Discover Cagliari’s Coast on a Classic Sardinian Gozzo with Tasting
If you’re considering a boat trip in Cagliari, there’s a lot to like about this classic boat tour along the Gulf of Cagliari. From the moment you step aboard the Mauna Loa III, you can expect a relaxed, scenic experience that combines natural beauty, local flavor, and just enough adventure. While it’s not a full-day expedition, the 3.5-hour outing offers a wonderful snapshot of the coast, perfect for a half-day escape.
What really stands out are the stunning views you’ll get from the water and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters at some of Sardinia’s most exclusive beaches. We also appreciate the friendly, knowledgeable crew who make the experience feel genuine rather than overly touristy. The tasting of local snacks and drinks adds a nice touch, making the whole trip feel more personal.
One consideration is that the tour is quite structured, with a set itinerary and limited time at each stop—if you’re after a more flexible or expansive adventure, this might feel a bit tight. However, for those wanting a relaxing, well-organized tour with the chance to explore parts of the coast only accessible by boat, it hits the sweet spot.
This experience is especially suited for travelers who enjoy scenic cruising, small-group intimacy, and a blend of sightseeing with good local food and drink. It caters well to couples, friends, or anyone looking for a peaceful break away from the busy city streets.
Key Points

- Beautiful coastal scenery with stops at secluded beaches
- Swim and snorkel in clear, inviting waters
- Relaxing ambiance aboard a traditional Sardinian gozzo
- Local tasting with snacks and drinks served by friendly crew
- Small group size (limited to 10 participants) for a more intimate vibe
- Flexible cancellation policy with full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance
A Detailed Look at the Cagliari Classic Boat Tour

If you’re imagining a relaxing afternoon exploring Sardinian coastline, this 3.5-hour boat trip might be just what you’re looking for. Starting at the Marina Piccola, the tour takes you along some of the most attractive parts of the Gulf of Cagliari, with stops at beaches and scenic spots that are accessible only by boat—definitely a perk if you love discovering hidden gems.
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Cagliari
The Itinerary and What to Expect

The tour kicks off at Porticciolo Turistico Marina Piccola, where you’ll meet your guide and hop aboard the Mauna Loa III, a charming wooden gozzo that exudes traditional Sardinian character. The boat’s large sunpads, shade canopy, and comfortable setup mean you can settle in for a leisurely ride, enjoying the sea breeze, music, and the sights.
Throughout the trip, you’ll visit several spots:
- Cala Bernat: A quick photo stop, swimming for about 20 minutes. This small cove is perfect for a quick dip, with calm waters and scenic surroundings.
- Cala Mosca: One of the larger stops, with around 40 minutes for swimming, photos, and relaxing. The reviews highlight how breathtaking these views are and how the crew makes the experience memorable.
- Cala Fighera: Another short stop (around 20 minutes), offering more opportunities to swim and take pictures.
- Grotta dei colombi: A brief 15-minute stop, likely to admire the underwater and land scenery.
- Sella del Diavolo: The highlight for many, with a 30-minute break. This iconic rock formation provides fantastic photo opportunities and a sense of Sardinia’s rugged charm.
- 55V7+WQ Cagliari: The final swimming stop, lasting about 45 minutes, giving you time to relax and enjoy the water one last time.
The last stop includes an aperitivo with local delicacies and drinks, a feature praised in reviews for adding a personal, welcoming touch. The crew often supplies snorkeling equipment and stand-up paddleboards, giving everyone a chance to enjoy the water in various ways.
The Experience and the Crew

Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable, friendly guides, who share anecdotes along the way, making the tour both informative and personal. One reviewer called the host Andrea an “excellent host,” highlighting how the experience felt tailored and enjoyable.
The boat itself, from a 1965 model that’s been lovingly maintained, adds a charming, vintage feel to the journey. Its size and layout make it comfortable, and the inclusion of fresh water and music helps create a relaxed atmosphere.
The Value of the Tour

At $67.97 per person, this tour offers good value considering what’s included. You’re getting roughly three and a half hours on the water, multiple swimming and photo stops, snorkeling gear, a local tasting, and a small, intimate group. The reviews note how the guides go out of their way to ensure guests have a memorable experience, providing local tips, snacks, and drinks at the end.
While it’s not a luxurious yacht experience, the charm of the classic boat, combined with the natural beauty and the local tasting, makes it feel authentic and worthwhile. For many travelers, the quality of the views and the personalized service outweigh any minor limitations.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for people who want a laid-back, scenic escape that combines water, nature, and local flavors. It’s suitable for those who don’t mind a set itinerary and appreciate small-group interactions. If you’re after a stress-free way to see Sardinia’s coast without long drives or heavy excursions, this fits the bill.
It’s also well-suited for travelers who enjoy snorkeling and swimming in clear waters or want to take some beautiful photos. Couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers who love meeting new people can all find value here.
Keen to taste more of Cagliari? We've looked into these other food and drink experiences
- Small-Group Food and Wine Tour from Cagliari
- Cagliari: A Full Meal Sardinian Food Tour with Do Eat Better
- Winery And Oil Mill Tasting Tour
- Boat Tour to Sella del Diavolo: Snorkeling, GoPro & Beer
- Craft Sardinian beer tasting in Cagliari’s historic center
- Cagliari – Guided tour of the vineyard and winery with tasting of 5 wines
Final Thoughts

This Cagliari classic boat tour manages to strike a balance between relaxed sightseeing and active fun, all wrapped in a very authentic Sardinian package. The combination of beautiful scenery, friendly guides, and a taste of local snacks makes it more than just a boat ride—it’s a small, memorable adventure along Sardinia’s coast.
While it might not be the longest or most luxurious tour out there, it’s a well-organized, genuinely charming experience that offers a lot for the price. If you’re looking for a peaceful way to explore Sardinia’s waters, this tour is a safe bet.
Cagliari: Classic Boat tour along the gulf with tasting.
“Andrea was an excellent host! We had a wonderful, relaxing time — just what we were looking for on our only day in Cagliari. The views were absolu…”
FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, children who are comfortable swimming and enjoy being on boats should be fine. The focus is on relaxation and exploring, so it’s suitable for families looking for a gentle outing.
What should I bring?
Just a towel and perhaps some sunscreen. The boat provides snorkeling gear and stand-up paddleboards, so you don’t need to bring your own equipment unless you prefer.
Does the tour include food?
The tour features a typical aperitivo with local snacks and drinks, which most reviews find to be a nice addition. There are no full meals, but the tasting complements the experience well.
How long is the entire trip?
The boat ride lasts approximately 3.5 hours, including stops for swimming, photos, and the aperitivo. Check availability for specific start times.
What is the group size?
Limited to 10 participants, so you’ll enjoy a more intimate, personal experience, rather than a large tour bus vibe.
Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.
Can I book and pay later?
Absolutely, reservations can be made with the option to reserve now and pay later, keeping your plans flexible.
If you’re after a laid-back, scenic, and friendly way to explore Sardinia’s coast, this boat tour could be just what you need. It offers a genuine taste of the local environment, combined with great views and warm service—an easy recommendation for the right traveler.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Food & Drink Experiences in Cagliari
- Wine Tasting & Winery Visit on Cagliari Countryside Hills
- Cagliari: Boat Tour with Snorkeling, GoPro & Sardinian Beer
- Cagliari Old Town: Wine Tasting and local products
- Boutique Winery Tour with Wine & Food Tasting near Cagliari
- Cagliari: Taste Sardinia with a Full Meal Food Tour
- Cagliari Wine Tasting at Tenute Maestrale
More Tours in Cagliari
- Cagliari E-Bike Tour: Canals & Flamingos at Molentargius
- Cagliari: Devil’s saddle boat tour, 4 stops and prosecco
- Tour Nature & Wildlife from Cagliari
- Best of Cagliari: Private Walking Tour with a Local
- Cagliari: three-hour dinghy tour in the Gulf of Angeles
- Deluxe Cagliari Shore Excursion for Cruise Ships
More Tour Reviews in Cagliari
- Cagliari E-Bike Tour: Canals & Flamingos at Molentargius
- Cagliari: Discovering the Sella del Diavolo
- Cagliari: Wakeboarding and Tubing in the Angel’s gulf!
- Cagliari: Devil’s saddle boat tour, 4 stops and prosecco
- Wine Tasting & Winery Visit on Cagliari Countryside Hills
- Tour Nature & Wildlife from Cagliari
More Cagliari experiences we've covered
- Cagliari: Discovering the Sella del Diavolo
- Cagliari: Classic Boat tour along the gulf with tasting.
- Cagliari: Wakeboarding and Tubing in the Angel’s gulf!
- Cagliari: Devil’s saddle boat tour, 4 stops and prosecco
- Wine Tasting & Winery Visit on Cagliari Countryside Hills
- Tour Nature & Wildlife from Cagliari
- Best of Cagliari: Private Walking Tour with a Local
- Cagliari: three-hour dinghy tour in the Gulf of Angeles
- Cagliari: Sardinian Cooking Class with Meal and Drinks
- Cagliari: Spritz Cocktail Making Class with Snacks
- Deluxe Cagliari Shore Excursion for Cruise Ships
- Cagliari: Boat Tour Snorkeling frutta alla Sella del Diavolo

