Sailing towards the Devil’s Saddle

If you’re considering adding a splash of adventure and a touch of learning to your time in Cagliari, the sailing tour towards the Devil’s Saddle might just be worth your while. This isn’t your typical boat ride; it’s a thoughtfully designed experience blending relaxation, education, and natural beauty. From what we’ve gathered, travelers love the chance to learn basic sailing skills while taking in breathtaking coastal views. But it’s not just about steering the boat—there’s also plenty of time to swim in clear waters and enjoy some wildlife sightings.

Two things we’re particularly drawn to are the personalized sailing instruction and the chance to visit hidden coves and caves that most visitors probably never see. The tour’s small group size (a maximum of 10) means a more intimate, friendly atmosphere, ideal for those who like a bit of personal attention. On the flip side, one possible consideration is that this tour isn’t suited for individuals with physical disabilities or those who prefer a more passive experience. It’s active, engaging, and best enjoyed by curious, flexible travelers looking for more than just a scenic cruise.

If you’re into hands-on experiences, learning about sailing, and discovering lesser-known spots along the coast, this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially suited for those who love being outdoors, don’t mind getting a little wet, and want to combine a bit of education with leisure on the water.

Key Points

• Educational sailing experience suitable for beginners and those eager to learn
• Beautiful stops at a cove and a secret cave ideal for swimming
• Small group size ensures intimacy and personalized attention
• Potential wildlife sightings, including dolphins if luck is on your side
• Flexible weather policy allows for rescheduling or full refunds if canceled due to bad weather
• Cost-effective at approximately $71 per person for a 4-hour trip with lots of value in expertise and scenery

An honest look at what this tour offers

This sailing tour in Cagliari is designed to be a balance of learning, relaxing, and exploring. It’s not just about floating around; it’s about actively engaging with the process of sailing and soaking in the coastal environment. The tour lasts around four hours, enough time to get a good feel for what sailing involves without it becoming exhausting or overly lengthy.

The itinerary: what to expect

Starting point and briefing
The adventure begins at a conveniently accessible location in Cagliari. Once onboard, your skipper and guide, Paolo, kicks things off with a friendly briefing. He explains some basic rules and provides simple tips to keep everyone safe and comfortable. This is especially helpful if you’ve never been on a sailboat before, making the experience approachable regardless of your prior experience.

Sailing towards the Sella del Diavolo
Most tours will head in the direction of the Sella del Diavolo, a rock formation famously named because even demons are said to be captivated by its eerie beauty. As the sails catch the wind, you’ll start to understand how a sailboat operates. Paolo, who is praised for his knowledge and engaging manner, invites participants to actively help with sailing maneuvers such as adjusting the sails, steering, turns, and jibes. This hands-on approach makes the experience more memorable and informative.

Sailing to Poetto Beach and swimming stop
After some time on the water, the boat will glide towards Poetto Beach. Depending on conditions, you’ll have the chance to jump in and swim in the crystal-clear waters, which many reviews highlight as a major highlight. If you’re into snorkeling, the waters are described as perfect for exploring marine life. If dolphins are lucky enough to be around, you might even spot some following the boat—the reviews are full of joyful dolphin sightings, adding a magical touch to the day.

Discovering the hidden cave
One of the tour’s unique features is visiting an unknown cave beneath a cliff—a quiet, lesser-known spot that feels exclusive because it’s off the typical tourist trail. Taking a swim here is often a highlight, and the calm, sheltered waters make it an ideal spot to relax after some sailing.

What makes this experience special?

The real charm lies in the combination of learning and leisure. Paolo’s easy-to-understand explanations about sailing principles enrich the trip, making it more than just a boat ride. It’s educational without being overwhelming. One reviewer describes Paolo as “a wonderful person who knows how to explain things in a clear, fantastic, engaging way.” This kind of personal touch is what elevates the experience from a simple excursion to a memorable learn-and-relax outing.

The scenery is another big draw. As you sail past striking coastlines, cliffs, and the famous Sella del Diavolo, you’ll appreciate why this stretch of water is so revered locally. Many travelers comment on the breathtaking views and the peacefulness of the Gulf of Cagliari, which feels like discovering a secret slice of paradise.

Wildlife and extra touches

Dolphins are a regular sight, and many reviews mention the thrill of spotting these playful creatures during the trip. That’s an unplanned bonus that adds to the overall appeal. The tour is also praised for being well-organized and personalized, thanks to the small group size. You’ll find the crew attentive and eager to involve you in the sailing process or share stories about the area and its history.

Practicalities and considerations

The tour is priced at around $71.21 per person, which is a fair deal considering the length, the educational component, and the natural beauty. It includes life vests for children and adults, crucial for safety and comfort, especially if you’re traveling with family or less confident swimmers. The activity is suitable for most travelers; however, it’s not recommended for those with physical disabilities due to the nature of the boat and activities involved.

Since the tour relies on good weather, cancellations due to poor conditions are rare but possible. The policy offers full refunds or rescheduling options, which provides peace of mind when planning.

Who will love this?

This tour is perfect for curious travelers who enjoy being active outdoors and want to combine a bit of sailing instruction with scenic exploration. It’s also excellent for anyone looking for a relaxed yet engaging experience on the water, with opportunities to swim and keep an eye out for dolphins. If you’re traveling with friends or a family who appreciates hands-on activities and stunning coastal views, this outing hits the right notes.

Final thoughts: Is this tour worth it?

Absolutely, yes — if you’re eager to learn the basics of sailing while enjoying some of the most beautiful coastlines around Cagliari. The small group size, friendly guide, and scenic stops provide excellent value, especially given the chance to actively participate in sailing and to discover secret coves and caves. The inclusion of swimming in clear waters and dolphin spotting makes this experience feel both special and authentic.

That said, it’s not the best choice if you’re looking for a purely relaxing, passive cruise or if accessibility is a concern. It’s best suited for adventurous, outdoorsy types or those genuinely interested in sailing and coastal scenery.

In all, this tour offers a well-rounded mix of education, adventure, and natural beauty that creates a memorable day on the water — perfect for making the most of your time in Cagliari.

FAQs

Do I need sailing experience to join?
Not at all. The tour is designed to teach basic sailing principles, and your guide, Paolo, will involve you in the process, making it accessible for beginners.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, giving enough time to enjoy sailing, swimming, and sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Life vests are available for children and adults; however, it’s not recommended for participants with physical disabilities. The active nature and boat environment make it more suitable for older children and teens.

Can I see dolphins?
While sightings depend on luck, many travelers have been fortunate enough to see dolphins follow the boat during the trip.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses. The crew provides life vests but consider bringing a waterproof camera for photos.

Is there a dress code?
Casual, comfortable clothing suited for being on a boat and swimming is best. No specific dress code applies.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is canceled if weather conditions are poor, and you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are on the boat?
A maximum of 10 travelers ensures an intimate and personalized experience.

What’s the cost?
It’s approximately $71.21 per person, which includes sailing instruction, the stops, and snorkeling opportunities.

How do I book?
Bookings are made online with a mobile ticket, and confirmation is immediate unless booked within 8 hours, in which case it’s rapid, subject to availability.

If you’re after a blend of learning, adventure, and scenic beauty in Cagliari, this sailing trip offers a compelling way to experience the Gulf’s natural splendor while picking up some sailing skills along the way.