Cagliari: 3-hour sailing excursion

Discover the Beauty of Sardinia’s Coastline with a 3-Hour Sailing Excursion

This 3-hour sailing tour in Cagliari, Sardinia, offers a memorable way to experience the stunning southern coast of Italy. Starting from Sant’Elmo, the trip takes you along the Gulf of Cagliari, with a focus on iconic sights like the Devil’s Saddle, secret coves, and colorful sea caves. The tour is operated by Escursì and is perfect for those who want a short, yet enriching, maritime adventure. With a small group limited to 10 participants, the experience feels personal and relaxed.

The boat is a Beneteau Oceanis sailboat from 1995, equipped with modern safety gear, a freshwater shower, and enough space to comfortably accommodate up to 10 passengers plus 2 skippers. The tour includes snorkeling, swimming accessories, and often features a Prosecco toast at the end—adding a celebratory touch to your Sardinian holiday. The trip departs with a minimum of 4 passengers, making it an intimate, guided experience that emphasizes storytelling and local legends.

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Key Points

• Duration: 3 hours, ideal for a half-day activity in Cagliari
• Highlights: Limestone cliffs of the Sella del Diavolo, secret coves like Cala Bernat, Cala Mosca, and Cala Fighera, plus turquoise sea caves
• Included: Snorkeling gear, swimming accessories, Prosecco toast
• Guides: Knowledgeable guides who share stories and legends about the Devil’s Saddle and surrounding area
• Group Size: Small, limited to 10 passengers for a personalized experience
• Departure point: Sant’Elmo marina, with free parking nearby
• Weather considerations: Bring sun protection and windbreaker as weather can vary
• Age restrictions: Not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with mobility impairments
• Cancellation policy: Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance

Exploring the Sella del Diavolo from the Sea

The tour starts at Sant’Elmo marina and sets sail along the Cagliari coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Sella del Diavolo—a limestone formation that juts dramatically into the sea. The guides tell stories and legends about this ancient promontory while you admire its rugged beauty from the water.

As the boat cruises past the cliffs, you’ll find small, secluded coves such as Cala Bernat, Cala Mosca, and Cala Fighera. These spots are perfect for a quick swim or snorkeling in clear, turquoise waters. The sea caves between Cala Bernat and Cala Fighera add to the charm, inviting exploration of their fascinating formations and vibrant marine life.

Unique Stops at Coveted Coves and Sea Caves

This sailing trip is structured around visiting secret coves and famous sea caves. The coves, such as Cala Bernat and Cala Fighera, are less crowded and offer tranquil spots for snorkeling and relaxation. Expect to see waters so clear that underwater life is easily visible from the surface.

The sea caves are notable for their striking shapes and the way sunlight plays on the turquoise waters inside. These natural formations are a highlight of the trip, providing excellent photo opportunities. The guides’ storytelling enhances the experience, sharing local legends connected to these scenic spots.

The Sails and Comfort of the Beneteau Oceanis

The Beneteau Oceanis, built in 1995, measures 10 meters in length and has a width of 3.4 meters. It boasts a comfortable deck with an awning to shield from the sun, a freshwater shower, and safety equipment to ensure peace of mind during the excursion.

The boat’s size and design make it easy to move around, giving everyone space to enjoy the views. The skippers are experienced and friendly, offering insights into sailing and local history throughout the trip. The boat has a bathroom, which is useful during longer trips or for those who prefer extra comfort.

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Snorkeling and Swimming in the Calm Waters

One of the tour’s highlights is the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the calm, turquoise waters of the coves. The guides provide snorkeling accessories, so participants can explore underwater life in these protected areas.

The natural environment and clear waters make this part of the trip particularly enjoyable. The stops are well-timed, allowing enough time for a relaxing swim before moving on to the next scenic point. Always remember to bring your swimwear, towel, and sunscreen to make the most of these water activities.

The Prosecco Toast with a View

The tour concludes at the Poetto beach area, where passengers gather to raise a glass of Prosecco and celebrate their time on the water. The toast takes place with a backdrop of the Cagliari skyline and the sea, creating a perfect moment to unwind and take photos.

This small delight is a favorite feature, adding a festive touch to the overall experience and marking the end of the trip on a high note. It’s a chance to relax, chat with fellow travelers, and soak in the views of the Sardinian coast.

Logistics: Meeting Point and What to Bring

The meeting point for the tour is 15 minutes before departure at the Sant’Elmo marina, across from Bacàn bar. Free parking is available nearby, making travel easy. Arriving early ensures smooth boarding and a relaxed start.

For the day on the water, travelers should bring windbreaker, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and water. An ID card or a copy is required for boarding. Pets are not permitted on this tour, and it’s best suited for those who can comfortably handle a boat ride without mobility issues.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This small-group sailing experience appeals most to those seeking a relaxed, intimate trip with personal attention from the guides. The focus on storytelling and natural beauty makes it ideal for nature lovers and sailing enthusiasts.

It’s a perfect activity for visitors in Cagliari wanting a short, scenic escape without long hours on the water. However, pregnant women and individuals with mobility impairments should consider other options, as the tour isn’t suitable for them.

Final Thoughts on the Cagliari Sailing Excursion

This 3-hour sailing tour offers a wonderful snapshot of Sardinia’s coast. The spectacular limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and colorful sea caves are the main attractions, all experienced from the comfort of a well-equipped sailboat. The expert guides enhance the trip with engaging stories and local legends, making each stop more meaningful.

The Prosecco toast at the end adds a celebratory finish, making this tour especially appealing for small groups who enjoy a personal touch. It’s a short but fulfilling adventure suited for nature lovers, sailing fans, and those seeking a relaxing coastal experience during their stay in Cagliari.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the sailing tour?
The tour lasts 3 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Sant’Elmo marina in Cagliari, with a meeting point 15 minutes before the scheduled departure.

What is included in the tour?
The experience includes snorkeling gear, swimming accessories, and a Prosecco toast at the end.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not specifically designed for children, and certain restrictions apply for pregnant women and individuals with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Bring windbreaker, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, and your ID.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the trip.

What is the boat like?
The boat is a Beneteau Oceanis from 1995, with safety equipment, awning, and bathroom facilities.

Are there any age restrictions?
It’s best suited for adults and children old enough to handle a boat ride comfortably; not recommended for pregnant women.

Is there a minimum number of passengers?
Yes, the tour departs with a minimum of 4 passengers.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

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