8 Hours Excursion in the Gulf of Olbia with aperitif+lunch included

If you’re thinking about experiencing Sardinia from the water, this 8-hour Gulf of Olbia tour might be just what you’re looking for. It’s a well-reviewed trip that promises a mix of dolphin watching, snorkeling, stunning scenery, and a taste of local flavors—all in a single day. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary give a pretty clear picture of what to expect.

What really caught our attention are the opportunities to see dolphins swimming free—a true highlight for nature lovers—and the chance to bathe and snorkel in crystal-clear waters in some of Sardinia’s most beautiful spots. The inclusion of local food and wine makes the whole experience even more appealing, especially for those who want to indulge in authentic flavors. That said, a potential caveat is that the trip involves several stops and a full day on the water, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a day of boating and swimming.

This tour is ideal if you’re after a relaxed, scenic day that combines wildlife, water activities, and local gastronomy. It’s also a good pick if you prefer guided excursions with small groups—max 10 travelers—that allow for a more personalized experience. But if your main focus is on active adventures or exploring inland Sardinia, you might want to look elsewhere.

• Scenic & Flexible: You get to see dolphins in their natural habitat and enjoy customizable stops.
• Includes Food & Drink: An aperitif and a full lunch featuring local Sardinian products are part of the package.
• Small Group Experience: With a maximum of 10 people, expect a more intimate and personal tour.
• Ideal for Relaxation & Nature: Perfect for travelers looking to unwind, snorkel, and enjoy stunning coastal views.
• Value for Money: Priced at around $162, it offers a balanced mix of activities, scenery, and delicious local cuisine.
• Professional Guides: The reviews praise the hosts for their friendliness and flexibility, making the day more memorable.

What You Can Expect from This Tour

This tour kicks off at 9:30 am from the Marina di Olbia and is designed to give you a full 8 hours of discovery and relaxation. Throughout the day, you’ll visit several iconic spots along Sardinia’s coast, each with its own charm and appeal.

Dolphin Watching & Natural Stops

The trip begins with a hopeful encounter with dolphins swimming freely in the waters around Olbia. Many reviews highlight how some travelers manage to spot these playful creatures, which is a real treat if you love wildlife. Even if dolphins don’t show up immediately, the boat’s flexible schedule means your guide might extend time at certain bays, giving you a better shot.

Figarolo and Cala Moresca

Your first stops are Figarolo and Cala Moresca. These are lovely spots for swimming and snorkeling among blue and emerald waters. The water here is often described as pristine, making it perfect for cooling off and exploring underwater life. The reviews mention the friendly and accommodating guide, Maurizio, who personalizes the stops based on what guests want, such as staying longer in a favorite bay.

Aperitif with Local Flavors

After some water-based fun, you’ll have an aperitif featuring local food and wine. This is a highlight for many travelers, as it’s a chance to taste Sardinian specialties in a relaxed setting. The combination of good wine and hearty, homemade-style food helps create a warm, convivial atmosphere on board.

Marine Protected Area of Tavolara & Molara Pools

Next, your boat heads towards the Marine Protected Area of Tavolara, which is renowned for its stunning scenery and calmer waters. You’ll also stop at the natural pools of Molara, where swimming and snorkeling are options once again. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see the underwater beauty of this protected area, which is often praised for its clear waters and lively marine life.

Cala Girgolu & Sassi Piatti

The final stops are the Cala Girgolu and the Spiaggia delle Vacche, along with Sassi Piatti. These coves are often called some of the most beautiful in Sardinia, with tiny beaches and unique rock formations. Travelers describe these areas as “wonderful” and “breathtaking,” perfect for a last swim or a quiet moment before heading back.

Lunch & Return

The day culminates with a lunch onboard, featuring local Sardinian cuisine. Many reviews rave about the homemade dishes and the warm hospitality, especially noting the friendly family-run atmosphere. The return trip is scheduled to finish around 5:30 pm, giving plenty of time to relax and reflect on the day.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this tour truly appealing is the blend of wildlife, water, and culinary delights. The chance to see dolphins swimming naturally is a rare bonus that adds a sense of magic to the day. Snorkeling among colorful fish in the calm bays offers a peaceful break from traveling. Plus, the local food and wine serve as a delightful way to connect with Sardinian culture without leaving the boat.

The reviews reinforce how well-run and flexible the experience is. Travelers describe Maurizio as a charming host who responds to guest wishes, whether it’s staying longer at a favorite spot or adjusting the itinerary as needed. Many mention the beautiful views and the friendly, welcoming atmosphere—making it clear that this isn’t just a boat trip but a memorable social experience.

Price & Value

At around $162 per person, this excursion offers a lot of value. You get a full day of sightseeing, swimming, wildlife watching, and tasting local dishes and wines—all guided by knowledgeable hosts. Many travelers feel it’s worth every penny, especially considering the personalized attention and the small group size.

However, keep in mind that this is a full-day tour—so it requires a bit of stamina and comfort on boats and in the water. You’re paying for the experience, not luxury, but for most, the mix of scenery, wildlife, and food makes it worthwhile.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for nature lovers, seafood and wine enthusiasts, and those looking for a relaxed yet engaging day on Sardinia’s coast. It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy small groups and appreciate personalized service. It might be especially appealing if you want to combine wildlife, water activities, and local culture in a single outing.

If you’re traveling with kids who are comfortable in water and on boats, this could also be a great family-friendly activity. But if you’re seeking high-adventure or inland exploration, you might prefer other tours.

Final Thoughts

In a nutshell, this 8-hour Gulf of Olbia excursion offers a relaxed, scenic, and culturally rich way to experience Sardinia’s coast. The combination of dolphin sightings, snorkeling, beautiful scenery, great food, and wine makes it a well-rounded package. The small group size and friendly guides enhance the experience, making it feel personalized and genuine.

While it’s not the cheapest option available, many guests feel it’s a good value for money — especially considering the inclusions and the memorable moments it creates. It’s best suited for those who want a mix of wildlife, water fun, and local flavors in a peaceful and scenic setting.

If you’re after a day of gentle adventure, stunning views, and authentic Sardinian touches, this trip could become a highlight of your trip.

Is the tour suitable for children? Many travelers mention the tour as family-friendly, especially if kids are comfortable in water and enjoy boat rides. The experience is relaxed and includes plenty of swimming and snorkeling, which kids often love.

What time does the tour start and end? The tour begins at 9:30 am from the Marina di Olbia and wraps up around 5:30 pm, giving a full 8 hours of activities and relaxation.

How many people are on the tour? This excursion is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, promoting a small, intimate setting.

Is food included? Yes, you’ll enjoy an aperitif with local food and wine, as well as a full lunch featuring regional specialties.

What is the price? The cost is approximately $161.90 per person, which covers the boat ride, stops, food, and drinks.

What is the route? The itinerary includes stops at Figarolo, Cala Moresca, Molara Pools, Cala Girgolu, Sassi Piatti, and the Marine Protected Area of Tavolara.

What should I bring? Pack swimsuits, towel, sun protection, and perhaps a waterproof camera or smartphone for photos. Most water stops are in calm, scenic bays.

What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How do I book? You can reserve your spot through the provider, Sardinian Blue excursions, with confirmation sent within 48 hours, subject to availability.

If you’re dreaming of a relaxed day exploring Sardinia’s coastline, filled with dolphins, beautiful waters, and good local food, this trip seems to check most boxes. It’s a genuine, well-reviewed way to see some of the best the Gulf of Olbia has to offer without overdoing it.