Boat excursion from Marina Piccola Cagliari with aperitif

A Close-Up Look at the Marina Piccola Cagliari Boat Excursion

If you’re dreaming of soaking up Sardinia’s natural beauty from the water, this boat trip from Marina Piccola might just catch your eye. While we haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a relaxing, scenic way to explore some of the island’s most picturesque spots. It’s a private experience guided by an experienced skipper on a spacious, comfortable dinghy—ideal for those who want a blend of adventure, tranquility, and local flavors.

What we really like about this excursion is its focus on stunning scenery and personalized service. The fact that it’s a private tour means you’re not just another face in a crowd, and the guide’s reputation for professionalism makes it clear you’re in good hands. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious aperitif with Sardinian specialties adds a lovely touch to the experience. One potential drawback is the 3-hour duration—if you’re after a longer day on the water, this might feel a bit quick. That said, it’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want a meaningful taste of Sardinia’s coast.

This tour suits travelers who love crystal-clear waters, want a manageable yet scenic outing, and appreciate a mix of relaxation and light activity. It’s especially good for those looking for a private, guided experience that balances sightseeing with local flavor. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy the water but don’t want a full-day commitment, this could be just right.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with a knowledgeable skipper
• Beautiful stops for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing in Sardinia’s iconic coves
• Comfortable boat with plenty of space and amenities like Bluetooth stereo
• Includes a local aperitif with Sardinian products, fresh fruit, drinks, and sparkling wine
• Duration of about 3 hours makes it a perfect half-day adventure
• Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak season

Why This Boat Excursion Stands Out

When it comes to exploring Sardinia’s coastline, a boat trip offers a level of intimacy and flexibility that other tours can’t match. This particular outing, departing from Marina Piccola, promises a comfortable ride on an 8-meter inflatable boat equipped with a robust 300hp engine, ensuring smooth sailing between stunning locations. The boat’s spacious design, including sun loungers and a large awning, means you can relax as much or as little as you want.

The real star here is the itinerary. Starting from Marina Piccola’s port, you’ll head towards the Sella del Diavolo, a dramatic promontory that’s worth a quick photo stop. From there, the tour ventures into the coveted coves—Cala Fighera, Cala Bernat, Cala Mosca—each offering perfect spots for snorkeling and swimming. The crystal-clear waters of these areas are frequently praised in reviews, with visitors noting how inviting and warm the sea feels.

Snorkeling and Swimming

A major highlight of this tour is the opportunity to snorkel for free using the provided equipment. Many past guests have raved about the quality of the water and how clear it is, making it easy to spot colorful fish and marine life. If relaxing in the sun is more your speed, the boat’s large sunbeds and shade are perfect for catching some rays after a swim. It’s all about balance—getting your dose of sun, sea, and serenity.

The Aperitif and Music

What elevates this trip from just another boat ride is the local aperitif served before heading back to Marina Piccola. Expect a small tasting of Sardinian cold cuts, cheeses, and Carasau or Guttiau bread, alongside seasonal fruit and drinks like soft drinks, spritz, or prosecco. As one reviewer noted, “the aperitif was delicious,” adding a genuine touch of Sardinian hospitality to the experience.

If you’re into music, you’ll appreciate the Bluetooth stereo system, which allows you to connect your phone and play your favorite tunes during the cruise. It’s a simple detail that can really enhance the mood and make the trip feel more personalized.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Sella del Diavolo

Your adventure begins at Marina Piccola’s port, where you’ll hop aboard the spacious dinghy. The first stop is the Sella del Diavolo, a prominent promontory offering commanding views and a dramatic backdrop for photos. While the highlights are the coves, this initial point sets the tone for the scenic beauty you’ll encounter throughout.

Coveted Coves: Cala Fighera, Cala Bernat, Cala Mosca

These are the star attractions, each offering unique vistas and opportunities for snorkeling and swimming. The water here is consistently praised for its clarity, making it ideal for spotting marine life. Many reviews mention how much they enjoyed swimming in the calm, warm waters—perfect for a relaxing respite.

The Aperitif

Before heading back, there’s a well-deserved refreshing stop for an aperitif. The Sardinian snacks and drinks are a hit with guests, providing a taste of the local cuisine and a chance to unwind in the beautiful setting.

What Travelers Say

The reviews provide valuable insight into what you can expect. Many highlight the skipper’s professionalism and friendliness, with comments like “Massimo is super professional” and “helpful and passionate about his work.” The boat’s comfort and spaciousness are also frequently praised, as is the quality of the snorkeling spots.

One reviewer mentioned, “This excursion went well beyond expectations,” emphasizing the stunning scenery and smooth ride. Another shared how the delicious aperitif and friendly guide made the day memorable.

A recurring theme is that this experience is not just about sightseeing but about enjoying a relaxed, intimate time on the water. Families, friends, or solo travelers looking for a casual yet scenic trip are often recommended for this tour.

The Practical Side: Transportation, Cost, and Booking

The tour departs from Porticciolo Turistico Marina Piccola in Cagliari, an accessible spot near public transportation. It lasts approximately 3 hours, making it manageable even if you’re tight on time or prefer a shorter outing. The price of around $75 per person seems reasonable considering the inclusions—guided tour, snorkeling gear, aperitif, and the use of a comfortable boat.

Most travelers book about 41 days in advance, reflecting its popularity, especially during high season. The booking process offers mobile tickets, adding convenience.

Cancellation and Weather

They offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip, which is helpful if weather conditions turn unfavorable—Sardinia’s weather can be unpredictable, so flexibility is a plus. If the trip is canceled due to bad weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comfortable, guided water adventure with stunning scenery and cultural touches like local aperitifs. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a shorter, manageable trip that still delivers picture-perfect moments. The private nature of the tour makes it a good choice for couples, small groups, or families with older children who enjoy being on the water.

It’s less suited for those seeking a full-day excursion or diving deep into Sardinia’s history or geology, as this is primarily a scenic, leisurely cruise.

Final Thoughts

This boat trip from Marina Piccola offers a relaxed yet scenic way to experience Sardinia’s beautiful coastline. The combination of stunning coves, professional guidance, and a tasty local aperitif provides good value for the price. The positive reviews highlight the quality of the skipper, the comfort of the boat, and the memorable views.

If you’re after a private, calm, and visually stunning half-day on the water, this tour ticks most boxes. It’s well-suited for travelers who want an easy, no-hassle way to explore Sardinia’s coast while enjoying some local flavors and great scenery.

For those who love the idea of snorkeling in clear waters, relaxing under the sun, and listening to your favorite music, this experience is likely to leave you with great memories—and perhaps a new appreciation of Sardinia’s natural charm.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
While it isn’t explicitly marketed as a family-specific experience, the calm waters, short duration, and private setting make it a good option for families with older children who enjoy water activities.

How long does the tour last?
The excursion lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat trip guided by an experienced skipper, snorkeling equipment, an aperitif with Sardinian products, and the use of Bluetooth stereo for music.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, there is free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the scheduled trip. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a full refund or alternative date.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is made available free of charge for participants.

Do I need to bring my own food or drinks?
No, the tour includes a Sardinian aperitif, drinks, and fresh fruit. You can bring your own if you like, but it’s not necessary.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Porticciolo Turistico Marina Piccola and returns to the same spot after the trip.

Is the boat suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour features a comfortable 8-meter dinghy, but accessibility details aren’t specified. It’s best to contact the provider directly if you have concerns.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 41 days ahead, especially during peak season.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a towel, and your preferred music device if you want to use the stereo system.

If you’re looking for a laid-back yet scenic way to enjoy Sardinia’s coast, this private boat tour from Marina Piccola could be just what you need. It offers a great combination of comfort, natural beauty, and local flavor—perfect for a memorable half-day.