Asinara: Sailing trip in the park of Asinara

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring Sardinia’s famed coast, the Asinara sailing trip offers an experience many travelers swear by. This tour, operated by the reputable Asinara Sailing School, promises a full day of swimming, land visits, and top-notch food—all set against the backdrop of one of Italy’s most scenic islands. What makes it stand out? The chance to visit hidden bays inaccessible by land, the expert guidance of Giorgio, and the delicious local seafood served on board.

We love that this trip balances adventure with comfort, offering multiple stops for swimming and snorkeling in some of the clearest waters around Sardinia. The one-hour stop on land gives you a taste of Asinara’s wild landscape, while the freshly prepared seafood lunch keeps everyone well-fed and happy. Plus, the small group size—max 11 travelers—means it stays intimate and personalized.

That said, one possible consideration is the weather dependency of the trip. Since outdoor sailing adventures are vulnerable to poor weather, cancellations are possible if conditions aren’t ideal. Still, if you’re flexible, this tour can be a highlight of your Sardinian trip, especially for those who love the sea, nature, and good food.

This experience suits travelers who want a well-rounded day out on the water, with a taste of local culture and scenery. It’s especially good for those who enjoy snorkeling, scenic stops, and a relaxed pace, along with a small, friendly group atmosphere.

Key Points

• Stunning Bays and Snorkeling: Multiple stops in beautiful, less crowded spots for swimming and snorkeling.
• Authentic Sardinian Cuisine: Fresh seafood lunch and local aperitifs served on the boat.
• Expert Guide: Giorgio’s knowledge and friendliness make the experience smooth and engaging.
• Small Group Experience: With a maximum of 11 travelers, it feels more personal and less rushed.
• Flexible and Weather-Dependent: Cancellations are possible if weather conditions don’t cooperate.
• Great Value: At around $116, you get a full-day tour with food, drinks, and snorkeling gear included.

Why This Sailing Trip Stands Out

The 8-hour sailing adventure offers a fantastic way to see parts of Asinara that aren’t easily accessible otherwise. The island is famous for its pristine waters, and this tour makes it easy to enjoy them without having to worry about navigation or logistics. You simply relax, take in the views, and enjoy the experience.

One aspect that travelers genuinely appreciate is the variety of stops. During the day, you’ll visit some of the most beautiful bays, with clear waters perfect for snorkelers. Multiple reviews highlight how incredible the snorkeling was, with some saying they saw an abundance of fish and enjoyed unmatched transparency in the water. Giorgio’s careful guidance and the boat’s comfortable setup make these stops even more enjoyable.

The land excursion—a roughly one-hour walk on Asinara itself—is a nice touch. It provides a break from the boat, allowing a quick exploration of the island’s wild landscape. Many reviews describe this part as a highlight, with guides sharing interesting stories and facts about the island’s natural and historical features.

The Itinerary in Detail

Departure at 9:30 am from Stintino marks the start of this full-day adventure. You’ll board a comfortable boat, generally with a small group of fellow travelers. The first part of the day involves setting sail along the coast, with the crew providing a friendly atmosphere and expert guidance.

Stops in bays are the heart of this trip. Expect several swim sessions in tranquil, picturesque locations. You’ll have the chance to snorkel in waters that many reviews describe as “incredible” and “spectacular,” often with abundant marine life. The snorkeling gear is provided, so all you need to do is bring your sense of adventure.

Mid-morning aperitif adds a cultural touch, with typical Sardinian treats like pecorino cheese and local salami. Many reviewers rave about the quality of the food and drinks. Giorgio, the host, is praised for his hospitality, cooking skills, and storytelling, which enrich the experience.

Lunchtime features a fresh seafood meal with options like local fish, complemented by drinks served on board. Several reviews mention how delicious and plentiful the food is, often paired with local wine. This makes the entire trip feel like a culinary as well as scenic journey.

Land visit lasts about an hour, giving you time to walk and explore parts of Asinara’s rugged landscape. It’s a chance for photos, quick sightseeing, or just stretching your legs before heading back to the boat.

Return around 5 pm wraps up the day, leaving you with memories of breathtaking views, crystalline waters, and new friends.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Feedback

From glowing reviews, it’s clear this trip hits many marks. One reviewer summed it up as, “Absolutely wonderful day—so beautiful, fantastic snorkeling, and Giorgio served the most amazing seafood.” Others highlight Giorgio’s professionalism and friendliness, describing him as “an excellent guide and cook,” making every stop and meal memorable.

Many travelers emphasize the beauty of the scenery—beaches with almost no people, breathtaking landscapes, and waters so clear they seem unreal. One review fondly mentions, “Great boat tour. We visited places impossible to reach in other ways,” which sums up why many choose this experience.

The small group size seems to be a big plus, fostering a relaxed environment where everyone feels attended to. Reviewers also appreciate how well-organized the day is—plenty of swimming, eating, and exploring without feeling rushed.

The food and drinks are a recurring highlight. Guests mention the seafood lunch, local aperitif, and drinks served on the boat, often describing them as plentiful and tasty. Giorgio’s cooking gets particular praise, which adds a special touch to the day.

Practical Details and Considerations

The price of $116 per person is quite reasonable considering it includes snorkeling gear, a hearty seafood lunch, drinks, and the guided experience. The tour lasts roughly 8 hours, allowing ample time to relax and enjoy each stop without feeling hurried.

The group size is capped at 11 travelers, meaning you won’t be on a crowded vessel. This small group setting fosters conversation, personalized attention, and an overall more intimate experience.

Meeting point is at Via Cala Sant’Andrea in Stintino—near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers. The tour is booked on average 32 days in advance, indicating it’s popular but still accessible.

Weather can influence the trip—if conditions are poor, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled. You’ll get a full refund if canceled due to weather, so it’s worth keeping an eye on the forecast.

Extra costs include a small entrance fee to C.R.A.M.A. (€2.50), a quick consideration if you plan to visit the island on foot during the stop.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This sailing trip is ideal for those who love the sea, snorkeling, and scenic coastal landscapes. If you’re looking for a relaxed, well-organized day with plenty of opportunities to swim and explore, this experience will suit you well. Food lovers will appreciate the fresh seafood and local specialties, and those who enjoy small-group atmospheres will find it more personal and engaging.

It’s less suited for travelers who need a highly flexible schedule or those with mobility issues, given the land walk and outdoor nature of the tour. However, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to see some of Sardinia’s most beautiful waters in a comfortable, friendly setting.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 8 hours, from 9:30 am departure to around 5 pm return.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers the full day sailing excursion, snorkeling equipment, a seafood lunch with drinks, and access to the boat’s restroom.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, there’s a €2.50 fee for entrance to C.R.A.M.A. if you choose to visit the island during the stop.

Is this trip suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-focused, kids who enjoy swimming, the outdoors, and boat trips tend to have a great time. Just note the walking on land is brief and outdoor.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, swimwear, a towel, and possibly some cash for small extra expenses. The snorkeling gear is provided, but you can bring your own if you prefer.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The trip is weather-dependent. If poor conditions cancel the tour, you’ll receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour. After that, no refund is available.

Is Giorgio the guide?
Yes, Giorgio is the host and guide, known for his friendliness, professionalism, and cooking skills. Many reviews mention his engaging storytelling and attentiveness.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about a month in advance, so planning early helps ensure you secure a spot.

For anyone seeking a relaxing yet adventurous day on Sardinia’s waters, this sailing trip to Asinara ticks all the boxes. It combines stunning natural scenery, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and a delicious, home-cooked seafood meal—all with a personable guide who makes the experience special.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a small-group environment, enjoy outdoor activities, and appreciate authentic regional cuisine. While the weather can impact plans, the overall value and the reviews speak highly of this tour’s quality.

Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just looking for a memorable day out, this trip offers a genuine taste of Sardinia’s coastal beauty—something you’ll likely remember long after the day ends.