From Arbatax: RIB tour in the Gulf of Orosei

Exploring Sardinia’s Gulf of Orosei by RIB: An Authentic Coastal Adventure

If you’re dreaming of exploring Sardinia’s legendary coastlines, a RIB (rigid inflatable boat) tour from Arbatax offers a lively and intimate way to see some of the island’s most breathtaking beaches. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a captivating experience, especially for those who love the water, scenic views, and a dash of adventure.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this excursion: first, the chance to visit world-famous beaches like Cala Mariolu and Cala Goloritzè—known for their crystal-clear waters and dramatic landscapes. Second, the knowledgeable guides who help turn this boat ride into an engaging and informative adventure.

One potential consideration is the weather dependence — as with many open-water trips, conditions can change quickly, and some stops may be shortened or altered. Still, for travelers eager to combine active exploration with relaxing dips and scenic cruising, this tour suits those who want an authentic, fun-filled day on Sardinia’s coast.

This experience is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities, stunning scenery, and a bit of local flavor. It’s a perfect choice for adventurous travelers seeking a flexible day in nature, with the bonus of expert guidance and a refreshing onboard aperitivo.

Key Points

• Highlight of the tour: Visiting iconic beaches like Cala Mariolu and Cala Goloritzè.
• Duration & flexibility: An 8-hour trip with multiple swim and stopovers.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable skippers and guides enhance the experience.
• Value for money: At around $115 per person, with included fuel and guidance, the tour offers good value for a full day of exploration.
• Comfort & safety: Well-equipped boats with safety gear, freshwater showers, and first aid kit.
• Authentic experience: Small group size (up to 12 passengers) allows for personalized attention and a cozy vibe.

A Deep Dive into the Gulf of Orosei RIB Tour

The Gulf of Orosei is one of Sardinia’s most celebrated coastlines, famous for dramatic cliffs, secret coves, and beaches that look like they belong in a postcard. Taking a RIB tour from Arbatax unlocks a side of this coast that’s often inaccessible by land—close-up views of towering limestone formations, hidden caves, and pristine beaches.

Starting Point & Logistics

You’ll recognize your guides easily—they wear teal T-shirts—and parking is free nearby, making the start hassle-free. The tour runs for approximately 8 hours, with the precise starting time depending on availability. This flexible setup is great for planning your day around other activities or accommodations.

Boat & Equipment

The boats are modern, built in 2024, with the Domar F8 (8 meters, capacity 12+skipper) and the smaller F6.5 (capacity 8+skipper), both equipped with Yamaha engines, freshwater showers, climbing ladders, and safety gear. This means comfort and safety are priorities, and the boats are designed for smooth cruising and quick stops, perfect for swimming or exploring caves.

Itinerary & Highlights

The tour’s core appeal is the itinerary featuring stops at Cala Goloritzè, Cala Luna, and Cala Mariolu—some of Sardinia’s most iconic beaches.

• The departure heads toward the Gulf of Orosei, a marine paradise with crystalline waters.
• The first big highlight is Cala Goloritzè, famous for its spectacular spire and clear waters perfect for a swim. The description mentions a stop here for about an hour, giving you time to soak in the scenery or explore the shoreline.
• Next, the boat stops at Cala Biriala or the Fico Caves—or both, depending on weather and time. The caves are a special feature, offering a peek into Sardinia’s rugged underwater world, although access may depend on weather conditions.
• The longer stop at Cala Luna lasts about an hour and twenty minutes. Known for its majestic caves, this beach also has a snack bar and refreshment stand, making it an easy place to relax and refuel.
• The final beach stop is at Cala Mariolu, renowned for its pebble beaches and abundant fish life. Here, you’ll have about one hour and ten minutes to swim, sunbathe, or simply marvel at nature.

What Sets This Tour Apart

What makes this trip stand out is the combination of scenic beauty and interactive stops. As one reviewer notes, “The beaches are with pebbles so flip flops or water shoes are nice,” which is practical advice for comfort. Another emphasizes the expert guides, adding, “Our guide was great,” which can make a big difference in understanding the history and geology of the beaches while ensuring safety.

The onboard aperitivo is a lovely touch—served with prosecco and snacks, or fruit juices for children—adding a social element to the day while admiring the views. Imagine relaxing in a boat chair, sipping prosecco, with Sardinia’s cliffs looming in the background—that’s a memorable experience.

Weather & Flexibility

Weather can influence the day’s flow, as noted in reviews where trips had to be cut short or stops modified due to conditions. This is typical of outdoor water excursions, but it’s comforting that the tour is flexible enough to adapt. If the weather isn’t cooperating, the guides will make adjustments, and even a shortened trip gets you plenty of beautiful scenery.

Pricing & Value

At roughly $115 per person, the tour offers a well-rounded experience—covering fuel, guiding, and the boat itself. Given the length of the trip and numerous stops, this is a reasonable price for a full day of adventure. Plus, small group sizes foster a more personal experience, avoiding the feeling of being just another tourist on a large boat.

Additional Costs & Considerations

There’s an environmental contribution of 2 euros per person to be paid on site, which supports local conservation efforts. If you want to visit the Fico Caves, tickets are purchased separately on-site, so plan for that in your budget.

Who Will Love This Tour

This trip is perfect for active travelers who enjoy beach hopping, swimming, and scenic cruising, and don’t mind a boat ride. It’s not suited for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, given the boat’s movement and stopover nature. The tour’s small size and insider knowledge make it ideal for curious travelers who want more than just a ride—they seek stories and local insights.

The Sum Up

This RIB tour from Arbatax offers a genuine taste of Sardinia’s marine beauty. You’ll get close-up views of some of the most famous beaches, with a knowledgeable skipper guiding you through the coast’s geological marvels and hidden caves. The combination of scenic stops, easy swimming opportunities, and relaxed onboard atmosphere makes it a compelling choice for those who want an active yet comfortably paced day.

While weather can influence the experience, the overall value is strong, especially given the small group size and quality of the boats. If you’re looking for a memorable, authentic way to explore Sardinia’s coast with local flair, this tour hits the mark. It’s best suited for adventurous spirits, beach lovers, and anyone eager to see Sardinia from a new perspective—up close on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the duration of the tour?

The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with specific starting times depending on availability.

• What should I bring?

You’ll want to pack sunglasses, a sun hat, towel, sunscreen, water, a packed lunch, beachwear, and cash for extras.

• Are there any age restrictions?

The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments, mainly because of the boat movement and stops.

• Is food included?

An onboard aperitif with prosecco and snacks is included. Additional food or drinks are not provided but are available at some stops.

• What is the boat like?

The boats are modern, built in 2024, with safety equipment, freshwater showers, and capacity for 8 to 12 passengers plus skipper.

• Do I need to pay extra for anything?

Yes, an environmental contribution of 2 euros per person is paid on-site. Tickets for the Fico Caves are purchased separately.

• Is the itinerary fixed?

The stops and times may vary depending on weather conditions and the skipper’s decisions, but all major beaches will be visited if possible.

• Can I visit the Fico Caves?

Yes, if you wish to visit the caves, you can purchase tickets directly on site; note that this may alter your beach stop at Cala Biriala.

• What languages are spoken during the tour?

The tour is conducted in Italian and English, catering to most international travelers.

This RIB tour offers a balanced taste of adventure, scenic beauty, and local charm—an experience designed to leave you with memorable stories and stunning photos of one of Sardinia’s most beautiful coasts.