Excursion in the Gulf of Cagliari with lunch

If you’re dreaming of a day spent exploring the captivating coastlines of southern Sardinia, this boat tour from Cagliari might just be your perfect escape. While I haven’t personally been aboard Mafalda, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear that this experience offers a wonderful mix of natural beauty, authentic local flavors, and relaxed maritime fun.

What we love about this tour are two key points: first, the opportunity to discover some of Sardinia’s most beautiful beaches — like Mari Pintau and Poetto — all from the comfort of a well-equipped boat, and second, the chance to enjoy a local Sardinian aperitif and a customizable on-board lunch that showcases regional flavors.

A potential consideration is the weather dependency of the trip, which could mean changes or restrictions if strong winds or other conditions arise. That’s quite common with sea-based adventures, so it’s good to be flexible.

This trip suits travelers who enjoy scenic coastal views, authentic culinary experiences, and a small-group atmosphere that feels intimate rather than crowded. It’s especially ideal for those who want a leisurely day on the water, with the option to snorkel or paddleboard — activities that add a playful touch to this relaxing outing.

Key Points

• Stunning Beaches: Visit some of Sardinia’s most famous beaches, including Mari Pintau and Poetto.
• Local Flavors: Enjoy authentic Sardinian snacks and a tailored lunch, emphasizing regional ingredients.
• Expert Guidance: A knowledgeable captain helps you appreciate the sea and its surroundings.
• Activities & Equipment: Access to paddleboards and snorkel gear enhances the experience.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized and relaxed atmosphere.
• Weather Considerations: The trip depends on weather conditions, which can influence the itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Coastal Highlights

The journey begins in the port of Cagliari, where the small group boards the vessel Mafalda — a comfortable boat designed for intimate cruising. The captain’s role extends beyond navigation; they’re a local guide with a passion for sharing Sardinia’s maritime treasures.

From here, you’ll cruise toward the Devil’s Saddle, a striking geological formation and a favorite among local sailors. This spot offers dramatic views and a sense of connection to the island’s rugged coast. If weather permits, you might also head toward Poetto Beach, the vast urban stretch of sand that’s a favorite for both locals and visitors. We loved the idea of having such a long beach easily accessible for a quick swim or simply relaxing on deck while soaking in the sun.

Further stops might include Mari Pintau, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery, Torre delle Stelle, and Solanas, each offering secluded coves and pristine beaches. The reviews mention that these stops feel exclusive, giving you a taste of Sardinia’s hidden gems away from the crowds.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Most travelers will appreciate the combination of natural beauty and local cuisine. The aperitif, featuring sausage, cheese, and Guttiau bread, provides a tasty introduction to Sardinian flavors, while the lunch is customizable to suit dietary preferences or cravings. The inclusion of regional dishes at sea is a real highlight, transforming a simple boat ride into a culinary adventure.

Taking a paddleboard or snorkeling gear adds an active dimension. Our sources highlight that guests enjoyed the opportunity to paddle around or see underwater life, though one reviewer noted that the snorkeling equipment was limited, which is something to keep in mind if your main focus is underwater exploration.

The small group size — capped at 8 participants — fosters a friendly, relaxed vibe. This setup means more personalized attention from the captain and the chance for everyone to ask questions or share in the experience without feeling lost in a crowd.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The day kicks off at the port of Cagliari, where you’ll meet your captain and fellow travelers. After a quick safety briefing, the boat departs, setting sail toward several key locations. The trip’s pacing allows for plenty of time at each stop, giving you the chance to swim, relax, or simply take photos of the stunning coastline.

Devil’s Saddle is often the first stop, offering impressive geological formations and photo opportunities. This spot is excellent for a quick dip or just marveling at nature’s artistry.

Next, the boat might head toward Poetto Beach — an iconic Sardinian stretch that extends for miles. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely swim, or just lounge on the deck, watching the kite surfers and beachgoers.

Continuing along, stops at Mari Pintau and other secluded coves provide more opportunities for swimming and relaxing. These spots are praised for their unspoiled beauty and clear waters. The inclusion of SUP paddleboards lets you explore the shoreline from a different perspective, adding a playful element to the day.

Lunchtime is a highlight: a customizable meal on board, with Sardinian staples. This isn’t just a snack — it’s a full meal designed to introduce you to regional ingredients and flavors, which many guests rate highly. The aperitif before lunch acts as a perfect starter, and the setting on the water makes every bite feel special.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

What sets this experience apart from typical sightseeing tours is the authentic local flavor combined with the chance to relax in a small, friendly group. One review mentions Stefano, the host, as an attentive guide who answered questions and kept everyone well-fed and hydrated — an important aspect when spending a day at sea.

The duration of about 1 day makes it a manageable outing, whether for a dedicated day trip or part of a longer Sardinian itinerary. The limited group size ensures a more intimate experience, though it’s worth noting that if you’re traveling with strangers, the boat’s space might feel a little tight during meals or relaxing.

Price-wise, the tour offers good value, considering the inclusion of a full meal, aperitif, paddleboard access, and the boat ride itself. It’s a chance to enjoy Sardinian coastlines with a knowledgeable guide and a focus on regional flavors, all in a setting that fosters connection and relaxation.

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Best Suited For

This tour works best for travelers who want a relaxed day on the water with the flexibility to swim, paddleboard, or snorkel. It’s ideal for those who appreciate authentic local cuisine and scenic coastal views. The small group format makes it good for couples, friends, or small families who want a more personalized experience.

If you’re a solo traveler or a couple looking for a peaceful, scenic escape with good food and friendly company, this tour ticks all those boxes. However, if you’re a serious snorkeler or paddleboarder seeking extensive underwater exploration, you might find the equipment limit a little restrictive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to the departure point included?
Transportation to and from the port of Cagliari is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way there. It’s best to arrive a little early to ensure a smooth start.

What should I bring with me?
Bring beachwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection. If you’d like to paddle or snorkel, consider bringing your own gear if you prefer, though equipment is provided onboard.

Can I customize my lunch?
Yes, the lunch on board is described as customizable, so you can likely request dietary preferences or specific foods when booking.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The excursion is subject to weather conditions. If the sea is too rough or conditions are unsafe, the trip may be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund available up to 24 hours before.

How many people are typically in the group?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, creating an intimate setting perfect for personal interaction and relaxed atmosphere.

Is there enough space for everyone to sit and eat comfortably?
While most guests find the space adequate, one review mentions that for 8 people, the space might feel a little tight during meals or lounging. If traveling with strangers, this could be a consideration.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour in the Gulf of Cagliari offers an engaging mix of breathtaking scenery, regional cuisine, and relaxed maritime fun. The inclusion of paddleboarding, snorkeling, and a small-group setting makes it stand out as a genuine way to enjoy Sardinia’s coast away from crowded beaches.

It’s a perfect choice for those who love authentic experiences, are eager to learn about local flavors, and want a laid-back day on the water. The knowledgeable captain and the beautiful stops make this a memorable adventure, especially if weather cooperates.

While it’s not a hardcore adventure or a long expedition, this tour delivers a balanced, enjoyable taste of Sardinian seaside life. For travelers craving a relaxed, picturesque, and tasty day with a touch of seaside activity, this experience is well worth considering.

In summary, if you value authentic regional flavors, stunning coastal vistas, and a small-group atmosphere, this tour hits the mark. It’s suitable for those seeking a gentle but memorable day on Sardinia’s waters, especially if you enjoy mixing sightseeing with good food and light activity. Just be prepared for the weather to play a role in your plans, and you’ll find a delightful way to enjoy Sardinia’s southern coast.

Happy sailing!

You can check availability for your dates here: