From Porto San Paolo: 4-hour boat tour to Tavolara

If you’re exploring Sardinia and looking for a memorable way to see its natural beauty, this 4-hour boat tour from Porto San Paolo to Tavolara offers a fantastic mix of scenic views, swimming spots, and relaxed cruising. Although some reviews mention dry conditions during certain visits, the overall experience promises enough highlights to keep nature lovers and adventure seekers happy.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the comfortable modern boat, the chance to spot marine wildlife like dolphins, and the opportunity to relax with a tasty aperitif in front of breathtaking vistas. That said, the tour’s itinerary can change due to weather, so some stops might be less lush than anticipated. Still, if you’re after a blend of scenic sailing and natural swimming spots, this trip could be just what you need.

This adventure suits those who appreciate small group settings, want to learn from knowledgeable skippers, and love discovering Sardinia’s coast off the beaten path. It’s an ideal half-day escape for families, friends, or solo travelers wanting a relaxed yet engaging outing. Just keep in mind that it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.

Good To Know

• Scenic marine protected area offers stunning views of Tavolara and Molara islands.
• Swimmable natural pools provide a relaxing spot for marine wildlife encounters and fun.
• Expert skippers share local anecdotes, enriching the experience with insights.
• Comfortable boat equipped with modern amenities ensures a pleasant ride.
• Small group size (up to 10 participants) guarantees a personalized experience.
• Flexible itinerary based on weather conditions, meaning some stops may vary.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Tavolara Boat Trip in Detail

A Comfortable and Well-Equipped Boat for a Relaxing Ride

The boat used for this excursion is a Selvaggia Open Tecnoyacht Puma, around 10 meters long, with a width of 3.25 meters. It features a climbing ladder, freshwater shower, and awning—all designed to keep guests comfortable during the trip. With a maximum capacity of 10 people plus the skipper, it offers an intimate experience, perfect for those who prefer to avoid large, crowded tours.

The boat is equipped with life jackets for every passenger, ensuring safety, and snacks or drinks are not included, but an aperitif is served on board, adding a touch of local hospitality. The boat’s modern amenities mean you can focus on enjoying the scenery without worrying about comfort.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The tour typically includes at least three or four stops within the Tavolara-Molara Marine Protected Area, with the exact route subject to weather and skipper decisions. These stops are particularly selected for their natural beauty and opportunities for swimming or relaxing:

• Natural Pools of Molara Island: Known for their crystalline waters and marine life, these pools are a highlight for water lovers. One reviewer, Estelle, shared how the natural pools were emptied due to drought, which was disappointing but still a pretty experience to see them from a nearby path. It’s worth noting that the drought has affected the water levels, so swimming might not always be possible.
• Cala Spalmatore Cove: Near Tavolara, this cove offers a scenic spot to enjoy the sea and the coast’s rugged beauty.
• Cape Coda Cavallo: This promontory is famous for its breathtaking views and is often a photo-worthy stop.
• Cala Gilgolu: Another beautiful cove, ideal for swimming and relaxing in a quiet setting.

Throughout the trip, the skipper shares stories and insights, turning a simple boat ride into an engaging journey. According to reviews, Sergio, the guide, is particularly helpful, often pointing out local anecdotes and making the experience more memorable.

Wildlife and Natural Encounters

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the potential to see dolphins—a real treat if luck is on your side, as noted by reviewers. The waters around Tavolara are known for marine wildlife, and a few travelers have spotted dolphins during their trip, adding a magical element to the experience.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Aperitif and Relaxation on Board

No trip to Sardinia is complete without some local flavor, and this tour offers an aperitif while the boat gently rocks. Surrounded by majestic views of Tavolara’s towering promontory, guests can unwind with drinks and snacks, soaking in the landscape during a leisurely cruise.

The Value of This Experience

At $134.81 per person, the price reflects a well-rounded half-day adventure that combines scenic cruising, swimming opportunities, and local storytelling. When compared to larger, less intimate tours, this small-group experience offers better interaction with the skipper and more personalized attention.

Including snorkeling gear and fuel, the tour feels like a good deal, especially considering the natural beauty you’ll encounter. The focus on comfort and safety, along with the flexible itinerary, ensures you get a relaxed yet engaging experience.

Practical Notes for Travelers

• What to bring? Towel, sunscreen, water, and beachwear are recommended. Pack light but be prepared for sun exposure.
• Not allowed? Pets are not permitted, probably due to safety and comfort for all guests.
• Weather considerations? The itinerary can change based on weather, so expect some variation in stops.
• Duration and starting times? The tour lasts around 4 hours, with specific times available upon booking.
• Language options? Tours are conducted in Italian and English, so clarify with your booking if needed.
• Group size: Limited to 10 participants, making it ideal for those seeking a more intimate experience.

Authentic Feedback from Previous Travelers

Estelle enjoyed the splendid views and kindness of the guide Sergio, who was attentive despite the drought affecting the pools. She mentions that he even took them to see the pools via a pretty path, which added to the charm. Another traveler, GetYourGuide, noted the trip was “very nice”, with the only downside being the dry conditions. Alexis called it a “beautiful experience”, highlighting the panoramic views and natural swimming spots.

These insights indicate that while weather conditions can impact certain features, the overall experience remains positive, especially thanks to the knowledgeable guides and scenic routes.

The Sum Up

This 4-hour boat tour from Porto San Paolo to Tavolara delivers a relaxed, scenic day on Sardinia’s coast. The combination of crystal-clear waters, natural swimming pools, and stunning panoramic views makes it an appealing choice for travelers looking to enjoy nature without extensive travel or strenuous activity.

The small group size and focus on comfort mean you’ll receive personalized attention, and the opportunity to spot marine wildlife adds a special touch. The tour’s flexible nature—subject to weather—ensures you get an authentic experience of Sardinia’s marine beauty.

If your priority is breathtaking scenery paired with relaxing sea time, this trip fits the bill well. It’s particularly suited for those who want a balanced mix of adventure and leisure, without the crowds of larger tours.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who are comfortable in the water and can sit through a 4-hour boat trip should enjoy the experience. Just note the small group size and the need for beachwear and sunscreen.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming is possible at the natural pools of Molara and other stops, but water levels and conditions might vary due to drought or weather.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat, skipper, fuel, snorkeling equipment, and an aperitif. You’ll need to bring your own towel, sunscreen, and beachwear.

Are vegetarian or special dietary options available?
The tour includes an aperitif, but specific dietary requirements aren’t detailed, so it’s best to check directly with the provider.

What if the weather is bad?
The itinerary is flexible and can change if the weather conditions are unsuitable. You might find some stops less lush or accessible depending on the day.

How many people are on each tour?
Up to 10 participants per boat, ensuring a small-group experience that fosters personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Is the tour multilingual?
Yes, the guides speak both Italian and English, making it accessible for most travelers.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in case your plans change.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot with the possibility to pay later, giving you flexibility until your plans are firm.

This boat trip offers a well-balanced mix of Sardinia’s natural beauty, engaging storytelling, and relaxing sea time—an experience that’s likely to leave you with lasting memories of the island’s stunning coastline.

You can check if your dates are available here: