Boat Tour La Maddalena Archipelago from Palau

If you’re eyeing a trip to Sardinia and want to experience its famed archipelago, this boat tour from Palau is one of the most booked options out there. We haven’t personally taken it ourselves, but after sifting through hundreds of reviews and the tour details, it’s clear that this experience offers a good blend of scenic beauty, relaxed beach time, and local charm.

What really draws people in are the chance to visit multiple islands in one day and the opportunity for refreshing swims in crystal-clear waters. Plus, the tour’s mix of sightseeing and leisure makes it appealing whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or even as a small family group.

That said, a potential downside is the crowd factor—especially in peak season, the boat can get pretty busy, and some travelers have noted that getting to beaches or finding space on the boat can be tricky. If you prefer quiet, solitary beaches or a less crowded experience, you’ll want to plan accordingly.

All in all, this tour is best suited for those who love being on the water, enjoy island hopping, and are looking for a well-organized, value-packed day out. It’s not perfect for anyone seeking a private or super-exclusive experience, but it hits the sweet spot for most travelers wanting a memorable day in the archipelago.

Key Points

• Well-Organized Itinerary: The tour hits multiple islands, offering a good mix of sightseeing, beach time, and optional exploration.
• Great Value for the Price: At around $58, you get a full day’s boat trip, stops at several islands, and opportunities for swimming and relaxing.
• Scenic Highlights: From the famous Pink Beach to the old lighthouse on Santa Maria, the views are a definite highlight.
• Crowded but Fun: Expect a lively atmosphere, especially in high season, which can mean busy beaches and limited space on the boat.
• Flexible Stops: You can choose between visiting La Maddalena town or Cala Coticcio Beach, which is handy depending on your interests.
• Good Food & Guide: The onboard commentary is helpful, and reviews mention the helpful staff and tasty food options.

The Itinerary: What to Expect Day-by-Day

Departure from Palau & First Stop at Isola di Spargi

Your adventure begins bright and early, with check-in open from 9am to 10am. The boat departs promptly at 10:30am, so it’s wise to arrive early—Palau can be busy, and parking might be limited. The journey to Spargi is roughly 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to settle in and start soaking up the views.

Once you arrive at Spargi, the boat’s open doorways make it easy to step directly onto the island with your beach gear. This quick hop-on, hop-off feeling lets you maximize your time on the sand. Expect beaches here that are perfect for lounging, swimming, or simply floating in the calm waters.

Snaps of Pink Beach and Porto Della Madonna

The next stop is perhaps one of the most photographed spots—the Pink Beach, or Spiaggia Rosa. You’ll get a quick photo stop to admire the tiny pink particles that give this beach its fame, even if in reality, some say the pink hue is more subtle than expected. It’s a fun photo op, and the surrounding natural swimming pool at Porto Della Madonna is a highlight for many. The water’s emerald color makes for incredible photos and refreshing swims.

Santa Maria Island: Beach Time & Lighthouse Walk

Moving on, your boat will anchor at Santa Maria, where you can stroll to the old lighthouse or just sunbathe and swim at the beaches. Reviewers especially appreciate the ease of disembarking with all their gear, and many say the beach offers enough space to relax, even if it can get busy in peak periods.

On certain days, after Santa Maria, instead of heading to La Maddalena town, you’ll stop at Caprera for a swim at Cala Coticcio, sometimes called Tahiti Beach. If you’re lucky, you’ll get a chance to swim in the natural aquarium—a true highlight for water lovers.

La Maddalena Town or Cala Coticcio

Depending on the day, the tour concludes with a visit to La Maddalena’s quaint town center, where you can walk around, shop, and indulge in the renowned local gelato. Alternatively, on other days, the last stop is at Cala Coticcio, a stunning beach with a natural lagoon, perfect for a final swim.

Return to Palau

The boat heads back around 5:30pm, giving you plenty of time to relax and reflect on the day. It’s a full, satisfying experience, often described as “well-organized” and “worth every penny” by many satisfied travelers.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Insights

Multiple reviews highlight the friendly, helpful crew, which makes a big difference when you’re spending hours on a boat. One reviewer praised the “great and very friendly staff,” noting that the crew was “polite and super helpful.” Another commented that the lunch served on board, usually pasta or crepes, is tasty and adds to the overall value.

Several travelers mention the stunning scenery, especially during the crossings and at stops like Pink Beach and Cala Coticcio. One review states, “The trip was wonderful, with plenty of time to explore or soak up the sun,” which captures the balance this tour tries to strike.

However, some reviews caution about the crowds, especially in summer. You might find beaches crowded or limited space on the boat, especially if you’re traveling with kids or want quiet time. A few reviewers pointed out that getting to beaches can involve trails or steps, which may be tricky for some.

Pricing is considered reasonable, especially considering the full day of activity, the stops, and the opportunity to swim in multiple spots. The $58.14 per person fee covers the boat, guide commentary, and fuel surcharge, making it a fair deal for most travelers.

Practical Details & Tips

• Timing: Check-in is from 9am to 10am at the Palau ferry station. Arriving early is wise, especially in high season when parking and crowds can slow you down.
• Duration: The trip lasts around 7 hours, with the boat returning around 5:30pm.
• Group Size: The tour caps at 90 travelers, so expect a lively but manageable group.
• Additional Costs: Keep in mind, the tour doesn’t include drinks or snacks—they’re available for purchase onboard. Also, there’s a landing fee of about 5 euros payable at the town hall of La Maddalena.
• Weather: The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
• Family-Friendly? While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the slow pace, swimming stops, and sightseeing make it suitable for most ages, though children must be accompanied by an adult.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip offers an excellent way to see the highlights of La Maddalena Archipelago without the hassle of organizing your own boat or transport. If you’re seeking a full day of scenic cruising, island stops, and swimming, this tour delivers.

It’s especially appealing if you enjoy guided experiences with informative commentary and don’t mind a bit of a crowd. The beaches and scenery are stunning enough to make it worth the price, and the friendly crew keeps the atmosphere warm and welcoming.

However, if you’re after solitude and quiet beaches, or traveling outside peak season, you might find the crowds a bit overwhelming. Still, for most visitors who want to tick off the main sights and enjoy the islands’ natural beauty, this trip is a solid choice.

FAQs

• What is included in the tour? The tour includes the boat ride, live commentary, restroom facilities onboard, and fuel surcharge. Food and drinks are available to purchase.
• Can I visit La Maddalena town? Yes, on certain days, the final stop is in La Maddalena’s town center for about an hour, perfect for shopping or exploring.
• What if I want to swim at Cala Coticcio? On some days, after Santa Maria, the tour makes a stop at Cala Coticcio for swimming, which many reviewers say is a highlight.
• How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, with the boat returning around 5:30pm.
• Is there a parking nearby? Yes, parking is available in Via Fonte Vecchia. Remember, parking is limited and costs about 1 euro per hour.
• What should I bring? Bring swimwear, sun protection, water, and perhaps a snack if you want extras since onboard snacks are not included.

This boat tour offers a practical, scenic, and fun way to experience the La Maddalena Archipelago. Whether you’re looking to relax on beaches, explore charming towns, or simply take in incredible views, it’s a trip that balances activity with leisure—just be prepared for a lively day with fellow travelers.