Palau is a fantastic destination for boat tours and cruises, thanks to its crystal-clear waters, rugged islands, and lively marine life. The archipelago’s scattered islands and secluded beaches make it a perfect playground for boat-based adventures. Whether you want a relaxing day exploring La Maddalena’s famous pink beaches or a small-group sailing experience with a friendly captain, Palau offers options that suit every taste.
Our list includes everything from luxury yacht charters to eco-friendly sails and family-friendly day trips. For example, the All inclusive Yacht Tour offers a relaxed, high-end experience with lunch and drinks, while the Sailing La Maddalena with a USCG licensed captain provides a peaceful, small-group adventure perfect for sailing enthusiasts. If you’re budget-conscious but still want to see the highlights, the La Maddalena Archipelago Day Tour by Boat delivers a full day of swimming, sightseeing, and island hopping.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour to help you decide which fits your style, interests, and schedule.
1. Palau: La Maddalena Archipelago Comfort Boat Tour with Stops
Discover La Maddalena archipelago on a comfortable, modern boat with plenty of space. This tour from Palau takes you to beaches like Spargi, Santa Maria, and Budelli, famous for their stunning white sands and turquoise waters. The boat’s spacious design and limiting guest numbers to 80 create a relaxed environment, making it ideal for families or anyone wanting comfort. The itinerary features multiple swimming and snorkeling stops, including the natural pool at Budelli and the iconic Spiaggia Rosa. The day includes visits to all main attractions of the La Maddalena National Park, allowing you to take in scenic views and enjoy pristine beaches without the crowds.
What makes this tour stand out is the balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation, with 75-minute stops at Spargi and Santa Maria — perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring. The reviews praise the boat’s condition, the professional crew, and the quality of food onboard. One reviewer notes, “The boat was fantastic — well-maintained and spacious,” which highlights the value of comfort. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a full-day, all-in-one experience with a laid-back vibe.
Bottom Line: A top choice for those who value space, comfort, and a comprehensive exploration of La Maddalena’s highlights.
2. From Palau: La Maddalena Archipelago 4 Stops Boat Tour
At number two, this tour explores four key islands of the La Maddalena archipelago, including Santa Maria, Budelli, Spargi, and La Maddalena itself. The boat used on this trip is described as very modern and comfortable, ensuring a smooth ride. The itinerary includes several swim stops, notably at the famous pink beach of Spiaggia Rosa and the crystal-clear waters of Budelli. Also, you’ll wander the charming streets of La Maddalena town and enjoy some locally acclaimed ice cream.
The 75-minute stop at Cala Santa Maria allows for relaxed exploring or relaxing on the beach. The crew provides informative commentary in multiple languages, making the experience educational and engaging. Reviewers consistently mention the professional crew, stunning scenery, and delicious onboard lunch, which is often homemade and fresh. This tour is ideal for those wanting to visit multiple islands, enjoy swimming and snorkeling, and experience La Maddalena’s vibrant town.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a well-rounded day, with scenic island stops and culture, all on a modern, comfortable vessel.
3. From Palau: La Maddalena Archipelago Day Tour by Boat
For around $45.55 per person, this 7-hour tour offers a classic day trip from Palau, focusing on beach stops, swimming, and natural scenery. The boat departs from Motonave Petagus and takes you to Spargi, Budelli, and Santa Maria, with fabulous opportunities for swimming in the natural pools and snorkeling.
This tour emphasizes relaxed pacing and scenic views, with stops at Cala Corsara, Pink Beach, and the main islands. The itinerary includes ferry rides between islands, giving you a true sense of sailing in the archipelago. Reviewers—like one who states, “the trip was very well organized”—appreciate the smooth logistics and beautiful beaches. It appeals especially to those who want a budget-friendly but full experience, with enough time at each stop to swim, walk, and soak in the scenery.
Bottom Line: A straightforward, affordable option for those who want to pack in the highlights and enjoy plenty of time in the water.
4. From Palau/La Maddalena: All inclusive Yacht Tour
This 7-hour luxury yacht experience is for travelers who prefer comfort, style, and a touch of elegance. Departing from La Maddalena or Palau, you’ll enjoy a professionally crewed yacht with an aperitif served with local wine, plus a fish lunch with drinks included. The yacht anchors in breathtaking spots like Spargi and Santa Maria, giving you ample time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing onboard.
What makes this tour special is its high-end vibe, with a focus on quality food and a relaxed pace. The reviews praise the breathtaking anchorages and the experienced crew, who make the experience feel exclusive. It’s best suited for those celebrating a special occasion or anyone seeking a more luxurious, all-inclusive day without sacrificing the natural beauty of the area.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers craving comfort, fine food, and personalized service in a beautiful setting.
5. Sailing La Maddalena Archipelago with a USCG licensed captain
If you’re looking for a peaceful, eco-conscious sailing adventure, this small-group trip with a USCG licensed captain is the perfect pick. For about $154 per person, the tour lasts around 8 hours, sailing quietly through the turquoise waters. You’ll anchor at spots like Cala Corsara, Piscine di Budelli, and Santa Maria, where you can snorkel, swim, or relax.
What sets this tour apart is the small group size of just 11 people and the sailing-only approach, avoiding noisy motorboats. Reviewers rave about the serenity of the sail and the personal attention from the skipper, who shares insights about the area. This tour is ideal for sailing enthusiasts or travelers seeking an authentic, eco-friendly experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a tranquil day on a sailboat, away from crowds, with the chance to snorkel in pristine waters.
6. From Palau: La Maddalena Archipelago Boat Tour with Pasta
For about $45.55, this 7-hour tour combines scenic cruising with a delicious seafood pasta meal. Departing from Palau, you’ll visit Santa Maria, Budelli, and Spargi, with plenty of time for swimming and relaxing. The highlight is enjoying a real Sardinian pasta dish onboard as you soak in views of the islands and beaches.
This tour emphasizes local cuisine and natural beauty, with stops at unstoppable beaches and coves. The reviews mention the delicious homemade pasta and how the tour offers ample swimming opportunities. It appeals to travelers who want to combine sightseeing with regional food.
Bottom Line: An excellent pick for food lovers and those wanting a full day of swimming, sightseeing, and authentic regional flavors.
7. La Maddalena Archipelago Sailing Tour with Lunch from Palau
This 7-hour small-group sailing trip offers an authentic experience, with a private boat, lunch, refreshments, and multiple swimming stops. Departing at 10:45 am, it visits Cala di Santa Maria, Spiaggia Rosa, and Cala Granara.
The tour is praised for the personalized attention and the delicious onboard lunch, including local wine and snacks. Travelers enjoy the relaxed pace and the chance to explore both onboard and onshore. The intimate size (up to 11 people) fosters a more personal experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, private sailing experience with good food and swimming.
8. Palau: Hybrid Eco Boat Tour in Costa Smeralda with Aperitif
This eco-friendly tour offers a 5-hour cruise along the Costa Smeralda, focusing on sustainability and scenic coastal views. Highlights include swimming in crystal waters, exploring the glamorous Porto Cervo, and enjoying a regional Sardinian aperitif onboard.
What makes this tour stand out is the hybrid eco-boat, blending sustainability with comfort. The reviews emphasize the relaxed atmosphere, the professional skipper, and the beautiful bays. It’s well suited for eco-conscious travelers or those wanting a shorter, scenic trip.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice if you want to enjoy beautiful coastal scenery with an environmentally responsible twist.
9. Boat tour of the La Maddalena Archipelago
This classic 7-hour tour departs from Baja Sardinia, Palau, or La Maddalena, offering a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing. The boats are comfortable, with bar and toilet, allowing for a smooth experience. It visits Spargi, Budelli, Santa Maria, and Cala Coticcio (on Fridays and Saturdays), giving you a comprehensive tour of the archipelago.
Reviews note the beautiful beaches, punctuality, and relaxing pace. It’s a good option for travelers who want a traditional boat experience with plenty of swimming and photo opportunities.
Bottom Line: A reliable, well-organized tour that covers the highlights of La Maddalena, perfect for those wanting a straightforward day at sea.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour in Palau
When selecting your ideal boat tour, consider your budget, time available, and what you want most—whether it’s luxury, eco-conscious sailing, or focused island hopping. For a high-end experience with gourmet food, the All inclusive Yacht Tour is unbeatable. If you prefer quiet sailing and personalized attention, the Sailing La Maddalena fits the bill.
For those on a tighter schedule or budget, the La Maddalena Archipelago Day Tour offers plenty of swimming and sightseeing at a reasonable price. Likewise, if sustainability is your priority, the Hybrid Eco Boat Tour combines scenery with eco-friendliness.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and boat type. Also, think about your fitness level—if you prefer a more relaxed experience, choose a tour with longer stops or private options. For adventure lovers, small-group sailing offers a quieter, more engaging experience.
To sum it up, Palau’s boat tours cover everything from luxury yachting to eco-friendly sailing, ensuring there’s an option to match your style and budget. Whether you’re drawn to stunning beaches, snorkeling opportunities, or relaxing on a yacht, these tours promise memorable days on the water. For best results, book early, especially during high season, and prepare for a day of exploring one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful archipelagos.
