From Porto Rotondo: dinghy tour of Porto Cervo’s beaches

Exploring Sardinia’s Hidden Beaches by Dinghy: A Detailed Look at the Porto Rotondo to Porto Cervo Tour

If you’re dreaming of soaking up Sardinia’s charm from the water, a dinghy tour departing from Porto Rotondo offers a fantastic way to see some of the most beautiful and exclusive beaches along the Costa Smeralda. This experience is a great choice whether you want a quick escape into nature or a relaxed, scenic outing that avoids the crowded beaches.

What we particularly love about this trip is how it combines access to secluded beaches and unspoiled islands with the intimacy of a small-group adventure. Plus, the chance to jump into crystal-clear waters and enjoy the scenery at multiple stops makes it feel like a personalized exploration.

One thing to keep in mind, though, is that snorkeling equipment isn’t included, so if you’re excited to snorkel, you’ll need to bring your own gear. Also, the tour is weather-dependent, which is pretty common for boat excursions, so it’s worth planning with a little flexibility in mind.

This tour suits travelers who love being on the water, want a taste of Sardinia’s signature beaches, and appreciate a relaxed pace. It’s ideal for those who enjoy scenic trips with a small group, making it both comfortable and personal.

Key Points

• Small group size (max 12 travelers) ensures a personalized experience.
• Multiple stops at iconic beaches and islands, each lasting around 25 minutes.
• Great for nature lovers who want clear waters and unspoiled scenery.
• Includes a professional skipper and fuel, simplifying the experience.
• Weather dependent, so check the forecast and be flexible.
• No snorkeling gear included, so bring your own if you want to explore underwater.

What to Expect from the Porto Rotondo Dinghy Tour

This tour offers around 3 hours and 30 minutes of coastal adventure, with at least 4-5 stops along Sardinia’s northeastern coast. The itinerary is flexible, dependent on sea conditions and the skipper’s decisions, but it generally includes some of the most admired beaches and islands in the area.

The experience begins in Porto Rotondo, a charming seaside village where you’ll meet your skipper and hop aboard a comfortably sized dinghy that can seat up to 12 guests. We loved the way the small group size fosters a relaxed, friendly atmosphere that feels more like a day out with friends than a crowded tour.

Starting Point: Porto Rotondo

The tour kicks off with a scenic ride around the small town of Porto Rotondo. As one of Sardinia’s prettiest coastlines, it’s the perfect introduction to the day. You’ll get a quick overview of the local sights while cruising along the coast, setting the stage for the beach-hopping to come.

First Stop: Capriccioli Beach

The first stop is Capriccioli Beach, renowned for its gentle white sands and shimmering green waters. Surrounded by granite rocks and lush greenery, it’s a picture-perfect spot for a quick swim or a peaceful break on the sand. The fact that it’s free to access makes it an especially appealing stop for those on a budget, but the scenery alone justifies the visit.

Second Stop: Isola Mortorio

Next, you’ll head to Isola Mortorio, part of the La Maddalena archipelago. This protected marine area is known for its untouched beauty and crystal-clear waters. According to reviews, this is a favorite for snorkelers and nature enthusiasts. The hour spent here is enough to enjoy a swim, take photos, and soak in the tranquility of this unspoiled island.

Third Stop: Romazzino Beach

Following that, you’ll arrive at Romazzino Beach, another jewel of Costa Smeralda. Famous for its fine white sand and vibrant turquoise waters, it’s a quintessential Sardinian scene. The lush Mediterranean vegetation framing the beach adds to its allure, making it a restful and somewhat luxurious stop to take in the views.

Returning to Porto Rotondo

The tour then continues back towards Porto Rotondo, giving you the chance to enjoy another scenic ride and possibly spot some luxury yachts or local wildlife along the way. The last stop is often Spiaggia del Principe, another gorgeous beach with similar features: white sands, clear waters, and rocky outcrops.

Authentic Experiences Highlighted by Travelers

From reviews, it’s clear that the skipper’s professionalism and friendly attitude elevate the tour. One reviewer praised Gippo, the skipper, for taking them to “great areas where the nice boats and yachts mingle,” adding that he was “very professional.” This personal touch seems to make all the difference, creating a relaxed, friendly environment.

Another traveler shared that the size of the dinghy was comfortable for 12 people and appreciated the ample swimming time. The opportunity to interact with the local fish and enjoy the waters was a highlight for many, consistent with the reviews noting the “amazing water” and “beautiful beaches.”

Several reviews emphasize how the scenery exceeded expectations, describing the beaches as “bellissimo,” and noting that the trip offers a unique perspective inaccessible via land. The ability to see Porto Cervo’s coastline from the water really allows you to appreciate its natural beauty and exclusivity.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes the dinghy ride, a professional skipper, and fuel surcharge, simplifying your planning and ensuring no hidden costs. It’s a small-group experience, with a maximum of 12 people, which helps keep things intimate and manageable.

However, snorkeling equipment isn’t included, so if you want to explore underwater, bring your own gear. There’s no toilet on the boat, but there is a sanitary stop ashore at Pirata Beach, which also has a bar. This makes it a good idea to plan for bathroom needs before the tour starts.

Meeting point is conveniently located at a specific spot in Porto Rotondo, and the tour is confirmed with at least four participants, which isn’t too restrictive. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind should weather or plans change.

Pricing and Value

At around $101.22 per person, this tour is on the more affordable side when you consider private boat trips or longer excursions. The price covers a decent amount of time on the water, several picturesque stops, and the expertise of a skipper who knows the area well.

Considering the high praise from travelers who say the experience “exceeded expectations” and that they enjoyed ample swimming time, it feels like good value for a half-day adventure in such a stunning setting. The small group size enhances the experience, making it more personal and relaxed than crowded boat tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This dinghy experience is perfect for travelers who love scenic coastlines and want a flexible, intimate way to see Sardinia’s beaches. It’s well-suited for those comfortable with small boat rides and interested in relaxing, photo-worthy stops rather than high-adrenaline activities.

While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the relaxed nature and the gentle pace suggest it could work for older children or teenagers who enjoy water and nature. If you’re looking for a quiet, scenic escape with minimal hassle, this trip hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This dinghy tour from Porto Rotondo to the beaches of Porto Cervo offers an authentic, relaxing way to experience Sardinia’s stunning coastline. With its small group size, flexible stops, and knowledgeable skipper, you’ll enjoy a personalized adventure that highlights the island’s most iconic beaches and unspoiled islands.

It’s ideal for those who want to enjoy natural beauty, appreciate a slower pace, and skip the crowds. The stops at Capriccioli, Mortorio Island, Romazzino, and Porto Rotondo showcase Sardinia’s varied landscapes and crystal-clear waters, making it a memorable addition to any trip.

While the lack of snorkeling gear and the weather dependency are considerations, the overall experience offers excellent value for the scenery, comfort, and personal touch. If you’re seeking a laid-back, scenic boat outing that highlights Sardinia’s coastline, this tour is likely to leave you with plenty of photos and memories to cherish.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including multiple stops along the coast and islands.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the dinghy excursion, a professional skipper, and fuel surcharge. It does not include snorkeling equipment.

How many stops are there?
There are at least 4-5 stops, each lasting around 25 minutes, at beaches and islands such as Capriccioli, Mortorio Island, Romazzino, and others.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed for families, the relaxed pace and scenic nature suggest it could suit older children comfortable with boat rides.

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear?
Yes, since snorkeling equipment isn’t provided, bringing your own is recommended if you wish to snorkel at stops.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are toilets available on board?
No, there are no toilets on the boat, but a sanitary stop is available ashore at Pirata Beach with toilets.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour has a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a small-group experience.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 11 days in advance, especially in peak seasons, to secure a spot.

If you’re after a scenic, intimate, and relaxed way to see Sardinia’s beaches and islands, this dinghy tour from Porto Rotondo makes a memorable option. It combines natural beauty, personal service, and the thrill of being on the water — a recipe for a truly special day.