If you’re considering a day out exploring Sardinia’s breathtaking islands, this La Maddalena Archipelago boat tour could be just what you need. It’s a popular choice, with a solid 4.5-star rating from nearly a thousand reviews, and many travelers recommend it. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the details and feedback paint a pretty clear picture of what to expect — and it looks like a well-rounded experience for those who love stunning scenery, a relaxed pace, and good value.
What we really like about this tour is how it balances a variety of highlights — from swimming in crystal-clear waters to visiting iconic beaches like Pink Beach — without feeling rushed. The boat itself is modern and comfortable, and the crew is consistently praised for their friendliness and helpfulness. Plus, the inclusion of Sardinian specialties and a multilingual audio guide adds a bit of local flavor that makes the trip more engaging.
Of course, there are a few things to keep in mind. The disembarkation fee is not included in the ticket price and needs to be paid on board, which can catch some travelers off guard. Also, since the itinerary can shift depending on weather conditions and park directives, you may not always visit the exact same beaches or stops. But if you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic day on the water, this tour generally delivers.
This experience is ideally suited for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing on the water — whether you’re solo, with friends, or a partner. It’s also family-friendly, with reviews highlighting how helpful and accommodating the crew is, especially with children and strollers.
- Key Points
- The Experience: What You Can Expect on the Tour
- First Stop: La Maddalena Town (1 hour 30 minutes)
- Cala Corsara: The Jewel of the Archipelago (1 hour 30 minutes)
- Porto della Madonna and Budelli’s Natural Pools (30 minutes)
- Cala Santa Maria: The Largest Beach (1 hour 30 minutes)
- Final Stop and Return
- The Boat and Crew
- Food and Disembarkation Fee
- Why This Tour Is Worth It
- Considerations
- Who Would Love This Tour?
- FAQ
- La Maddalena Archipelago Boat Tour from Palau
- Final Thoughts
Key Points
- Stunning scenery and well-chosen stops make this a memorable day.
- Friendly, knowledgeable crew enhances the experience and helps with accessibility.
- Good value for money — reasonably priced given the stops and inclusions.
- Flexible itinerary that may change due to weather or park rules.
- Comfortable boat with amenities like clean restrooms and space to move.
- Optional food and drinks available for purchase onboard.
The Experience: What You Can Expect on the Tour
This tour kicks off bright and early at Palau’s Porto di Palau, with check-in starting at 8:45 am. The boat departs at 10:00 am, and from that point, you’re in for a full day of scenic cruising, swimming, and island-hopping. The group size is capped at 90 travelers, which helps keep the atmosphere friendly and manageable.
First Stop: La Maddalena Town (1 hour 30 minutes)
Your journey begins in the charming historic center of La Maddalena. This is your chance to stroll along the “carruggi” (narrow lanes), check out the old church, and maybe do a bit of shopping. It’s a low-key stop that allows you to soak in the local vibe before heading back on the water.
Cala Corsara: The Jewel of the Archipelago (1 hour 30 minutes)
Next, the boat takes you to Cala Corsara, widely celebrated for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. It’s a perfect spot to jump in and swim, as many reviews highlight. The waters here are emerald and inviting, ideal for cooling off. The stop is timed just right so you won’t feel rushed, and you can take plenty of photos of the scenery.
Porto della Madonna and Budelli’s Natural Pools (30 minutes)
A highlight for many is the stop at Porto della Madonna, where you can swim from the boat in the natural pools of Budelli. These pools are a unique and peaceful spot, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the calm waters. The crew tends to be attentive and helpful, making it easy to get in and out of the water.
Cala Santa Maria: The Largest Beach (1 hour 30 minutes)
The tour then moves to Cala Santa Maria, the biggest beach in the archipelago. Here, you can swim, sunbathe, and even visit the nearby Punta Filetto lighthouse for sweeping views. The beach’s vastness means plenty of space to spread out, and the scenery is picture-perfect. Several reviews mention how spectacular the beach is, with one describing it as “paradise on earth.”
Final Stop and Return
The tour wraps up with a view of La Maddalena’s “Piazza del Conte,” capturing the charm of the island’s main town before heading back to Palau. The boat arrives back at the meeting point in the late afternoon, generally around 5 pm, giving you a full, satisfying day.
The Boat and Crew
The boat itself is described as modern, spacious, and clean, with enough space for guests to sit comfortably. Many reviews mention how the crew is friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable, which makes a big difference. They assist with getting on and off, especially if you’re traveling with children or strollers, and make an effort to communicate across languages.
Onboard amenities include clean restrooms, and drinks and snacks are available for purchase — a sensible option, as you might want some refreshments during the day. The boat’s capacity is around 200, but most trips are limited to 150 passengers for comfort, which helps keep things from feeling overly crowded.
Food and Disembarkation Fee
While the included price is attractive, keep in mind that food and drinks are not included and must be bought on board. The disembarkation fee is also separate — from €2.50 to €5 depending on the month — and is payable on the boat. It’s a small additional cost but worth remembering to bring some cash.
Why This Tour Is Worth It
Based on reviews, many travelers find that this tour offers excellent value for money. The multiple stops and swimming opportunities allow you to make the most of your day, and the boat’s comfort keeps the journey enjoyable. The friendly crew, along with the stunning scenery and the chance to see famous sights like Pink Beach, make this a compelling choice.
A few reviewers mention that the stops are perfectly timed, giving enough time to relax, swim, and snap photos without feeling hurried. The combination of scenic vistas, clear waters, and a laid-back atmosphere makes this a standout for a lot of visitors.
Considerations
Some travelers note that the disembarkation fee isn’t included, so you should budget accordingly. Also, weather can impact the itinerary, especially for visits to certain beaches or coves, so flexibility is key. If you’re prone to seasickness, the boat ride is not very long, but it’s something to keep in mind.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This boat trip is ideal for those who want a relaxed day of exploring scenic islands with plenty of swimming and photo opportunities. It’s great for travellers who appreciate good organization, friendly staff, and beautiful natural scenery. Families with children tend to find the crew helpful, and the stops are suitable for all ages.
If you’re someone who values comfort, value, and a taste of Sardinian island life, this tour ticks most boxes. However, if you’re after a more active or adventurous experience, you might want to look for options that involve more extensive water sports or longer excursions.
FAQ
What is the departure time for the tour?
The tour starts at 10:00 am, with check-in from 8:45 am to 9:30 am at the Palau port.
How long does the entire tour last?
The tour runs approximately 7 hours, giving plenty of time for stops, swimming, and sightseeing.
Is food included in the price?
No, food and drinks are available for purchase on board, but they are not included in the ticket price.
Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Small bags and strollers are permitted onboard.
How do I pay the disembarkation fee?
The fee is payable on board in cash, with prices ranging from €2.50 to €5 depending on the month.
What happens in case of bad weather?
If the weather is poor or the national park issues restrictions, the itinerary might be changed or the tour canceled. You will be offered a different date or a full refund.
La Maddalena Archipelago Boat Tour from Palau
“We had the best day, the staff were brilliant, so friendly and helped us repeatedly on and off the boat with the pram. They talked to my baby and m…”
Final Thoughts
All in all, this La Maddalena Archipelago boat tour offers a well-organized, scenic, and relaxing way to see some of Sardinia’s most beautiful islands. It’s a good fit if you’re looking to enjoy a day on the water with stops at iconic beaches, swim in clear waters, and learn about the area from friendly guides.
The combination of beautiful views, comfortable boats, and positive reviews suggests it’s a reliable choice. While the extra costs for disembarkation and food are worth planning for, most travelers find the overall experience to be a satisfying and memorable part of their Sardinian trip.
If you’re after a leisurely, scenic, and reasonably priced day exploring the archipelago, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember to bring some cash, wear sunscreen, and get ready for a day of island beauty and gentle adventure.
