Da Santa Teresa Gallura: tour in motonave a La Maddalena

If you’re dreaming of shimmering waters, rugged coastlines, and white sandy beaches, a boat trip through the La Maddalena Archipelago might just be the highlight of your Sardinian adventure. While we haven’t personally set foot on this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-organized, scenic journey that offers a memorable blend of natural beauty, charming towns, and relaxing swims.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is how it combines spectacular scenery with authentic island exploration. The cruise’s stops at La Maddalena, Santa Maria, Budelli, and Spargi are designed to give you both visual awe and leisure time, making it a balanced day out. One potential consideration is the schedule’s rigidity—since stops are determined by the park authority, flexibility during the day might be limited.

This tour suits travelers who love stunning coastal views, want to see multiple islands in one go, or simply wish to relax in crystal-clear waters. It’s especially ideal for those with limited time in Sardinia but craving a comprehensive island experience that combines nature, culture, and leisure.

Key Points

• Scenic Navigation: The boat offers panoramic views of rugged rocky formations and white sand beaches.
• Multiple Island Stops: The itinerary includes La Maddalena, Santa Maria, Budelli, and Spargi, each with unique charms.
• Free Time for Relaxation: Opportunities to shop, walk, and swim make the day versatile.
• Light Lunch Included: A seafood pasta meal on board adds to the experience—special dietary needs should be communicated.
• Imposed Schedule: Stops and durations are set by park authorities, so flexibility is limited.
• Authentic Experience: You’ll get a taste of local life and natural beauty, away from big tourist crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Points and Logistics

The tour departs from Santa Teresa Gallura, a lively coastal town in northern Sardinia. The exact meeting point varies depending on the booked option but is conveniently located close to parking, with check-in at the boat, the SEAGULL, situated right in front of the Coast Guard.

Travelers should arrive at least an hour before departure—at 9:00 a.m.—to handle check-in and the obligatory landing tax of €2.50 (May) or €5.00 (June-October). The scheduled timing ensures a full 8-hour day of adventure, though you’ll want to be punctual since delays aren’t tolerated.

The Itinerary: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

The tour’s structure is designed to maximize your island experience while respecting the park’s regulations, which means the timing at each stop is fixed. Here’s what you can expect:

Stop 1: Departure and First Sightings
The tour kicks off with a scenic cruise along the coast of Santa Teresa Gallura. You’ll start with panoramic views of Sardinia’s rocky coastlines—an ideal moment to snap photos and get excited for the day ahead.

Stop 2: La Maddalena Island (1 hour of free time)
This is the main highlight. On arrival, you’ll have an hour to explore the historic center of La Maddalena, a charming town with narrow streets, colorful buildings, and plenty of shops. Many reviews mention the “stunning views” here, and it’s a perfect mix of sightseeing and local flavor. It’s a chance to stretch your legs, do some shopping, or grab a quick coffee.

Stop 3: Santa Maria Island (1.5 hours)
Next, the boat takes you along the western coast to Santa Maria, renowned for its long stretch of white sandy beach and crystal waters. Here, you’re encouraged to swim or snorkel—many travelers find the water “refreshingly clear,” perfect for a relaxing dip.

Stop 4: Budelli’s Porto della Madonna (1.5 hours)
The highlight here is the natural pools of Budelli, famous for the Porto della Madonna. The calm, shallow waters are ideal for snorkelers and swimmers alike. The boat’s captain might serve a light lunch while you admire the seabed from the port. If you have dietary restrictions, it’s worth mentioning in advance since seafood pasta is the standard, but alternatives like plain pasta or seafood-free dishes are available on request.

Stop 5: Spargi Island & Pink Beach (1.5 hours)
Moving on, the boat views the iconic Pink Beach—a gorgeous stretch of sand tinted by crushed coral. You’ll make a brief stop here for photos, then continue to Spargi Island, where you can relax, swim, or explore some rocky coves. Reviewers mention the “calm inlet” as an ideal spot to unwind before heading back.

Return Journey:
The boat then makes several short hops, including a 40-minute cruise back to Santa Teresa Gallura, passing through smaller islands and natural pools, offering plenty of photo opportunities.

The Vessel and Comfort

The tour uses a speedboat, suited to navigate Sardinia’s complex coastlines swiftly but comfortably. The boat’s capacity is likely moderate, ensuring you’re not in a massive crowd, but still able to socialize with fellow travelers. The boat is equipped with insurance, and the captain is experienced, providing a reassuring presence.

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What’s Included and What Not

The €70–€90 price (depending on the season and booking platform) includes the boat ride, the captain, insurance, the island stops, and a light seafood lunch. Drinks and additional food are available for purchase on board, so bringing cash for drinks or snacks might be wise.

Not included are landing taxes (payable on arrival), and certain personal items like large backpacks, luggage, or cooler bags are prohibited. This keeps the boat manageable and ensures a smooth trip for everyone.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Many travelers comment on the stunning views—“the scenery was breathtaking,” was a common phrase. The natural pools at Budelli and the Pink Beach are frequently praised as the tour’s high points, with visitors noting how peaceful and beautiful these spots are.

Some expressed a desire for more flexibility, citing the fixed schedule as a slight drawback. “It’s a busy day, but the stops are well-organized,” one review states. Others appreciated the onboard lunch, calling it “simple but tasty,” especially the seafood pasta, with many noting the value of a full day of sightseeing for the price.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Arrive early to handle check-in and pay the landing tax.
• Bring cash for extra drinks, snacks, and taxes.
• Wear beachwear and bring a towel for swimming.
• Pack a small backpack or beach bag—large luggage or coolers aren’t allowed.
• Communicate dietary needs ahead of time if you want a specific lunch option.
• Be punctual: delays aren’t tolerated, and the schedule is set by the park authority.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip suits travelers who crave visual splendor and want to cover multiple islands without the hassle of separate bookings. It’s perfect for those who enjoy swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters and appreciate the charm of Sardinia’s coastal towns.

It’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer flexible schedules, as the stops are fixed and somewhat rigid. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or large strollers, note that the boat and stops may not accommodate oversized equipment comfortably.

The Sum Up

A trip to La Maddalena Archipelago from Santa Teresa Gallura offers a fine balance of stunning scenery, relaxed exploration, and cultural charm. The fixed timing and set stops mean you’re guaranteed a well-organized day, filled with picture-perfect beaches, colorful towns, and peaceful natural pools.

The value lies in how much you see and do in one day—swimming in clear waters, wandering historic streets, and snapping countless photos. This tour is best for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those short on time but eager to experience Sardinia’s coastal splendor.

While it’s not a private or ultra-flexible experience, the organized nature ensures you won’t miss the key sights, and the included lunch adds a nice touch. For a taste of Sardinia’s iconic islands with a good dose of comfort and convenience, this boat trip is a solid choice.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 a.m., with the entire day filled with island stops, swimming, and sightseeing.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Santa Teresa Gallura, with the exact meeting point depending on your booking option. Check-in is on the boat, the SEAGULL, located in front of the Coast Guard.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the boat tour, captain, insurance, island stops, and a light seafood pasta meal on board. Drinks and extra food are available for purchase.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, you need to pay a landing tax (€2.50 or €5.00 depending on the season) in cash at check-in, and optional drinks or snacks on the boat.

Is swimming allowed during the stops?
Yes, stops at Santa Maria, Budelli, and Spargi are designed for swimming and snorkeling in clear waters.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments, as the stops and boat conditions may not be accessible for all.

In summary, this La Maddalena boat tour offers a well-rounded day of natural beauty, charming towns, and oceanic relaxation. It’s a great way to see Sardinia’s most iconic islands without the stress of multiple bookings or navigating on your own. Pack your swimsuit, bring your camera, and prepare for a day of stunning coastal vistas and peaceful island life.

You can check availability for your dates here: