From Orosei: dinghy tour to Cala Ginepro – Cala Goloritzè

Thinking about soaking up some of Sardinia’s most breathtaking coastal scenery? This dinghy tour starting from Orosei is a popular way to see the Gulf of Orosei’s highlights without the crowds or hassle of land-based excursions. We haven’t personally done this, but from what we’ve gathered, it offers a mix of stunning views, fun boat time, and enough stops for swimming and relaxing in some of Italy’s most iconic coves.

What really draws people in are two things: first, the chance to explore famous beaches like Cala Mariolu and Cala Luna — both renowned for their beauty — and second, the opportunity to swim in turquoise waters of spots like the Pools of Venus. On the flip side, a potential challenge is that the tour involves quite a bit of time on the water, which might not be ideal for those prone to seasickness or looking for a more land-based experience.

All in all, this tour seems best suited for travelers who want a full day of adventure on the water, appreciate scenic coastal views, and enjoy a bit of swimming in natural settings. If you’re after a comfortable, relaxed day with lots of photo ops and a taste of Sardinia’s coastline, this could be a great pick.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal scenery: You’ll see some of Sardinia’s most famous beaches with crystal-clear waters and unique rock formations.
• Multiple swim stops: The tour includes stops at Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu, and other coves, each lasting 20-30 minutes, perfect for cooling off.
• Variety of dinghies: Different boat sizes are available, accommodating up to 12 people, with amenities like freshwater showers and sound systems.
• Flexible scheduling: The full-day tour lasts about 8 hours, with departure times depending on weather and sea conditions.
• Language options: The tour is conducted in Italian and English, enhancing understanding and enjoyment.
• Weather dependent: The actual start time and experience can vary based on sea conditions, so flexibility is key.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Dinghy Tour Experience

What the Tour Offers & How It Works

This 8-hour dinghy trip from Cala Ginepro in Orosei is designed to give you a taste of Sardinia’s most picturesque spots along the Gulf of Orosei. The tour starts with a meet-up at the beach kiosk, marked with the Rental Orosei logo, where you’ll find your guide ready to set sail. The boats used are inflatable dinghies—either BWA 6.50, 8.50, or 5.50 meters long—each equipped with safety gear, stereo systems, and amenities like freshwater showers and climbing ladders. The boats can carry up to 12 people, including the skipper.

The journey primarily involves navigating along the coast, with a handful of planned stops at various coves and beaches. The main highlights include Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu, Cala Goloritzé, and the Pools of Venus. The stops are well-spaced out, each lasting about 20-30 minutes for swimming and exploring. The two main beach stops—Cala Luna and Cala Mariolu—are slightly longer, around an hour each, giving you ample time to enjoy the environment.

What Makes Each Stop Special

• Cala Luna: Famous for its natural caves and dramatic cliffs, this beach is often called one of Sardinia’s most beautiful. The caves and rock formations create stunning photo opportunities, and the sand is soft and inviting. However, since it’s popular, it can get crowded, especially when many boats are present, which might detract from the tranquility for some.

• Cala Mariolu: Known as “the second most beautiful beach in the world” (according to some sources), its name means “robbers’ cave” in Sardinian. The fine white pebbles and clear water make it a highlight. The reviews mention that the guide provides detailed descriptions of these spots, making the experience more engaging.

• Cala Goloritzé: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its natural arch and towering limestone cliffs. The tour includes a stop here for swimming and photo ops, giving you a close-up view of one of Sardinia’s most iconic landscapes.

• Pools of Venus: Located near Cala Goloritzé, these natural pools are a favorite for their turquoise waters and the chance to swim in a more secluded setting. Many reviewers say that swimming here is a highlight, with colorful fish and impressive rock formations surrounding the pools.

The Experience on the Water

During the trip, you’ll get the chance to see Sardinia’s rugged coastline, characterized by towering cliffs, caves, and secluded coves. The boat ride itself provides a sense of adventure—you’re on the open water, feeling the breeze and enjoying views that many land-based visitors miss.

Reviews suggest that the guides are knowledgeable and provide interesting descriptions of the places visited, although some mention language barriers. For example, one traveler noted that the guide spoke only Italian, which might limit understanding for non-Italian speakers, though basic communication usually suffices.

More Great Tours Nearby

Swimming and Relaxing

Each stop offers around 20-30 minutes for swimming, giving you the chance to cool off in the clear waters, observe colorful fish, and simply unwind in nature. The longer stops at Cala Luna and Cala Mariolu are perfect for stretching your legs and soaking in the scenery without feeling rushed.

Some reviews highlight that the water in these spots is remarkably clear and perfect for snorkeling, though you should be prepared for small crowds at the more popular beaches. The Pools of Venus offer a quieter, more intimate experience, with natural pools to explore.

The Boat Options & Comfort

The available boats are well-equipped, with some featuring inflatable boats BWA 6.50, 850, and 550 models, all built around 2010. They include safety equipment, stereo systems, and amenities like freshwater showers and climbing ladders. Capacity varies from 8 to 12 people, so the experience feels intimate but not cramped, provided you’re in the group size that fits the boat.

The choice of boat may impact your comfort, with larger boats offering more space and amenities, which can be especially appreciated if you’re prone to seasickness or just prefer more room.

What Travelers Say & What to Keep in Mind

The reviews paint a generally positive picture, with many travelers thrilled by the scenery and the overall experience. One commenter says, “Krásny vylet na lne, videli sme nádherné miesta a pekné pláe…” highlighting the “beautiful places” and “nice beaches.” Another mentions that the guide provides detailed descriptions and interesting information, making the trip educational as well as scenic.

However, not all reviews are glowing. A German traveler pointed out that the actual guide only spoke Italian, which could be a downside if you’re not familiar with the language. Also, one reviewer was disappointed by overcrowding and the presence of many boats and motor fumes at certain spots, which can detract from the experience.

Cost-wise, the tour offers good value considering the length and the stops involved. Although not cheap, it includes transportation, guidance, and multiple swim stops in some of Sardinia’s most celebrated locations.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This tour is ideal for those who love being on the water, enjoy scenic boat rides, and want to visit Sardinia’s most notable beaches. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with a full day on a boat and eager to explore multiple spots without the hassle of arranging individual trips.

If you’re traveling with family, older children or teenagers who enjoy swimming and boat rides could find this a memorable day. However, it’s not suitable for very young children under 3, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility issues due to the boat-based nature.

Practical Tips for Booking & Enjoying Your Day

• Bring sun protection: sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, and a towel are must-haves.
• Pack a packed lunch and water, as there’s no mention of food included.
• Be prepared for weather changes: the schedule might shift depending on sea and weather conditions.
• Arrive early at the designated meeting point to avoid any last-minute stress.
• Consider your comfort: if you’re prone to seasickness, bring appropriate remedies or choose the smaller boat option if available.
• Check the weather forecast before booking, as rough seas might affect the experience or cause cancellations.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 3 years old or those with mobility issues. Older kids and teenagers who enjoy swimming and boat rides could enjoy it, but parents should consider the full day on water.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, water, and a packed lunch. The tour doesn’t specify food, so packing your own is best.

What language is the tour conducted in?
It’s mainly in Italian and English, but some reviews mention that guides may speak only Italian, which could limit explanations for non-Italian speakers.

How long are the stops at each location?
Swim stops last about 20-30 minutes each, with longer breaks at Cala Luna and Cala Mariolu for about an hour.

Are the boats comfortable?
Yes, the boats are well-equipped with amenities like freshwater showers and stereo systems. Capacity varies, so check which boat suits your comfort preferences.

Can I cancel if the weather’s bad?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which is helpful if weather conditions look unfavorable.

Is this tour weather dependent?
Absolutely. The actual departure time and possibly the trip itself depend on weather and sea conditions.

What makes this tour stand out?
The chance to visit famous beaches like Cala Luna and Cala Mariolu, swim in the Pools of Venus, and enjoy a day on Sardinia’s dramatic coast.

What do most travelers think?
They love the stunning scenery and the chance to see places normally only accessible by boat, though some mention overcrowded spots and language barriers.

In The Sum Up

This dinghy tour from Orosei offers a solid way to see Sardinia’s east coast without the hassle of land-based travel. You’ll get to visit iconic beaches with soft sands and clear waters, enjoy multiple swimming stops, and experience the thrill of sailing along dramatic cliffs and caves. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate scenic boat rides, swimming in natural pools, and exploring some of Italy’s most famous coves.

While the experience is generally praised for its stunning views and well-organized stops, be mindful of possible crowds and language limitations. The boats are comfortable, and the itinerary provides a good balance of adventure and relaxation. If you’re prepared for a full day on the water and want to tick off some of Sardinia’s most celebrated beaches, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

For those seeking a scenic, active, and memorable day by the sea, it’s worth considering—just pack your essentials, keep an eye on the weather, and get ready for a splashy adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: