From San Teodoro: diving for experts in Tavolara and Molara

If you’re a certified diver craving a splash of adventure in one of Italy’s most beautiful marine protected areas, this tour from San Teodoro to Tavolara and Molara offers an experience worth considering. It’s designed specifically for those who already know their way around a tank, with the promise of vibrant sea life, spectacular underwater landscapes, and a comfortable boat ride through Sardinia’s northeast coast.

What we love about this tour is the chance to explore secluded, pristine spots that are often off-limits to casual snorkelers—think giant groupers and barracudas swimming freely. Plus, the boat’s small size (just 10-11 divers) fosters a more intimate experience with personalized guidance. One possible drawback? The tour’s focus on experienced divers means it’s not suitable for beginners or children—so if you’re traveling with non-divers, you might need to plan a different activity.

This experience suits certified divers who want to push their skills, love marine wildlife, and enjoy Sardinia’s famous scenery. If you’re looking for a serious underwater adventure in clear, captivating waters, this tour offers a solid mix of adventure, comfort, and authenticity.

Key Points

• Designed for certified divers with recent experience.
• Two dives in some of Sardinia’s most spectacular marine spots.
• Boat ride of about 20 minutes between dives, with potential for dolphin sightings.
• Guided by experienced personnel who share local legends and insights.
• Includes equipment rental, snack, and fees for marine park access.
• Limited group size ensures a personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Inside Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure kicks off at Puntaldia Marina, where your guide awaits on the left side of the harbor, just under the control tower. Free parking makes it easy to leave your car behind, and from there, it’s about a 20-minute boat ride to the heart of the Tavolara Marine Protected Area. This small, fast boat (an 8-meter Lomac inflatable) is well-equipped, with an awning for shade and enough space for up to 22 passengers—though most tours cap it at 10, maintaining a cozy, low-stress environment.

The Itinerary and What It Means for You

The day is carefully structured to maximize your time underwater and on the surface. Once underway, the guide provides a detailed briefing about the route, the marine environment, and interesting legends about Tavolara and Punta Coda Cavallo. You’ll appreciate the knowledgeable commentary, which adds context to the stunning scenery.

The first stop is the south wall of Tavolara, famous for its dramatic underwater cliffs and abundant marine life. Expect to spend about 40 minutes exploring this spot, where the terrain creates a natural habitat for large groupers, moray eels, and shoals of fish. The scenery here is stunning—the rocky formations, the clarity of the water, and the chance to see large fish up close make it a memorable experience.

The Second Dive and Marine Diversity

After a snack on board—featuring gluten-free, lactose-free, and hazelnut-free cookies, plus hot tea and water—you’ll move on to the island of Molara. The second dive is in the shallow waters among the reefs and shallows, where you can expect to see large groupers, damselfish, salps, and barracuda. The shallow nature of this site often gives a calmer, visually diverse experience, making it ideal for spotting a variety of fish and perhaps even dolphins if you’re lucky.

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The Big Picture: Marine Life and Scenery

Throughout the day, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Sardinia’s coastlines from the boat, with opportunities for photographs of the islands’ rugged cliffs and crystalline waters. As one review highlights, “the views between dives are as spectacular as the underwater sights.” The marine park fee and Punta Coda Cavallo fee are included, ensuring you access some of the most protected and pristine waters around.

Equipment and Comfort

All necessary gear—wetsuit, mask, fins, tank, and buoyancy vest—is included, so there’s no need to bring much besides your certification, swimwear, towel, and a sense of adventure. Inside the boat, there’s a dedicated area for belongings and changing cabins, along with hot showers at the end of the day. The small group size guarantees attention from guides, who are fluent in Italian, English, and French.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour is tailored for experienced divers with recent certification and a sense of confidence underwater. It’s not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or those without diving experience. If you seek a laid-back snorkel-only trip, look elsewhere, but if you’re eager to swim alongside sea bass, damselfish, and barracudas in unspoiled waters, this is a prime choice.

The price of approximately $174 includes equipment, guide, boat transfer, and park fees, which collectively offer good value considering the quality of marine environments you’re exploring. The inclusion of a snack and access to bathroom facilities onboard adds a layer of comfort not always found on such excursions.

A Few Considerations

Weather conditions can change the itinerary—some sites might be swapped for others if conditions are unfavorable. The tour’s limited group size enhances the experience but also means early booking is recommended. The 4-hour duration is perfect for fitting into a day of exploring Sardinia, and the flexible start times (check availability) help accommodate different schedules.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The combination of personalized guidance, beautiful scenery, and the chance to see large fish and marine mammals makes this experience appealing. Many reviews mention how the visibility and marine diversity contribute to unforgettable moments. Being on a smaller boat with fewer divers also means less crowding and more personal attention—ideal for those who prefer a more tailored experience.

The Value for the Price

While $174 might seem steep compared to typical snorkeling trips, this is a serious outing for certified divers. Access to pristine marine environments with expert guidance, equipment rental, and park fees included offers good value—especially for the chance to see dolphins, groupers, and barracuda in their natural habitat.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour offers a terrific opportunity for seasoned divers who want to explore Sardinia’s underwater world with confidence and comfort. It’s ideal for those eager to encounter large marine species, appreciate spectacular underwater landscapes, and enjoy a well-organized, small-group experience. While not suitable for beginners or non-divers, it provides a meaningful, authentic connection to Sardinia’s marine environment.

If you’re looking for a professional, well-structured diving day with plenty of opportunities for wildlife sightings and stunning scenery, this trip from San Teodoro to Tavolara and Molara hits the mark. Just remember to bring your certification, be prepared for a full underwater day, and embrace the chance to see Sardinia’s marine world in its full glory.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
No, it’s specifically designed for certified, experienced divers with recent certification and a minimum age of 10, so it’s best suited for those comfortable in open water.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers two guided dives, equipment rental (including wetsuit, mask, fins, tank, and buoyancy vest), boat transfer, park fees, and a snack onboard. Bathrooms and changing areas are also available.

How long is the boat ride between dives?
The boat transfer lasts about 20 minutes, giving you time to enjoy the scenery and learn about the marine park from your guide.

What marine animals might I see?
Expect to see large groupers, barracuda, damselfish, salps, bream, and possibly dolphins while sailing. Visibility and marine life abundance make it a rewarding experience.

What should I bring?
Bring your diving certification, swimwear, towel, and perhaps a camera. The tour provides all necessary gear, but personal items go into the waterproof bags supplied.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or anyone without recent diving experience. Also, you should avoid flying or reaching high altitudes for at least 12-24 hours after diving.

What happens if weather conditions are poor?
The itinerary may change depending on weather. The guide will advise on the best alternative site or reschedule if necessary for safety.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking process is flexible, allowing you to reserve now and pay later.

This comprehensive experience combines the thrill of underwater discovery with the comfort of a small, guided group. For seasoned divers eager to explore Sardinia’s marine treasures, it offers a well-balanced, memorable day in one of Italy’s most stunning natural settings.

You can check availability for your dates here: