SNORKELING IN TAVOLARA AND MOLARA BY RUBBER DINGHY

Exploring Sardinia’s Underwater and Coastal Beauty: Snorkeling in Tavolara and Molara by Rubber Dinghy

If you’re dreaming of a day spent exploring Sardinia’s vibrant marine life and breathtaking coastlines, this snorkeling experience offers an accessible yet memorable way to do just that. Organized by CENTRO IMMERSIONI FIGAROLO, this 4-hour guided tour combines the thrill of discovering crystal-clear waters, shipwrecks, and scenic bays—all from the comfort of a rubber dinghy. It’s perfect for those wanting a taste of the sea without the hassle of heavy equipment or long boat rides.

What makes this trip stand out are two key features: first, the chance to snorkel in a marine protected area, ensuring lively fish and healthy coral; second, the visit to the Krisso shipwreck, a fascinating relic from 1973 that adds a touch of history to your underwater adventure. The main drawback? It’s a relatively short tour—so if you’re craving a full day of exploration, you might find this a bit limited. Still, for travelers seeking a balanced mix of scenic beauty and snorkeling, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This tour is especially suited for active travelers, nature lovers, and anyone eager to enjoy Sardinia’s coast from a different perspective. It’s accessible for most, but not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, due to the nature of the boat ride and snorkeling stops. If you’re after a straightforward, well-organized outing that offers spectacular views and memorable underwater moments, this tour is worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Marine protected area guarantees vibrant underwater life and healthier coral reefs.
• Shipwreck at Krisso provides both a historical interest and a unique snorkeling site.
• Bays with crystal-clear water make for picture-perfect moments and enjoyable swims.
• The tour includes guided snorkeling with equipment provided, making it accessible for beginners.
• Scenic views of Tavolara cliff and the surrounding coastline add to the visual appeal.
• It’s a shorter, afternoon trip—ideal for travelers with limited time or those combining activities.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

We loved the way this tour combines stunning scenery with accessible snorkeling. Starting at the beach, you meet the team at 8:30 a.m. at the diving center with anticipation. The group departs from the first beach—either Spiaggia del Dottore or Porto Legnaiolo—and the boat swiftly takes you toward the first highlight: crystal-clear bays perfect for snorkeling.

The guide, who speaks both Italian and English, is instrumental in making everyone feel comfortable and well-informed. You’ll get fins and masks included, so you don’t need to bring your own gear, which simplifies the hassle of packing. The first stop offers you the chance to explore the calm waters of the protected marine area, with plenty of marine life and colorful fish visible just beneath the surface.

Next, the boat heads to the Krisso shipwreck, a relic that sank in 1973. Snorkelers report that it’s a fascinating site, providing a glimpse into Sardinia’s maritime history. The wreck is shallow enough for easy viewing and offers a touch of adventure for those intrigued by submerged relics. Alternatively, if wreck diving isn’t your thing, the scenic landscape of Sassi Piatti offers another visual feast—rock formations and lush surroundings that make for excellent photos.

The final snorkeling stop is at Piscine di Molara, a series of natural pools where the water remains crystal clear and inviting for a relaxing swim. The water here is calm and warm, perfect for unwinding after the earlier excitement.

Following the snorkeling, the boat docks at the pier of Tavolara Island. Here, travelers have the option to stay on the beach or follow a short path to Spalmatore di Terra, a beach connected to the mainland by a strip of sand. This is a great chance to soak up the scenery, take photos of the dramatic Tavolara cliff, or simply enjoy some downtime with picturesque views.

The return trip is scheduled for 1:00 p.m., giving you a comfortably short but richly rewarding window into Sardinia’s underwater world.

A Closer Look at What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes fins and masks, a snorkeling guide, and mooring at the pier—a package that offers convenience and value. You won’t need to worry about the equipment, allowing you to focus on enjoying the scenery and wildlife.

However, it’s important to note that drinks and food are not included, so bringing water or snacks is advisable, especially if you plan to stay longer on the beach afterwards. Also, the tour does not include other activities or expenses, which means you can keep your budget predictable.

Meeting point logistics are straightforward—look for the “you will find dolphins and flags” marker, and the activity ends back at the same spot, making logistics easy for travelers.

The tour is flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which is a reassuring policy for spontaneous travelers. Plus, the option to reserve and pay later provides flexibility if your plans change.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Many reviewers have praised the stunning views and the quality of the snorkeling spots. One wrote, “The bays with crystal-clear water made it easy to see fish and coral, even from the surface,” highlighting how accessible and enjoyable the snorkeling experience is. Others appreciated the friendly and knowledgeable guides who made the trip informative without being overbearing.

The shipwreck at Krisso is another favorite, with visitors describing it as a “highlight,” noting that it’s “not just a relic but a piece of Sardinian maritime history.” Some noted that the short duration keeps the experience light and manageable, perfect for a half-day adventure, though a few wished for a bit more time at each stop.

The consensus is that this tour offers great value—with well-organized logistics, beautiful scenery, and accessible snorkeling—that appeals especially to first-time visitors or those short on time but eager to see the coast and underwater life.

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Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring swimwear and a towel; everything else (fins, masks) is provided.
• Arrive early to meet your guide comfortably and settle in.
• Prepare for sun exposure—sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are recommended.
• Hydrate well before and after snorkeling.
• The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, due to the boat ride and snorkeling nature.
• Avoid bringing high-heeled shoes, sharp objects, or large luggage—these aren’t allowed on the boat.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a short, manageable, yet visually stunning experience of Sardinia’s coastal waters. It’s perfect for beginners and families looking for an easy way to enjoy snorkeling without heavy equipment or long boat rides. Nature lovers will appreciate the crystal waters and the chance to see marine life in a protected area. History buffs may enjoy the shipwreck stop, adding an extra layer to their outing.

However, if you’re after a full day of extensive exploration or aren’t comfortable with boat trips, this might feel a bit limited. It’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy a guided tour with some adventure, scenic views, and underwater discovery, all wrapped into a well-organized morning.

Final Thoughts

This snorkeling trip in Sardinia’s Tavolara and Molara offers a well-rounded, scenic experience that balances adventure and relaxation. The highlight is undoubtedly the chance to see Sardinia’s vibrant marine life, either through the clear waters of protected bays or exploring the intriguing Krisso shipwreck. The scenery—cliffs, bays, and the small islands—is superb, making this a memorable outing.

For travelers short on time but eager to tick off snorkeling and island scenery, this tour provides excellent value. The guides are known to be friendly and helpful, ensuring you feel comfortable whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a beginner.

All in all, if your goal is to enjoy Sardinia’s sea and coastline in a relaxed, organized setting, this tour hits the right notes. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure, some sunscreen, and a desire to marvel at the natural beauty beneath and above the waves.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, fins and masks are included, and the guided nature of the tour makes it accessible for those new to snorkeling.

How long is the snorkeling time?
The total tour lasts about 4 hours, with several stops for snorkeling and beach time, so you’ll have plenty of underwater viewing.

Are food and drinks provided?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bring some water and snacks if desired.

Is there any age restriction?
The tour is not recommended for pregnant women and may not be suitable for those with mobility issues, but children who are comfortable with water might enjoy it.

What should I bring?
Swimwear and a towel are essential. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are also wise for sun protection. Equipment such as fins and masks are provided.

Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?
While not explicitly stated, tours generally depend on weather, so check the forecast and cancellation policies if conditions look uncertain.

In summary, this snorkeling tour offers a fantastic way to experience Sardinia’s coastal charm without overcommitting. It’s perfect for curious explorers eager to see vibrant underwater life and enjoy scenic island views—especially if you’re looking for a straightforward, well-organized outing that balances adventure with comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here: