Daily trips in the La Maddalena Archipelago: book your adventure

Imagine a day spent cruising through crystal-clear waters, stopping at golden-beach islands, savoring fresh seafood, and exploring vibrant marine life—all in one trip. That’s what a tour of the La Maddalena Archipelago promises, and from what we’ve seen, it’s a compelling choice for anyone craving authentic Sardinian seaside adventures.

This experience is especially appealing because of its small-group setting, ensuring a more personalized touch than bustling boatloads of travelers. Plus, the inclusion of food, drinks, and activities like snorkeling and SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) make it a well-rounded, value-packed outing. One thing to consider, however, is the weather-dependent nature of the itinerary—bad weather might change your schedule or route, so flexibility is key.

If you love discovering pristine beaches, enjoy water activities, and appreciate local cuisine in a scenic setting, this tour is likely to suit you well. It’s ideal for travelers who value intimate experiences over crowded excursions and want to make the most of Sardinia’s natural beauty.

Key Points

Small-group experience: Personalized service with a limit of 10 participants.
Three beautiful stops: Including Porto della Madonna and Spargi Island.
All-inclusive: Food, drinks, and water activities are covered.
Flexible itinerary: Weather conditions may influence the route.
Departure options: From La Maddalena or Palau, with convenient times.
Duration: About 7 hours, perfect for a full day of exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect and Why It Matters

This tour offers a carefully curated day exploring some of the most stunning parts of the archipelago. Departing at 9:30 a.m. from La Maddalena or 10:00 a.m. from Palau, your adventure begins with a cruise through waters famed for their clarity and vibrant marine life. The first major stop is Porto della Madonna, where you’ll anchor for a substantial lunch on board. This isn’t just a quick snack—imagine enjoying pasta with seafood, a local aperitif, and drinks, all served with the backdrop of sparkling waters and panoramic views. Such a meal adds significant value to the experience, turning it into a true taste of Sardinian hospitality.

After lunch, the boat takes you to Spargi Island, one of the archipelago’s most iconic spots. Here, you’ll have time for swimming, relaxing on the beach, or simply soaking in the stunning vistas. The calm, clear waters make swimming and snorkeling particularly enjoyable, with many travelers noting the rich marine fauna visible just below the surface.

The tour then concludes with a visit to a second beach area, offering more opportunities to unwind, paddleboard, or snorkel. The inclusion of SUP is a fantastic way for active travelers to stay engaged and explore the coastline from a different perspective. The return trip generally wraps up between 5:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., giving you ample time to reflect on a day well spent.

Water Activities and Food: Why They Matter

The tour’s emphasis on snorkeling and SUP means you’re not just a passive passenger—you get to engage directly with the environment. Snorkeling allows you to see the marine life up close, and many reviews highlight how rewarding this is, especially for beginners. The SUP sessions, on the other hand, offer a fun and relaxed way to explore the shoreline at your own pace.

Food and drinks are included, which adds great value—especially considering the quality of the seafood pasta and local aperitifs. It’s a chance to enjoy Sardinian flavors without worrying about extra costs or bringing your own provisions. The inclusion of water, wine, coffee, and an aperitif makes the experience feel even more authentic and generous.

The Small Group Advantage

With a limit of just 10 participants, this tour stands out for its personalized attention. You’ll have more space to relax, ask questions, and enjoy the scenery without feeling crowded. This intimate setup tends to lead to better interaction with the skipper, who is usually fluent in English and ready to share insights about the archipelago’s natural beauty and local culture.

Travelers frequently mention the value of small groups in reviews, noting that it creates a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere than larger tours. This setup is especially suitable if you’re looking for a more genuine connection to the environment and less tourist hustle.

Practical Considerations: What You Need to Know

The tour departs at specific times, so arriving a little early is wise. Be sure to bring your passport or ID, a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and beachwear. The boat provides fuel, skipper, and all activities, making it a hassle-free day. However, it’s worth noting that the itinerary might change due to weather—this isn’t always predictable, so a flexible attitude helps.

The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or seasickness, or for people over 287 lbs (130 kg). This is mainly due to the physical demands of swimming, paddleboarding, or boat movement. Also, the boat has limited capacity, so booking in advance is recommended if you want to secure a spot.

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Pricing and Overall Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, reviews suggest the experience offers excellent value, considering the inclusions—lunch, drinks, water activities, and the personalized service. Compared to private charters, this small-group tour strikes a good balance between affordability and quality. You’re paying for a full day of exploration, with the bonus of expert guidance and a curated route.

This La Maddalena Archipelago trip is perfect for travelers who want to efficiently experience some of Sardinia’s most picturesque spots without the hassle of planning multiple arrangements. The small-group setting enhances the feeling of an exclusive adventure, making it ideal for couples, families, or small groups of friends.

It’s especially suited for those who enjoy water activities—snorkeling and paddleboarding—and want a taste of local cuisine with their sea views. If you’re comfortable with boat trips and are looking for a laid-back yet engaging way to explore the islands, this tour ticks many boxes.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, land-based vacation, or have mobility or seasickness concerns, you might consider other options. Also, if your schedule is very tight or weather looks unfavorable, flexibility and early planning are advised.

This La Maddalena Archipelago boat tour offers a compelling blend of natural beauty, authentic cuisine, and engaging activities—all in a small-group setting that emphasizes quality over quantity. With its well-planned stops, inclusive meals, and focus on marine exploration, it provides a meaningful way to experience Sardinia’s coastal treasures.

Travelers who prioritize personalized service, stunning scenery, and active participation will find this trip to be a highlight of their Sardinian journey. It’s a wonderful way to create memories, enjoy local flavors, and see the archipelago’s most beautiful beaches, all while feeling like a guest rather than just a tourist.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this experience promises to be a rewarding slice of Sardinian life—calm, scenic, and deliciously authentic.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, from departure in the morning to return in the late afternoon.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the boat trip, lunch with seafood pasta, local aperitif, water, wine, coffee, fuel, and the skipper.

Where do I meet the tour?
You can choose between La Maddalena (9:30 a.m., Marina di Pineto) or Palau (10:00 a.m., Stazione Marittima).

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, water activities like snorkeling and SUP are generally suitable for active children, but supervision and comfort with the water are important.

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

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and beachwear.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments.

Can I book a private excursion?
Yes, the boat can be rented for private use, offering a more tailored experience.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The itinerary might vary, and tour operators will adapt to weather conditions to ensure safety and enjoyment.

How many people are typically on the tour?
The tour is limited to a small group of 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

This detailed review should help you decide if this La Maddalena tour fits your travel style—whether you’re after a scenic day, active water fun, or simply a taste of Sardinian charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: