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Explore the stunning La Maddalena Archipelago on a full-day boat tour departing from Palau in Sardinia, Italy. Priced at a reasonable rate and lasting over 7 hours, this tour takes visitors to the most iconic beaches and natural sites in the archipelago, including Spargi, Budelli, Santa Maria, and La Maddalena island itself. Operated by Delfino Tours, the experience combines panoramic navigation with relaxed stops for swimming, sightseeing, and exploring charming towns.
This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a comfortable, well-organized day on the water, with small groups (limited to 80 passengers) ensuring more space, better comfort, and a less crowded experience. The boat is modern, spacious, and equipped with both shaded lower decks and sunlit upper areas. Food and drinks are available for purchase on board, and guided commentary in multiple languages adds context to each stop and sight.
A standout feature is the carefully curated itinerary, which balances scenic cruising with enough time at each location for swimming, photography, and leisurely exploration. While high-season beaches can become crowded, the boat’s limited capacity and well-planned stops help maintain an enjoyable atmosphere. Highly praised for its knowledgeable staff, excellent comfort, and impressive scenery, this tour offers a memorable way to see the archipelago’s natural beauty.
Key Points
- Full-day excursion lasting over 7 hours from Palau at 10:30 AM, with a return around 5:30 PM.
- Limited passenger capacity of just 80 on a modern, spacious vessel ensures comfort and less crowding.
- Visiting iconic sites: Spargi’s Cala Corsara, Budelli’s natural pools and Spiaggia Rosa, Santa Maria beach, and La Maddalena town.
- Multiple swim and snorkeling stops at pristine beaches and natural pools.
- Multilingual guides provide interesting insights in Italian, English, Spanish, and French.
- Onboard food and drinks available for purchase; bring cash for the €5 landing tax.
- Ideal for families, couples, and groups looking for a relaxed, scenic boat day with plenty of space to move.
- Weather considerations: the tour runs in all weather but note that strong winds may affect the experience.
Departing from Palau: Easy Access and Parking Tips
The tour starts at the port of Palau, with embarkation at no. 4, in front of the maritime station near the ferry terminal. Departure times vary by day: at 10:00 AM on Mondays and Wednesdays and 10:30 AM on Tuesdays, Thursdays through Sundays. Check-in begins approximately an hour before departure, with early arrival recommended due to parking challenges.
Parking is available at several local sites, including Via Fonte Vecchia, Via Omero, Largo Palau Vecchio, and Via Riva dei Lestrigoni. Visitors are advised to contact the local partner in case of parking issues, as spaces can fill quickly during peak season.
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The Boat: Spacious, Modern, and Comfortable
The vessel used for this tour is described as large and modern, with ample space on both decks. Only 80 passengers are carried, despite a maximum capacity of 250, which enhances comfort and freedom of movement. The boat features a shaded lower deck and an open-air upper deck, perfect for sunbathing or seeking shade. The crew maintains cleanliness, and the boat is kept in excellent condition, making the day enjoyable even during busy periods.
The Itinerary: Highlights and Unique Stops
The tour itinerary includes several carefully chosen stops that showcase the best of La Maddalena Archipelago:
Spargi Island and Cala Corsara
The first stop is Spargi, renowned for its Cala Corsara, a stunning inlet fringed with beaches. Travelers have plenty of time to relax, swim, and snorkel, while the famous rock formations—the Head of the Witch, the Bulldog Dog, and Italy in miniature—offer great photo opportunities.
More Great Tours NearbyBudelli Island and the Natural Pools
Next, the boat reaches Budelli, famous for its Spiaggia Rosa and natural pools at the Port of the Madonna. The crystal-clear waters invite swimming and snorkelling, giving a close-up look at the colorful underwater environment. This stop lasts about 25 minutes, providing enough time to enjoy the scenery and take photos.
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Santa Maria Beach and the Bay
The third major stop is Santa Maria, a beach favored by families and young visitors. Here, the group enjoys a long stop for walking, swimming, and relaxing on Cala Santa Maria. The bay’s beauty is on full display, with the opportunity to swim in inviting waters or explore the coastline.
La Maddalena Town and Free Time
The tour also includes a visit to La Maddalena’s town center, where passengers can stroll, shop, and enjoy local ice cream or cafes. The small group size ensures a leisurely visit, with time allocated for shopping and exploring the charming streets and alleys. This part of the tour is especially appreciated for its relaxed atmosphere and scenic views.
Additional Scenic Stops and Coastal Drives
The itinerary includes short sailing and scenic drives past Santo Stefano and Caprera islands, offering views of the archipelago’s varied landscape. These quick stops provide photo opportunities and a sense of the islands’ geography without long excursions.
Swimming, Snorkeling, and Beach Time
Throughout the day, the tour emphasizes frequent opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. The natural pools at Budelli and the beaches of Spargi and Santa Maria are highlighted for their pristine waters and vibrant marine life. The tour’s emphasis on small groups means more time at each location and a more relaxed experience, although crowds can be an issue at certain beaches during the high season.
Tips for Swimming and Snorkeling
Bring biodegradable sunscreen, beachwear, and snorkeling gear if desired, as the water clarity and marine life are praised in reviews. The boat provides water hoses to rinse off sand, keeping the vessel tidy.
Food and Drinks on Board: Quality and Options
Onboard, a small restaurant bar offers a selection of Italian dishes, pasta, sandwiches, and desserts. Meals are available for purchase, with popular options including pasta with Bolognese or tomato sauce, Caprese salad, and fried seafood. The drinks are well-priced, and the bar service operates for the duration of the trip, allowing passengers to enjoy refreshments while taking in the scenery.
Payment and Extra Costs
A landing tax of €5 per adult is payable in cash upon boarding, as electronic payments may be unreliable at the islands. Passengers are encouraged to bring cash for this fee and other onboard purchases.
The La Maddalena Town Stop: Shopping and Exploration
The tour includes about an hour in La Maddalena’s town center, offering time for strolling the streets, shopping, or sampling local treats. The town features charming alleys and historic architecture, making it a pleasant place for a relaxed walk after a day on the water.
Overall Experience: What Makes This Tour Stand Out
This boat tour from Palau is highly rated, with an average 4.6 out of 5 from 922 reviews. It is praised for its spacious, modern vessel, well-chosen itinerary, and friendly, professional staff. The limited passenger count makes for a more comfortable and less crowded experience compared to other tours.
Travelers love the scenic stops, beautiful beaches, and the informative guides who provide insights in multiple languages. The relaxed pace and the variety of activities—swimming, sightseeing, town strolling—appeal to families, couples, and groups seeking a leisurely day in one of Italy’s most picturesque archipelagos.
Limitations to Consider
During high season, certain beaches can be crowded, especially if the weather is hot and sunny. The beach stops are around 75 minutes, which may feel short for some, but the consistent schedule and multiple stops ensure a diverse experience.
Weather can impact the trip; strong winds may cause the boat to rock more, though the crew’s experienced navigation minimizes discomfort. The onboard food options are limited to what is available for purchase, so bringing snacks or drinks is advisable for those with specific preferences.
La Maddalena Archipelago Comfort Boat Tour: Is It Worth It?
For those wanting to see the best beaches and islands in the La Maddalena Archipelago comfortably and without the crowds, this tour offers a compelling option. The small group size, modern vessel, and curated stops make for a relaxing, scenic day on the water. The knowledgeable multilingual guides enhance the experience by sharing interesting facts about each location.
While the beach crowds during high season can be a downside, the well-planned itinerary and limited passenger numbers help mitigate this. The onboard amenities, including food for purchase and comfortable seating, add to the overall value.
This tour particularly suits travelers seeking a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxing swims, and a bit of town exploration, all delivered aboard a spacious, modern boat. It’s a dependable choice for families, couples, and anyone wanting a peaceful yet comprehensive day in the archipelago.
Ready to Book?
Palau: La Maddalena Archipelago Comfort Boat Tour with Stops
“Amazing excursion and a highlight during our stay in Sardegna. Very family friendly and our two kids (aged 9 and 12) enjoyed it very much. Spiagi w…”
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for over 7 hours, departing at 10:30 AM and returning around 5:30 PM.
What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat tour, full-risk insurance, and a live multilingual guide. Food and drinks are available for purchase onboard.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, with stops at beaches that children enjoy. The relaxed pace and small group size make it comfortable for families.
Do I need to bring cash?
Yes, a €5 landing tax per adult is payable in cash. It is also recommended to bring cash for onboard purchases and tips.
Can I buy food on board?
Yes, Italian dishes, pasta, sandwiches, and desserts are available for purchase at the onboard bar.
What about weather conditions?
The tour operates rain or shine, but strong winds may cause the boat to rock and affect the experience. It’s advisable to check the weather forecast before booking.
Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the vessel is described as wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for passengers with mobility needs.
What should I bring?
Bring hat, swimwear, sandals, biodegradable sunscreen, comfortable clothes, cash, and charged smartphones for photos and navigation.
This La Maddalena Archipelago boat tour from Palau offers a relaxing, comfortable, and scenic way to explore Italy’s most beautiful islands, with excellent reviews backing its quality and service. It combines panoramic views, beach time, and town exploration, making it a well-rounded day trip for a variety of travelers.
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