Cagliari: Devil’s saddle boat tour, 4 stops and prosecco

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring Sardinian coastline, this Devil’s Saddle boat tour might just be the highlight of your trip. It’s a well-rated, three-hour adventure starting from Cagliari’s Marina di Sant’Elmo, where you’ll hop aboard a spacious dinghy with up to 10 fellow travelers. It’s designed for those who love scenic views, snorkeling in clear waters, and a touch of local legend — all wrapped into a relaxed, guided experience.

What makes this tour stand out? Two things we really appreciate are the personalized attention from an expert skipper and the chance to see some truly breathtaking spots along Sardinia’s coast. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and unlimited drinks, especially prosecco, adds to the laid-back vibe. However, a possible consideration is that the trip doesn’t include food, so if you’re hungry, plan to bring snacks or eat beforehand.

This adventure suits travelers who want a taster of Sardinia’s natural beauty without long excursions or large crowds. It’s especially appealing for those seeking a mix of relaxation, stunning scenery, and a bit of local storytelling. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike find it a worthwhile way to experience the coast from the water.

Key Points

• Personalized and relaxed experience with small group sizes
• Multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, and photo opportunities
• Expert guide and snorkeling equipment included for an easy adventure
• Spectacular views of Sardinian coast, Sella del Diavolo, and Poetto Beach
• Snacks, drinks, and prosecco help keep the mood light and celebratory
• Good value for a 3-hour tour with all essentials covered

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Sardinia from the Water

The Cagliari Devil’s Saddle boat tour offers a chance to see the island’s coast from a perspective many travelers miss. Starting from the lively Marina di Sant’Elmo, you’ll board a spacious dinghy that feels more like a private boat than a large tour vessel. With a maximum of 10 guests, you’re promised more personal attention and fewer crowds—a definite plus for those who prefer intimate experiences.

The tour’s highlights include visits to several stunning spots such as the natural pools of Sella del Diavolo, Cala Fighera, Calamosca, Grotta dei Colombi, Cala Bernat, and Poetto Beach. Each stop is carefully chosen for its natural beauty and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.

Why groups of this size matter

Many reviews praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides, like Sandro and Samuele, who go above and beyond to make everyone comfortable and entertained. One reviewer describes the skipper as “very friendly and polite,” emphasizing that the guides are eager to share local stories and ensure safety—even when unforeseen issues arise, like a boat filling with seawater. That kind of dedication makes a difference when you’re out on the water.

The Itinerary – What to Expect

Start at Marina di Sant’Elmo: The meeting point is straightforward — right in front of the Bacan restaurant. The skipper will meet you there and escort you to the boat docked at D. It’s a convenient spot with easy access, but be prepared for a walk if arriving from other parts of Cagliari.

Stop 1: Cala Bernat: The first stop is a quick photo opportunity, plus swimming and snorkeling in an area praised for marine life viewing. Reviewers mention being lucky enough to see dolphins and plenty of fish, which adds a layer of excitement.

Stop 2: Spiaggia Calamosca: Known for its beauty and calm waters, this spot is ideal for relaxing, taking photos, and enjoying a swim. The 25-minute stay is enough to soak in the scenery but not so long that you’ll get bored.

Stop 3: Cala Fighera: Slightly farther along the coast, this stop offers another chance for swimming and snorkeling, with marine life often visible beneath the surface. One reviewer called it “a beautiful place to dive into the water,” hinting at the clarity and variety of sea creatures.

Stop 4: Grotta dei Colombi: Here, you’ll see a fascinating cave formation, cruise past it for some photos, and then have a brief 10-minute stop for a quick swim and maybe a chance to watch the sunset if timing aligns.

Stop 5: Sella del Diavolo: One of the most iconic landmarks, this natural formation provides stunning photo opportunities and a chance to snorkel in the turquoise waters. A half-hour here is plenty to take it all in.

Stop 6: Lungomare Poetto: This is more than just a drive-by. It’s a chance for a sunset look, a brief stop for photos, and a relaxing cruise along the famous Poetto Beach, with the option to swim or snorkel.

What you’ll love

Throughout the trip, the guides balance fun and safety, creating a laid-back atmosphere that makes it easy to relax. Multiple reviewers highlight the friendly, funny guides who are eager to share anecdotes and local legends, making the trip both enjoyable and educational.

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Snorkeling, Prosecco, and Relaxation

One of the tour’s standout features is the snorkeling gear included, which makes exploring marine life accessible for everyone—even those who aren’t expert swimmers. Several reviews mention how beautiful the waters are and how much they appreciated the chance to see fish and even dolphins. Many travelers also noted the prosecco served on board as a perfect addition for celebrating the scenery and soaking up the sun.

The inclusion of unlimited drinks and water ensures hydration during the warm Sardinian day, while music and a shower on board add to the comfort. The experience is as much about unwinding as it is about sightseeing.

The Experience’s Value

At around 40-50 euros per person, this tour offers good value for money. Everything from fuel, equipment, guides, and drinks is included, meaning no hidden costs. The small group setting, personalized service, and access to several unique spots make it a worthwhile investment for anyone wanting a quick yet memorable coastal adventure.

Many reviews highlight the excellent guides, with one describing the skipper as “very knowledgeable and friendly,” and another mentioning how the guide’s storytelling added to the enjoyment. The tour’s flexibility — with options to swim, snorkel, take photos, and just relax — makes it suitable for a wide range of travelers.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring your passport or ID, sunglasses, sun hat, towel, and sunscreen.
• Dress in comfortable clothes and beachwear since you’ll be swimming or sunbathing.
• The tour lasts about 3 hours, so plan your day accordingly, especially if you’re catching a cruise or other activities afterward.
• The meeting point is straightforward, but arrive a little early to settle in and meet your guide.
• The tour isn’t suitable for people over 331 lbs (150 kg) or those with pre-existing medical conditions, so keep that in mind if applicable.
• Cancellation policy allows full refunds if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Authentic Moments from Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the tour for stunning scenery, friendly guides, and the chance to see dolphins and fish in their natural habitat. Several mention how the guides go above and beyond — like one who stayed longer to watch dolphins at sunset, or another who helped a traveler with car trouble afterward. These stories highlight the genuine kindness and dedication of the team.

Many appreciate the small group size—only about 10 to 12 people—making it feel more like a private outing than a crowded tour. The balance of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing proved perfect for many.

The Sum Up

This Devil’s Saddle boat tour offers a delightful way to experience Sardinia’s coastline. With carefully selected stops, friendly guides, and inclusive amenities like snorkeling gear and prosecco, it balances adventure and relaxation beautifully. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the stunning views make every second worthwhile.

If you’re looking for an authentic, scenic, and laid-back way to explore Sardinia from the water, this tour is a strong contender. It’s especially perfect for travelers who want a manageable, well-organized experience that covers some of the most picturesque spots along Cagliari’s coast, all without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re a solo explorer, a couple, or traveling with family, this outing offers a memorable slice of Sardinian seaside life — with plenty of stories, laughs, and even some dolphins thrown in.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with specific start times available depending on the day.

Where does the tour start?
It begins in front of the entrance to Marina di Sant’Elmo, near the Bacan restaurant, at dock D.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, all snorkeling gear is included, making it easy for everyone to explore marine life.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the boat with skipper, guides in English and Italian, fuel, unlimited drinks and water, snorkeling equipment, a shower on board, music, and insurance.

Are food options available?
No, food isn’t included, so bring your own snacks if needed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s wheelchair accessible, but overall suitability depends on individual mobility and health considerations.

What should I bring?
Bring passport or ID, sunglasses, sun hat, towel, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and beachwear.

What happens in case of bad weather?
While not explicitly detailed, most tours offer full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, so check the policy for weather-related cancellations.

In all, this boat trip offers a memorable slice of Sardinia’s stunning coast, perfect for those eager to combine scenic beauty, local legends, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s well worth considering if you want a manageable, authentic experience on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: