Olbia: Dinghy tour to the islands of Tavolara and Molara, swimming and snorkeling

Discover the Vibrant Waters and Stunning Islands of Sardinia

The Olbia Dinghy Tour to Tavolara and Molara offers an exciting sea adventure, departing from the peaceful port of Olbia with its convenient parking options. For 4.5 to 7 hours, this tour immerses you in the crystal-clear waters of Sardinia’s Marine Protected Area, with stops at some of the most beautiful coves and islands in the region.

Led by professional skippers on a new inflatable boat—the BWA 308 GTO—this tour is designed for groups of up to 10 people for maximum comfort, even though the boat is approved for 20. It’s an ideal choice for families or small groups seeking a relaxed yet scenic day on the water, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying regional delicacies.

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Key Points

• Duration of 4.5 to 7 hours with flexible starting times
• Limited to 10 people per trip for comfort, despite the boat’s capacity of 20
• Multiple stops for swimming and snorkeling at Cala della Contessa, Porto Istana, and Isola dei Cavalli
• Guided by experienced skippers who share fascinating anecdotes about the area
• Includes a complimentary aperitif with local products and drinks
• Departures from Olbia’s quiet port, close to the historic center and with nearby free parking

From Olbia’s Quiet Port to Sardinia’s Most Beautiful Islands

The tour begins at a laid-back marina in Olbia, just a few hundred meters from the city’s historic center. You’ll easily find free parking nearby, and the staff wears identifiable blue T-shirts with the MARI Sea Charters logo. The starting point provides a calm, scenic setting before heading out to explore the marine protected area.

The journey covers a variety of scenic spots, from the tranquil waters near Capo Ceraso to the scenic Porto Istana. The boat’s small size ensures a cozy, intimate experience, perfect for families or groups eager to enjoy Sardinia’s waters without large crowds.

Exploring the Colorful Sardinian Sea

This tour is fondly called the “Tour of Colors” because of its vivid water hues—shimmering emerald, bright turquoise, and deep blue—all seen during stops at different locations. The waters are notably transparent, allowing swimmers and snorkelers to admire the vibrant marine life and underwater landscapes.

Throughout the trip, the guides emphasize the incredible range of colors in Sardinia’s sea, making it a visual highlight. The changing waters provide a stunning backdrop for photos or simply relaxing in the sun after a refreshing swim.

The Highlights of the Stops: Cala della Contessa, Porto Istana, and Isola dei Cavalli

Each stop on the itinerary offers unique scenery and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. Cala della Contessa in Capo Ceraso features calm, clear waters ideal for floating and exploring marine life. Porto Istana provides scenic views along with its inviting waters, perfect for a relaxing dip.

The Isola dei Cavalli is known for its natural beauty and offers a chance to enjoy the crystal-clear pools of Molara Island. Here, swimmers can expect to see an array of colorful fish as they float in the natural waters, with the impressive cliffs of Tavolara looming nearby.

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Visiting Tavolara: A Close-Up of Sardinia’s Iconic Island

The imposing Tavolara Island is a major sight during the tour. Its striking cliffs line the horizon, offering a dramatic contrast to the tranquil waters below. The boat cruise around the island provides scenic views, and the guide shares insights about its natural features and history.

On Tavolara, the natural pools of Molara are accessible for more swimming and snorkeling, giving passengers the chance to snorkel amidst vibrant fish in clear, protected waters. This part of the tour highlights the diversity of Sardinia’s marine environment.

Scenic Cruising in the Tavolara Marine Protected Area

The marine protected area is a highlight for its unspoiled beauty and tranquil waters. The boat cruise through this zone offers scenic vistas and the chance to appreciate the area’s ecological significance. The area’s protected status helps maintain the pristine condition of its waters and marine life.

The cruise provides opportunities to take photos of the imposing cliffs and hidden coves, making it a favorite feature for those who enjoy scenic views and wildlife spotting.

Molara Island: Natural Pools and Regional Flavors

The trip concludes at Molara Island, where visitors can relax in natural pools and enjoy snorkeling surrounded by colorful fish. This island’s waters are known for their clarity and the variety of marine life, making it a perfect spot for underwater exploration.

Onboard, complimentary regional food and drinks—including local delicacies, beer, and wine—are served, turning the experience into a true taste of Sardinian hospitality. This relaxing moment allows for unwinding with scenic views and good company.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Group Size, and What to Bring

The tour departs from a marina in Olbia, located at coordinates 40.926246643066406, 9.508111953735352, with the meeting point varying based on the booked option. The marina is just a short walk from Olbia’s historic center, with ample free parking nearby.

This activity is suitable for small groups or private bookings, enhancing comfort and personalized service. However, it is not recommended for people with mobility impairments or those prone to seasickness, due to the boat’s size and open water setting.

Participants should bring a passport or ID card, especially for children, and avoid bringing large luggage, weapons, or sharp objects. The tour is not suitable for baby strollers, electric wheelchairs, or anyone with significant mobility issues.

The Experience on Board: Skippers and Comfort

The skippers are experienced and professional, guiding you through the scenic spots while sharing interesting anecdotes about the area. The boat, a new inflatable model, offers shade options when needed, ensuring comfort during sunny days.

Despite the boat’s capacity of 20, the small group limit of 10 people ensures everyone has space to relax, enjoy the scenery, and swap stories with the crew.

Customer Satisfaction and What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The two reviews available give this tour a perfect 5/5 rating, praising the knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and the quality of the experience. One review highlights fascinating anecdotes from the captain and a fabulous regional platter, including some of the best homemade cheese.

The combination of scenic cruising, snorkeling stops, and regional cuisine makes this tour a well-rounded outdoor experience, especially appreciated by those seeking a relaxed day with plenty of swimming and scenic photography.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

You can reserve now and pay later, with full refunds available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance. This flexibility allows for planning without stress, especially in changing travel conditions. The tour operates in English and Italian, with options for private or small group experiences, tailored to your preferences.

Who Will Enjoy This Sardinian Sea Adventure?

This tour appeals to those who enjoy scenic boat cruising, snorkeling, and relaxing by natural pools. It is perfect for families, small groups, or couples looking for a leisurely day on the water.

However, it may not suit those with mobility challenges or seasickness, as the boat is open and involves some movement. The small group size and attentive skippers ensure a personalized experience, making it a worthwhile addition to any Sardinian itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children need to bring a passport or ID card, and the tour is suitable for families, provided children are comfortable with boat rides and swimming.

What should I bring for the trip?
Participants are advised to bring passport or ID, swimwear, sunscreen, and a towel. Avoid large luggage, weapons, or sharp objects.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance, thanks to the flexible booking policy.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to boat and water conditions.

What makes this tour stand out compared to others?
The small group size, professional skippers, scenic stops, and regional local delicacies onboard distinguish this experience from larger or more generic boat trips.

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