Santa Maria Navarrese: Cala Goloritzè and Mariolu Boat Tour

Discover the Beauty of Sardinia’s Coast on an 8-Hour Boat Tour

The Santa Maria Navarrese: Cala Goloritzè and Mariolu Boat Tour offers an immersive day exploring some of Sardinia’s most breathtaking beaches and sea caves. For 8 hours, you’ll cruise along the Gulf of Orosei and the Baunei Coast, with stops at pristine beaches like Cala Goloritzè, Cala Mariolu, and Spiaggia dei Gabbiani. The tour is priced at a rate that includes all stops and activities, making it a convenient way to see the area without the hassle of organizing transport.

This tour is perfect for those who appreciate snorkeling, sea caves, and panoramic views. Led by an expert guide, you’ll learn about the coast’s features while enjoying swimming and photo opportunities. It’s best suited for active visitors comfortable with short walks and water activities, but it’s important to note that pregnant women and people with back or mobility issues might find some stops challenging.

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Key Points

• 8-hour boat tour departing from Santa Maria Navarrese.
• Includes visits to Cala Goloritzè, Cala Mariolu, Cala Biriala, and Spiaggia dei Gabbiani.
• Stops feature swimming and snorkeling in famous sea caves and beautiful beaches.
• Led by an Italian-speaking expert skipper who shares insights about the coast.
• Flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with reserve now, pay later options.
• Tour includes all necessary gear, but large luggage and smoking are not allowed onboard.

Departure Location and Meeting Point in Santa Maria Navarrese

The tour starts at Tortuga Escursioni Baunei, located at box N°5 in front of pier B at the tourist port in Santa Maria Navarrese. The coordinates 39.99097442626953, 9.691506385803223 help pinpoint the meeting spot. Travelers should arrive prepared with an umbrella, towel, sunscreen, and snorkeling gear to enjoy the stops fully.

A Well-Organized Itinerary Covering Sardinia’s Most Stunning Spots

The itinerary kicks off with a boat cruise of the Gulf of Orosei, lasting about 1 hour. The first stop at Cala Mariolu provides around 1 hour and 15 minutes to explore, swim, and snorkel. This beach is known for its clear waters and marine life, making it ideal for underwater viewing.

Following this, the cruise continues for about 30 minutes with scenic sightseeing along the coast. The next stop is Cala Biriala, where 1 hour and 30 minutes are allocated for relaxation, swimming, and snorkeling. The sea caves near the coast are accessible via rubber dinghy, adding an adventurous element to the experience.

The tour then pauses at Spiaggia dei Gabbiani for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, offering a chance to relax on the soft sands and soak in the spectacular views. These beach stops are carefully timed to balance leisure with exploration, ensuring a full day of activity without feeling rushed.

The Highlights of the Beaches and Sea Caves

Cala Goloritzè is renowned for its rock formation and beautiful setting, where you can anchor for about 20 minutes to swim and snorkel. The marine environment here is rich, and the scenery makes for great photos.

Cala Mariolu stands out for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, providing a perfect spot for snorkeling. The calm waters and rocky shoreline create an ideal setting for swimming and observing underwater fauna without large crowds.

Cala Biriala offers a longer stop for a more relaxed experience. The beach is perfect for sunbathing, with additional opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. The sea caves accessible nearby are a key feature, with entry by rubber dinghy adding an element of adventure.

Spiaggia dei Gabbiani is a wide sandy beach where the group can rest and enjoy the scenery. The beach’s size and beautiful surroundings make it one of the most relaxing parts of the tour.

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The Scenic Coastline and Sea Caves Exploration

A major part of what we love about this tour is the entry by rubber dinghy into numerous sea caves at sea level. The expert skipper leads the group through these natural sea formations, revealing the coast’s geological features. This cave exploration is both visual and adventurous, giving a close-up view of Sardinia’s underwater landscape.

The scenic cruise between stops offers viewpoints of cliffs, rock formations, and hidden coves. The guides provide informative commentary (in Italian), enhancing the appreciation of the coastal environment.

Practical Details: Meeting Location, Duration, and Group Size

The 8-hour tour departs from Santa Maria Navarrese in the morning, with availability depending on the selected schedule. The group size is kept small, fitting up to 12 people, which allows for a personalized experience and easier access to narrower caves.

The meeting point at Tortuga Escursioni is straightforward, with clear instructions to arrive with personal items such as a towel, sunscreen, and snorkeling gear. The tour excludes large luggage and smoking, ensuring safety and comfort for all participants.

The Experience of the Skipper and Guides

The skipper and crew are known for their friendly and professional approach. Review comments highlight knowledgeable guides who share interesting anecdotes and explain the coast’s geology and marine life in a simple, engaging manner. The small boat size allows for access to locations that larger vessels cannot reach, offering an up-close experience of Sardinia’s coast.

Why This Tour Stands Out From Similar Options

Compared to larger boat tours, this experience provides a more intimate and flexible exploration of the most scenic beaches and sea caves. The smaller group means more personal attention and the ability to reach hidden spots inaccessible to bigger vessels.

The combination of snorkeling, beach relaxation, and sea cave exploration makes this 8-hour tour a well-rounded way to enjoy Sardinia’s coastal wonders. The availability of flexible cancellation and the pay later option add to its convenience.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This tour is ideal for active travelers who enjoy water activities and scenic cruising. It suits those looking for a small-group experience, with stunning natural scenery and marine exploration. However, since pregnant women and individuals with back or mobility issues are advised against participation, it’s best for those able to handle short water entries and standing for periods.

Final Notes on Booking and Preparation

Booking is simple with the option to reserve now and pay later, and full cancellation is available up to 24 hours before. Travelers should bring sunscreen, a towel, snorkeling gear, and an umbrella for comfort during stops.

While the route may change slightly due to local rules about beach access, the main highlights—Cala Goloritzè, Cala Mariolu, and Spiaggia dei Gabbiani—are guaranteed. The expert skipper ensures safety and an informative experience, making this tour a reliable choice for exploring Sardinia’s coast.

Santa Maria Navarrese: Cala Goloritzè and Mariolu Boat Tour – The Bottom Line

This 8-hour boat tour through Sardinia’s Gulf of Orosei offers a balance of adventure, relaxation, and scenery. With small-group access to hidden caves and famous beaches, it provides a personalized and memorable way to experience the coast’s natural beauty.

While not suitable for everyone, especially those with mobility issues, it’s a highly recommended option for water lovers and photography enthusiasts. The expert guides and well-organized itinerary ensure that each stop is meaningful, making this a worthwhile addition to any Sardinian holiday.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of this tour?
The tour covers all stops, snorkeling gear, and the services of an expert skipper. It does not include large luggage or smoking onboard.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The boat accommodates up to 12 people, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the tour with a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, snorkeling gear, and an umbrella for stops. Large luggage or big bags are not allowed.

Are there any physical restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, or anyone with back problems or mobility impairments due to the physical nature of some stops and sea cave entries.

Where do I meet the tour?
At Tortuga Escursioni in Santa Maria Navarrese, at box N°5 in front of pier B in the tourist port.

How long are the stops at each beach?
Stops at Cala Goloritzè and Piscine di Venere last about 20 minutes, while Cala Mariolu and Cala Biriala have stops of about 1 hour and 15 minutes and 1 hour and 30 minutes, respectively. Spiaggia dei Gabbiani is enjoyed for about 1 hour 30 minutes.

What makes this tour different from other boat excursions in Sardinia?
Its small boat size allows access to hidden caves and less crowded beaches, and its well-balanced itinerary combines scenic cruising, snorkeling, and beach relaxation.

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