Boat Tour Full Day La Maddalena, Caprera, Spargi, Budelli

If you’ve been dreaming of a day out on the water exploring Sardinia’s famed La Maddalena archipelago, this boat tour might just be what you’re looking for. From what we gather, it offers a well-rounded experience that combines scenic cruising, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and visiting some of the most iconic beaches and islands in the area. It’s a trip designed for those who love nature, a bit of adventure, and a touch of comfort—all wrapped into one 7.5-hour package.

What really caught our attention is the intimacy of the tour. With a maximum of just 12 travelers, it promises a more personal experience compared to larger, more crowded excursions. Plus, the focus on safety and comfort, with full optional dinghies and guided visits, seems to make for a smooth, enjoyable day. But there are a couple of things you might want to consider, such as the fact that lunch isn’t included, which means you’ll need to plan for a meal during the day.

This tour appears best suited for travelers who value expert guidance, scenic sailing, and a relaxed pace that allows plenty of time to enjoy each stop. If you’re traveling with a keen sense of adventure but appreciate comfort and small-group vibes, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Small-group experience offers personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Varied itinerary includes beaches, coves, and iconic landmarks, providing a comprehensive visit.
• Expert skipper enhances safety and points out interesting spots.
• Swim and snorkel opportunities at several stops, with supplied equipment.
• No lunch included, so plan accordingly.
• Price reflects a full day of exploration with multiple stops and amenities.

The Full Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and First Stop: Cala Brigantina

Your day begins around 10:00 am at Noleggio Le Isole in Cannigione. From there, you’ll hop aboard a boat designed for maximum comfort and safety—full optional dinghies that allow speedy, flexible movement around the islands. The first stop is Cala Brigantina, a pristine, untouched beach on Caprera Island. Here, you’ll have about 45 minutes to enjoy the solitude and the feeling of being alone on a deserted stretch of sand. It’s the perfect way to start the day with a refreshing swim and a breath of fresh sea air.

Exploring Caprera’s Ravines and Cala Coticcio

Next, the route takes you along the northern coast of Caprera. You’ll pass through its dramatic ravines, giving you a glimpse of the island’s rugged beauty. About 10:45 am, you’ll arrive at Cala Coticcio, a renowned cove protected by buoy barriers. The shallow waters and clear visibility make it a favorite for swimming and relaxing without the worry of boats crowding the area. This stop lasts about an hour, giving you ample time to soak in the scenery and snap some photos of the rugged coastline.

Budelli and the Cavaliere Beach

Leaving Caprera, your boat heads north to the Budelli archipelago. Here, in front of Cavaliere Beach, you’ll anchor in some of the natural pools—ideal for a swim in calm, clear waters. A Sardinian-style aperitif is included on board, making the experience even more enjoyable as you take in the surroundings. This part of the tour is highly praised, with reviews emphasizing the relaxed, friendly atmosphere created by the captain and crew.

The Long Lunch at Santa Maria

By 1:00 pm, you’ll arrive at Santa Maria Island for the longest stop of the day—about an hour and a half. The beach here offers a great chance to unwind, rest, and perhaps enjoy a quick stroll along the sand. It’s a perfect spot for reading, taking photos, or just soaking up the sun in a peaceful setting. The included entrance ticket ensures you’re free to enjoy the beach without extra costs.

Rosa Beach and Spargi Island

After lunch, the boat moves south toward Rosa Beach, which is inaccessible by land or even swimming—making it a unique photo opportunity. You’ll spend around 15 minutes here, capturing images of this stunning pink-hued beach from the boat.

By mid-afternoon, the focus shifts to Spargi Island. Here, you’ll find some of the archipelago’s most beautiful beaches—Cala Granara, Cala Soraya, and Cala dell’amore. A quick anchor at Cala Granara allows for another swim and some relaxing in nature’s quiet beauty. Reviewers loved the “magical bath” at anchor, describing it as a highlight of the day.

Cala Corsara and Final Views

Next is Cala Corsara, one of the tour’s favorites, where you’ll spend about an hour on the sand. The setting is particularly striking—cliffs meeting the water and a peaceful atmosphere that makes it ideal for relaxing or snapping memorable photos. As the day winds down, you’ll get a chance to admire the western side of La Maddalena and the nearby island of Santo Stefano, along with the iconic “Bear Rock,” a symbol of Palau.

Wrapping Up and Return

The return journey begins around 5:00 pm, and during this time, the captain might point out other scenic views and landmarks. The tour concludes back at your starting point around 5:30 pm, giving you a full day of exploration packed into a manageable schedule.

What We Loved About This Tour

Based on reviews and the itinerary, one of the standout features is the knowledgeable guidance from the skipper. Travelers especially appreciated Antonio’s attentiveness and local insights, which enriched the experience. The small group setting also means you get more personalized attention and can ask questions or relax without feeling lost among larger crowds.

The stunning scenery throughout the day is another big plus. From pristine beaches to dramatic coves and sea stacks, each stop offers fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to enjoy Sardinia’s natural beauty up close. The stops are well spaced, allowing plenty of time for swimming, relaxing, or exploring.

The Value of the Included Amenities

Snorkeling equipment, Sardinian snacks, and an aperitif onboard boost the overall value. It’s these little extras that round out a day that feels both fun and thoughtfully curated. The inclusion of entrance tickets to the national park adds a layer of convenience, so you don’t have to worry about extra fees.

Things to Keep in Mind

One minor consideration is that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to buy something during the day—this isn’t necessarily a downside, just something to prepare for. Also, although the boat is comfy and well-equipped, be ready for a full day at sea, which may not suit everyone if you have mobility issues or dislike being on the water for long stretches.

The tour’s timing and small group size make it ideal for those who want a relaxed pace and personalized experience. If you’re seeking a fast-paced or large-group adventure, this might not be the best fit. However, for lovers of scenic cruising, swimming, and natural beauty, it ticks almost all the boxes.

The Sum Up

This full-day boat tour around La Maddalena offers a very balanced mix of scenic vistas, swimming stops, and relaxed exploration. The small-group format, led by a knowledgeable skipper, keeps the experience intimate and engaging. The itinerary hits all the must-see spots—Cala Brigantina, Cala Coticcio, Budelli, Spargi—and offers plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxation.

The value lies in the mix of amenities, the personalized attention, and the chance to explore Sardinia’s stunning archipelago at your own pace. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate comfort, small groups, and an immersive day in nature, rather than just ticking off sights.

If you’re looking for a memorable, well-organized day on the water with friendly guidance and spectacular scenery, this tour could be just the thing. Just remember to bring some snacks for lunch and prepare for a full day of adventure.

FAQ

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 10:00 am and concludes around 5:30 pm, with the majority of the day spent exploring and enjoying various stops.

How long is the total duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 7.5 hours, including all stops and cruising time.

Is lunch provided?
No, lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to buy something during the day.

How many people are on the tour?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, making for a small and intimate experience.

What’s included in the price?
Snorkeling equipment, a Sardinian aperitif, onboard snacks, and entrance tickets to the La Maddalena archipelago national park are included.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and your own snacks or drinks for lunch are advisable. Bring a camera for the stunning vistas.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the review doesn’t specify, the relaxed pace, small group size, and focus on scenic stops suggest it could be suitable for older children who enjoy water activities.

What if the weather turns bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Noleggio Le Isole in Cannigione and ends back at the same point.

If this sounds like your kind of day—full of sun, sea, and scenic beauty—it’s worth considering. Just remember, booking in advance is recommended, as it’s a popular option among travelers seeking a genuine, personalized Sardinian adventure.