Afternoon excursion (15: 00/19: 00) by rubber boat in the archipelago of La Maddalena.

A 4-hour afternoon excursion in the La Maddalena Archipelago offers an adventurous yet relaxed way to explore some of Sardinia’s most beautiful islands. Priced at $106.81 per person, this tour departs at 3:00 pm from Porto Pollo, providing an ideal late afternoon adventure. The tour is led by two expert guides and takes place aboard a spacious 8-meter inflatable boat with 200CV power, designed for comfort and stability. Although the vessel can hold up to 16 people, the group is limited to 12 participants, ensuring space to move and enjoy the scenery.

This excursion is perfect for those seeking a short, engaging tour with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and sightseeing. It’s suited for most travelers, offering snacks and bottled water included in the price, with snorkeling equipment available for use. The tour’s reputation is solid, with an average rating of 4.5/5 from 15 reviews, highlighting friendly guides and stunning views as its main strengths. If you prefer a flexible, well-organized way to experience the archipelago’s highlights without a full-day commitment, this tour fits the bill.

Key Points

• 4-hour afternoon boat tour around La Maddalena Archipelago
• Departure from Porto Pollo at 3:00 pm, ending back at the starting point
• Limited to 12 participants for more onboard space and comfort
• Includes snacks and bottled water, with snorkeling equipment available
• Visit famous spots like Spiaggia Rosa, Cala Corsara, Manto della Madonna, and Pink Beach of Budelli
• Led by two expert guides, ensuring a knowledgeable and friendly experience

Starting Point and Tour Timing in Porto Pollo

This tour begins at Via Angolo Azzurro, 12, Porto Pollo, where guests meet in the early afternoon for a 3:00 pm start. The activity lasts approximately 4 hours, making it an ideal option for an early evening adventure. Since the tour concludes back at the meeting point, it allows visitors to plan other activities afterward.

The late afternoon timing helps avoid the peak heat of midday, providing a more comfortable experience for snorkeling and sightseeing. The flexible schedule also means you can enjoy the highlights of the archipelago without feeling rushed.

The Spacious Rubber Boat and Group Size

The tour operates on a spacious 8-meter inflatable boat, powered by a 200CV engine. This size offers ample space for each guest, contributing to a more comfortable ride amid the scenic islands. The maximum group size of 12 ensures that everyone has adequate room and personalized attention from the guides, which many reviews praise.

The boat’s approval for 16 people indicates room for larger groups, but the decision to limit occupancy keeps the experience intimate and relaxed. Travelers appreciate the well-maintained vessel and the smooth, stable ride that makes snorkeling even more enjoyable.

Detailed Itinerary and Key Stops

The tour’s itinerary includes several highlights selected for their natural beauty and snorkeling potential. Starting from Porto Pollo, the guides take guests to explore the most stunning beaches of the archipelago.

The first stop is the Manto della Madonna, a natural pool formed between Razzoli, Budelli, and Santa Maria. Here, guests can snorkel among crystalline waters and admire the unique rock formations. Next, the famous Pink Beach of Budelli provides a chance to see the world’s renowned pink-colored sands, a perfect photo opportunity.

The second stop varies depending on the wind but typically includes Cala Granara or Punta Zanotto. Both sites offer calm waters suitable for swimming and snorkel exploration, with Cala Granara providing scenic coves and Punta Zanotto featuring distinctive rock formations.

The final snorkeling stop is Cala Corsara on Spargi Island, known for its clear waters and vibrant marine life. This stop combines natural beauty with ideal conditions for underwater exploration.

Visiting Isola di Spargi and Its Unique Features

The tour makes a significant stop at Isola di Spargi, a highlight for its beautiful beaches and scenic rocks. Depending on wind conditions, the guides choose either the eastern side—visiting Cala Granara and Cala Soraya—or the western side with Punta Zanotto. Both options offer picturesque surroundings and excellent snorkeling prospects.

The Cala Corsara is an obligatory part of the visit, appreciated for its serene waters and natural beauty. The flexibility in stops allows guides to adapt to weather conditions, ensuring safety and maximum enjoyment.

Passing by Spiaggia Rosa and the Natural Pools

One of the most admired sights is the Spiaggia Rosa, famous for its distinctive pink sands. While the tour primarily passes in front of the beach to admire its beauty, the main focus is on snorkeling and swimming in the nearby “mantle of the Madonna” natural pools.

These crystalline pools offer a unique snorkeling experience or a relaxing bath in an environment described as world-unique. The guides facilitate safe access to these spots, making it suitable for guests who want a mix of sightseeing and water activities.

Onboard Amenities and Practical Inclusions

The tour package includes snacks and bottled water, keeping guests refreshed during the cruise. While snorkeling equipment is not included, it is available for use, which is ideal for those eager to explore underwater life without bringing their own gear.

This setup ensures comfort and convenience, especially considering the shorter duration of the tour. The mobile ticket option allows for easy check-in, and all safety and organizational details are handled efficiently by Pollo Diving ASD.

Customer Feedback and Guide Highlights

While the overall rating is 4.5/5, reviews highlight the friendly and professional guides as a major strength. One review mentions the guide’s fun personality, making the experience enjoyable, while another emphasizes the guides’ knowledge and ability to point out the best spots.

The tour’s small group size and well-organized itinerary contribute to a personalized experience. Guests appreciate the stunning views of the archipelago’s blue waters and the careful guidance on snorkeling spots.

Cancellation and Weather Considerations

Booking is flexible with a full refund available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. The tour requires good weather; in case of poor conditions, a rescheduling or full refund is offered. This policy ensures guests can plan confidently, knowing their experience is protected against weather disruptions.

Suitability and Best Use Cases

This tour is ideal for those who prefer a shorter, guided boat trip focused on snorkeling and sightseeing. The late afternoon timing suits visitors wanting a relaxed yet engaging experience, especially on warm days.

The limited group size and comfortable vessel make it suitable for families, couples, or small groups seeking a more intimate connection with the archipelago’s natural beauty. It is less suitable for those with mobility issues or seeking longer or more extensive tours.

Final Thoughts on the La Maddalena Rubber Boat Excursion

This 4-hour snorkeling and sightseeing tour in the La Maddalena Archipelago offers a compact but comprehensive experience of some of Sardinia’s most iconic islands. The expert guides, comfortable boat, and beautiful stops make it a standout choice for a late afternoon adventure.

While it’s not a full-day tour, the focused itinerary ensures you visit key sites like Cala Corsara, Spiaggia Rosa, and the natural pools of the Madonna. The snacks and bottled water included plus the availability of snorkeling gear add to the overall value.

It’s best suited for those looking for a well-organized, small-group experience with professional guidance and beautiful scenery. If you’re eager to combine water activities with island vistas in just a few hours, this tour delivers a memorable taste of Sardinia’s stunning archipelago.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
Snacks, bottled water, and the use of snorkeling equipment are included. The tour operates on a spacious inflatable boat with expert guides.

What should I bring?
Guests should consider bringing personal snorkeling gear if preferred, and possibly sun protection such as sunscreen or hats. The tour provides snorkeling equipment for use.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 12 participants, ensuring space and personalized attention from the guides.

What are the main stops during the tour?
Stops include Manto della Madonna, Pink Beach of Budelli, Cala Granara or Punta Zanotto, and Cala Corsara on Spargi Island. The tour also passes in front of Spiaggia Rosa and the natural pools.

What is the best time of day for this tour?
The afternoon departure at 3:00 pm allows for pleasant weather and less crowded conditions, ideal for both snorkeling and sightseeing.

Is this tour suitable for children or beginners?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most, with the optional use of snorkeling gear and calm waters at stops. However, guests should be comfortable in water and on boats.