Cagliari: Sailing tour to Devil’s Saddle aboard Merak

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy Sardinia’s coastline that combines sailing, swimming, and a touch of local storytelling, this sailing tour to Devil’s Saddle aboard the Merak might just be what you need. Based in Cagliari, this experience promises a relaxed yet engaging day on the water, led by an experienced sailor passionate about sharing his love for the sea and the island’s natural beauty.

What we really like about this tour is the balance it strikes between sailing and leisure — you get the chance to steer the boat if you want, and the scenery is consistently gorgeous. Plus, the chance to spot dolphins and see the Luna Rossa sailing boat practicing for the Americas Cup adds a cool, sporty vibe to the day. On the other hand, a small potential drawback is that if you’re seasick or prefer not to be on a boat for long periods, this might not be ideal. It’s a four-hour trip, which is generally manageable, but it’s worth considering your comfort on the water.

This experience is really best suited for those who enjoy a laid-back, scenic outing and want a bit of sailing adventure without the fuss. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or someone wanting to learn more about Sardinia’s coast, it’s a flexible option to consider. If you’re after a relaxing, informative, and beautiful escape from land-bound tours, this sailing trip might be perfect.

Key Points

• Balanced experience of sailing, swimming, and sightseeing in Sardinia’s Gulf of Cagliari
• Expert guide with a passion for sharing local stories and sailing tips
• Opportunity to steer the boat and trim the sails for a hands-on experience
• Beautiful stops at Devil’s Saddle, crystal-clear waters, and marine life sightings
• Flexible timing with morning and afternoon options depending on wind conditions
• Limited group size (up to 9 people) for a more intimate experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What to Expect on This Sailing Adventure

Starting in Marina di Sant’Elmo, the tour kicks off with a quick safety briefing from your skipper — a friendly, knowledgeable sailor who loves sharing his passion. You’ll get a short lesson on sailing basics, which is great if you’re curious about the mechanics of the boat or just want to try your hand at steering. Most importantly, the skipper will explain safety rules, so you can relax knowing you’ll be well taken care of.

Once underway, the boat, Merak, will motor out of the harbor. This is often when dolphins are most likely to make an appearance — it’s a common sight as they swim close to the harbor waters, feeding on mullet fish. From there, the sails go up, powered by Sardinian wind, and the real sailing begins. The boat is equipped with a large number of sails that make sailing enjoyable in various wind conditions — even lighter breezes can get the boat moving pleasantly.

The Main Attraction: Devil’s Saddle and Marine Encounters

The usual destination is the Sella del Diavolo, or Devil’s Saddle, a prominent limestone promontory steeped in local legend. As you approach, your guide will tell stories about the legend behind the name — a fun, atmospheric touch that connects you more deeply to the landscape.

Once there, the boat will drop anchor in a beautiful bay at the foot of a high white cliff, where the water is stunningly clear. Here, you’ll be able to swim, snorkel, and observe marine life. The waters are teeming with fish that are eager for food, and the guide will even swim with you to a small cave with purple walls, ideal for underwater photos. To make the experience accessible, your guide will lend you an underwater phone case, making it easy to capture those colorful underwater moments.

Food, Relaxation, and Optional Sights

Post-swim, a light sandwich and drinks are served, including options like beer, water, and soft drinks. It’s a simple but satisfying way to recharge before heading back to the boat. If time permits, the boat will sail in front of Poetto beach, giving you more chances to enjoy Sardinia’s coastline from the water.

Flexible & Personalized

Throughout the trip, the guide encourages conversation, whether you’re interested in local attractions, Sardinian history, or personal stories. This makes the experience feel more intimate and tailored, a sentiment echoed in reviews praising the guide’s knowledge and friendly approach. A fortunate highlight could be a close encounter with the Luna Rossa, the high-speed racing boat preparing for the upcoming Americas Cup — a rare sight that adds some extra excitement.

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The Itinerary in Detail

• Start: Marina di Sant’Elmo, Cagliari — the launch point is easy to find, right near the Bacan Bar and marked by a specific Google Maps code.
• Sailing in the Gulf of Cagliari: You’ll spend about 2 hours enjoying the breeze and the scenic coastlines.
• Stop at Devil’s Saddle: Expect around 1 hour for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the marine life.
• Additional sailing and wildlife watching: Up to 2 more hours, with dolphin sightings possibly included.
• Return: Back to the starting point after roughly four hours.

What’s Included and Practical Considerations

For the cost of $67.97 per person, you get quite a lot. The tour includes snorkeling gear, life jackets (upon request), a quick sailing lesson, and refreshments with cheese and salami sandwiches, plus soft drinks. The drinks selection is broad enough to please most, from beer to soft drinks, and vegan or gluten-free needs should be communicated when booking.

The tour is small-group (up to 9 people), offering a more personalized experience. The duration (4 hours) is manageable for most, though if you’re prone to seasickness, it’s wise to take appropriate medication beforehand. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

What Past Travelers Say — Honest Feedback from the Reviews

Many reviews praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guide. One reviewer loved how the guide, Paolo, provided a “unique personal service” and made the trip memorable. Others highlight how beautiful the scenery is, with comments like “absolutely breathtaking views” and “the trip was enjoyable, with stunning stops.”

Reviewers also appreciate the opportunities to learn about Sardinia, whether through stories about local legends or sailing tips. Several mention how the guide, Paolo, is passionate about sharing Sardinia’s coast and his craft. The chance to steer the boat has come across as a fun, hands-on aspect that adds to the overall enjoyment.

Specific Praise:

• “Thoroughly recommend the sailing experience… shows Sardegna at its very best.”
• “Paolo was lovely, knowledgeable, and made our time so amazing.”
• “Stops at beautiful spots, with stories about Cagliari’s history… Absolutely recommend this trip.”

Some reviews mention the enjoyment of the sailing experience, especially as the wind picks up, transforming from motor to sail, which adds a dynamic element.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This?

This tour is best for those who enjoy relaxing days on the water with a side of local stories and wildlife sightings. It’s a good fit for adventurous travelers who want a hands-on sailing experience rather than just a scenic cruise. The small group size means you get personalized attention, and the relaxed pace makes it ideal for those looking to unwind, swim, and soak up Sardinia’s stunning coastline.

If your priority is a social, engaging, and scenic outing without the fuss of larger boat trips, then this sailing tour will meet your expectations — especially if you love being around knowledgeable guides who genuinely enjoy what they do.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, and life jackets are provided upon request. The trip involves swimming and sailing, so children should be comfortable in the water and able to follow safety instructions.

How long is the tour?
The overall experience lasts about 4 hours, with specific timings depending on availability. It includes sailing, swimming, and relaxing at the stops.

Can I steer the boat?
Absolutely. The guide offers a quick sailing lesson and welcomes participants in steering and trimming sails.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and a waterproof phone case for photos underwater. Wearing comfortable clothes suitable for the weather is also advised.

Is the trip windy?
Winds can vary. The boat is equipped to sail in weak, medium, or strong winds, and the timing (morning or afternoon) can influence wind conditions.

Are drinks included?
Yes, soft drinks, beer, and water are included, along with sandwiches after swimming. Special dietary needs should be specified when booking.

What if I get seasick?
If you’re prone to seasickness, take appropriate medication about an hour before the tour starts to ensure a comfortable trip.

To sum it up, this sailing tour to Devil’s Saddle offers a mix of scenic beauty, marine wildlife, and hands-on sailing fun, all led by a passionate local guide. It’s a relaxing way to see Sardinia from a different perspective, especially if you enjoy being on the water and exploring gorgeous coastal spots. Whether you’re into swimming, wildlife, or simply cruising along Sardinia’s coast, this small-group experience is a solid choice that captures the essence of sailing in Sardinia.

You can check availability for your dates here: