Porto Rotondo: Sunset aperitif on a boat in the Costa Smeralda

This 4-hour boat tour in Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda offers an authentic experience aboard a traditional fishing gozzo. Departing from the Emerald Coast, the tour combines scenic sailing, a delicious local aperitif, and time for swimming and relaxing in crystal-clear waters. With a passionate local skipper guiding the way, you’ll discover hidden coves and enjoy unforgettable sunset views over Porto Rotondo.

The tour is especially suited for those looking for a relaxed, genuine Sardinian experience that emphasizes local flavors, scenic beauty, and a touch of adventure. The small group size (limited to 7 participants) ensures an intimate atmosphere and personalized attention. While the experience offers many highlights, travelers should be prepared for the outdoor nature of the tour and bring essentials like sunscreen and a windbreaker.

• Authentic Sardinian experience on a traditional gozzo boat
• Sunset aperitif with Sardinian wine, beer, sausage, and carasau bread
• Swimming and snorkeling stops in crystal-clear waters
• Expert local skipper passionate about sharing the area’s beauty
• Includes scenic stops at Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo with photo opportunities
• Easily accessible meeting point on the Emerald Coast with free parking

Discovering the Traditional Gozzo Boat in Sardinia

This tour stands out because it features not your usual rubber dinghy, but rather an authentic gozzo boat. The gozzos are traditional fishing vessels, offering a genuine feel of Sardinian maritime culture. The vessel’s design provides a stable, comfortable ride and the perfect platform for sightseeing and relaxing.

The local skipper leading this experience is praised for his passion and knowledge of the coast. His storytelling and explanations make the journey engaging, and his care ensures a safe and enjoyable cruise. The boat’s classic style adds to the trip’s charm, making it more than just a boat ride—it’s a taste of Sardinian life.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Scenic Sailing Along Sardinia’s Emerald Coast

The cruise begins on the Emerald Coast, known for its striking water and rugged shoreline. Over about 25 minutes of sightseeing cruise, you’ll get a sense of the coastline’s beauty before reaching Porto Cervo. The route includes multiple sightseeing segments, allowing plenty of time to admire the scenery and take photos.

The sailing is paced to maximize relaxation, with each segment offering new views of the coast, beautiful coves, and the chance to get close to nature. The smaller boat size makes the experience more intimate, avoiding the crowds often found on larger tours.

Swimming and Snorkeling in Porto Cervo

The second stop at Porto Cervo lasts around 40 minutes, giving ample time for swimming and snorkeling in the clear waters. This area is renowned for its crystal-clear sea, perfect for cooling off and exploring marine life. The snorkeling gear is typically provided, making it easy for all participants to enjoy the vibrant underwater scenery.

After swimming, guests can simply relax on the boat or enjoy the view from deck, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of this luxurious marina town. The waters here are calm, making it suitable for swimmers of different levels, though caution is always advised.

More Sightseeing and Water Fun in Porto Cervo

Following the initial swimming stop, the cruise continues with another 25-minute sightseeing segment. The boat then returns to Porto Cervo for a second 30-minute period of swimming and snorkeling. This pacing allows travelers to explore different spots and enjoy varying perspectives of the coast, all from the comfort of the boat.

The multiple stops provide flexibility, so guests can choose to stay in the water longer or relax onboard while taking in the stunning scenery.

Sunset Aperitif on the Porto Rotondo Coast

One of the tour’s highlights is the Porto Rotondo stop, lasting about 1 hour, dedicated to a sunset aperitif. The boat anchors in a scenic spot where guests are treated to local regional food, including Sardinian sausage and carasau bread, along with wine and beer. This simple yet delicious selection captures the flavors of Sardinia.

As the sun begins to set, the atmosphere becomes magical. The scenic views, combined with good food and drinks, create a relaxed, convivial vibe. The music and laughter that accompany this part of the tour add to the memorable experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Scenic Photo Stop and Long-tail Boat Ride in Porto Rotondo

After the aperitif, the boat makes a photo stop to capture Porto Rotondo’s scenic coastline and sunset views. The guide then leads a long-tail boat ride, offering a different perspective of the area’s beautiful scenery. This segment lasts around 30 minutes and is perfect for those wanting extra photo opportunities or a brief adventure on the water.

The long-tail boat ride adds an element of fun and variety, deepening the connection with the Sardinian coast and its landscapes.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Access

The tour departs from the Emerald Coast, with the exact meeting point accessible via this map link. The skipper waits at the end of the road, with free parking nearby. The location is also easy to reach by public transport—bus no. 5 stops near the “V.M. Lady Fr.l. Piumica” stop, about a 10-minute walk from the meeting point.

This straightforward access makes it easy for guests to join the tour without hassle or complicated transfers.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour includes a sunset aperitif with local products—wine, beer, sausage, and carasau bread—plus swimming and snorkeling in pristine waters. The skipper provides commentary in Italian, English, or Spanish, catering to a diverse group.

Participants are advised to bring windbreaker, towel, and sunscreen. The experience is limited to 7 participants, ensuring a small group environment that promotes engagement and comfort.

Suitability and Limitations

This tour is not suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, or people with mobility impairments. The outdoor setting and physical activities like swimming mean that some mobility restrictions or health considerations should be taken into account before booking.

The 4-hour duration balances sailing, swimming, and relaxing, making it a manageable experience for most, especially those seeking a leisurely, authentic taste of Sardinia.

The Skipper: Knowledgeable and Friendly

Multiple reviews highlight Gabriele as an exceptional skipper. Known for his local expertise, friendly demeanor, and ability to adapt to weather conditions, Gabriele enhances the tour with his stories and recommendations. Even in windy conditions, he manages to craft memorable moments, demonstrating his skill and care for guests’ safety and enjoyment.

The personalized attention and warm hospitality are often praised, making guests feel well cared for throughout the cruise.

Overall Value and Experience

With a rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 9 reviews, this tour offers a high-quality experience with authentic touches. The combination of sailing, local food, scenic views, and swimming creates a well-rounded outing that appeals to those craving genuine Sardinian charm.

The small group size and expert guide make it stand out from larger, more generic tours, creating a more intimate and memorable adventure. The flexible booking options, including free cancellation and pay later, add convenience for planning.

This tour provides a beautiful blend of scenic sailing, local flavors, and relaxation in one of Sardinia’s most picturesque areas. It impresses with its authenticity and personalized approach, especially thanks to the passionate guide and traditional gozzo boat. While it may not be suited for those with mobility issues, it’s perfect for travelers seeking a leisurely, genuine Sardinian experience that captures the essence of the coast.

Whether you want to enjoy a peaceful sunset, explore hidden coves, or taste regional specialties in a relaxed setting, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s a great choice for small groups, couples, or anyone eager to see Sardinia from a different, more personal perspective.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including sailing, swimming, and the sunset aperitif.

What is included in the aperitif?
Guests are offered Sardinian wine, Ichnusa beer, sausage, and carasau bread as part of the sunset experience.

Where does the tour depart from?
The meeting point is in the Emerald Coast, with easy access via free parking or public transport.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 3 years and not recommended for pregnant women or people with mobility issues.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, it’s advised to bring sunscreen, a towel, and a windbreaker for comfort during the outdoor cruise.

Can I cancel?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for your plans.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby