Stintino: full day tour catamaran Asinara Island

Planning a day on Sardinia’s coast? This full-day catamaran trip from Stintino to Asinara Island promises a relaxed, intimate adventure with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and savor regional seafood. With a near-perfect rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 61 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this tour worth the time and money. But as always, understanding both what’s great—and what to watch for—helps you decide if it’s right for you.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are its focus on small-group intimacy—the boat is limited to just 12 passengers—and the chance to sample genuine Sardinian flavors during the onboard aperitif and seafood lunch. On the flip side, some travelers have noted that the trip might feel a bit rushed if your main goal is to explore more of the island itself. Overall, if you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic day at sea, this tour will likely suit couples, small groups, and anyone keen on authentic marine environments.

Key Points

• Small-group experience offers more personalized attention and access to exclusive coves.
• Includes seafood lunch and regional aperitif, providing a taste of Sardinia’s culinary delights.
• Flexible itinerary that adapts to weather and sea conditions, focusing on comfort and safety.
• Ideal for travelers seeking relaxation, snorkeling, and scenic views rather than extensive land excursions.
• Limited group size enhances intimacy, making it easier to enjoy the environment and ask questions.
• Highly rated for knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and authentic local food.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Relaxed Day on Sardinia’s Seas

This full-day catamaran tour from Stintino is designed for travelers who want to enjoy Sardinia’s coast with minimal fuss. The departure from Lungomare Cristoforo Colombo at 10:00 AM (check availability for exact times) kicks off your maritime escape. The 10-meter Waza-Ari catamaran, authorized by the Park Authority, is small enough to allow access to some of the island’s most pristine and unspoiled coves.

What makes this experience stand out is the intimate group size—up to 12 guests—which means your crew, led by an experienced skipper, can focus on your comfort and enjoyment. The boat is equipped with all necessary safety gear and offers a relaxed environment filled with the scent of sea air, gentle sailing, and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting Point: Lungomare Cristoforo Colombo

The tour begins at the designated meeting point, just 10 meters from the gasoline station in Piazzale Guardia Costiera. This straightforward start makes it easy to join with a minimal amount of logistical stress. The guide will give a safety briefing and fill you in on what to expect for the day.

The Cruise & Coveted Coves

Once underway, you’ll cruise towards Asinara Island—a protected marine area known for its crystal-clear waters and rugged coastline. The boat will stop at several coves, which are only accessible by boat, giving you a chance to swim and snorkel in pristine waters. Reviewers love this part, with one describing “lots of stops for swimming/snorkeling” and highlighting the friendly guide Davide for making everyone feel comfortable.

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Onboard Aperitif & Snacks

During the first stop, you’ll be served a delightful aperitif featuring traditional Sardinian products. This is a nice touch that sets the tone for an authentic experience—think regional cheeses, cold cuts, or local delicacies—paired with good regional wine or water. It’s a relaxed way to soak in the scenery and chat with fellow travelers.

Lunch: Seafood Delights

At around 2:00 PM, the boat stops for the main meal of the day—a seafood pasta dish that many reviews praise as “delicious”. The meal includes wine, water, coffee, and desserts, making it a well-rounded gastronomic highlight. The focus on regional food offers not just sustenance but a taste of Sardinia’s maritime bounty.

Return & Reflection

The boat heads back to Stintino around 6:00 PM, giving you a full 8 hours on the water. As the sun begins to set, you’ll likely be relaxing on deck, reminiscing about the spectacular views of the island and the vibrant marine life.

Authenticity and Experience

This tour’s authenticity is one of its main draws. It emphasizes small-group intimacy, personalized guidance, and a focus on natural beauty. Travelers frequently mention the knowledgeable guides—like Davide—who make the experience both informative and relaxed.

While some reviews suggest that the tour doesn’t include extensive exploration of Asinara’s land areas, the focus on sea-focused activities—swimming, snorkeling, and sailing—means you’re getting a true marine nature experience. If your goal is land exploration of Asinara, you might find this tour more about the water than the island itself.

Price & Value

Pricing for this tour reflects its small-group nature, inclusion of regional food and drinks, and the expertise of the crew. At roughly a full day’s worth of activities, it offers good value for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic, and gastronomic experience rather than a hurried land-based trip. The all-inclusive approach—covering fuel, park permits, insurance, and guiding—means fewer hidden costs, enhancing overall value.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the friendly, knowledgeable guides—with one reviewer praising Lorenza and Claudio for making everyone comfortable. The sea views are consistently described as “beautiful,” and the seafood pasta garners high praise for its quality. Travelers also appreciate the opportunities for swimming and snorkeling, making the day both relaxing and engaging.

A slightly mixed review mentions that the island visit might not be as extensive as some hoped, with one person noting they “saw almost nothing of the island” and suggesting it’s more of a sea tour than a land exploration. This is a key point for those who want a more comprehensive visit to Asinara.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those who love sea adventures, scenic sailing, and regional cuisine. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a relaxed day, with plenty of swimming, lounging, and good food. If you’re interested in nature and marine environments rather than extensive island sightseeing, this tour offers a perfect balance.

It’s less suitable for travelers with limited mobility or those over 80 years old, given the boat’s size and the nature of activities. Also, it’s geared toward those who don’t mind a small group setting—which can be more intimate but less flexible than larger tours.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting around 10:00 AM and returning by 6:00 PM, depending on weather conditions.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, camera, sunscreen, beachwear, and snorkeling gear. These essentials will help you enjoy swimming and sunbathing comfortably.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t explicitly described as family-friendly, the age restrictions (not suitable over 80 or 95 years old) suggest it’s best for adults and older children who are comfortable on boats.

Are meals included?
Yes, a regional aperitif and a seafood lunch are included in the price, with wine, water, and desserts served during the meal.

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

Is the itinerary fixed?
No, the route may vary depending on weather and sea conditions, but safety and quality are always prioritized.

Final Thoughts

This catamaran tour from Stintino to Asinara Island offers a relaxed, scenic, and flavorful way to experience Sardinia’s coast. Its small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and focus on natural beauty and regional cuisine make it an attractive choice for travelers looking to combine leisure with authenticity. While it may not satisfy those seeking extensive land exploration of Asinara, it excels at providing a peaceful day on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and enjoy the scenery.

For those who value personalized service, authentic regional flavors, and stunning coastal views, this experience is a smart pick. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a gentle, scenic cruise with good company and delicious food—a day that’s sure to leave you with lasting memories of Sardinia’s marine magic.

You can check availability for your dates here: