Palau or La Maddalena: speedboat tour in the Achipelago

Thinking about experiencing Sardinia’s stunning coastline and islands from the water? This speedboat tour from Palau promises a day filled with breathtaking scenery, lovely stops, and a taste of local flavors. If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, iconic pink sands, and peaceful coves, this trip might just be your perfect escape.

We love the convenience of exploring multiple islands in just one day — it’s an efficient way to see the highlights of the Maddalena Archipelago without the hassle of planning individual trips. The delicious Sardinian lunch served aboard is another highlight, giving travelers a chance to enjoy regional flavors amid spectacular scenery. On the flip side, some might find that the itinerary’s focus on certain spots leaves out others — notably La Maddalena itself — which could be a disappointment if you’re eager to get up close to the main island.

This tour works well for travelers who want a comfortable, guided boat experience that combines sightseeing, swimming, and local cuisine. If you’re short on time but craving a genuine taste of Sardinia’s coast, this trip offers a nice balance of adventure and relaxation — perfect for first-timers or those wanting a quick, scenic escape.

Key Points

• Scenic Navigation: The tour covers key islands of the Maddalena Archipelago, including Budelli, Spargi, and stops at notable coves.
• Natural Pools & Pink Beach: You’ll enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters and viewing the famous Pink Beach from afar.
• Authentic Sardinian Food: A meal with local land and sea products, served on board, adds a tasty regional touch.
• Comfortable Boat: The open, well-equipped boat (built in 1990) accommodates up to 14 guests, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere.
• Flexible & Informative: Tours are offered in both Italian and English, with live guides providing insights.
• Weather & Itinerary: The stops and routes depend on sea conditions and skipper decisions, which can lead to slight changes in plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Tour

Departure and Duration

Starting from the port of Palau, the tour lasts approximately 7 hours — with departure times varying, so it’s worth checking availability beforehand. You’ll be on a speedboat built in 1990, measuring about 12 meters long, with a capacity of 14 people (12 passengers + 2 crew). The boat, called Tredas Open Ilver 36, is equipped with sunbathing nets, freshwater shower, a climbing ladder, and an awning for comfort and safety. It’s ideal for those seeking an intimate, small-group experience rather than a crowded cruise.

The First Leg: Heading to Budelli

After departing from Palau, expect about 50 minutes of scenic cruising before reaching the highlight — the natural pools of Budelli. These are enclosed among the islands of Budelli, Razzoli, and Santa Maria, offering an ideal spot for swimming and relaxing. The natural pools are a major draw, thanks to their clear waters and peaceful surroundings. From reviews, we gather that many visitors appreciated the opportunity to dive into these pristine waters, which are perfect for snorkelers and swimmers alike.

The Pink Beach Viewpoint

Next, you’ll head towards the famous Pink Beach, known for its unique pastel-colored sands. While the tour stops at a distance, many travelers enjoy just viewing this iconic beach, which has become a symbol of the archipelago’s natural beauty. Some wish they could get closer, but the boat’s itinerary generally keeps the focus on the scenic overview rather than landing.

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Lunch and Rest

Midday, you’ll be treated to a delicious Sardinian meal featuring local seafood and land products. The crew, including guides like Andrea and Francesco, are noted for their warm hospitality and quality cuisine. According to reviews, this meal is a pleasant surprise, making the tour not just about scenery but also about savoring regional flavors. You’ll be able to relax, enjoy the meal, and perhaps even chat with fellow travelers or the crew.

Exploring Spargi Island

Post-lunch, the boat heads towards Spargi Island, famous for its enchanting coves like Cala Soraja and Cala Corsara. Expect about an hour at each stop, giving plenty of time to swim, take photos, or just soak up the stunning environment. The coves are praised in reviews for their tranquility and natural beauty, making them ideal for a peaceful paddle or relaxing on the boat.

Returning to Palau

After a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and tasting Sardinian cuisine, your speedboat will head back to Palau, completing the roughly 7-hour adventure. While the itinerary might shift based on weather and skipper decisions, the goal remains to maximize scenic views and memorable moments.

The Experience: What’s the Real Value?

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of a relaxed boat ride, scenic stops, and regional food. Travelers often comment on the knowledgeable guides and the friendly crew, who add a personal touch. The small group size allows for a more intimate experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions or simply enjoy the scenery.

The crystal waters at the natural pools are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, giving you a refreshing break from the boat. The views of Pink Beach from afar are striking, even if the tour doesn’t land there — that iconic hue against the azure sea is a sight to remember.

The lunch on board is more than just a meal; it’s a chance to taste Sardinian land and sea products, adding an authentic flavor to the experience. Many reviews praise the quality of the food and the convivial atmosphere, making the journey feel like a day with friends rather than a standard tour.

Value and Cost

While the tour’s price includes the boat, crew, fuel, and lunch, some travelers might find the cost justified by the quality of experience — especially considering the comfortable vessel and scenic itinerary. The small group size means you won’t be part of a crowded tourist herd, making for a more personal day.

Practical Tips

• Bring sunscreen, hat, swimwear, towel, and water — the Sardinian sun can be intense.
• Optional minibar service is available at an extra cost if you wish to indulge.
• Notify the crew of any food intolerances at least a day before — the crew aims to accommodate dietary needs.
• The tour ends back at the departure point, so plan your transport accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers who value intimate, scenic adventures and enjoy swimming in beautiful waters. It’s ideal for those who appreciate authentic local cuisine and want a balanced day of sightseeing and relaxation. Small groups and knowledgeable guides make it perfect for curious travelers interested in learning about the archipelago.

It’s also well-suited for travelers with limited time but who want to experience the essence of Sardinia’s coast in one day. If you’re looking for a comfortable, guided speedboat experience with a friendly atmosphere, this tour checks many boxes.

However, if you’re eager to see La Maddalena up close or explore on foot extensively, you might find this tour somewhat limited since its main focus is on scenic stops and swimming rather than land exploration.

For anyone seeking a day of scenic cruising, swimming in crystal waters, and tasting regional cuisine, this speedboat tour offers excellent value. It’s a well-organized, friendly experience that combines the beauty of Sardinia’s islands with warm hospitality and memorable moments.

While it might not satisfy those wanting extensive land visits or a focus on Maddalena town itself, it’s perfect for travelers craving authentic, relaxed, and visually stunning coastal exploration. The reviews confirm that you’ll come away with great photos, a satisfied palate, and stories to tell about your Sardinian day at sea.

If you’re ready to enjoy Sardinia’s waters from a comfortable boat, with knowledgeable guides and delicious food, this tour is worth considering — especially if you want a smaller, more personal experience that captures the spirit of the archipelago.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the small-group boat experience and focus on swimming and relaxing suggest it could be suitable for children comfortable in the water. Always check with the provider if you have young children.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, and beachwear. The boat is equipped with a freshwater shower, but personal essentials are recommended.

Can I request a different departure point?
Yes, the tour is available from Palau or La Maddalena. After booking, contact the skipper at the provided number to arrange departure from La Maddalena at no extra cost.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat travels about 50 minutes from Palau to Budelli, with additional cruising time between stops, totaling roughly 7 hours for the entire experience.

Is food included?
Yes, the price covers a Sardinian lunch featuring local land and sea products, along with an aperitif. Extra minibar service is available on request at an additional cost.

What if the weather is bad?
The itinerary is subject to change depending on sea weather conditions and skipper’s decisions. The tour can be canceled or modified for safety.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?
Pets are not allowed. Also, inform the crew of any food intolerances at least a day before the tour.

Whether you’re after stunning scenery, swimming in natural pools, or sampling Sardinian cuisine, this speedboat tour offers a memorable way to experience the Maddalena Archipelago’s natural beauty. It’s a relaxed, friendly outing perfect for those who want a taste of Sardinia’s best from the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: