Palau: Dinghy tour in La Maddalena Archipelago

If you’re dreaming of exploring Sardinia’s La Maddalena Archipelago by sea, this dinghy tour offered by Escursì is a fantastic way to do it. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the glowing reviews, detailed itinerary, and excellent value make it sound like a memorable day for anyone craving natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and a touch of adventure.

What truly stands out are the friendly, knowledgeable skipper — who ensures safety and shares insights into the area’s best spots — and the opportunity to see iconic sights like Pink Beach of Budelli. On the flip side, the 7.5-hour tour is quite an outing, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day out on the water. If you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group eager to discover La Maddalena’s secret coves and pristine beaches, this trip could be a highlight of your Sardinian journey.

Key Points

• Intimate experience with small group sizes and personalized attention
• Expert local skipper offering insights and safety
• Multiple swimming and snorkeling stops at stunning locations
• Iconic sights like Pink Beach and Porto Madonna
• All-inclusive pricing covers fuel, snacks, and an aperitif
• Flexible departure options from Palau or La Maddalena

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Dinghy Tour

This 7.5-hour full-day excursion is designed to give you a taste of the archipelago’s most beautiful spots aboard a comfortable 8-meter dinghy. The boat itself is well-appointed with a large sundeck, shaded canopy, onboard toilet, and a refrigerator, making the trip both practical and comfortable. With a maximum capacity of 12 passengers plus the skipper, it’s small enough to feel intimate yet spacious enough to relax and take in the views.

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins from either Pier 5 in Palau or La Maddalena, with departure times generally around 9:30 or 10:00 a.m. Depending on weather conditions and the skipper’s judgment, the itinerary may vary slightly, but the highlights remain consistent. The meeting point at Pier 5 is easy to access, and the tour includes fuel, an aperitif, and snacks, offering good value for the price of about $134.81 per person.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day is filled with scenic cruising, swimming, and sightseeing, focusing on the archipelago’s most famous and hidden spots. The skipper’s expertise is key here, as they tailor stops based on weather and sea conditions, ensuring safety and the best experience possible.

• Spargi Island: The trip kicks off with a cruise around Spargi, a rugged island with dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches. Here, you might get to see some wildlife or simply enjoy the panoramic views.
• Cala Corsara, Cala Soraia, and Cala Connery: These beaches are renowned for their turquoise waters and soft sands. The tour typically includes swimming stops at these coves, giving you the chance to snorkel and soak up the sun.
• Pink Beach of Budelli: This is arguably the most famous stop — the Pink Beach with its distinctive rosy sands. While access is restricted, the boat often makes a photo stop, allowing you to snap pictures of this legendary site.
• Porto Madonna and the Natural Pools: Sailing past Porto Madonna, you’ll see the natural pools at Passo degli Asinelli and Spiaggia del Cavaliere, perfect for snorkeling and relaxing.
• Santa Maria Island: The tour concludes here, offering a final opportunity to swim or simply enjoy the peaceful scenery before heading back.

What Travelers Love

One review enthusiastically praises the skipper Massimo’s hospitality, emphasizing his friendliness, knowledge, and fluent English. Guests appreciated that everything was well-maintained and clean, and many noted the snacks and drinks offered during the trip made it feel extra special. The ability to see hidden coves and iconic spots like Pink Beach was highlighted as a major highlight.

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The Overall Experience

This tour isn’t just about sightseeing — it’s about living the experience of Sardinia’s seascape. The boat’s size and the small group setting create a relaxed atmosphere where everyone can enjoy the surroundings. Expect a balance of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing, with plenty of opportunities to take photos or simply soak in the views.

Who Will Love This Trip?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy being on the water and exploring natural landscapes. It’s suitable for those comfortable with a full day outdoors, and the boat’s amenities mean you can stay comfortable throughout. It’s also great for families, couples, or small groups who value personalized attention and authentic encounters with Sardinia’s best-kept secrets.

Practical Considerations and Value

While the price might seem steep compared to a regular boat ride, the value is evident when considering the included amenities, expert guidance, multiple stops, and the opportunity to explore some of the most stunning spots in the archipelago with minimal hassle. The trip’s flexible departure options and the ability to reserve with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance add to its appeal.

If you’re a solo traveler or a small group, the intimate size of the boat enhances the experience, making it possible to ask questions and get personalized recommendations from the skipper. The snacks and aperitif onboard add a nice touch, making it a more relaxed, social outing.

A Word of Caution

The tour requires a full day, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a long time on the water. It’s not recommended for pregnant women or anyone with mobility issues, given the nature of the activity. Also, since the itinerary depends on weather, there’s a chance of slight modifications, but this typically enhances safety and the quality of your experience.

The Sum Up

This dinghy tour in La Maddalena offers a well-balanced mix of scenic cruising, authentic natural beauty, and a touch of adventure. The small group size and knowledgeable skipper ensure a personalized experience, giving you access to hidden coves, iconic pink sands, and crystal waters that make Sardinia’s archipelago so special.

It’s particularly suited for those eager to explore the marine landscape in comfort and style, and who value authentic, off-the-beaten-path moments. Whether you’re snapping photos of the Pink Beach, snorkeling in emerald waters, or simply relaxing on deck with an aperitif, this trip promises a day full of memorable sights and gentle thrills.

For travelers who love natural beauty, a touch of adventure, and expert guidance, this tour hits the sweet spot — a true highlight among Sardinia’s many seaside adventures.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable on a boat and can handle a full day out on the water. Always check with the operator for specific age restrictions.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring a towel and beachwear, so you’re ready for swimming and sunbathing. Personal water bottles aren’t included, so consider bringing one.

Can I join the tour from La Maddalena instead of Palau?
Yes, the tour also departs from La Maddalena at 10:00 a.m., simply contact the skipper after booking to arrange the departure point.

Are meals included?
No, a packet lunch is not included, but snacks and an aperitif are offered onboard as part of the experience.

What language do guides speak?
Guides are available in Italian, English, and French, ensuring clearer communication for diverse travelers.

What happens if weather conditions are poor?
The itinerary is flexible and depends on marine weather conditions; safety is the top priority, and the operator may modify stops or cancel if necessary with full refund options available.

This dinghy tour offers an excellent way to see Sardinia’s La Maddalena Archipelago up close, with the benefit of expert guidance and relaxing amenities. It’s a chance to make the most of your time in Sardinia’s stunning marine environment in a fun, intimate setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: