Cala Gonone:Cruise in the Gulf of Orosei with Cala Goloritzé

Cala Gonone: Cruise in the Gulf of Orosei with Cala Goloritzé — An Honest Look at a Popular Sardinian Excursion

If you’re dreaming of spotting some of Sardinia’s most beautiful beaches from the water, this cruise in Cala Gonone might be just the thing. It’s a well-rated experience, with over 700 reviews giving it a solid 4.3 out of 5. Whether you’re after crystal-clear waters, scenic coastlines, or simply a relaxing day on a boat, this trip offers a lot to like.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its combination of sightseeing, comfort, and value. The boat’s onboard bar and aperitif set a laid-back tone, perfect for unwinding while soaking up Sardinia’s stunning scenery. Plus, with three stops at some of the Gulf of Orosei’s most iconic beaches — Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu, and Cala Sisine — you get ample time to swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the views.

However, it’s worth noting that the experience isn’t perfect for everyone. The timings can be tight depending on your chosen departure, and the later you go, the less time you spend at each beach. Also, the group size and boat capacity mean it can feel crowded, especially at hotspots like Cala Goloritzé. Still, overall, this tour suits travelers who want a straightforward, scenic day out and don’t mind the hustle of popular spots.

If you’re after an accessible way to explore the Gulf of Orosei’s natural beauty without too much hassle, this cruise offers a great option. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a mix of relaxing on deck and visiting must-see beaches, with the added bonus of a friendly onboard crew.

This experience made our article of The 15 Best Tours In Cala Gonone.

Key Points

• Comfort & Convenience: Spacious boat with onboard bar and amenities for a relaxed experience
• Stunning Stops: Visits to Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu, Cala Sisine, and Cala Goloritzé, with time for swimming and photos
• Flexible Departures: Multiple daily options, with an early start recommended for maximum beach time during peak season
• Value for Money: Includes an aperitif and an audio guide in several languages at a reasonable price
• Timing Matters: The later you depart, the shorter your time at each beach, especially Cala Luna and Cala Mariolu
• Practical Tips: Bring essentials like sun protection, swim gear, and water shoes; parking can be tricky

You can check availability for your dates here:

Getting a Feel for the Itinerary

This cruise typically kicks off early in the morning, with departure times ranging from about 7:30 to noon. The actual duration is roughly 7.5 hours, but this can vary depending on the departure time you choose. Keep in mind, the later you go, the less time you’ll have at each beach, sometimes reducing the experience to around 5-6 hours of total activity.

Once underway, you’ll first sail towards Cala Luna, one of the Gulf’s most famous beaches. Here, you’ll have around two hours to swim, relax, or explore — enough time to enjoy the crystal-clear waters and maybe snap some photos of the caves and grottoes nearby. The reviews often mention the boat’s capacity makes it tricky to get perfect photos or find shade, especially if you’re with kids or prefer quieter spots.

Next, the boat heads to Cala Mariolu, renowned as the “pearl of the gulf.” It’s a highlight for many, with about 1.5 hours allocated for swimming and lounging. Reviewers like Indre mention that the timing was just right, giving enough time without feeling rushed. It’s a place that’s almost exclusively visited by boat, which helps keep it from feeling overcrowded — a real plus during busy season.

The third stop is Cala Sisine, where you’ll have a similar amount of time to enjoy the scenery and water. Included in the experience is a photo stop at Cala Goloritzé, famous for its natural arch and rugged beauty. However, it’s only accessible by land, so you’ll get a quick glimpse from the boat. Some reviews note that the boat often fills up with passengers, making it hard to get the perfect shot or find shade at certain spots.

Throughout the day, you’ll also pass by notable features like the pools of Venus and the Cave of the Cormorants. The scenery along the coast is consistently praised — jagged cliffs, turquoise waters, and dramatic rock formations. Many reviewers mention how stunning the views are, with Sandy saying the scenery is “beautiful,” though she also notes the boat’s size can make it hard to see everything clearly.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price (around $67.97 per person) covers the boat ride, three beach stops, an onboard aperitif, and an audio guide in several languages—English, French, German, and Italian. It’s quite good value considering the length and scope of the trip.

Not included are entrance tickets to the Grotta del Bue Marino and any food or additional drinks beyond the initial aperitif. You’ll want to bring your own snacks, drinks, and beach essentials like towels, sun protection, and snorkeling gear. Reviewers suggest that having some shade or a small umbrella might be helpful since the beaches are rocky with little natural shade.

There’s also a small environmental contribution fee (about 3 euros, paid in cash before departure), which goes toward preserving the park. The tour requires punctuality, with strict check-in times, and delays can mean missing out or losing part of your experience since refunds aren’t offered for late arrivals.

The Experience on Deck

The cruise’s atmosphere is relaxed, with an onboard bar and the chance to sip a cold drink while taking in the views. Several reviews mention the wine, cheese, and bread served at the end as a lovely touch, adding to the laid-back vibe. The crew is generally praised for their friendliness and efficiency, making sure everyone is comfortable and informed throughout the day.

While the boat isn’t tiny—it’s described as spacious and clean—be prepared for a decent number of passengers, especially during peak season. This means that at the popular Cala Goloritzé, many travelers find it hard to secure a good spot for photos or shade, and some comment that the day can feel a bit rushed when trying to see everything.

If you’re prone to seasickness, it’s wise to take precautions, as the boat travels along open water and can be a little choppy. Also, the rocky beaches mean water shoes are highly recommended to avoid slipping or hurting your feet.

Considerations Before Booking

Timing is key. If you’re looking to spend maximum time at Cala Mariolu, for instance, booking the earliest departure—around 7:50 a.m.– is advisable. Later trips tend to cut down your beach time significantly, sometimes to just 5 hours in total.

Parking near Cala Gonone can also be an issue, especially in high season, so plan ahead or consider taking public transport if possible. Remember, punctuality is crucial—if you’re late, there are no refunds.

The tour runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly and be prepared for weather changes. If you want to explore the Grotta del Bue Marino or the Cave of the Cormorants more extensively, be aware these are only quick stops, and entrance tickets are not included.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers who want to see Sardinia’s coast from a comfortable boat and enjoy some of its most celebrated beaches without the hassle of land-based travel. It’s suited for those who value scenic views, a relaxed atmosphere, and light amenities like drinks and snacks.

It’s also a good fit if you’re okay with sharing space with other travelers and don’t necessarily need pristine, secluded beaches. If you’re traveling with little ones or prefer quiet, less crowded spots, you’ll want to be mindful of the boat’s capacity and the busy nature of the popular beaches.

Those who appreciate a friendly crew, good value, and a scenic journey will likely find this cruise very satisfying. Just remember, the experience is somewhat dependent on weather and timing, so flexibility is a plus.

FAQs

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 7.5 hours, but the actual time on the water and at each beach can vary based on your departure time.

What beaches will I visit?
You’ll stop at Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu, Cala Sisine, and get a photo opportunity at Cala Goloritzé.

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks aren’t included, but an aperitif and a cold drink are offered on board.

Do I need to pay extra for the cave visit?
Yes, entrance to the Grotta del Bue Marino isn’t included, but the tour does include a photo stop at Cala Goloritzé.

How much does the environmental contribution cost?
It’s 3 euros per person, payable in cash before departure, and goes toward preserving the natural park.

Can I bring snorkeling gear?
Yes, bringing your own gear is recommended if you want to explore the waters more closely.

Final Thoughts

This boat trip in Cala Gonone offers a solid way to experience some of Sardinia’s most scenic beaches without the hassle of land transportation or strenuous hikes. The combination of comfortable boat amenities, multiple stops, and breathtaking landscapes makes it a popular choice, especially for first-timers wanting a taste of the Gulf of Orosei’s beauty.

While it isn’t a secluded or private experience, the views, the relaxed vibe, and the friendly crew make it one that many travelers find worth the cost. Be sure to plan your departure time wisely to maximize your beach time, and come prepared with essentials for a day in rocky, sunny surroundings.

In the end, if you’re eager to enjoy Sardinia’s coast from the water and don’t mind sharing the space, this cruise could very well be the highlight of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: