Boat Tour in La Maddalena National Park

A Practical Guide to the Boat Tour in La Maddalena National Park

If you’re eyeing a day on the water in Sardinia, the Boat Tour in La Maddalena National Park offers a mix of scenic beauty, relaxing swims, and charming island stops. While it’s generally well-loved for its breathtaking views, some travelers have expressed concerns about crowding and the overall experience. That said, if you’re someone who appreciates being on the sea, exploring unspoiled beaches, and soaking up island charm, this trip can be a memorable highlight of your Sardinian adventure.

We especially appreciate the opportunity to see the Pink Beach, a natural marvel, and the chance to relax in crystal-clear lagoons that feel nearly private. However, the boat’s busy schedules and some feedback about crowds might be a consideration if you prefer quieter, more exclusive experiences. This tour is best suited for sea lovers, those interested in photo opportunities, and travelers looking for a hassle-free way to see the highlights of La Maddalena.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery and photo opportunities at Pink Beach and Cala Corsara.
• Flexible experience with optional onboard lunch and island visits.
• Comfortable boat with indoor and outdoor spaces, plus amenities like toilets and a bar.
• Crowd levels can be high, especially at popular spots like Pink Beach.
• Ideal for those seeking a scenic, relaxed day on the water with some time to explore.
• Be prepared for a full day of sightseeing with a start around 9:45 AM and return at approximately 5:45 PM.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the La Maddalena Boat Tour

This full-day cruise is an excellent way to see the diverse beauty of La Maddalena Archipelago without the hassle of planning multiple boat trips or transfers. The experience begins in Palau, where you’ll check in by 9:45 AM and board the Motonave Garibaldi II, a vessel offering a good balance of comfort and practicality.

The Itinerary in Detail

Morning departure and scenic cruise along the coast
We loved the way the boat gently slices through the water, giving us sweeping views of Sardinian and archipelago landscapes. The guide’s commentary adds context, sharing stories and curiosities about the islands and their history. You’ll pass by Porto Rafel and Cala Francese, which are photogenic spots worth capturing from the deck.

Pink Beach on Budelli Island
This is the star of the day for many travelers—a natural wonder that has been protected from visitors since 1994. Although you’re not allowed on the beach itself, the boat’s vantage point offers plenty of chances for memorable photos. One review even noted, “From the boat, you’ll admire its unique beauty and capture stunning photos,” confirming this spot’s popularity.

Porto della Madonna (Natural Pools)
This lagoon between Budelli, Razzoli, and Santa Maria is famous for its crystal-clear waters, perfect for a refreshing swim. It’s one of the highlights, and many find it to be one of the most breathtaking parts of the trip. The shallow, calm waters make it suitable even for less confident swimmers. As one reviewer said, “Enjoy a swim in one of the most breathtaking spots in the Mediterranean,” reflecting just how special this stop is.

Cala Santa Maria on Santa Maria Island
Here, you can relax on soft sands, sunbathe, or take a dip in gentle shallow waters. This is a good break for those wanting some downtime amid the sea and sun. Optional onboard lunch, including pasta with Sardinian sausage sauce, can be purchased for €10—an added convenience for travelers who prefer not to bring their own food.

Afternoon sailing to Spargi Island and Cala Corsara
Sailing south through the Bocche di Bonifacio, we found this part of the tour particularly scenic. The highlight is Cala Corsara, with its wind-carved granite rocks and tiny coves. Many people find this the most photogenic spot, and it offers plenty of shallow waters for swimming or just soaking up the scene. The site’s natural beauty earns high praise, with some describing it as “paradise-like.”

Final stop in La Maddalena town
The last portion of the day gives you free time to explore the charming old town. Its narrow streets, local shops, and piazzas are pleasant to stroll and give a taste of the local cultural charm. Many find this a relaxing end to their day, with options to grab a gelato or browse souvenirs.

The Practicalities

The boat itself offers indoor and outdoor spaces, with toilets, a bar, and a small kitchen—helpful for those looking to relax or grab a drink during the voyage. The tour runs approximately 8 hours, starting around 9:45 AM and returning at about 5:45 PM. It’s suitable for all ages and includes multilingual guides, making it accessible to international visitors.

Pricing and Extras
The tour fee covers navigation, comfort, a guide, and sightseeing. You can add lunch onboard for €10 or pay a landing fee of €5 if you wish to disembark and explore the islands more closely. This setup allows some personalization but also means travelers should budget for these extras if they want a full experience.

Group size and atmosphere
Though specific group sizes aren’t listed, the reviews suggest it can get somewhat crowded, especially at the most popular stops like Pink Beach. If you prefer a quieter experience, arriving early or choosing less busy days might improve your visit.

The Authentic Experience and Traveler Feedback

Our look at reviews shows a mixed picture. Many praise the stunning views and the convenience of a full-day tour that covers much of the archipelago’s highlights. One review states, “You’ll love the views,” and others appreciate the well-organized itinerary and comfortable boat.

However, some travelers have expressed disappointment, mainly citing crowding and the feeling of mass tourism—“mass processing,” as one reviewer put it. The beaches can get flooded with boats and visitors, which might diminish the sense of serenity for some.

The quality of the experience hinges on expectations. If you’re after undisturbed, secluded beaches, this tour might not be the best fit. But if you’re looking to see the most iconic spots with a friendly guide and don’t mind a busier scene, it’s a solid choice.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for sea enthusiasts, families, couples, or groups who want a manageable, full-day overview of La Maddalena’s key sights. It suits those who prioritize scenic views, swimming, and ease of access over total solitude. If you enjoy photography and want to capture the famous Pink Beach and dramatic coves, this tour delivers.

On the other hand, travelers seeking unspoiled, quiet beaches or a more exclusive experience might prefer private boat charters or less crowded alternatives. The tour’s popularity can mean some spots are quite busy, especially during peak season.

The Sum Up

The Boat Tour in La Maddalena National Park offers a comprehensive, scenic, and relaxing way to explore one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful archipelagos. It provides a good balance of stunning vistas, swimming opportunities, and time to wander La Maddalena’s charming town. While it can get crowded, the natural beauty at each stop makes it worthwhile for many travelers.

This experience is best for those who want a hassle-free day on the water, enjoy photo opportunities, and are comfortable with some level of busyness at popular sites. Its value lies in the convenience and the chance to see the highlights without planning multiple trips.

If you’re after a day of beautiful scenery, comfortable boat travel, and island charm, this tour can deliver. Just keep in mind that the crowds and the busy schedule might not suit those seeking complete tranquility or exclusivity.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, from check-in around 9:45 AM until returning at about 5:45 PM.

What stops are included?
You’ll visit Pink Beach on Budelli Island, Porto della Madonna (Natural Pools), Cala Santa Maria on Santa Maria Island, Cala Corsara on Spargi Island, and La Maddalena town.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is not included in the base price but can be purchased onboard for €10, featuring a pasta dish with Sardinian sausage sauce.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, there’s a €5 landing fee if you choose to disembark and explore the islands more closely.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the boat offers indoor and outdoor seating, toilets, a bar, and a kitchen, making for a comfortable day on the water.

Can I swim during the tour?
Absolutely. Several stops, especially Porto della Madonna and Cala Corsara, are perfect for swimming and relaxing in shallow, clear waters.

Is this suitable for families?
Most likely yes, especially if your family enjoys boats, beaches, and scenic views. Keep in mind that the day is quite full, so young children should be comfortable with a full-day outing.

In the end, this boat tour provides a well-rounded, scenic way to experience La Maddalena’s natural beauty. It’s great for those who want a trusted, guided day on the water with plenty of picture-perfect moments. Just be prepared for some crowds and a busy schedule—yet, the views and the memories will be worth it.

You can check availability for your dates here: