Cala Gonone is a standout destination for anyone who loves being on the water. Its crystal-clear waters, dramatic coastline, and proximity to some of Sardinia’s most stunning beaches make it a natural hub for boat trips. Whether you’re after a relaxing day lounging on deck, exploring caves, or swimming in secluded coves, Cala Gonone offers a variety of options that fit different interests and budgets.
Many visitors rave about the Gulf of Orosei cruises, especially those that include stops at Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu, and Cala Goloritzè—some even highlight the chance to take a photographic stop at the latter, considered Sardinia’s most beautiful beach in 2025. For a more intimate experience, smaller dinghy cruises and sailing trips provide access to caves and beaches that large boats can’t reach, offering a more personal connection to the coast.
Below, we’ve rounded up the best boat tours and cruises in Cala Gonone, covering a range from full-day expeditions to short trips, each with its own special appeal. Whether you’re here for family fun, adventure, or relaxation, you’ll find something that suits your style.
1. From Cala Gonone: Gulf of Orosei Cruise to Cala Goloritzè
This 7.5-hour cruise is a popular way to see the Gulf of Orosei’s most famous beaches. Starting from Cala Gonone, the boat visits Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu, Cala dei Sisine, and the Cala Goloritzè Natural Park—each offering stunning swimming spots and scenic views. The cruise includes a bar and aperitif onboard, making it a comfortable and relaxing day. The highlight is the photographic stop at Cala Goloritzè, known as Sardinia’s most beautiful beach in 2025. The boat is suitable for families and young travelers alike, with plenty of time to swim and explore.
What sets this tour apart is its balanced itinerary—combining scenic sailing with ample beach time—plus multilingual commentary. Many reviews praise its clarity and value, with travelers noting the scenic views and the friendly crew. The main drawback is that weather can sometimes cause schedule changes, but the staff seem flexible.
Bottom line: If you want a full-day, comprehensive Gulf of Orosei experience with multiple beach stops, this cruise offers a reliable and scenic option.
2. Cala Gonone: Gulf of Orosei Dinghy Cruise with Swim Stops
This 7-hour dinghy cruise is perfect for those wanting to get closer to nature. Using a smaller dinghy boat, you can navigate where bigger vessels can’t go—right into caves and narrow coves. The tour takes you along the coast, stopping at Cala Mariolu, Cala Biriola, and Cala Luna—each famous for their clear waters and sea caves. The boat anchors allow for refreshing swims in the Pools of Venus and Cala Goloritzè, with plenty of time to relax in the sun or explore.
Travelers love the intimate feel of this tour, along with the chance to breathe in the salty air and see Sardinia’s rugged coastline up close. It’s especially good for those who want flexibility and personal space. The small size means fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere, though it may be less suitable for travelers who prefer larger group amenities.
Bottom line: For a more hands-on adventure that offers access to hard-to-reach spots, this dinghy cruise is a standout choice.
3. Cala Gonone: Cruise in the Gulf of Orosei with Cala Goloritzè
With 7.5 hours of sailing, this cruise is a solid choice for anyone wanting to explore Sardinia’s coastline from Cala Gonone. It includes stops at Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu, and the Cala Goloritzè Natural Park, with aperitifs and an onboard bar to keep you refreshed as you take in spectacular views. The photographic stop at Cala Goloritzè is a highlight, giving you a chance to snap some memorable shots of Sardinia’s most famous beach.
Guests rave about the scenery and the relaxed pace, noting that it’s perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying the ocean. The cruise balances sightseeing with enough beach stops to make the day feel leisurely rather than rushed. It’s also multilingual, making it accessible for international travelers.
Bottom line: This tour offers a comprehensive, comfortable way to see key beaches with plenty of time to relax and take photos.
4. Cala Gonone: Gulf of Orosei Cruise with Cala Goloritzè
This 8.5-hour boat trip is ideal for those wanting a longer, more relaxed experience. It visits the same iconic beaches as other tours—Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu, and the natural park of Cala Goloritzè—but with more time for swimming and exploring. A key feature is the bar and aperitif onboard, making it easy to unwind as you cruise along Sardinia’s coast.
Rated 4.4/5, travelers appreciate the cleanliness, crew professionalism, and the ample beach time. The longer duration makes it suitable for families, couples, or anyone wanting a more leisurely pace. Some reviews mention the boat can get crowded, but overall, it delivers a memorable day with stunning vistas.
Bottom line: For travelers seeking a longer, more relaxed day with excellent scenery, this cruise fits well.
5. Cala Gonone: Grotta Bue Marino & Cala Luna Beach Boat Trip
This 5-hour tour combines a visit to the Sea Ox Cave (Grotta del Bue Marino) with a stop at Cala Luna Beach. The highlight is the guided walk inside the cave, where you can explore its impressive stalactites and stalagmites, then enjoy swimming and relaxing on Cala Luna’s beautiful sands. The tour offers a cultural aspect with a guided inside the cave, and the landscape views are truly striking.
Many reviews describe the cave visit as enchanting, and the beach as perfect for relaxation. It’s a good choice for those who want a mix of cave exploration and beach time without a full-day commitment. The tour is reasonably priced at $47 per person, making it an accessible option.
Bottom line: Perfect for cave lovers and those wanting a shorter, varied trip combining geology and beach.
6. Cala Gonone: Boat ride to Cala Luna beach
This 4-hour guided boat tour focuses on Cala Luna, one of Sardinia’s most iconic beaches. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but still want to experience the stunning sands and waters. The boat provides breathtaking views as you cruise, with plenty of time to sunbathe or swim.
While shorter, many travelers appreciate the easy access and good value, especially if you’re combining this with other activities. The walk through the Mediterranean flora after swimming adds a nice touch.
Bottom line: A quick and scenic option that gets you directly to Cala Luna without the fuss of a longer day.
7. Cala Gonone: Grotta del Bue Marino and Cala Luna Boat Tour
This 4-hour trip offers a good balance of cave exploration and beach relaxation. It includes a visit to Grotta del Bue Marino for cave enthusiasts and time at Cala Luna for swimming and sunbathing. The extra €12 cave ticket covers entry to caves not included in the base fare, adding a layer of adventure for those interested.
Guests comment positively on the enchanting cave visit and the tranquil atmosphere. It’s a practical choice if you want a shorter, activity-rich excursion.
Bottom line: For cave fans and beach lovers, this tour delivers a compact yet memorable experience.
8. Dorgali: Cala Luna Boat Trip
This 3-hour tour is a quick escape to Cala Luna, perfect if you’re looking for a short day trip. It includes audio-guided narration and plenty of time to relax on the sand or swim. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a taste of Sardinia’s famous beaches without a full-day commitment.
Reviews note that the boat ride is quick, but the scenic views and beach time make it worthwhile. It’s best for those on a tight schedule or who prefer a more casual trip.
Bottom line: Short but sweet, this trip is great for a quick Sardinian beach experience.
9. Gulf of Orosei: Grotta del Bue Marino & Cala Luna Boat Tour
This 4-hour tour is similar to others, focusing on Grotta del Bue Marino and Cala Luna. It includes a cave visit with an optional cave entry for €10. It’s a straightforward, budget-friendly way to see two highlights of the coast with time for swimming.
Many reviews mention the enchanting cave and relaxing beach. It’s best suited for travelers who want an affordable, quick trip with iconic sights.
Bottom line: A solid short tour for cave lovers and beach seekers on a budget.
10. Cala Gonone: Cala Luna and Cala Sisine Boat Tour
This 6-hour round trip takes you to two stunning beaches, Cala Luna and Cala Sisine. The audio guide en route provides insight into the coastline’s natural features. The tour emphasizes turquoise waters and scenic coves, with plenty of time to swim and relax.
Travelers appreciate the balance of sightseeing and beach time, making it a good choice if you want to see two beaches in one day.
Bottom line: For a longer, scenic day with multiple stops, this tour is very appealing.
11. Sailing ship in exclusive, tour around the Gulf of Orosei
This 8-hour sailing trip aboard the historic Dovesesto offers a more luxurious, laid-back experience. It explores beaches like Cala Luna, Cala Biriola, Le Piscine di Venere, and Cala Goloritzè. The ship’s classic design and the opportunity to relax onboard while admiring the scenery make it stand out.
Ideal for travelers wanting a more elegant experience, this cruise emphasizes relaxation and scenic beauty over active exploration. The swimming stops are perfect for cooling off, and the almost 100-year-old ship adds a nostalgic charm.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a leisurely, scenic cruise with a touch of elegance.
How to Choose Your Boat Tour in Cala Gonone
Picking between these options depends on your time, budget, and what kind of experience you want. If you prefer a full-day adventure with multiple beach stops, the From Cala Gonone: Gulf of Orosei Cruise to Cala Goloritzè or the 8.5-hour Gulf of Orosei Cruise are excellent. For a more intimate experience, consider the dinghy cruise or the luxurious sailing trip. Those who want a quick taste of Cala Luna might opt for the shorter boat ride or the 3-hour tour.
Think about whether you want to explore caves—many tours include the Grotta del Bue Marino—or focus on lounging on beaches. Booking early is advised, especially for popular tours like the full-day Gulf of Orosei cruises or the luxury sailing trip, as they fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Cala Gonone offers a rich variety of boat tours and cruises—from large, fully equipped vessels to small dinghies and elegant sailing ships. For those wanting a comprehensive tour of Sardinia’s coastline, the From Cala Gonone cruise and the long Gulf of Orosei cruise stand out for their extensive itineraries. If you’re after a more personal, cave-focused experience, the dinghy cruise and shorter cave/beach trips are perfect.
For travelers seeking a luxurious, relaxed day at sea, the exclusive sailing ship cruise provides a charming, slow-paced alternative. Whatever your style, booking early and choosing the right trip for your interests ensures a memorable Sardinian maritime adventure.
