Private sailing experience in Alghero

If you’re eyeing a trip to Alghero, Sardinia, and want something more personalized than a crowded group tour, this private sailing experience might catch your interest. Designed to offer an intimate exploration of the coast’s most beautiful spots, it promises a blend of scenic views, marine adventures, and delicious local food. We haven’t done this exact trip ourselves, but we’ve gathered enough details to give you an honest, balanced overview.

What really draws us to this experience are two key features: first, the opportunity to explore hidden gems like Capo Galera and Cala Dragunara—places that are often inaccessible without a boat—and second, the chance to enjoy authentic Sardinian cuisine on board, complete with local wine. A potential consideration? The price point is quite high at over $1,200 per group, which might seem steep unless you’re sharing it with friends or family and making the most of it. This kind of tour suits travelers looking for a luxurious, flexible day on the water—perfect if you appreciate comfort, personalized service, and scenic adventure.

This experience made our article of Top 15 Sailing Experiences In Alghero.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience along Sardinia’s northwest coast
• Includes snorkeling, SUP, and swimming in protected marine areas
• Offers local Sardinian food and wine on board, emphasizing authenticity
• Spectacular views of Punta Giglio, Bombarde, and Punta Negra
• Duration of around 7.5 hours makes for a leisurely, in-depth day
• High price point but with the benefit of exclusivity and tailored service

The Overall Experience: What You Can Expect

This tour is all about enjoying Sardinia’s coast from the comfort of a private vessel, giving you the freedom to set the pace. From the start, you get the sense of being treated to an exclusive day—no crowds, no rush, just your group and the sea. The boat itself offers a comfortable setting with space for up to 10 people, making it ideal for families, groups of friends, or couples looking for a special day.

The itinerary balances scenic cruising with active stops, all within the Porto Conte Marine Protected Area, a space known for its spectacular biodiversity. The boat trip begins in Alghero at around 10 am, giving plenty of time to soak up the sun and scenery. The journey is mainly navigation, so you’ll spend a good part of the day enjoying the views and the marine environment.

Exploring the Stops: From Hidden Beaches to Majestic Cliffs

Capo Galera Diving Center

Your first stop is at Capo Galera, often called the hidden pearl of north-west Sardinia. This spot is truly something special. Think of limestone cliffs carved by wind and sea, with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The seabed is reportedly teeming with marine life, making it a photographer’s dream and an ideal place to cool off after some sightseeing.

According to a review, the tranquility and natural beauty of Capo Galera are hard to beat, offering a “relaxing and regenerating break.” We love the idea of starting the day in such an untouched environment, especially if you’re a fan of quiet, unspoiled nature.

Punta Giglio and the Porto Conte Natural Park

Next, you’ll sail past Punta Giglio, a striking rocky promontory with imposing white cliffs that plunge into the turquoise sea. It’s part of the Porto Conte Natural Park, and passing under it allows you to appreciate the rugged, wild side of Sardinia. You might spot some sea birds along the cliffs, adding to the sense of being in a true natural sanctuary.

Cala Dragunara

A highlight of this tour is the stop at Cala Dragunara, a hidden beach with golden sands and clear waters. Here, a delicious Sardinian lunch is served on board—think local specialties and flavors that reflect the island’s culinary traditions. The two-hour stop offers plenty of time to relax, swim, or even snorkel in the calm waters. We’ve read a review describing Cala Dragunara as an environment of “extraordinary natural beauty,” making it an authentic and peaceful retreat in the middle of your day.

Marine Protected Area of Porto Conte

One of the big advantages of this tour is the exclusive access to the Marine Protected Area, known for its biodiversity and pristine waters. The tour operator’s authorization to explore this protected zone means you’ll see a vivid underwater world filled with colorful fish, corals, and marine life. Snorkeling gear is provided, so you can get close to the underwater scenery that makes Sardinia’s marine environment so special.

Lazzaretto and Bombarde Beaches

Later, you’ll cruise along the coast, passing Lazzaretto Beach, with its fine white sand and lush Mediterranean vegetation. The views here are postcard-perfect, with small coves and rock formations highlighting the wild beauty of the coast.

Similarly, Bombarde Beach is renowned for its golden sands and lively atmosphere. The turquoise waters and lively seabed make it a popular spot for snorkeling, and the scenery won’t disappoint—think dramatic cliffs, lush greenery, and clear waters that invite you to dip in.

Punta Negra

The final stop is at Punta Negra, near Alghero, for a relaxing hour. Here, you can enjoy local wine and appetizers while soaking in the stunning coastal views. This spot perfectly caps off a day full of natural beauty, good food, and memorable scenery.

What’s Included and Why It Matters

For the price, you get a lot: a full lunch with Sardinian dishes, local wine, soda, snorkeling equipment, and stand-up paddling gear. Fuel and the skipper are included, which means you’re paying for the convenience, comfort, and expert guidance. The customized, private nature of the tour means you’re not sharing your experience with strangers, allowing you to tailor the day to your preferences.

This level of service and personalization is reflected in a glowing review describing the trip as “magnificent,” and the fact that it’s booked on average 120 days in advance indicates how popular and sought-after it is.

The Balance of Price and Value

While the cost might seem high, it’s worth considering what’s included—private, exclusive access, a full day of scenic cruising, and authentic Sardinian cuisine with wine. If you value comfort, beautiful scenery, and a personalized experience, many travelers might find this a worthwhile splurge. It’s especially appealing if you’re celebrating something special or want a luxurious, stress-free day on the water.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for those who crave a more intimate, relaxed, and premium way to explore Sardinia’s coast. It suits travelers who appreciate good food and wine, enjoy marine activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding, and want to avoid the crowds. It’s also ideal for groups seeking exclusivity and a flexible schedule.

If you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or a small family that values comfort and personalized service, this trip offers an elegant way to see Sardinia’s natural beauty. Keep in mind, though, the price point means it’s probably less suitable for budget travelers or those who prefer more active, adventure-focused excursions without the added luxury.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those after a luxurious, tailored day in Sardinia’s stunning northwest, this private sailing experience hits the mark. The stops at unspoiled beaches, the chance to snorkel in protected waters, and the inclusion of local cuisine make it a well-rounded, memorable day. The views alone are worth the trip, and the exclusivity means you’ll enjoy a peaceful, personalized adventure.

However, if budget is a concern, or if you’re seeking a more energetic, less curated outing, you might want to explore other options. For a special occasion, a relaxing escape, or simply to indulge in Sardinia’s scenic coast without the crowds, this tour will likely satisfy.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours 30 minutes, starting at around 10 am.

What’s included in the price?
You get a full Sardinian lunch, local wine, soda, snorkeling gear, stand-up paddling equipment, fuel, and your skipper.

Is this tour suitable for families?
The information doesn’t specify family suitability, but it’s generally geared toward adults or groups of friends seeking a private, relaxed day. Kids might enjoy the water activities but should be supervised.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. The experience is weather-dependent, and poor conditions may result in a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 120 days ahead, indicating good planning is recommended for peak seasons.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, allowing you to explore Sardinia’s underwater life comfortably.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 10 people, making it intimate and private.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at IPMolo in Alghero and returns to the same meeting point.

Are there any age restrictions?
The minimum age for alcohol consumption is 18 years, but the tour itself is suitable for most travelers interested in sailing and scenery.

What makes this experience special?
The combination of private, customizable travel, breathtaking views, exclusive access to protected marine areas, and authentic Sardinian cuisine creates a memorable, indulgent day in Sardinia.

In the end, this private sailing tour offers a wonderful way to see Sardinia’s coast without the hustle and bustle of larger groups. It’s a blend of scenic beauty, cultural flavor, and personalized comfort—ideal if you’re looking to treat yourself or celebrate a special occasion by the sea.