving a relaxed, scenic day on the water will find this trip especially appealing. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a balance of adventure, comfort, and authentic local flavors.

Good To Know

• Small group experience: Max 10 travelers for a personalized adventure.
• Authentic Sardinian cuisine: Onboard lunch with local ingredients and Vermentino wine.
• Stunning stops: Crystal-clear beaches and panoramic views at Spargi, Santa Maria, and Caprera.
• Flexible itinerary: Adapted to weather, with at least 2-3 stops guaranteed.
• Relaxing day: Sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the scenery from the deck.
• Value for money: A full 7.5-hour tour with food, drinks, and expert skipper included.

What to Expect from This La Maddalena Archipelago Sailing Tour

This 7.5-hour trip from Cannigione offers a balanced mix of relaxing on deck, exploring beautiful islands, and savoring delicious food. The journey begins at 9:00 am, with departure from Cannigione, a charming town known for its scenic harbor and easy access to the archipelago. The boat is a sleek, elegant sailing vessel, catering to small groups for an intimate experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Isola di Spargi
Your first stop features two of Spargi’s most acclaimed beaches: Cala Granara and Cala Soraya. Expect to see waters so clear that it nearly defies belief, with shades of turquoise and emerald that seem artificially vibrant. The reviews highlight the imperturbably beautiful waters—a perfect spot for a refreshing swim or just lounging on the boat.
What makes this stop great? The tranquility and stunning natural scenery, perfect for unwinding. The scenery is so picturesque that one reviewer mentioned, “the waters are just stunning” and appreciated the chance to take in nature without a large crowd.

Stop 2: Caprera
Next, you’ll head to Caprera, an island known for its pristine beaches and lush landscapes. You’ll have the option to visit Cala Coticcio, Cala Napoletana, or Cala Giardinelli, depending on weather and group preferences. Here, the highlight is the delicious onboard lunch—a feast of local cold cuts, cheeses, fresh vegetables, seafood pasta, plus drinks including water, wine, and beer.
Reviewer insight: One guest raved about the food, calling it a “rich platter of local delicacies,” and appreciated the selection of wines and craft beers. The lunch isn’t just sustenance but part of the experience—a chance to taste Sardinian produce in a relaxed setting.

Stop 3: Isola di Santa Maria
The final stop takes you to Santa Maria, renowned for its picturesque Cala Santa Maria and Manto della Madonna. The waters here are often calm, perfect for swimming, and the views are especially photogenic. You might find yourself taking a handful of photos or just soaking in the serenity.
What makes this stop special? The peaceful ambiance and stunning coastal scenery, which one reviewer called “some of the most beautiful waters I’ve ever swum in.”

Onboard Experience

The boat features a spacious deck ideal for sunbathing or relaxing under shade. The crew, typically two knowledgeable guides, serve as captains, hosts, and chefs. As one reviewer described, they “kept us safe, served us food and drinks, and found ideal spots for swimming,” making the entire day feel effortless and friendly.

Food and Drinks

The onboard lunch is a standout feature. It’s a hearty, local-style meal with a generous cold cuts and cheeses platter, complemented by fresh seasonal vegetables, crostini, and seafood pasta. The drinks selection includes water, wine, and beer, making it a perfect pairing with the meal.
Breakfast and snacks are also provided—think chips, peanuts, and savory bites—plus a welcome aperitif with Prosecco. For those with dietary restrictions, vegetarian, vegan, or allergy requests can be accommodated if specified beforehand.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour price ($194.42) covers fuel, the skipper, lunch, snacks, and drinks, making it quite good value for a full day on the water. However, travelers should bring essentials like beachwear, towels, sun protection, sunglasses, and hats—these are not included but are vital for comfort and safety.
Note: Use of the cabins isn’t allowed, so be prepared for an open-deck experience.

Weather and Flexibility

As the tour is weather-dependent, the itinerary might be adjusted to ensure safety and the best possible experience. The reviews reflect that flexibility is appreciated, and the crew does an excellent job at tailoring the day to conditions.

Group Size and Overall Atmosphere

With a maximum of 10 guests, the experience feels exclusive and relaxed. It’s ideal for small groups, couples, or anyone who prefers a more intimate setting than large tour boats. The small size also allows for more personal attention from the crew, who are praised for their care and friendliness.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

This sailing trip isn’t just about ticking off the usual tourist spots; it’s about enjoying the beauty of Sardinia from a comfortable, well-organized vessel. The inclusion of lunch, drinks, and a knowledgeable skipper means you’re paying for a full experience, not just a boat ride.

The stops at sparsely crowded beaches give you the chance to truly relax and appreciate Sardinia’s natural charm. And the small group size ensures you won’t feel overwhelmed or rushed, making it a great choice for travelers who want quality over quantity.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxed day of swimming, sunbathing, and eating, this trip ticks all those boxes. It’s perfect for couples looking for a romantic escape, families wanting a safe and scenic day, or small groups of friends seeking a special Sardinian adventure. Nature lovers will enjoy the variety of coastal landscapes, while foodies will appreciate the fresh, authentic onboard lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed for most travelers and most participants can participate, as long as they enjoy being on the water and in the sun.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 7 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 9:00 am and returning to Cannigione at the end of the day.

Are vegetarian or special dietary options available?
Yes, options for allergies, vegetarians, or vegans are available if requested when booking.

What should I bring?
Pack beachwear, towels, sun cream, hats, sunglasses, and any personal items. Remember, the use of cabins is not allowed, so be prepared to stay on deck.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price includes fuel, a skipper, onboard lunch with local products, snacks, and drinks like water, wine, and beer.

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

Final Thoughts

This sailboat tour offers a wonderful combination of scenic beauty, authentic Sardinian cuisine, and personalized service. It’s ideal for those who want an elegant yet relaxed adventure on the water, away from large crowds. The stops at Spargi, Caprera, and Santa Maria are some of the most beautiful spots in the archipelago, making it a memorable day for nature lovers and foodies alike.

For travelers seeking a small-group, flexible, and genuinely scenic experience, this trip provides excellent value and countless photo opportunities. The knowledgeable crew and delicious onboard lunch elevate it from just another boat ride to a true Sardinian highlight.

This adventure is best suited for those who appreciate a balance of relaxation, natural beauty, and local flavors. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a peaceful escape, this sailing tour can deliver a memorable day on Sardinia’s sparkling waters.