Boat tour of the La Maddalena Archipelago

Set out on a 7-hour boat tour of the stunning La Maddalena Archipelago in Sardinia, Italy, for $65.17 per person. Departing daily from Baja Sardinia, Palau, or La Maddalena, this tour offers visits to five iconic stops, including La Maddalena town, Spargi island, Budelli, Santa Maria, and Caprera’s Cala Coticcio. The boats, Orient Express and Paradiso, are equipped with bar and toilet facilities, ensuring comfort during the day.

While the tour receives a solid 4.0/5 rating based on 116 reviews, it’s best suited for those who enjoy beach swimming, scenic views, and a relaxed pace. Keep in mind that food and beverages are not included, and the sea conditions and boat age may influence the experience. For travelers seeking a straightforward, scenic boat trip to explore the archipelago’s highlights, this tour offers a dependable option.

Key Points

• 7-hour boat experience exploring La Maddalena Archipelago in Sardinia
• Multiple departure points from Baja Sardinia, Palau, and La Maddalena town
• Stops include La Maddalena town, Spargi beach, Budelli, Santa Maria, and Cala Coticcio
• Comfortable boats with bar and toilet facilities, accommodating up to 90 travelers
• Free admission at most stops, with optional paid access for Cala Coticcio
• Good reviews for organization, scenery, and staff friendliness, though some note boat age and signage issues

Departure Locations and Schedules

This tour departs every day from May 1 to October 15. Baja Sardinia leaves at 09:30, Palau at 10:00, and La Maddalena at 11:00. On Friday and Saturday, departures from Baja Sardinia feature a special stop at Cala Coticcio in Caprera instead of Santa Maria, adding a glimpse of this famous beach. The tour uses two boats, Orient Express and Paradiso, both equipped for comfortable navigation.

Meeting points are near public transportation, but some reviews highlight confusion or signage issues. Arriving early is recommended to avoid missing the departure, especially during busy times.

Exploring La Maddalena Town in One Hour

The first stop in the tour is La Maddalena town, where travelers get about an hour to explore its characteristic historic center. This stop provides an opportunity to stroll through charming streets, admire local architecture, and take photos of the lively harbor. The admission is free, so it’s a quick cultural break before heading to the island’s beaches.

While the stop is brief, visitors often appreciate its authentic local atmosphere and the chance to see the island’s main town. The time allocated allows for a quick look but not an in-depth exploration.

Beach Time at Isola di Spargi

The highlight for many is the 1.5-hour bathing break on Spargi, renowned for its beautiful beaches. The island’s shoreline offers crystal-clear water perfect for swimming and relaxing on the sand. The beach area is free to access, making it an inviting spot for families and beach lovers.

Guests often mention that the beaches on Spargi are well worth the stop, with plenty of space and peaceful surroundings. This stop is ideal for those wanting to enjoy the sea and sun without feeling rushed.

Short Photo Stop at Spiaggia Rosa

The tour approaches Spiaggia Rosa, a nature reserve since 1994, for a brief photo opportunity. The aesthetic pink sands and limestone backdrop create a striking visual. The stop lasts only a few minutes, just enough to capture images of this unique natural feature.

Travelers who enjoy photography find this a memorable highlight, though the limited time means there’s no chance for real exploration at this site.

Swimming from the Boat at Budelli

The island of Budelli features a 30-minute swim session from the boat at the Port of Madonna. This spot offers crystal-clear waters and the chance to cool off amidst the archipelago’s stunning scenery. No additional admission fee is required for this activity.

Many find this short swim a refreshing break during the day. The beauty of the waters around Budelli, famous for its Rosa Beach, adds to the appeal, even if the stop itself is brief.

Santa Maria Beach Stop (Excludes Fridays and Saturdays)

A 1 hour and 15-minute stop at Santa Maria Island allows guests to relax on the beach and enjoy the pristine environment. However, this stop is not available on Fridays and Saturdays, replaced by Cala Coticcio in Caprera. The stop is ideal for swimming and sunbathing, with free access to the beach.

Visitors often describe Santa Maria as beautiful and quiet, perfect for unwinding before the boat resumes its journey. The limited time means quick exploration rather than a full-day beach day.

Cala Coticcio (Tahiti Beach) in Caprera

On Fridays and Saturdays, the tour includes a 30-minute stop at Cala Coticcio, also known as Tahiti Beach. This spot is famous for its rugged cliffs and turquoise waters. Access is not included, meaning travelers may need to bring or buy their own food or supplies if planning to stay longer.

This stop offers a photo-worthy view of one of the archipelago’s most renowned beaches, though the brief duration and limited access might restrict full enjoyment. It’s a highlight for those interested in spectacular scenery.

Comfort and Facilities on the Boats

The boats used in this tour, Orient Express and Paradiso, are equipped with bar and toilets, providing basic comfort. They are suitable for up to 90 travelers, meaning the experience can feel lively but not overly crowded if seats are taken upstairs.

Some reviews mention that the boats are older and have dirty windows, which might affect the view. Passengers are encouraged to plan for outdoor seating if they prefer better scenery or wish to avoid splashing water and engine noise.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Participants should arrive early, especially at busy departure points, to ensure a smooth check-in. Signage at docks can sometimes be unclear, so checking with the crew or arriving a bit ahead of time is wise. As food and beverages are not included, travelers should bring snacks or drinks if desired.

The sea conditions and boat age can influence comfort. The Sea can be wet and cold if seated outside during splashes or cloudy weather. The long duration of the trip demands comfortable footwear and sun protection for the stops.

Review Highlights and Common Criticisms

While many reviews praise the scenery, helpful staff, and smooth organization, some note signage issues and boat maintenance concerns. A few reviews mention discomfort due to dirty windows and crowding inside, especially on the upper deck during the return trip.

The pacing is generally considered good, with most stops timed well, although a few suggest the inside seating can become wet and cold due to splashing and the weather.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, providing flexibility to adjust plans. Weather can affect the trip, and cancellations due to bad conditions will be fully refunded or rescheduled.

Reservations are made with Consorzio Meraviglie dell’Arcipelago, which can be contacted via phone or email for questions or updates. The maximum group size is 90 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable experience.

La Maddalena Archipelago Boat Tour in Review

This 7-hour boat trip delivers a solid balance of scenic views, beach time, and cultural stops in the La Maddalena Archipelago. The comfortable boats with bar and toilets make the journey pleasant, despite some older vessel critiques. The stops at La Maddalena town, Spargi, Budelli, and Santa Maria provide a good variety of natural beauty and relaxation.

The inclusion of Cala Coticcio on weekends adds a special highlight for beach lovers. The timed stops and well-organized schedule are appreciated, though signage issues and boat condition are points to consider.

This tour is best suited for those who love beaches and scenic boat rides without a focus on deep natural interpretation or luxury amenities. It remains a dependable choice for exploring the famous archipelago and enjoying Sardinia’s coastal beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the La Maddalena Archipelago boat tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, with scheduled stops at five different locations.

Which stops are included in the itinerary?
Stops include La Maddalena town, Spargi island, Spiaggia Rosa, Budelli, Santa Maria, and Cala Coticcio (weekends only).

Are food and drinks provided during the tour?
No, food and beverages are not included, so bringing snacks or drinks is recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consideration should be given to sea conditions and length of the trip.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure.

What facilities are available on the boats?
Both boats are equipped with bar and toilet facilities, making the journey more comfortable.

How do I find the meeting point?
Meeting points are near public transportation, but some reviews note signage issues. Arriving early helps ensure a smooth start.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sun protection, water, and any personal items needed for comfort, as inside seating can get wet and cold.

Are there any additional costs?
Cala Coticcio access is not included if stopping there on weekends. Also, landing tax is not included in the price.

Is the boat experience comfortable?
Most reviews describe the boats as adequate, but some note older vessels with dirty windows and crowding inside. Outdoor seating is recommended for better views.

Can I join this tour on any day?
Yes, the tour departs daily between May and October, with specific schedules for each location and weekend variations for Cala Coticcio.

This La Maddalena Archipelago boat tour combines scenic beauty, relaxed beach stops, and easy logistics, making it a reliable choice for exploring Sardinia’s iconic islands.