Boat Tour to Sella del Diavolo: Snorkeling, GoPro & Beer

If you’re looking for an easy but memorable way to experience Cagliari’s coast, this boat tour to Sella del Diavolo might just be what you need. From what we’ve seen—and from the glowing reviews—it’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a laid-back half-day on the water, with chances to snorkel, snap some great photos, and enjoy the scenery with a drink in hand.

What really stands out about this tour is the intimate feel—small groups mean you’re not just another face in the crowd—and the opportunity to see some of the area’s best spots from a boat. Plus, having a knowledgeable skipper guide you through the highlights adds a layer of local insight that makes the trip more meaningful.

One thing to keep in mind is that this experience is about relaxed exploration rather than high-adrenaline adventure. The boat is small, so if you’re not comfortable in tight spaces or on a smaller vessel, it might take some getting used to. Also, it’s a pretty short tour—about three hours—so it’s best for those who want a quick taste of Cagliari’s coast rather than a full day out.

All in all, this tour seems ideal for those who want a friendly, scenic boat experience that combines gentle swimming, stunning views, and a relaxed vibe. Travel with an open mind, and you’ll likely come away with some lovely memories—and maybe even a few fish stories.

Key Points

• Small group size creates a more personal, relaxed atmosphere.
• Snorkeling gear is provided, making underwater exploration accessible even for beginners.
• Multiple stops at beaches and scenic spots add variety to the experience.
• Informative guides share interesting tidbits about Cagliari’s coastline and legends.
• Affordable price point offers good value for a half-day sea adventure.
• Limited duration is perfect for a port stop or quick coastal escape.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting Point and the First Stop: Calamosca Beach

The tour kicks off from Molo Dogana, a convenient spot close to Cagliari’s city center. Our impression here is that the ride itself is straightforward—no long transfers or complicated logistics. It’s just a short boat ride to Calamosca, one of the area’s most popular beaches, known for its clear waters and historical sights like the 1600s Spanish tower and lighthouse.

Travelers will have around 40 minutes at this first stop. During this time, you can snorkel with the equipment provided, take photos of the underwater scene, or simply relax on the boat and enjoy the sea breeze. Several reviews highlight how peaceful and pretty this spot is. One reviewer shared, “the water was amazing, and we saw some fish,” which hints at the quality of the snorkeling opportunity here.

Second Stop: Sella del Diavolo

The highlight for many is the Sella del Diavolo—the Devil’s Saddle—a rugged promontory with a legendary backstory involving Lucifer and archangels. It’s a unique rock formation that’s only accessible by boat, making it a special sight for visitors. The name alone sparks curiosity, and the surrounding waters are reputed to be exceptionally clear, perfect for swimming and photo ops.

This stop lasts about 1 hour and 20 minutes, giving plenty of time to dive into the waters, explore the coast, and take in the striking landscape. Reviewers like Naama praised the experience: “The water was amazing, and we got to see some fish,” reinforcing how the snorkeling here is a real treat.

Final Stop: Poetto Beach

The tour rounds off with a visit to Poetto, a sprawling 8 km stretch of sandy shoreline that’s busy during summer months. It’s the most accessible beach in Cagliari and offers a chance to see the town’s lively beach scene. With about an hour allocated here, you can dip your toes in the water or soak up the lively atmosphere. Some reviews mention that Poetto’s historical salt extraction gives the water a particular charm, and it’s a favorite local spot.

Return to Molo Dogana

After a relaxed swim and some photos, the boat heads back to the starting point. The entire trip lasts roughly 3 hours, making it a perfect length for a quick coastal escape, especially if you’re limited on time during a cruise or day trip.

The Experience: What It’s Like on Board

One of the things we love seeing in reviews is how much guests appreciate the small-group setting. It’s not a big cruise ship with hundreds of passengers; instead, you’re on a cozy boat with a maximum of 20 travelers. That means fewer crowds, more personalized attention from the skipper, and a more relaxed vibe.

The guide and captain, Francesco, gets consistent praise for his professionalism and friendly attitude. Several reviewers mentioned how he shared useful info about the area, making the experience both fun and educational. “He took us to the nicest places and provided some history and background about the area,” noted Naama. It’s clear that a good guide can make a big difference in turning a simple boat ride into a memorable outing.

Snorkeling and Equipment

Snorkel gear is included, making it straightforward for even first-timers to enjoy underwater exploration. The water clarity and fish sightings reported by guests suggest the snorkeling at Calamosca and Sella del Diavolo is quite rewarding. Some reviewers mentioned seeing fish and underwater sights that surprised them.

Refreshments and Atmosphere

The tour includes cold beers and soft drinks, adding to the laid-back coastal feel. Guests have mentioned how much they enjoyed having a drink while relaxing on the boat or swimming in the sea. The vibe is casual, not fancy, which suits travelers who want a no-stress experience.

Photography and GoPro Use

Capturing the moment is easy thanks to the provided GoPro. Tourists often rave about how they managed to get great shots of the coastline and underwater scenes. If snapping memories is important to you, this feature is a bonus.

Pricing and Value

At around $53.47 per person, this experience offers a good deal for what’s included: multiple scenic stops, snorkeling gear, a guide, drinks, and a short but sweet boat ride. Considering the reviews, many guests feel it’s money well spent—especially given the personalized nature of the trip and the stunning locations.

Compared to larger, more commercial tours, the small group size and quality of the spots visited make this a more intimate and authentic experience. Plus, with the flexibility of a mobile ticket and easy meeting point, it’s straightforward to join.

Who Will Love This Tour?

It’s perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic experience with easy swimming and picture-taking opportunities. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy gentle boat rides and beach time will find this tour suits their style. If you’re on a cruise and only have limited time in port, this is a practical choice, giving you a taste of Cagliari’s coast without the hassle of planning multiple excursions.

The Bottom Line

This boat tour to Sella del Diavolo embodies the kind of laid-back, scenic escape many travelers crave. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable stops, and a friendly vibe, it offers a genuine way to see Cagliari’s coast. The snorkeling, photo opportunities, and drinks make it feel like a small celebration of the sea.

While it’s not an adrenaline-packed adventure, it does pack in enough beauty and relaxation to make it a highlight of a day in Sardinia. The reviews show consistent satisfaction, and the small-group setting ensures you won’t be just another tourist. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this tour seems well-suited to those who want an easy, enjoyable marine outing.

If you love stunning views, easy swimming, and a relaxed atmosphere, this boat trip is worth considering. Just remember, the boat is small, so if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer larger vessels, that’s something to keep in mind.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally relaxed and friendly, it involves swimming and a small boat. It’s best for older children comfortable in water and on boats.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 3 hours, making it ideal for those with limited time but who still want a taste of Cagliari’s coast.

What’s included in the price?
Snorkeling gear, a guide/skipper, GoPro for photos, drinks (beer and soft drinks), and the visits to Calamosca, Sella del Diavolo, and Poetto beach.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled time, full refund included.

Is the boat comfortable?
It’s a small boat, so space can be a bit tight if you’re used to larger vessels, but conditions are calm, and it’s well-equipped.

Are there any health considerations?
Not recommended for travelers with obesity or cardiovascular diseases, likely due to the physical activity involved and boat conditions.

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

Where do I meet the tour?
At Molo Dogana in Cagliari, very close to the city center and cruise terminal.

Is there a minimum or maximum number of travelers?
Yes, the tour can have up to 20 travelers, ensuring a small-group experience.

Whether you’re after a quick coastal escape or just want to dip your toes in Sardinia’s clear waters, this boat tour offers a friendly, scenic, and enjoyable way to see Cagliari from the sea.