Sailing boat from Santa Teresa di Gallura to the Maddalena Archipelago

Planning a trip to Sardinia and looking for a way to enjoy its breathtaking coastal scenery? If so, a sailing trip from Santa Teresa di Gallura to the Maddalena Archipelago might just be the adventure you’re after. While we haven’t personally tried this tour, based on the glowing reviews and detailed info, it seems to offer a genuinely memorable experience.

What sets this trip apart? First, the luxury of sailing aboard a comfortable, eco-friendly boat that respects the environment while providing all the comforts you need for a full day at sea. Second, the combination of stunning scenery, delicious local food, and opportunities to swim and snorkel truly captures the essence of the archipelago’s natural beauty.

One thing to consider is that the tour is capped at 12 travelers, making it perfect for those who prefer a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere over crowded boat trips. It’s ideal for travelers who love exploring by sea, want to enjoy high-quality food and drinks, and are comfortable with a full-day adventure. If that sounds appealing, this tour could be a wonderful choice.

Key Points

• Intimate group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.
• Excellent reviews highlight the quality of food, drinks, and crew service.
• Includes snorkeling and swimming in some of the most beautiful spots of the archipelago.
• Full day of sailing and sightseeing with stops at notable beaches and islands.
• Price point offers good value considering all inclusions and the luxury vessel.
• Weather-dependent itinerary means flexibility from the captain for safety and conditions.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The journey begins in Santa Teresa di Gallura around 9:30 a.m., with the trip lasting roughly 7 to 8 hours. The boat departs from the marina at Marc Yachting, a straightforward meeting point, though parking can be tricky, so plan accordingly. The day wraps up back at the same location around 5:30 p.m., giving you plenty of time to soak in the scenery and relax after a day at sea.

The Boat and Group Size

The tour takes place on sailing boats designed for no more than 12 guests. Depending on the boat size—12m, 13m, or 15m—the groups are kept small, which many reviews praise for creating a friendly and intimate environment. The boat’s quality is top-notch, with one reviewer noting it’s a Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 49, a vessel known for safety and seaworthiness.

Itinerary and Stops — Why They Matter

The tour’s itinerary is designed to maximize your experience of the Maddalena Archipelago’s most spectacular sights. It starts with passing the famous Pink Beach, a natural wonder famous for its unique hue, although swimming here is not allowed because it’s now protected by the national park. Still, seeing it from the boat is a treat—something many reviewers found memorable.

Next, the boat heads towards the National Park of Maddalena, where, weather permitting, you’ll stop at the natural swimming pool area for a delicious Sardinian-style lunch. This spot allows you to swim in the clear turquoise waters while the crew prepares a meal based on fresh local fish. One guest mentioned that the lunch was a highlight, with generous servings and a lovely atmosphere.

The island of Spargi is another key stop, known for its coves ideal for snorkeling and swimming. With shallow waters and plenty of marine life, it’s a perfect place to cool off and explore beneath the surface. Several reviews emphasize how well the crew facilitates snorkeling sessions, with one reviewer saying, “the snorkeling and swimming sessions in Spargi’s coves were simply amazing.”

Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere

The food and drinks on board receive high praise. Expect lunch based on local sardines, accompanied by wine, beer, and spirits. Many reviews mention how generous and tasty the food is, often cooked from scratch. Alongside, there’s snorkeling equipment available for those who want to explore underwater.

Guests also enjoy brunch, coffee, and soft drinks, making the day feel well-catered. A highlight is the wine tasting included in the tour, adding a touch of local flavor to the experience. As one traveler put it, “the food, wine, and the views made for an unforgettable day.”

The Scenic Beauty and Water Activities

Prepare to be amazed by the contrast of white sandy beaches and vibrant blue waters. The Maddalena islands are known for their pristine beaches and clear waters, and this tour offers a front-row seat. While you’ll never disembark on many islands, the boat stops at the best spots for swimming and snorkeling, with some reviews noting that the water is warm and inviting.

The boat’s crew is experienced and attentive, making sure everyone is comfortable during the swim stops. Some reviews mention the secluded coves and beautiful snorkel spots, which truly make the day special.

The Crew and Service

According to reviews, the crew—including captains and hosts—are friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable. Guests appreciated how they shared interesting stories about the islands and made sure everyone was comfortable. One reviewer said, “Alessandro and Luca were wonderful hosts, accommodating all needs and making the trip enjoyable.”

The captains, Andrea and Davide, are described as impeccable, with a good sense of humor and professionalism. Many reviews emphasize their attention to detail and dedication to guest comfort.

Pricing and Overall Value

The tour costs around $103.11 per person, which seems reasonable given all the inclusions—lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and a full day of sailing. Reviewers often mention that they appreciated the luxury feel of the boat and the quality of service, especially considering the small group size.

Compared to larger, more crowded tours, this one offers a more personalized experience, which many find worth the slightly higher price point. The reviews also highlight that the crew takes safety seriously and adapts the itinerary based on weather conditions, adding to the value of peace of mind during the trip.

What You’ll Love and What’s to Keep in Mind

The Best Aspects

• Stunning scenery and peaceful water stops: Many reviews rave about the beautiful coves and beaches visited, perfect for relaxing and snapping photos.
• High-quality food and drinks: From Sardinian fish to local wine, the onboard culinary experience stands out, with guests describing it as generous and tasty.
• Small group size: This allows for a more personalized, relaxed atmosphere and better interaction with the crew.
• Professional crew: Known for their friendliness and attentiveness, they craft a memorable day on the water.

Things to Consider

• Weather dependency: The itinerary may vary based on weather, which can mean some stops are replaced or shortened.
• No island exploration ashore: The tour focuses on sea activities, so those wanting to walk around the islands might find this limiting.
• Sea sickness risk: While most reviews are positive, a few mention the possibility of seasickness, especially if the weather turns rough.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This sailing experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate a peaceful, intimate setting and want to see Sardinia’s beauty from the water. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a full-day adventure with swimming, snorkeling, delicious food, and local wines, all aboard a luxury vessel.

It’s also suitable for those who enjoy small-group tours and want a more personalized experience without the crowds of larger boat trips. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner who enjoys the sea, this could be a highlight of your trip.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness or want to explore islands on foot, you might want to consider these factors before booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to and from the start point included?
No, transportation to and from the meeting point at Marc Yachting in Santa Teresa di Gallura isn’t included. You’ll need to plan your own way there, but the meeting point is straightforward, though parking can be limited.

What is the group size on this tour?
The boat accommodates a maximum of 12 guests, which is smaller than many group tours, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed experience.

What is included in the price?
You’ll get a 7-hour sailing cruise, lunch, wine tasting, bottled water, coffee and tea, alcoholic beverages, brunch, soda, and snorkeling equipment.

Are there any dietary restrictions accommodated?
Vegetarian and no-fish options are available, but if you have specific intolerances or allergies, it’s best to communicate them in advance. However, special requests beyond the options provided might not be manageable on board.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance aren’t refunded.

Is this experience suitable for families or children?
While the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, it’s primarily a sea adventure with swimming and snorkeling, so younger children should be comfortable with those activities and being on a boat.

In Closing

This sailing tour from Santa Teresa di Gallura to the Maddalena Archipelago offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, comfort, and authentic local flavors. The small group size and attentive crew make it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a more intimate, personalized day at sea. The included delicious food, local wines, and opportunity to snorkel in pristine waters make it stand out as a memorable Sardinian experience.

It’s best suited for those who value quality over quantity—those willing to pay a bit more for the comfort, exclusivity, and personal touch of a luxury sailing day. If you’re someone who loves exploring by water, appreciates good food and drinks, and wants to avoid the crowded, commercial tours, this trip could be a highlight of your Sardinian journey.

This tour stands out for its excellent reputation and high reviews, especially regarding the quality of the crew, the stunning scenery, and the delicious onboard meals. For people looking to genuinely relax, enjoy good company, and see Sardinia from a different perspective, it ticks all the boxes.

Keep in mind that the experience hinges on favorable weather conditions and a preference for sea activities. The small group size guarantees more personalized service, which many travelers find invaluable. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a day to unwind and explore, this sailing trip offers a wonderful way to experience the Maddalena Archipelago.

If you’re ready to set sail and see some of the most beautiful spots in the Mediterranean from the comfort of a well-equipped sailing boat, this tour is more than worth considering. Just remember to book in advance, as it’s quite popular—most travelers tend to reserve about a month ahead.

Enjoy your trip planning, and here’s to many fantastic days exploring Sardinia’s waters!