From Olbia: Exclusive Tour of the La Maddalena Archipelago

Planning a day out on Sardinia’s sparkling waters? This all-inclusive boat tour to La Maddalena from Olbia promises a memorable experience, especially if you’re after comfort, convenience, and scenic beauty. While I haven’t personally done this trip, I’ve gathered enough details—and from what travelers say—to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

Two things that really catch my eye are the luxurious, super-fast boat that gets you around quickly and comfortably, and the delicious, Sardinian-inspired onboard lunch that takes the hassle out of dining during beach days. However, it’s worth noting that the tour isn’t suitable for everyone—particularly pregnant women or those prone to seasickness might want to think twice.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love cruising in style, enjoy good food, and want a hassle-free way to explore the archipelago without worrying about logistics. If you’re after a relaxing, scenic day with a touch of luxury, this might just be your perfect match.

Key Points

• Luxury and Speed: The tour is aboard a brand new, super-fast boat with 3 300-hp engines, making the journey smooth and quick.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Fuel, insurance, snorkeling kits, crew, and marine park fees are covered, so no hidden costs.
• Gourmet onboard lunch: Expect a tasty brunch with Sardinian cold cuts, cheeses, finger foods, and drinks like prosecco or Vermentino.
• Small group intimacy: Limited to 12 guests, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before, plus the option to reserve now and pay later.
• Informative guides: Multilingual guides speak Italian, English, French, German, and Spanish, adding value to your experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Departure

Your adventure kicks off at 9:30 a.m. from Olbia’s MOYS Marina. The exact spot is right in front of the marina office, marked clearly by a flag with the Controvento Charter logo. The location’s coordinates (40.9163, 9.5239) make it simple to find. From here, you’ll board a sleek, well-maintained super dinghy that promises both comfort and speed. This boat is a standout—it’s new, very comfortable, and designed to cut through the water swiftly, so you’ll spend less time in transit and more time soaking up the scenery.

The Route and Stops

The itinerary covers some of Sardinia’s most spectacular coastal sights:

• Cruise past Porto Cervo and Costa Smeralda, two of the region’s most famous luxury spots, offering a glimpse of high-end Sardinian lifestyle along with scenic views.
• You’ll visit Bear Rock in Palau, an iconic rock formation—great for photos—and a good introduction to the area’s geology and natural beauty.
• The stops at Spargi Island, Budelli Island, and the natural pools of Madonna Port are highlights, offering chances to relax, swim, or snorkel (gear included). The pink sands of Budelli and the natural pools are especially popular with visitors who love a good swim or just want to admire some unique landscapes.
• The tour also includes Maddalena Island itself, where the town’s relaxed vibe contrasts nicely with the pristine nature of the surrounding archipelago.
• The passage under Moneta Bridge in Caprera adds a scenic touch, connecting the islands with a picturesque strait.

The Onboard Experience

While cruising, you’ll be treated to a well-curated onboard brunch — think platters of Sardinian cold cuts, cheeses, finger foods, and cold pasta salad. This is a generous spread, perfect for grazing while enjoying the coastal views. Plus, drinks like prosecco or Vermentino are included, elevating the experience from just sightseeing to a leisurely feast.

The crew is friendly and professional, and the guides provide commentary in multiple languages. Travelers note that guides are knowledgeable, which makes the entire trip more engaging. The small group size—capped at 12—means you get a more intimate experience, and the crew can often answer questions more thoroughly than in larger tours.

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Snorkeling and Marine Park Fees

One of the nice touches is that snorkeling kits are included, so you can explore the underwater world during the stops—if the weather permits. All fees for marine parks are also covered, removing any fuss about additional costs or permits. Just remember that the entire experience is weather-dependent; if sea conditions turn rough, the itinerary might change.

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts about 8 hours, with you back at Olbia around 5:30 p.m. This gives plenty of time to relax, enjoy the scenery, and have a good meal without feeling rushed. Starting at 9:30 a.m., your day will be packed but comfortable, with enough time at each stop.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is a solid pick for anyone who wants a luxury, all-inclusive day exploring Sardinia’s most beautiful islands without the hassle of planning logistics. It’s particularly suited to those who appreciate comfortable transportation, good food, and small group intimacy.

Since the tour is not recommended for pregnant women or travelers prone to seasickness, it’s better suited for those who enjoy boat rides but are comfortable on the water. Travelers who like a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing with a glass of wine will find this tour ticks all the boxes.

The Value of the Experience

When you factor in the luxurious boat, the all-inclusive meals and drinks, the guided commentary in multiple languages, and the convenience of the direct departure from Olbia, this tour offers good value. You’re paying for a comprehensive, worry-free day in a stunning part of Sardinia, with everything taken care of—from the fuel to the snorkeling gear.

Travelers who’ve given feedback mention that the food is a highlight—they appreciated the Sardinian delicacies and the relaxed vibe onboard. The boat’s speed and comfort are also frequently praised, making the long day enjoyable rather than tiring.

The Sum Up

If you’re aiming for a luxurious, well-organized day exploring Sardinia’s beautiful archipelago, this tour from Olbia hits most of the right notes. It’s perfect if you want comfort, good food, and a small-group setting that feels personalized. Keep in mind the weather dependence and the boat ride’s nature if you’re prone to seasickness or pregnant.

Overall, it’s a relaxing, scenic way to experience La Maddalena with all the logistics handled for you. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or visiting Sardinia for the first time, this tour offers a chance to see some of the most iconic spots in style.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is primarily designed for adults, especially considering the boat’s speed and the marine park regulations. It’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, so it’s best to assess if your children are comfortable with boat rides and seawater activities.

What should I bring?
Bring biodegradable sunscreen to protect the environment, and beachwear for swimming and relaxing on the islands. Since food and drinks are provided, extra snacks aren’t necessary but might be nice if you’re very hungry.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Absolutely. The itinerary can be altered based on sea and weather conditions to ensure safety, so some stops might be adjusted or skipped if the weather turns unfavorable.

How many people will be on the boat?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 passengers, creating a more comfortable and personalized experience compared to larger group tours.

What languages are available for guides?
Guides speak Italian, English, French, German, and Spanish, so you can expect commentary in your preferred language or a close alternative.

How long is the boat ride between stops?
While exact transit times aren’t specified, the boat is described as super-fast and very comfortable, so travel between stops is quick, giving you more time to enjoy each area.

If you’re after a smooth, all-inclusive way to soak up Sardinia’s stunning coastline and islands, this exclusive tour from Olbia with Controvento Charter could be just what you need. It combines comfort, scenery, and good company—all in a day’s outing that’s worth the splurge.

You can check availability for your dates here: