Olbia is one of Sardinia’s best gateways for exploring the sea. Its prime location along the Costa Smeralda means you can hop on boat tours and cruises that showcase some of the island’s most iconic sights. Whether you’re after snorkeling adventures, dolphin watching, or scenic sailing, Olbia offers a variety of options to fit different interests. We particularly enjoyed the Sardegna: Tavolara Boat Tour with Snorkeling, thanks to its combination of stunning scenery, marine protected areas, and authentic Sardinian touches like a mini aperitif. It’s a great choice if you love exploring underwater environments and natural caves.
Olbia’s boat tours range from half-day trips to full-day sailing adventures, with options for eco-friendly dolphin spotting, traditional wooden boat rides, and luxury sunset cruises. No matter your style or budget, the list below covers the best experiences for seeing Sardinia from the water, highlighting what makes each one special.
1. Sardegna: Tavolara Boat Tour with Snorkeling
At number 1, this Tavolara boat tour with snorkeling is a standout for its blend of marine protected areas and scenic coastlines. Over 920 reviewers rate it an impressive 4.9/5, emphasizing its top-notch organization and memorable snorkeling stops. The 4-hour trip starts at Marina di Olbia and includes visits to the breathtaking Tavolara Marine Protected Area, natural pools of Molara, and caves along the coast.
What makes this tour unique is the structured itinerary that balances snorkeling, sightseeing, and relaxing Sardinian snacks. You’ll stop at Orecchio di Ulisse and Punta Spalmatore, witnessing spectacular rock formations and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Tavolara Island Bay. The mini aperitif with drinks included adds a local flavor to the experience, and the boat’s route offers scenic views and wildlife sightings. Reviewers love the combination of natural beauty and the knowledgeable crew, with many noting the caves and marine flora as highlights.
Bottom line: Perfect for snorkelers and lovers of marine scenery, this tour offers excellent value with its well-paced stops and inclusive snacks, ideal for those wanting a mix of adventure and relaxation.
2. Olbia: Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling Boat Tour near Figarolo
Coming in at number 2, this dolphin watching and snorkeling tour is a favorite for wildlife enthusiasts. Rated 4.9/5 by over 660 reviewers, it’s a 3.5-hour journey that takes you to the waters around Figarolo and Tavolara. The highlight? Watching wild dolphins swim in their natural habitat alongside your boat, making this experience truly special.
The tour also includes snorkeling among colorful fish and starfish, with plenty of time to explore underwater. The guides are experts at finding dolphins, and many guests mention the thrill of spotting these intelligent creatures in the wild. The included Sardinian snacks and mini pizzas add a tasty touch to the trip, making it a great deal for those wanting a quick, wildlife-focused adventure.
Bottom line: Ideal for families and animal lovers, this tour combines marine wildlife observation with fun snorkeling, all in a manageable time frame with excellent reviews.
3. Olbia: Tavolara and Molara Snorkeling Boat Tour
At number 3, this snorkeling tour of Tavolara and Molara offers a more in-depth marine experience. Over 660 reviews give it a solid 4.8/5, highlighting the pristine waters and abundant marine life. Starting from Olbia, the 4-hour trip takes you into the heart of the Marine Protected Area, where you can snorkel near the sheer cliffs of Tavolara or in the natural pools of Molara.
What makes this tour special is the opportunity to swim with dozens of fish in unspoiled waters and enjoy views of Punta Spalmatore, a white-sand strip washed by the sea. The natural beauty of the coast and the clarity of the water make this ideal for snorkelers who want to see Sardinia’s underwater world up close. The guide ensures you see the best spots, making it a relaxing yet adventurous outing.
Bottom line: Perfect for snorkelers and nature lovers, this trip emphasizes marine wildlife and scenic coastlines, offering excellent value for its comprehensive snorkeling experience.
4. Sailing boat from Santa Teresa di Gallura to the Maddalena Archipelago
Number 4 on our list is a luxury sailing experience departing from Santa Teresa di Gallura. This 7-8 hour tour, rated perfect 5.0/5 by 363 reviews, offers a more exclusive way to explore Sardinia. The sailing trip covers the Maddalena Archipelago, with stops at the pink beach and natural swimming pools for a swim and lunch on board.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on sailing rather than motorized trips, providing a smoother, eco-friendly journey with frequent opportunities to swim and snorkel. The crew is attentive, serving Sardinian-style fish for lunch and sharing local stories. Reviewers rave about the crew’s professionalism and the boat’s comfort, making it suitable for travelers seeking a relaxed, high-end day at sea.
Bottom line: Best suited for those wanting a more refined, sailing-focused experience with gourmet food and scenic stops in the Maddalena islands.
5. PortoS.Paolo: Half Day Traditional Boat Tour Tavolara Molara
Number 5 features a half-day tour in authentic historic wooden boats. Rated 4.9/5 from over 400 reviews, it offers a chance to see Sardinia’s coast in a more traditional style. The tour emphasizes unspoiled nature and real Sardinian maritime culture, with the captain guiding you through scenic spots and natural pools.
The highlight? The traditional boats nearly 100 years old, which give a sense of history and craftsmanship. You’ll snorkel among the fish and enjoy the coastal views, all with a focus on eco-friendliness. It’s a quieter, more intimate experience suited for travelers interested in cultural authenticity and relaxed exploration.
Bottom line: For lovers of tradition and natural beauty, this tour offers a charming boat ride with snorkeling, providing a taste of Sardinian maritime history.
6. Olbia: Dolphin Watching and Snorkeling Boat Tour
This dolphin and snorkeling trip is a close runner-up, rated 4.9/5 by 357 reviews. It’s a 3-hour tour that takes you along the east coast, with a high probability of dolphin sightings — over 95%. The focus is on wildlife interaction and underwater discovery, with snorkeling equipment provided.
The guides are local experts, sharing insights while searching for dolphins. Many reviews mention the exceptional experience of observing dolphins in their natural environment, along with swimming among colorful fish. The tour also includes Sardinian snacks, making it a fun and casual day for families or wildlife lovers.
Bottom line: If dolphin sightings are your priority, this tour offers a reliable, eco-conscious way to see marine mammals and snorkel in beautiful waters.
7. Sailing ship from Porto San Paolo to Tavolara, Molara
Number 7 features a luxurious sailing trip departing from Porto San Paolo. With a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 122 reviews, this 7-8 hour tour is designed for travelers seeking a more intimate and up-close experience with Sardinia’s coast. It includes stops for swimming at Porto Istana, Cala Girgolu, and Capo Ceraso, depending on conditions, with an emphasis on relaxing, scenic sailing.
The crew is known for their friendliness and knowledge, offering onboard snacks and drinks. The trip balances exploration of the islands’ coves with sailing along the coast, making it ideal for those who prefer a leisurely pace and high-quality service.
Bottom line: Great for romantic couples or seasoned sailors, this tour combines luxury sailing with authentic Sardinian scenery.
8. Day trip on a sailing catamaran in Sardinia
Number 8 is a full-day small-group catamaran cruise, rated 5.0/5 by 70 reviews. Departing from Olbia, it offers a relaxed way to explore Tavolara Island and Golfo di Marinella. The trip features options for snorkeling, paddleboarding, or relaxing on deck, with all equipment provided.
What makes this tour stand out is the personalized atmosphere, capped at only 8 guests, ensuring everyone gets plenty of space and attention. The included onboard lunch features Sardinian specialties, and the flexibility to choose activities makes it a favorite for active travelers and those seeking a leisurely day at sea.
Bottom line: Perfect for small groups wanting a customizable, fun-filled day on a comfortable catamaran.
9. Olbia: Ecological boat trip for dolphin spotting
This eco-focused dolphin spotting trip is rated 4.7/5 by 66 reviews. It’s a 2-hour adventure aimed at maximizing wildlife sightings, with a probability of over 95% of seeing dolphins. Managed by a provider committed to animal welfare, it’s an environmentally responsible way to enjoy marine life.
Guides share information about dolphins and marine ecosystems, making it both educational and exciting. Many travelers appreciate the gentle approach to wildlife, with several reviews praising the staff’s professionalism and the stunning scenery.
Bottom line: Best suited for eco-conscious travelers and families, this tour combines wildlife watching with conservation values.
10. Porto Rotondo: Sunset aperitif on a boat in the Costa Smeralda
Number 10 offers a relaxed sunset cruise aboard a traditional fishing boat. Rated 4.9/5, this 4-hour experience is a wonderful way to enjoy Sardinia’s evening glow with regional food and drinks. The tour departs from Porto Rotondo, with a stop to swim and snorkel in the calm waters during sunset.
The highlight is the authentic gozzo boat, which provides a more intimate and local feel compared to larger cruise ships. The included regional snacks, wine, and beer make it a perfect choice for those seeking a laid-back, cultural experience. Many reviewers mention the spectacular sunset views and friendly skipper as key reasons to book.
Bottom line: Ideal for couples or small groups seeking a memorable, authentic Sardinian sunset experience with good food and scenic views.
11. Olbia: Boat Tour to Maddalena Archipelago with Minibus Transfer
Number 11 is a comprehensive full-day tour combining a boat cruise with land exploration. Rated 4.0/5 by 77 reviews, it includes round-trip transport from Olbia, a boat tour around La Maddalena, and free time on the island.
The boat part visits the most picturesque islands, with stops for swimming and snorkeling at Spargi and Santa Maria. The land portion allows for browsing artisan shops and enjoying La Maddalena’s quaint streets. It’s a hassle-free way to see the archipelago with everything organized, making it a good choice for travelers who want a mix of sea and land.
Bottom line: Well-rounded and convenient, suitable for families and those new to Sardinia, especially if they want to explore both land and sea.
12. From Olbia: Tavolara and Molara Archipelago Boat Day
Finally, this all-inclusive boat day on the Federico Primo offers a personalized experience with multiple scenic stops, dolphin spotting, regional food, and guided visits. Rated with reviews emphasizing its exclusivity and high-quality service, this 8-hour trip is perfect for travelers wanting a premium experience.
Highlights include dolphin watching, swimming in natural pools, and tasting local products onboard. The trip’s flexible itinerary offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, snorkeling, and relaxing amid Sardinia’s marine beauty.
Bottom line: Best for those seeking a private, luxurious day at sea with all the comforts and authentic regional experiences included.
How to Choose the Perfect Boat Tour in Olbia
When deciding, consider your budget, time availability, and what kind of experience excites you most. For marine wildlife lovers, the Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling trips are hard to beat, especially with their high success rate of dolphin sightings. If you prefer a more cultural or historic touch, the Half-Day Traditional Sardinian Boats offers authentic craftsmanship and scenic coastlines.
For those wanting a luxury sailing day, the Sailing boat from Santa Teresa di Gallura provides a more refined, eco-friendly experience. The full-day catamaran is perfect for active travelers seeking flexibility with activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling.
Timing is also key: summer months (June-August) maximize wildlife sightings and swimming, but spring and early fall can offer fewer crowds and more comfortable weather. Book early, especially for highly-rated trips, to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Olbia offers an impressive variety of boat tours—from whale-watching to scenic sailing—that showcase Sardinia’s dazzling coastline and marine life. For a balanced experience of underwater beauty and authentic Sardinian culture, the Sardegna: Tavolara Boat Tour with Snorkeling is a top choice. For wildlife fans, the dolphin encounters (Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling) provide unforgettable moments. And if you’re craving a more luxurious or intimate experience, the sailing excursions offer a relaxed way to take in Sardinia’s stunning coast.
Whatever your style, planning ahead and choosing a trip that matches your interests will help ensure a memorable day on Sardinia’s sparkling waters. Early booking is recommended to secure the best dates and avoid missing out on these popular adventures.
