Imagine spending a day on a yacht, surrounded by white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. That’s exactly what this Day Sailing Trip in Sardinia promises—and, based on numerous glowing reviews, it delivers a memorable, authentic maritime adventure. For travelers craving an active, scenic, and delicious escape from the mainland, this tour offers a fantastic blend of nature, culture, and cuisine—all aboard a comfortable vessel with a small group of fellow explorers.
What we love about this experience is the chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat—an awe-inspiring sight that makes the trip truly special. We also appreciate the authentically Sardinian lunch, including fresh seafood, local fruits, cheeses, and wine, which turns the sailing into a true tasting journey. That said, the 7-hour duration means you’ll want to be prepared for a full day of sun and sea, which could be tiring for some. This tour is ideal for those who love the water, enjoy good food, and want a small, intimate group experience away from the busy crowds.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re a traveler who appreciates stunning coastal scenery, marine life, and local flavors, this trip will suit you perfectly. Families, couples, or solo adventurers looking for a relaxed yet active day on the water will find it particularly appealing. However, those with mobility issues might want to consider the physical activity involved in walking on Tavolara or swimming in natural pools.
Key Points
- Authentic Sardinian Experience: Combines scenic sailing, local cuisine, and dolphin watching.
- Small Group Intimacy: Maximum of 10 travelers ensures personalized service.
- Diverse Activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, swimming, and relaxing on deck.
- Beautiful Stops: Figarolo Island, Tavolara, and Molara’s natural pools.
- All-Inclusive Feel: Aperitif, lunch, and drinks included, with a focus on local specialties.
- Flexible Itinerary: The order of stops may vary, adding a touch of spontaneity.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Sardinia.
An In-Depth Look at the Sardinian Sailing Day
Setting Out from Golfo Aranci
The journey begins at the port in Golfo Aranci, a charming town where you can expect a friendly welcome around 09:15 or 10:00 if you prefer a later start. The tour offers pickup from your hotel—a nice touch for convenience—and the small group size (up to 10 travelers) means you’ll get a more personalized experience compared to larger tours.
Once aboard, the boat sets sail, and the adventure starts. The first stop is Figarolo Island—a spot often frequented by dolphins, which are a highlight of the trip. Watching these playful creatures leap and swim nearby is a real thrill, especially if you’ve never seen wild dolphins before.
Exploring Tavolara
Next, the boat heads to Tavolara, famously recognized as the “world’s smallest kingdom.” This tiny island isn’t just a pretty face; it has a unique status and offers a scenic backdrop for walking, relaxing, and swimming. The hour-long stop here allows enough time for a quick walk, some sunbathing, or a dip in the inviting waters. The views from Tavolara are breathtaking, with rugged cliffs and green hills contrasting sharply with the blue sea.
Snorkeling in Natural Pools
By midday, the boat reaches the natural pools near Molara—a favorite for swimming and snorkeling. The calm, clear waters provide perfect conditions to float face-down and observe the marine life beneath. If you’re new to snorkeling, this is a low-pressure, gentle introduction to the underwater world. The shallow and protected pools mean safety and fun for all ages.
Lunch and Aperitif
One of the tour’s standout features is the lunch served onboard. It’s a delightful Sardinian spread: fresh octopus salad, pasta, and local Vermentino wine to wash it down. The aperitif is also noteworthy—bruschetta, fruit, pizza, tart, and drinks—not only filling but also offering a taste of Sardinian flavors. The emphasis on fresh, local ingredients makes the meal feel authentic and thoughtfully prepared. Guests from reviews often praise the delicious food and excellent wine selection, which elevates the whole experience.
Afternoon Relaxation and Dolphin Watch
After lunch, the boat heads back towards Figarolo for a final dolphin sighting opportunity around 15:30. This last chance to spot these intelligent creatures makes the day feel complete. The return journey offers more opportunities to relax, soak up the sun, or capture photos of the rugged coastline as the day winds down.
Practical Details & Tips
- The tour ends back at the port around 17:00, giving you plenty of time to explore further or catch a sunset walk.
- The price of approximately $180.58 per person includes most meals, drinks, and activities, offering good value considering the length and variety of experiences.
- The tour’s small group size fosters a friendly, unhurried atmosphere, ideal for conversation and personalized service.
- The flexibility in itinerary means unexpected weather or conditions could shift stops, but the crew’s goal is to maximize enjoyment and safety.
What Travelers Say
A reviewer from July reports, “We had the most incredible time with Wet Sails Adventure last July,” highlighting the memorable nature of dolphin sightings and the overall trip. The mention of “stunning marinas around Sardinia” underscores just how scenic and varied the destinations are.
Is It Worth It?
Considering what’s included—transport, meals, drinks, and activities—the value is solid for those who love sailing combined with authentic local flavors and marine encounters. The experience isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about feeling like a guest in Sardinia’s maritime life. The small group size ensures a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere, and the chance to see dolphins in the wild is a treat not guaranteed on larger or more commercial tours.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?
This sailing trip is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy the water—whether swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing on deck. Food lovers will appreciate the Sardinian specialties, especially the fresh seafood and local wine. The tour’s pace is leisurely, making it suitable for those who want a full but enjoyable day without feeling rushed.
Families with kids comfortable in water will find this especially appealing, as will couples seeking a romantic escape. Solo travelers looking to meet fellow explorers will also enjoy the convivial atmosphere. However, those with limited mobility or who dislike sun exposure might find some parts challenging, given the outdoor nature of the trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel, making the day hassle-free and more convenient.
What is the duration of the trip?
The whole experience lasts approximately 7 hours, from around 09:15 or 10:00 until about 17:00.
What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a towel—especially for swimming and snorkeling. Also, a camera or smartphone for photos.
Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s good to be comfortable on a boat and enjoy outdoor activities. The group is limited to 10 people for a more relaxed experience.
Are drinks included?
Yes, drinks and a Sardinian-style aperitif are included, along with a delicious lunch featuring local specialties.
Could the itinerary change?
Yes, the tour reserves the right to change the order of stops based on weather or sea conditions.
What happens in case of bad weather?
If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is there a specific start time?
Yes, the tour typically begins at 10:00 am, with pickup available earlier if arranged.
In The Sum Up: The Perfect Escape for Sea and Food Lovers
In the end, this Day Sailing Trip in Sardinia offers more than just a boat ride; it’s a well-rounded experience of Sardinian nature, culture, and cuisine. The chances to see dolphins, snorkel in natural pools, and enjoy authentic seafood on deck make it especially attractive for those who cherish a blend of adventure and relaxation.
The small group size, the inclusive meals, and the stunning scenery combine to create a memorable day out. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a break from more typical sightseeing, this tour delivers a genuine taste of Sardinia’s maritime charm.
For travelers who love to be on the water and savor regional flavors, this trip hits all the right notes—delivering value, authenticity, and fun in equal measure. Just remember to pack your sense of adventure and your sun protection, and you’ll leave with plenty of stories—and maybe even some dolphin sightings—to share.
End of Review
More Sailing Experiences in Sardinia
- Day Sailing Trip in Sardinia
- Sunset Aperitif on a Catamaran in the Asinara Island Park
- Sunset Tour on Vintage Sailing Ship to Tavolara.
- Daily Excursion by Sailboat Archipelago of La Maddalena
- Catamaran From La Caletta – Sardinia – Capo Comino – Isola Rossa
- Daily Cruise on a Sailing Catamaran on the La Maddalena Archipelago
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Sardinia
- Day Sailing Trip in Sardinia
- From Palau: Maddalena National Park boat tour
- Cagliari Gulf Boat tour : 5 stops, snorkeling & local aperitif
- Boat excursion from Marina Piccola Cagliari with aperitif
- Daily 4 stop – boat excursion La Maddalena Archipelago
- Boat tour the devil’s saddle,snorkeling,prosecco and lots of sun
More Tour Reviews in Sardinia
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Sardinia we have reviewed
- Day Sailing Trip in Sardinia
- Cagliari Private Shore Excursion: Wine and Cheese Tasting
- From Palau: Maddalena National Park boat tour
- Cagliari, old town walking tour
- 8 Hours Excursion in the Gulf of Olbia with aperitif+lunch included
- From Olbia: catamaran tour between Tavolara and Cala Moresca
- Luxury Catamaran in the Maddalena Archipelago from PALAU
- Olbia Sardinian Tapas Tasting
- Small Group Tour Nuoro & Orgosolo, the Barbagia County Sardinia – Italy
- Sailing tour Archipelago of La Maddalena from Cannigione
- Full day Catamaran cruise in Porto Conte Natural Park
- Classic boat tour to Tavolara and Molara with lunch.
