La Maddalena: afternoon snorkeling tour from Porto Pollo

If you’re considering a trip to Sardinia and want to see some of its most breathtaking spots, this La Maddalena snorkeling tour might catch your eye. It’s designed to give you a taste of the archipelago’s beauty in just a few hours, making it perfect for those short on time or wanting a relaxed afternoon adventure. From what we’ve seen and heard, it offers a great blend of sightseeing, snorkeling, and stunning scenery.

What we really like about this experience is how accessible it is — a quick departure from Porto Pollo, with a well-rounded itinerary that hits the highlights. Plus, the fact that it’s led by knowledgeable guides who are appreciated in reviews makes us confident it’s a well-organized trip. On the flip side, some travelers note that weather conditions can influence which spots you visit, so flexibility is key. This tour is ideal for travelers who love water, nature, and a laid-back vibe without the fuss of a full-day commitment.

If you enjoy snorkeling, scenic island views, and want to explore Sardinia’s famous beaches in a relaxed setting, this tour could be a good match. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling with friends or a small group who are happy to be on a boat in the open sea, soaking in the views and the sun.

Key Points

• Short but packed: The 4-hour trip offers a snapshot of the archipelago’s most beautiful spots.
• Expert guides: Visitors rave about the knowledgeable guides who make the trip special.
• Stunning scenery: Expect clear waters, impressive beaches, and iconic sights like Pink Beach.
• Flexible snorkeling stops: Multiple opportunities to snorkel in warm, calm waters between islands.
• Weather dependent: The exact snorkeling spots can vary based on conditions, so be adaptable.
• Good value: Combines sightseeing, snorkeling, and scenic views for a reasonable price considering the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring La Maddalena by Rubber Dinghy

This tour starts at the Pollo Diving Center in Porto Pollo, a convenient spot that’s easy to reach. Once aboard the rubber dinghy, you’re in for a fun, intimate way to see the islands. The small boat allows you to enjoy scenic views and get close to the coastlines without feeling like you’re on a crowded tour boat.

Traveling by dinghy is particularly appealing because of its agility — you can access some points that larger boats might miss and enjoy a bit more fun on the water. The ride itself is roughly 75 minutes from Porto Pollo to Budelli, giving you a chance to sit back, soak in the views, and get a feel for Sardinia’s rugged coastline.

The Highlights: Beaches, Natural Pools, and Snorkeling

Visiting Budelli and the Pink Beach

One of the main attractions on this trip is Budelli’s Pink Beach, famous for its distinctive, blush-colored sand. It’s a spot that photo enthusiasts love, and most travelers find it even more impressive in person. The tour makes a stop here, giving you some time to admire the beauty or take photos.

While the exact stop depends on weather and wind conditions, the tour often includes the Manto della Madonna natural pool between Razzoli, Budelli, and Santa Maria. This natural swimming hole is a highlight for many, with its calm, warm waters creating an ideal place to relax and snorkel.

Snorkeling Between Islands

The tour makes at least two snorkeling stops — between Razzoli, Budelli, and Santa Maria, and then at Cala Corsara on Spargi. This is where the real magic happens, as the crystal-clear waters make for great visibility, and the warm temperature keeps things comfortable.

Reviews mention that guides are happy to help spot marine life and encourage snorkeling at multiple sites. One review specifically states, “We had an amazing experience…the waters were so clear and the marine life was visible in abundance.” So, if snorkeling is your thing, you’ll likely be pleased with the options.

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Visiting Spargi and Cala Corsara

Cala Corsara on Spargi is another popular stop, renowned for its pristine, white-sand beach and turquoise waters. Here, travelers often enjoy swimming, taking photos, and soaking up the scenery. The guide usually arranges a walk or some free time on the island, allowing you to stretch your legs and explore.

What to Expect During the Tour

Starting at the Pollo Diving Center, you’ll hop onto a rubber dinghy with a small group — a relaxed way to explore without the large crowds. The tour lasts about four hours, with roughly 75-minute cruising segments and snorkeling stops sprinkled in.

You’ll get around scenic drives along Sardinia’s coast, with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxing. The stops are flexible based on weather, so your guide might adjust the itinerary — but that’s part of the adventure, ensuring you visit the safest and most beautiful spots each day.

The second snorkeling stop at Cala Corsara on Spargi takes around an hour, giving you enough time to swim, snorkel, or just enjoy the views. The guide is there to help if you want to see marine life or need tips on snorkeling.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Multiple reviews praise the guides for their friendliness and expertise. One reviewer notes, “Jessie onboard made everything very enjoyable,” highlighting the importance of a good guide in making the trip memorable. Another review mentions that guides are attentive and make sure everyone has a good experience, even if the group arrives a few minutes late.

The scenery is consistently described as stunning, with clear waters, beautiful beaches, and peaceful natural pools. Reviewers mention the limpid waters and the chance to see marine life, making snorkeling a real highlight. Many appreciate the small-group feel, which makes the experience more personal and less rushed.

The downsides?

Weather can influence the exact spots you’ll visit, so if the sea’s too rough, some stops might be skipped or replaced. A few reviews mention that you should leave your valuables at the starting point because you might get splashed or wet during the ride. Also, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, so if that’s a concern, you might want to look into other tour options.

Practical Details & Tips

• Duration: 4 hours, a perfect half-day outing.
• Starting Point: Pollo Diving ASD, Porto Pollo.
• Languages: Guides speak English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, Italian, and German.
• What to bring: Swimwear, towel, comfortable clothes, beachwear.
• Restrictions: No shoes or smoking onboard. Not suitable for pregnant women.
• Reservation & Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with flexible booking options.

Considering the price, this tour offers a solid balance of quality, scenery, and activity. The small-group vibe and knowledgeable guides add extra value, making it a worthwhile choice if you want to experience Sardinia’s beautiful waters without committing an entire day.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This snorkeling tour appeals most to those who enjoy being on the water, exploring scenic beaches, and snorkeling in warm, clear waters. It’s especially suited for travelers looking for a relaxed, manageable excursion without the intensity of a full-day tour. If you’re traveling with friends or a small group and appreciate a personal touch from guides, you’ll likely find this experience very rewarding.

It’s a good pick for anyone with a sense of adventure, a love of nature, or simply wanting to tick off some of Sardinia’s most iconic spots. However, if you’re after a more structured or longer experience, or if you’re traveling with pregnant women, you might want to explore other options.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for anyone comfortable on a boat and who enjoys snorkeling. However, no specific mention is made about children, so if you’re planning with kids, consider their comfort with water and boat rides.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Yes, you can reserve your spot in advance, and there’s a flexible cancellation policy allowing you to cancel up to 24 hours ahead.

What should I bring with me?
Bring swimwear, a towel, comfortable clothes, and beachwear. You won’t need to bring shoes or smoking is not permitted onboard.

Will I see marine life during snorkeling?
Many travelers have reported seeing marine life and enjoying the clarity of the waters, which makes snorkeling especially enjoyable.

Is the weather always suitable for the tour?
Weather conditions influence the exact stops, especially snorkeling locations, so some variation is possible depending on sea conditions.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is designed for small groups, making it a more intimate experience. Exact group size isn’t specified but tends to be limited.

Can I ask the guide to make specific stops?
Yes, guides are available to help you customize the experience, weather permitting. Feel free to request particular spots along the way.

Is this tour worth the price?
Considering the scenic drives, snorkeling stops, and expert guides, most reviews suggest it’s quite good value for a half-day adventure in Sardinia’s stunning archipelago.

In the end, if you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and memorable water-based experience in Sardinia, this La Maddalena snorkeling tour from Porto Pollo might just be the perfect fit. It offers a great mix of natural beauty, fun, and expert guidance—ideal for making the most of your time in this gorgeous part of Italy.

You can check availability for your dates here: