Cagliari, the bustling capital of Sardinia, offers more than just historic streets and lively piazzas. Its coastal waters are a playground for paddlers, with clear seas, dramatic cliffs, caves, and pristine beaches waiting to be explored. Whether you’re after a guided adventure with marine snorkeling or a relaxed rental to carve your own path, the Canoe & Kayak experiences here are varied and memorable. Among our favorites is the Guided Kayak Excursion in the Gulf of Cagliari, which scores a stellar 4.9 out of 5 from nearly 200 reviews for its friendly guides and stunning coastline views. It’s a perfect choice for those wanting a comprehensive, small-group experience featuring both paddling and snorkeling.
Cagliari’s waters offer guided tours, sunset excursions, and self-guided rentals, catering to all skill levels and interests. This list includes options suitable for adventure seekers, photography enthusiasts, and families alike. Whether you prefer to paddle around iconic landmarks like Sella del Diavolo or spend a peaceful afternoon with a SUP rental, there’s something here for everyone.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each experience, highlighting what makes them special, their logistics, and who they’re best suited for. Let’s get on the water.
1. Cagliari: Guided Kayak Excursion in the Gulf of Cagliari
This 3.5-hour guided tour is widely praised, with a 4.9/5 rating from 173 reviews. It offers a well-rounded experience exploring the South coast of Sardinia, including stops for snorkeling amid caves and coves. Led by a local guide, you’ll paddle past beautiful beaches like Cala Mosca and Cala Fighera, with plenty of time to observe marine life up close.
The tour’s appeal lies in its mix of spectacular scenery and engaging activity, making it ideal for families or those new to kayaking. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and the guide’s local knowledge enhances the experience—finding the best snorkel spots and sharing stories about the coastline. Participants rave about the stunning coastal views and crystal-clear waters that make every paddle stroke a delight.
One of the tour’s highlights is the chance to snorkel in sheltered coves, where marine life often flocks to the rocky overhangs. The tour operates in the morning, so you can enjoy a peaceful dawn paddle before the day heats up.
Bottom Line: Perfect for beginners and families wanting a safe, scenic paddle with snorkeling included. The high rating and positive reviews speak to its quality and value.
2. Cagliari: Exclusive small group Kayak tour at Devil’s Saddle
Ranking at 4.8/5 from 48 reviews, this small group tour offers a more intimate experience around the famous Devil’s Saddle. Spanning 3.5 to 4 hours, it takes you past remarkable rock formations, with a professional instructor guiding you through the area’s geological history and natural beauty.
Starting from Marina Piccola, the tour emphasizes easy paddling in clear waters, making it accessible for beginners who want a bit of adventure without complexity. The highlight is viewing the Devil’s Saddle, a striking natural arch that makes for great photo opportunities and a deeper appreciation of Sardinia’s coastal geology.
Throughout the tour, you’ll stop to admire pristine beaches and explore caves, all within a comfortable group limited to just 10 participants. The instructor shares insights into the area’s unique rock formations and local wildlife, enriching the experience. Reviews mention how relaxed and fun the atmosphere is, with many noting the spectacular scenery and the guide’s friendly approach.
The itinerary includes a meeting point at Marina Piccola and emphasizes safety and local knowledge. Note that children under 18 are not permitted, so this tour is better suited for adults or teens.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those who want a relaxed, guided exploration of a notable Sardinian landmark with plenty of photo opportunities.
3. Sunset kayak tour Sella del diavolo
This 3-hour guided sunset tour offers a magical way to experience Cagliari’s coastline. Rated 4.8/5 from 6 reviews, it immerses you in Mediterranean nature as the sun dips behind the cliffs of Sella del Diavolo. Meeting at Calamosca, the tour begins with a safety briefing before paddling along the coast to admire the bays, caves, and rocky formations illuminated by sunset hues.
The highlight is watching the sky change colors while your instructor shares stories of the area’s natural history. Bring your snorkeling gear if you’d like to peek into the waters—many find the sea smells and sounds of waves relaxing and invigorating. The tour is ideal for paddle enthusiasts comfortable with a bit of physical activity, and the limited group size (up to 8) ensures a personal experience.
Guests appreciate the peaceful atmosphere during the golden hour, and many mention the spectacular views that make this tour a memorable way to end a day in Cagliari. Note that this activity is not suitable for children under 13, pregnant women, or non-swimmers.
Bottom Line: Best for sunset lovers and those seeking a serene, scenic paddle with a touch of natural magic.
4. Crabonaxa: Stand up paddle SELLA Diavolo Poetto Calamosca
This SUP rental tour focuses on exploring Sardinia’s southeastern coast at your own pace. For $53 per person, you’ll receive a well-maintained paddleboard and delivery service, allowing you to glide across turquoise waters near Poetto and Calamosca beaches. It’s perfect for those who prefer independent exploration over guided trips.
The service includes modern equipment, ensuring safety and comfort. Delivery and collection help maximize your time on the water, and customer support is always available if you need assistance. This flexible option suits paddlers with some experience or those willing to try stand-up paddleboarding for the first time.
Reviews indicate customers value the convenience and quality gear, making this a reliable choice for a relaxed day of paddling around Sardinia’s coast. It’s an excellent way to explore at your own pace, especially if you have a favorite spot in mind.
Bottom Line: A good choice for independent paddlers looking for hassle-free equipment and flexible timing.
5. Noleggio con consegna kayak o paddle in tutta la Sardegna
Offering delivered kayak or paddle rentals across Sardinia, this service is perfect for those who want to craft their own adventure. For around $38.74 per person for 4 hours, you get access to modern, well-maintained gear with the added convenience of delivery and pickup.
This rental service is flexible and works well for experienced paddlers who know their preferred spots or want to explore somewhere off the beaten path. The company emphasizes no demanio or protected marine areas, so you’ll have freedom to paddle in accessible waters without restrictions.
While there are no reviews listed, the value lies in saving time and effort, making it easier to enjoy Sardinia’s coast on your schedule. It’s ideal for active travelers comfortable with self-guided paddling and who prefer to avoid guided group tours.
Bottom Line: Great for seasoned paddlers aiming for independence and flexibility, especially those familiar with Sardinia’s coastline.
6. Cagliari: Devil’s Saddle Kayak Tour and Snorkeling
This 3.5-hour adventure combines kayaking and snorkeling around the iconic Devil’s Saddle. The tour begins at Tutt’in SUP with a safety briefing before paddling to scenic viewpoints of Sella del Diavolo. After about 20 minutes of guided paddling, you’ll reach the caves and beaches perfect for snorkeling.
The tour emphasizes connection with nature, giving you the chance to observe marine wildlife in its natural habitat. Many reviewers mention how spectacular the waters are, and how the activity feels like a genuine interaction with the environment. The guided portion lasts around a hour, with plenty of time for relaxing and exploring underwater.
This tour is suited for active travelers who enjoy physical activity and marine exploration. The guide’s knowledge enhances the experience, and the route offers stunning views of Cagliari’s coastline. It is, however, limited to a small group of 6, making the experience more personal.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a full, immersive day of paddling and snorkeling with expert guidance.
7. Cagliari: Kayak 2/3 posti Rental Sella del Diavolo Calamosca
For up to 4 hours, this kayak rental allows you to explore the Sella del Diavolo and surrounding coves at your own pace. The 2-3 person kayaks are modern and delivered directly to your chosen location, with collection included. It’s a straightforward way to enjoy Sardinia’s coast without a guide, perfect for experienced paddlers or small groups.
Many reviews highlight the convenience of delivery and collection and the modern, safe equipment. The tour specifies no demanio or protected areas, so you have freedom to explore freely. This option suits travelers who prefer self-guided explorations rather than structured tours.
While lacking a guide, this rental offers flexibility and the chance to tailor your experience—whether you want to paddle to a secluded cove or take photos of the coastline.
Bottom Line: Best for confident paddlers looking for a flexible, self-directed adventure along Sardinia’s coast.
How to Choose Your Perfect Canoe & Kayak Experience in Cagliari
Choosing among these options depends on your budget, fitness level, and desired experience. If you want a guided tour that includes snorkeling and local insights, the Guided Kayak Excursion or the Devil’s Saddle kayak and snorkeling are excellent. For those seeking more independence, the rental services (SUP or self-guided kayak) offer flexibility and convenience.
Timing matters: sunset tours are perfect for a romantic or peaceful experience, while morning excursions maximize wildlife sightings and calm waters. Book early, especially in summer, to secure your spot, as these activities fill fast.
Final Thoughts
Cagliari’s coastline offers an array of canoe and kayak experiences that cater to all tastes and skill levels. For a comprehensive, scenic adventure with snorkeling, try the guided Gulf excursion. If you prefer a more intimate encounter, the small group tour at Devil’s Saddle is a standout. For independent explorers, the rental options provide the freedom to carve your own route.
No matter which you choose, the water-based adventures here are a fantastic way to see Sardinia from a different perspective—quiet, exhilarating, and full of surprises. Book early, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to enjoy some of the best paddling the Mediterranean has to offer.
