From Stintino: Vintage Sailboat Tour to Asinara With Lunch

Discover the captivating history and natural beauty of Asinara National Park on this unique vintage sailboat tour departing from Stintino. Explore the island’s storied past as a former penal and leper colony, swim in the pristine waters, and savor a Sardinian-inspired lunch aboard the wooden boat. Enjoy the island’s rich heritage and diverse wildlife, from the iconic Albino Donkeys to the vibrant marine life. This sustainable and authentic experience offers a glimpse into Asinara’s captivating story, leaving you eager to uncover more about this remarkable Italian destination.

Key Points

• Depart from Stintino and embark on a coastal navigation journey to the pristine Asinara Island aboard a vintage sailboat.
• Explore the island’s rich history as a former penal and leper colony with a 1-hour stopover at Cala Reale.
• Enjoy a lunch featuring typical Sardinian products while sailing across the azure waters.
• Swim in the natural pools of Li Giorri or Fornelli and discover the unique Albino Donkeys of Asinara National Park.
• Visit the abandoned penal colony site and observe the island’s rugged terrain and indigenous wildlife during the excursion.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Highlights of the Vintage Sailboat Tour

Passengers aboard the vintage sailboat will have the chance to swim in the pristine waters of Asinara National Park, enjoy the island’s rich history, and explore its picturesque coastline during the tour.

The 1-hour stopover at Cala Reale on Asinara Island allows guests to discover the island’s fascinating past as a penal colony and leper colony.

Afterward, the boat will stop at either Li Giorri or Fornelli natural pools, where travelers can cool off and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.

Throughout the day, the crew will provide insights and commentary, sharing their knowledge of the local culture and environment.

With a focus on sustainability and authenticity, this vintage sailboat tour offers a unique and memorable experience.

Itinerary for the Day

The tour begins with a departure from Stintino, where travelers embark on a coastal navigation journey towards Asinara Island.

Upon reaching Cala Reale, the boat will anchor for a 1-hour stopover, allowing guests to explore the island’s rich history as a former penal and leper colony.

Afterward, the group will enjoy a delightful lunch aboard the boat, featuring typical Sardinian products.

The excursion then continues with a stop at Li Giorri or Fornelli, where passengers can take a refreshing dip in the natural pools along the coast.

Exploring Asinara National Park

Asinara National Park boasts a diverse array of flora and fauna, offering visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the island’s captivating natural wonders. From the crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life to the rugged, untamed landscapes, the park showcases the breathtaking beauty of this protected Mediterranean gem.

Explore the park’s highlights:

• Discover the island’s historic Albino Donkeys, a rare breed found only on Asinara

• Hike through the rugged terrain and spot indigenous wildlife, including the Mouflon, a wild sheep species

• Snorkel or dive in the pristine waters to observe the vibrant underwater ecosystems

• Visit the abandoned penal colony, a testament to the island’s complex history

• Birdwatch and spot migratory species that thrive in Asinara’s protected habitats

Lunch Aboard the Boat

After exploring the idyllic waters and landscapes of Asinara National Park, visitors can savor a delightful lunch aboard the vintage sailboat, featuring a selection of typical Sardinian delicacies. The fresh, locally-sourced ingredients are carefully prepared by the crew, ensuring a truly authentic dining experience. Diners can expect to indulge in a variety of Sardinian specialties, such as:

Dish	Description
Pecorino Cheese	Tangy, aged sheep’s milk cheese
Cured Meats	Prosciutto, salami, and more
Seafood Salad	Mixed with olives, tomatoes, and herbs

As the sailboat gently glides across the azure waters, guests can savor the flavors of Sardinia while taking in the breathtaking coastal scenery.

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Discovering the Island’s History

During the stopover at Cala Reale, visitors can explore the island’s captivating history. Asinara has a rich past, having served as a quarantine station, a penal colony, and a military base over the centuries. Guests can explore the remnants of these eras, gaining insights into the island’s evolving role and significance.

Some of the key historical highlights on the island include:

• The remnants of the old quarantine station, where ships were required to undergo isolation
• The ruins of the former penal colony, which housed political prisoners and criminals

The abandoned military installations, a testament to the island’s strategic importance.

The historic lighthouse, guiding sailors through the treacherous waters.

The unique Asinara white donkeys, a symbol of the island’s diverse ecosystem and heritage.

Amenities of the Wooden Gozzo

The vintage wooden gozzo used for the sailboat tour features a range of amenities to enhance the comfort and experience of passengers. Along With the bathroom and kitchen, the boat is equipped with an awning to provide shade and protection from the elements.

Passengers can freshen up with the indoor freshwater shower, and access the water easily with the provided ladder. With a length of 10 meters and a width of 3.5 meters, the gozzo can comfortably accommodate up to 10 passengers, plus 2 crew members.

These carefully selected features create an enjoyable and well-equipped sailing experience for guests exploring the coast and Asinara Island on this vintage vessel.

Arrival and Parking Information

Parking is available near the Porto Turistico Marina di Stintino at a cost of €5 for the day.

The meeting point for the sailboat tour is located in front of the kiosk at the harbor.

The parking lot is conveniently situated near the marina, providing easy access to the departure point.

Arrive early to secure a spot and have time to check in before the tour departs.

The kiosk at the harbor serves as a clear landmark to find the meeting point.

Be sure to have the €5 parking fee ready to pay upon arrival.

Coordinate with your group to ensure everyone arrives at the designated meeting time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?

Passengers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the boat. However, a lunch with typical Sardinian products is already included in the tour package. It’s best to check with the tour operator about any restrictions or policies regarding outside provisions.

Is the Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

The tour may be suitable for families with young children, as the boat has amenities like a bathroom and indoor freshwater shower. However, the island activities and 8-hour duration may not be ideal for young kids. Parents should consider their children’s needs and stamina.

Are There Any Accessibility Options for Passengers With Disabilities?

The boat has limited accessibility, as it’s a small wooden vessel. However, the crew is accommodating and can assist passengers with disabilities as needed. Prospective passengers should inquire about specific accessibility options when booking.

Can I Book Private Tours or Customize the Itinerary?

Yes, private tours and custom itineraries are often available on sailboat tours. Customers can typically discuss their preferences with the tour operator to tailor the experience to their needs and interests. Many operators are happy to accommodate special requests.

What Is the Cancellation Policy in Case of Bad Weather?

The tour company has a flexible cancellation policy that allows customers to reschedule or receive a full refund if the tour is cancelled due to inclement weather. They prioritize safety and will make the decision to cancel based on weather conditions.

Recap

Exploring Asinara National Park on a vintage sailboat is a unique and immersive experience. Visitors can explore the island’s rich history, enjoy a refreshing swim, and savor a Sardinian-inspired lunch aboard the boat.

With opportunities to discover the iconic Albino Donkeys, observe marine life, and learn about the island’s sustainable practices, this tour offers a captivating glimpse into Asinara’s captivating heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: