From Palau: La Maddalena Archipelago 4 Stops Boat Tour

Imagine spending a day cruising through clear, turquoise waters, stopping to explore some of Italy’s most beautiful islands. That’s exactly what this La Maddalena Archipelago 4 Stops Boat Tour promises—an experience that combines stunning scenery, relaxing beaches, and a taste of Sardinian charm.

While we haven’t personally set sail on this exact trip, the wealth of reviews and detailed itineraries paint a picture that many travelers find engaging and worthwhile. Our goal here is to help you understand what makes this tour special, what to expect, and if it suits your travel style.

One thing we love about this tour is the modernity and comfort of the boat—Lady Luna 3, built in 2025, offers a safe and cozy environment for exploring. We also appreciate the variety of stops, from the famous pink sands of Spiaggia Rosa to the lively streets of La Maddalena town, offering a good balance of nature and local culture.

A possible consideration is the upfront cost, especially with optional extras like meals and the €5 national park fee, paid in cash. It’s worth weighing whether the value of the experience, including the scenery, guides, and convenience, matches your budget.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a guided, hassle-free day of island hopping, swimming, and sightseeing. Families, couples, or anyone interested in experiencing Sardinia’s iconic spots with comfort and expert narration will find it appealing.

Key Points

• Comfortable Modern Boat: The Lady Luna 3, built in 2025, offers a safe, stylish, and spacious setting for the day.
• Diverse Stops: Four carefully selected islands provide a mix of beaches, scenic viewpoints, and charming towns.
• Included Experiences: Swimming, snorkeling, photo opportunities, and free time at beaches are plentiful.
• Expert Guides: Multilingual commentary enhances understanding of the area’s natural beauty and history.
• Value for Money: Well-organized with good facilities, tasty onboard meals, and Wi-Fi access.
• Some Extras: Additional costs include a €5 park fee (cash only) and optional meals onboard.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: Why Choose This Tour?

For those considering a day trip from Palau, this tour offers a well-rounded look at the La Maddalena Archipelago, one of Sardinia’s most iconic natural treasures. It’s a chance to see the famous Spiaggia Rosa, with its blush-colored sands, and to relax on pristine beaches that are perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

What draws travelers in is the combination of comfort and adventure—sailing onboard what is touted as the most modern ship in the fleet, and visiting multiple islands with dedicated stops. The guided commentary in four languages ensures you’ll learn about the area’s geology, flora, and history without feeling like you’re just along for the ride.

However, it’s worth noting that the boat’s capacity is 150 people, so it’s a group experience that can feel bustling at times. If you’re looking for a more private or quiet excursion, this might not be the best fit. Still, for a lively, well-organized day that covers a lot of ground, it’s hard to beat the value.

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Starting Point: Palau Harbor

Your day begins early in Palau, with a 9:30am meeting in front of the maritime station near the ferry terminal. Expect a quick check-in and boarding process, which some reviews note can be a little slow, especially if parking and navigation are crowded. The boat, LADY LUNA 3, is roomy and clean, setting a comfortable tone for the day.

First Stop: Pink Sand Beach of Spiaggia Rosa

After a short 35-minute sail, you’ll arrive at Budelli Island, home of the famous Spiaggia Rosa. This stunning stretch of pink sand is a sight to behold, often highlighted in travel photos. Several reviews describe it as a “beautiful spot,” with one traveler noting it’s “incredible to see the pink sands with your own eyes.”

The stop isn’t long—about 20 minutes—but enough for photos, a quick walk, and some swimming. Be mindful that the water here is shallow and perfect for wading. The boat provides some time for natural photo ops and to take in the views of the dramatic rocky formations like Roccia del Coccodrillo.

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Second Stop: Piscine Naturali and Snorkeling

Next, you’ll hop back onto the boat for around 10 minutes of sailing to Budelli’s natural pools (Piscine Naturali). These natural rock formations create sheltered swimming areas, ideal for relaxing in the emerald waters.

This stop gets high praise from guests, with many enjoying the chance to swim and snorkel. A review mentions the “break time, swimming, snorkeling, and wildlife viewing,” which suggests a laid-back, fun experience amid spectacular surroundings. The waters are calm and inviting, making it suitable for all levels.

Third Stop: Santa Maria Island

The boat then heads to Santa Maria Island for a more extended stay—about 75 minutes. Here, you can lounge on the beach or wander the charming town. Travelers report that the sandy beaches are excellent for sunbathing, and the warm Mediterranean waters are perfect for a dip.

One reviewer loved the long break at the beach for relaxing and sunbathing, describing it as a highlight. The town of La Maddalena itself offers colorful streets, quaint shops, and marina views—great for a leisurely stroll. Some mention buying Sardinian dishes on board during the lunch break, while others prefer to bring their own food.

Fourth Stop: Spargi Island

The next leg involves a 30-minute sail to Spargi, renowned for its beautiful beaches like Cala Granara and Cala Ferrigno. These spots are sheltered from the wind, with clear waters ideal for swimming or just soaking up the sun.

Guests rave about Spargi’s beaches, with one review calling the waters “emerald” and the beaches “incredibly beautiful.” The stop here lasts about 75 minutes, ample time for relaxing, wildlife watching, and swimming. Be aware, as some reviews caution, that wild pigs roaming the beaches can be attracted to food brought from outside, so leave snacks in the boat if possible.

Final Stop: La Maddalena Town and Scenic Views

The last island is La Maddalena itself. This charming town offers a relaxed vibe, colorful streets, and plenty of shops or cafes. You’ll have around an hour to explore, browse for souvenirs, or simply enjoy the marina views.

Travelers appreciate the walk through La Maddalena town for its lively atmosphere and scenic streets. Many also mention the helpful guides providing historical insights in multiple languages—adding depth to the experience.

Return Voyage: Santo Stefano and Caprera Islands

On the way back, the boat sails past Santo Stefano and Caprera Islands. This final scenic route offers great photo opportunities, rounding out a full day of exploration. The trip back concludes around 5:15 pm, giving you a restful evening after an active day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Comfort and Safety

Guests consistently praise the Lady Luna 3, built in 2025, for its modern facilities, safety standards, and comfortable layout. It’s a key factor in ensuring a enjoyable day, especially for travelers who value reliable transportation.

Expert, Multilingual Guides

The onboard narration is delivered in four languages—English, Italian, French, and Spanish—making the experience accessible for a diverse crowd. Reviews emphasize the guides’ knowledgeability and engaging commentary, which enriches sightseeing and helps you appreciate the islands’ natural features and history.

Variety of Stops

This tour hits a well-curated set of locations—pink sands, natural pools, beaches, and charming towns—offering a well-rounded experience. The stops are timed to maximize enjoyment without feeling rushed, as many travelers note the perfect balance of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing.

Food and Refreshments

While there is an onboard menu with Sardinian specialties (pasta, salads, appetizers, drinks), reviewers suggest bringing your own food if you prefer a more substantial or personal meal. The prices are reasonable, but options are limited, and you might find the onboard lunch enough for a snack rather than a full meal.

Price and Value

Considering the inclusion of transportation, guided commentary, multiple stops, Wi-Fi, and insurance, the cost is seen as fair by many. The €5 national park fee is an extra expense paid in cash, which might catch some travelers off guard but is standard for such attractions.

Potential Drawbacks

Some reviews mention that the boarding process can be slow, especially if parking is tight or crowded. The boat’s capacity of 150 can also mean it feels a little crowded during peak times. Plus, the short time at some stops—like the pink beach—may leave some wishing for longer to enjoy the scenery or swim.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for a comfortable, expertly guided day exploring the highlights of the La Maddalena Archipelago, this tour offers a fantastic way to see the islands without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. It’s especially good if you want to combine sightseeing with some relaxing beach time and enjoy the company of knowledgeable guides.

This trip is ideal for travelers who appreciate well-organized excursions, enjoy swimming and photography, and don’t mind a group setting. Families with kids often find it safe and fun, particularly because reviews highlight the friendly staff and safe environment.

However, if you prefer a more private or quiet experience, or if you’re on a tight budget, you might want to consider alternatives or custom arrangements. Still, for most visitors, the mix of scenic beauty, comfort, and ease makes this tour a strong choice.

FAQ Section

What time does the tour start and end?
It departs at 10:30 am and usually returns around 5:15 pm, with check-in at 9:30 am for priority boarding.

Do I need to bring my own food?
You can buy meals onboard, such as pasta or Sardinian appetizers, at reasonable prices, or bring your own if you prefer. The onboard menu is more of a snack option.

Is there a fee for the national park?
Yes, a €5 park fee per person must be paid in cash on the day of the tour. It’s a municipal fee not included in the ticket price.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, camera, comfortable clothes, cash, and snorkeling gear are recommended. The boat doesn’t allow large luggage.

Are the stops long enough?
Most stops are between 20 to 75 minutes, enough for swimming, photos, or strolling ashore. The pink beach stop is brief but memorable.

Is the boat suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is generally family-friendly, with gentle swimming opportunities, though very young children should be supervised around wildlife like wild pigs.

Will I get multilingual commentary?
Yes, guides provide live commentary in English, Italian, French, and Spanish, making the experience educational and engaging.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is included, so you can share your amazing photos in real-time or stay connected during the trip.

To sum it up, this boat tour offers a well-organized way to experience the stunning scenery of Sardinia’s La Maddalena Archipelago. It balances comfort with adventure, providing memorable stops, expert guidance, and plenty of opportunities to relax or explore. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a closer look, it delivers an accessible and enjoyable day out on the water—an experience many travelers find hard to beat.

You can check availability for your dates here: