Cala Gonone: Gulf of Orosei Tour with a Vintage Sailing boat

Cala Gonone: Gulf of Orosei Tour with a Vintage Sailing Boat — A Gentle Adventure into Sardinia’s Jewel Coast

If you’re dreaming of exploring Sardinia’s famed Gulf of Orosei without the crowds and in a more authentic setting, a sailing trip aboard the vintage Dovesesto might just be what you need. This nearly 100-year-old sailboat departs from Cala Gonone daily, offering a full day of scenic beauty, relaxing swims, and close-up views of the coastline’s most famous beaches and caves.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the charm of sailing on a historic vessel that’s been lovingly maintained, giving you a sense of connection to the island’s maritime past. Second, the opportunity to visit lesser-crowded beaches and caves, away from the busier tourist spots.

A possible consideration? The tour’s itinerary involves multiple stops and a focus on natural beauty, but it requires bringing your own lunch, and there’s a strict no-sunscreen policy on board, which might surprise some travelers.

This cruise beautifully suits those who appreciate authentic experiences, enjoy relaxed days on the water, and want a good mix of sightseeing and swimming. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a peaceful escape will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Authentic Vintage Vessel: Sail on a nearly 100-year-old boat with a capacity of just 12 passengers, ensuring comfort and a personal touch.
• Stunning Coastal Highlights: Visit iconic beaches like Cala Luna, Cala Biriola, and Cala Goloritzè, along with caves and natural pools.
• Relaxing and Flexible: You can sunbathe or stay in the shade, and the crew provides friendly service and description of sights.
• Focus on Privacy and Natural Beauty: Fewer crowds at stops, with the possibility of swimming in crystal-clear waters and enjoying the scenery.
• Self-Provided Lunch: Bring your own packed lunch for the extended stop at a quiet beach—no on-board dining available.
• Eco-friendly and Respectful: The trip includes a small environmental contribution, and rules like no smoking and sunscreen on board help preserve the natural environment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at Your Day at Sea

Our review is based on what seasoned travelers describe and the detailed itinerary provided by Agostino Charter. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the consistent praise from past guests suggests it delivers a memorable day exploring Sardinia’s coastal beauty in a relaxed, respectful manner.

Departure from Cala Gonone’s Port

The journey begins early in the morning, with check-in at Viale Colombo 10 by 9:45 a.m. to exchange your voucher for a ticket and settle the €3 environmental tax. The boat departs promptly at 10:30 a.m., so arriving on time ensures you won’t miss the boat — a lesson learned from reviews warning that latecomers risk missing out with no refunds.

The Dovesesto is a spacious 23 meters long and 5 meters wide, designed to comfortably host up to 12 guests. This small group size means you’ll avoid the crowds common on larger tour boats, enjoying a more personal experience. The crew comprises a captain, a sailor, and a hostess, all dedicated to making your day enjoyable.

What to Expect on Board

Pass the time soaking up Sardinia’s sunlight or relaxing in the shade under the boat’s awning. The deck is perfect for sunbathing, while the interior provides a shady retreat. Past travelers have lauded the crew for their helpfulness, sharing insights about the sights in both Italian and English, and making everyone feel at home.

Note that you’ll need to bring your own packed lunch, which you’ll enjoy during the long stop at a quieter beach. The crew’s rules are clear: no food or drinks on the boat itself, and sunscreen must be applied at least two hours before departure — a measure to protect the boat’s vintage surfaces and the environment.

The Itinerary: Beaches, Caves, and Ocean

The core of this tour is the exploration of the Gulf of Orosei along what’s called the Selvaggio Blu route, visiting the area’s most stunning beaches and caves. The trip includes several highlights:

• Cala Luna and Cala Sisine: Often crowded in the morning, so the crew plans to visit these spots in the afternoon, when they’re typically less busy. Past guests appreciate this timing, noting it makes for a more peaceful experience.
• Cala Biriola: Known for its less crowded setting, this beach offers a great opportunity for swimming and relaxing.
• Piscine di Venere: The first swim stop lasts about an hour in this beautiful, natural swimming pool, giving everyone a chance to cool off and enjoy the pristine waters.
• A Secret Beach: The captain picks one of the most beautiful and quiet beaches (like Cala Mariolu, Cala dei Gabbiani, or Sorgenti Beach) for a lengthy two-hour stop. Here, you’ll have time for lunch, relaxation, and a refreshing swim from the boat.
• Cala Goloritzè: A highlight for nature lovers; this beach features a striking natural arch, and arriving on foot (since it’s part of a national park) keeps crowds at bay. The crew may stop for a swim from the boat here, respecting the environment.

Past travelers rave that the stops are carefully chosen based on weather and sea conditions, making each day feel personalized and well-managed. The captain’s flexibility in adjusting the route adds to the feeling of being trusted with a bespoke experience.

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Additional Considerations

While many reviews highlight the quality and friendliness of the crew, some caution that the boat’s vintage status means it’s not equipped for on-board dining or long stays. The focus is on sightseeing, swimming, and soaking in the views.

A key point: the tour does not include lunch, so packing a picnic is essential. Many guests have praised the opportunity to enjoy their meal on a secluded beach, away from the bustling tourist spots.

The Experience: What Past Guests Say

• Authentic and Relaxing: Guests love the peaceful pace and the chance to explore in comfort, often mentioning the connection to Sardinia’s maritime history through the vintage vessel.
• Beautiful Scenery: From caves to beaches, the views are consistently described as stunning. Many reviewers mention that the early afternoon stops at Cala Luna and Cala Sisine are more enjoyable due to fewer visitors.
• Excellent Crew: Many reviews highlight how attentive, friendly, and informative the crew members are, making the trip feel like a personalized adventure.
• Value for Money: Considering the trip covers multiple stops, swimming opportunities, and the vessel’s historic charm, most guests agree it’s a worthwhile expense.
• A Few Downsides: Some mention that parking can be tricky, and arriving early is crucial. Others note that sunscreen is not allowed on board, which can be surprising but is aimed at protecting the boat and environment.

Price, Duration, and Practical Details

This 8-hour tour departs at 10:30 a.m. and returns around 6 p.m., making it a full-day adventure. The cost includes exploration of the Gulf, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and descriptions of the sights. However, lunch is not included, so travelers should bring their own packed meal and drinks.

The small group size ensures a more intimate atmosphere, and the price reflects the quality of the vessel, the crew’s professionalism, and the personalized stops. It’s a good value for those who want an authentic, relaxed day on the water rather than a crowded boat ride.

Final thoughts: Who is this tour best for?

This sailing trip is perfect for travelers looking for a genuinely laid-back experience, who prize authentic travel moments over high-energy excursions. It suits those who appreciate history (the vintage boat adds a special touch), enjoy swimming in pristine waters, and prefer exploring beaches before they fill up.

It’s an excellent choice for small groups, couples, or solo travelers seeking a peaceful day surrounded by nature. If you enjoy scenic cruises, good company, and a touch of maritime history, this tour will likely be a highlight of your Sardinian trip.

FAQ

Is breakfast or lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll need to bring your own packed meal to enjoy during the long stop at the beach.

What should I bring?
Pack comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, camera, food and drinks, comfortable clothes, and a charged smartphone or power bank. Also, bring a garbage bag for your waste.

Can I stay on the boat during beach stops?
No, the crew needs to organise the stops, so you’ll stay on land during the beach breaks to make the most of your time.

Are there any restrictions onboard?
Yes, no smoking, no sunscreen (to be applied at least two hours before departure), and no pets are allowed.

What if I arrive late?
Arriving after 10.00 a.m. means missing the boat, with no refund possible. Early check-in at 9:45 a.m. is strongly recommended.

How many people will be on the boat?
The vessel carries up to 12 passengers, so you’ll enjoy a more relaxed and personalized experience compared to larger boats.

In all, this tour offers a wonderful balance of scenic beauty, authentic sailing charm, and intimate exploration of Sardinia’s Gulf of Orosei. It’s a fantastic choice for those eager to escape crowds, enjoy nature, and experience Sardinian coastal life in a relaxed, memorable way.

You can check availability for your dates here: