From Palau: La Maddalena Islands Full-Day Trip by Boat

Explore the captivating La Maddalena archipelago on a 7-hour full-day cruise departing from Palau or La Maddalena. This tour, offered at $56.94 per person, takes you across some of Sardinia’s most beautiful islands and beaches aboard the Navetta Sea Star. With stops for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy the natural beauty and history of this protected area. The tour includes multiple stops at renowned locations such as Cala Corsara, Santa Maria, Cala Coticcio, Spiaggia Rosa, and the Natural Pools of Porto Della Madonna.

While the itinerary is packed with highlights, it’s worth noting that crowd levels can be high, and some stops may be shorter than ideal. Still, the friendly crew and expert guides help make the experience memorable, especially for those eager to explore Sardinia’s stunning coastlines and clear waters. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy boat trips, beaches, and picturesque landscapes — and are comfortable with some busy spots during peak times.

Key Points

• 7-hour full-day tour from Palau or La Maddalena, providing a comprehensive look at the archipelago.
• Multiple swimming and snorkeling stops at spots like Cala Coticcio (Tahiti), Cala Santa Maria, and Porto Della Madonna.
• Visits to iconic locations such as Spiaggia Rosa, the Natural Pools, and historic sites in La Maddalena.
• Expert multilingual guides deliver informative commentary during the cruise.
• Crowds are common, especially at popular beaches, so some stops may feel busy.
• Food and drinks are available for purchase on board; lunch is not included.

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From Palau to Spargi: Starting the Adventure

The tour begins at the Maritime Station in Palau, with check-in from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. The departure time is at 10:30 am, and the boat heads toward the Spargi Island, a pristine paradise known for its clear waters and untouched nature. Here, travelers enjoy about 1.5 hours of free time to sunbathe on the beaches or explore the historical features in Cala Corsara. The crew is attentive, and the guides share insights into the island’s natural beauty.

The short navigation of less than 15 minutes makes this first stop relaxing and easy to access. The beaches feature white sands and transparent waters, perfect for a quick swim or just soaking up the sun. Many find this a peaceful start before the day’s more active stops.

Exploring Spargi’s Beaches and Historical Features

On Spargi, the focus is on relaxation and exploration. The bay of Cala Corsara offers a chance to discover old structures and enjoy the peaceful bay. After enjoying Spargi’s natural charm, the boat continues cruising around the island, giving passengers the option to have lunch or snacks while continuing to explore nearby coves.

This stop sets a tranquil tone for the day, with crystal-clear waters inviting swimmers. The natural scenery is a highlight, though some reviews note that the crowds can be heavy, especially in peak season, which might affect the serene feel.

Photographing the Famous Spiaggia Rosa and Porto Della Madonna

Next, the boat moves to Budelli Island, famous for its Spiaggia Rosa — a pink sand beach that draws many visitors. The tour offers a photo stop from the boat, allowing all to capture the iconic view. The Natural Pools of Porto Della Madonna are also visible from the vessel, with their emerald waters providing a perfect backdrop for photos.

Since the tour emphasizes natural beauty, this stop is ideal for snapping pictures and marveling at the unique color contrasts of the pink sands and turquoise waters. The stop is brief, but the spectacle is well worth it, especially for photography enthusiasts.

Relaxing at Cala Santa Maria Beach

The voyage then takes travelers to Cala Santa Maria, where a second stop provides about 75 minutes of free time. Visitors can disembark via the dock to reach the large sandy beach, or opt for a walk to the old lighthouse about 1 km away. This beach offers a more relaxed environment and is a great place to swim and unwind.

The scenic surroundings and crystal waters make Cala Santa Maria an excellent spot for sunbathing and light exploration. The walk to the lighthouse offers additional views of the coastline but should be planned with time constraints in mind.

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Swimming at Cala Coticcio (Tahiti) or Caprera

Depending on the day of the week, the last swim stop varies:

• On Monday, Tuesday, and Friday, the boat visits Caprera Island for a swim in Cala Coticcio, also called Tahiti for its exotic character. This spot is a natural aquarium, perfect for snorkeling with a mask and fins.

• On Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, the final stop is in La Maddalena’s historic center, where travelers can walk through characteristic streets, visit the church of Santa Maria Maddalena, or enjoy shopping.

The Cala Coticcio stop is highly praised for its beauty and snorkeling opportunities, with reviews emphasizing the stunning nature and clear waters. It’s recommended to bring snorkeling gear to make the most of this exotic location.

Exploring La Maddalena’s Historic Center or Final Swim

If the tour ends in La Maddalena, travelers have time to wander the streets, visit the church, or browse local shops. The historic town offers a charming atmosphere, with characteristic streets and local sights such as Villa Webber and the old granite quarries.

For those on the Monday, Tuesday, or Friday schedule, the last activity is a swim from the boat at Cala Coticcio, giving a final chance to enjoy Sardinia’s waters. This flexibility allows for a variety of experiences depending on the day chosen.

Cruise Past Historic and Military Sites

Throughout the cruise, many points of interest are visible from the boat, including Santo Stefano Island, a former NATO base, Napoleon’s fort, and G8 works. The route also passes by Cala Francese’s old granite quarries, the weather station at Guardia Vecchia, and Villa Webber, where Benito Mussolini was imprisoned.

These sights add a layer of historical context to the day’s natural beauty, giving a glimpse into Sardinia’s strategic and historical significance.

Practical Details and Onboard Amenities

The tour includes boat cruise, swimming stops, an expert multilingual guide, passenger insurance, and public restrooms. Food and drinks are available for purchase on board, but lunch is not included. During the day, you can buy snacks or a meal, and cash is recommended as credit card payments may face network issues.

Meeting at the Maritime Station in Palau is straightforward, with check-in from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. The departure is at 10:30 am, and the tour concludes back at the starting point.

Considerations for a Smooth Trip

The itinerary can change due to weather conditions, and crowd levels can be high, especially at popular beaches like Cala Corsara and Cala Santa Maria. Some reviews mention short stop durations and busy beaches, so travelers seeking more solitude might find this challenging.

The tour is not suitable for pregnant travelers, those with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users. It’s advisable to arrive early due to traffic, and to bring essentials such as sunscreen, snacks, snorkeling gear, and cash.

Final Thoughts on the La Maddalena Full-Day Boat Trip

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of La Maddalena’s highlights, from breathtaking beaches and natural pools to historic sites and scenic viewpoints. The friendly crew and guides help create a positive experience, despite some crowding and short stops.

For travelers who enjoy boat trips, swimming, and picturesque scenery, this experience provides good value for money and a chance to see many key locations in a single day. It’s best suited for those comfortable with busy spots and looking for a well-organized cruise that reveals Sardinia’s stunning coastlines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The boat cruise, swimming stops, a multilingual guide, passenger insurance, and public restrooms are included. Food and drinks are available to purchase on board, but lunch is not included.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, with departure at 10:30 am and returning to Palau by early evening.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from the Maritime Station in Palau, with check-in available from 9:00 am to 10:00 am.

What are the main stops during the tour?
Stops include Spargi Island for relaxation, Budelli Island for photos of Spiaggia Rosa, Cala Santa Maria for beach time, and either Cala Coticcio (Tahiti) or the historic center of La Maddalena, depending on the day.

Are the beaches crowded?
Yes, several reviews note that popular beaches can be quite busy, especially during peak season, which might affect the serenity of some stops.

Is snorkeling recommended?
Yes, especially at Cala Coticcio, which is described as a natural aquarium. Bringing your own snorkeling gear enhances the experience.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, cash, and snorkeling gear. Oversized luggage is not allowed.

Can I buy food on board?
Yes, food and drinks are available for purchase, but many travelers prefer to bring their own snacks.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour may be canceled or rerouted due to adverse weather conditions. It’s advisable to check the weather forecast and be prepared for changes.

How crowded are the boats?
The boats can be quite full, leading to limited space and potentially crowded beaches. Some reviews suggest that a smaller boat could offer a more relaxed experience.

What makes this tour stand out?
The diverse stops, expert guides, and stunning scenery make this a well-rounded option for exploring Sardinia’s coast. Despite some crowding, it offers great value and a variety of beautiful locations in one trip.

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