One day guided boat tour along the Baunei coast.

Exploring Sardinia’s Baunei Coast by Boat — A Detailed Look at the Full-Day Adventure

If you’re dreaming of Sardinia’s wild, rugged coastline, a boat tour along the Baunei coast might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally been on this exact trip, plenty of travelers have shared their experiences, giving us a good picture of what to expect. This tour promises a full day on the water, visiting some of Sardinia’s most iconic spots—hidden coves, caves, and beaches that are often only accessible by boat.

What we love about this experience is how it combines natural beauty with the thrill of discovering lesser-known spots, plus the chance to snorkel among vibrant fish and dolphins. The guides seem knowledgeable and caring, making sure everyone has a memorable day. On the flip side, some people note the boat can get crowded, and there’s a fair bit of swimming and sun exposure, so it’s not ideal if you prefer a more private or shaded outing.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and a bit of adventure in a scenic setting. If you’re comfortable sharing space on a larger boat, don’t mind a full 8-hour day in the sun, and love exploring coastlines by water, this trip could be a highlight of your Sardinia itinerary.

Key Points

• Stunning Coastal Views: The tour offers a panoramic perspective of Sardinia’s most picturesque coastline.
• Visit Iconic Spots: Stops include Cala Goloritzè, Cala Mariolu, Cala Biriala, Cala Gabbiani, and Cala Luna, each offering unique scenery.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: Multiple stops allow for swimming in crystal-clear waters, with some of the best marine life encounters on the island.
• Informative Guides: Expect knowledgeable guides who share interesting facts, making the journey educational as well as scenic.
• Flexible Food Options: You can bring your own food or buy at local kiosks, and there’s a bar on board for drinks.
• Weather-dependent: The stops are subject to sea conditions, so the experience depends on good weather.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

This full-day cruise begins at around 9:00 am from Sardinia Natural Park ToursPorto Turistico in Santa Maria Navarrese. The day is carefully structured to maximize your time in the water and on the beaches, with six main stops that showcase some of the most stunning parts of the Baunei coast.

Cala Goloritzè — The Natural Monument

Your first glimpse is at Cala Goloritzè, a protected paradise. It’s a quick stop — around five minutes — but enough to appreciate its distinctive arch and pinnacle, which are what make the bay a natural landmark. This spot is famed for its vibrant marine life, and many agree it’s a must-see. One review calls it “absolutely phenomenal,” and highlights the importance of not skipping this part of the trip.

Cala Mariolu — Snorkeling and Coffee Break

Next, you’ll head to Cala Mariolu, roughly an hour and a half from the first stop. This is often regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia, with clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The tour includes access to the water for about an hour and a half, giving plenty of time to spot colorful fish or even dolphins if you’re lucky. The option to do scuba diving is also mentioned, adding an extra layer of adventure. Travelers often mention enjoying the “splendid local marine life,” and reviewers note the guides do a good job of making everyone comfortable in the water.

Cala Gabbiani — Marine Life and Relaxation

Following Cala Gabbiani, you’ll spend about an hour swimming and snorkeling in another beautiful cove. This stop is often highlighted for its clean waters and marine diversity, making it a popular spot for underwater enthusiasts. Reviews mention “splendid local marine life,” which keeps snorkeling interesting for both beginners and seasoned swimmers.

Grotta del Fico — The Cave Adventure

One of the tour’s most talked-about highlights is the Grotta del Fico. It’s not included in the price but is highly recommended if you can swing the €10 entrance fee. The cave offers a fascinating glimpse into Sardinia’s speleological features, with some reviews calling it “absolutely phenomenal.” It’s a brief stop, about 45 minutes, but travelers love the chance to explore this hidden gem with its stunning interior and views of the Gulf of Orosei. Be prepared for some walking and possibly a bit of climbing, as the cave is among the island’s most popular.

Piscine di Venere — A Quick Dip

Depending on sea conditions, you’ll stop at Piscine di Venere for about 30 minutes. It’s a short but sweet chance to dip into turquoise waters, relax, and soak up the scenery. Several reviewers call it a “beautiful short stop,” perfect for cooling off before heading to the next main attraction.

Cala Luna — The Highlight

The final stop is Cala Luna, an absolute standout. With its long stretch of fine golden sand and towering cliffs, it’s often called one of the wonders of the Gulf of Orosei. The shallow waters near the shore are ideal for snorkeling, and the scenery is straight out of a postcard. This is the longest stop of the day, lasting around 1 hour and 30 minutes, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore, swim, and take photos. Many reviewers express that Cala Luna feels like a slice of paradise, with one calling it “the most dazzling beach.”

What’s Included and What’s Not

The basics are straightforward: your fuel, guide, and access to all the stops are included in the €68.61 per person price. The tour provides a live guide, which many reviews rave about for their local knowledge and friendly attitude.

However, there are some costs to keep in mind: the Grotta del Fico entrance (€10 adults, €5 kids), snorkeling gear (bring your own), food, drinks, and any souvenirs or extra services are not included. Also, there is a small ecological contribution (€1), which supports environmental efforts.

Practical Considerations for Travelers

The boat has a capacity of up to 200 people, but the company usually embarks with half capacity, so you’ll have more space and comfort. Still, some reviews mention feeling a bit crowded, especially on busy days. If you prefer a more intimate experience, they recommend booking a speedboat or private tour—both are available on their website.

Timing is tight—the tour departs at 9:00 am and operates in good weather. Stops are subject to sea conditions, so if the weather turns rough, the itinerary could change. The boat anchors in each spot long enough for swimming, but don’t expect extensive lounging; it’s a busy day of sightseeing.

The group size is significant—up to 150 travelers—which means some may find the atmosphere a little crowded, but most find it manageable and worth the scenery. The guides are known to be professional and friendly, often going the extra mile to ensure everyone’s comfortable. One reviewer even mentions enjoying free profiteroles, adding a sweet touch to the day.

The Price – Is It Worth It?

At around $68.61, this tour is a good deal considering the length, stops, and included guide. While some reviews mention feeling crammed or missing some expectations, many agree it offers excellent value for the chance to see Sardinia’s stunning coast without the hassle of organizing individual trips. The price includes fuel, guide, and access to several key locations, making it a convenient way to explore the coast.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love being on the water, exploring hidden beaches, and snorkeling in crystal waters, you’ll likely enjoy this trip. It’s suitable for those looking for a full day of sightseeing with plenty of swimming and photo opportunities. It’s also a solid choice for travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and a well-organized plan.

However, if you prefer smaller groups, private experiences, or more shaded comfort, you might find this tour a bit crowded or sun-intensive. People with mobility issues may also want to consider the cave visit, which involves some walking and climbing.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour can be enjoyed by most travelers, but keep in mind the full-day length and sun exposure. Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is not provided, so you should bring your own if you plan to snorkel.

What is the departure point?
The meeting point is Sardinia Natural Park ToursPorto Turistico in Santa Maria Navarrese.

How long is each stop?
Stops vary from about 30 minutes at Piscine di Venere to 1.5 hours at Cala Luna, giving plenty of time to explore and swim.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Stops are weather-dependent; if sea conditions are unsafe, the tour may be canceled or altered, and you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Is there a bar on board?
Yes, there is a bar where you can buy drinks, including alcoholic beverages.

Are there any hidden costs?
Apart from the optional Grotta del Fico entrance (€10), snorkeling gear, food, and drinks are extras.

How crowded does the boat get?
The vessel can hold up to 200 people, but it’s usually half full, so expect some crowding but generally manageable.

Is this tour good value for money?
Considering the length, stops, and guides, most reviews indicate it’s a solid value, especially if you want to see Sardinia’s coast without organizing individual excursions.

Wrapping Up

This boat tour along the Baunei coast offers a comprehensive look at some of Sardinia’s most breathtaking beaches, caves, and coves. It’s perfect for those who want a full day of exploration, with ample opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing amidst stunning scenery. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both enjoyable and informative.

While it’s not a quiet, intimate cruise, it strikes a good balance for those looking to maximize their time in this beautiful region without the fuss of planning every detail. Whether you’re after picture-perfect beaches or a bit of adventure exploring caves, this tour delivers a scenic, memorable day on Sardinia’s coast.

If you’re comfortable sharing space on a lively boat and love discovering hidden gems by sea, this trip will likely be a highlight of your Sardinian adventure. Just pack sunscreen, bring your snorkel, and get ready for a day of natural beauty and fun.