Daily cruise in the La Maddalena Archipelago

Explore Sardinia’s La Maddalena Archipelago on a 7-hour Daily Cruise

This daily cruise in the La Maddalena Archipelago offers an engaging way to experience some of Sardinia’s most captivating coastal sights. Priced at $83.07 per person, the tour lasts approximately 7 hours, providing a comprehensive glimpse of the archipelago’s natural beauty. With over 10 bookings last month and a solid 4.0-star rating from 3 reviews, it appeals to those seeking a relaxed, scenic day at sea. The cruise includes mobile ticketing, making it easy to join the adventure without hassle.

This tour is ideal for travelers interested in exploring enchanting beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and crystal-clear waters. It features five notable stops, with some of the most famous beaches accessible only by boat. While it offers a generous amount of time at each location, the itinerary may vary slightly depending on weather and sea conditions. It’s a comfortable, well-organized way to see the archipelago’s highlights, though it’s best suited for those comfortable with boat excursions and moderate walking.

Key Points

• Price and duration: $83.07 per person for approximately 7 hours at sea.
• Multiple stops: Visits to Cala Corsara, Porto della Madonna, Cala Garibaldi, and Cala Coticcio.
• Notable beaches: Cala Corsara and Cala Coticcio (also known as Tahiti) are among the most popular stops.
• Inclusion of landing and swimming: Stops at Cala Corsara and Cala Lio’ include landings and short swims from the boat.
• Tour flexibility: The itinerary may change based on weather and sea conditions but promises a comprehensive experience of the archipelago.
• Rated 4 out of 5: Based on genuine reviews, with high praise for the stunning scenery and sea colors.

The Tour Departs from Sardinia’s La Maddalena

This cruise departs from La Maddalena, the main island in the archipelago, a hub for exploring the surrounding islands by boat. The departure point is easy to reach, with proximity to public transportation options, making it accessible for most travelers. The service is operated by Flotta del Parco, a provider known for their focus on the park’s natural environment.

The mobile ticket simplifies the booking process, allowing travelers to confirm their spot instantly. The tour accommodates up to 200 participants, offering a lively yet relaxed group environment. It is suitable for most visitors, with service animals allowed and provisions for good weather conditions, which are essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Visiting Cala Corsara: The First Stop

The cruise begins at Cala Corsara, a picturesque spot that features four beaches within a single cove. This area is one of the most visited, thanks to the pier for landings that makes access straightforward. The central beach in Cala Corsara hosts a hollow rock resembling a cave called the Tafone di Spar, adding a distinctive feature to the scenery.

Stop duration is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, providing enough time for sightseeing, swimming, or just relaxing on the sand. The included admission ticket ensures smooth access to this lovely location. Despite its popularity, the stop allows a decent amount of time to enjoy the natural beauty and snap photos.

The Pink Beach of Budelli and Its Closure

During the cruise, the boat passes Pass By the island of Budelli, home to the famous Spiaggia Rosa or Pink Beach. It is important to note that the Pink Beach has been closed to the public for about 30 years. Once a private and exclusive site, it is now uninhabited and disfigured by travelers who took away sand—causing ecological damage.

While travelers cannot land here, the pass-by still allows for incredible views of the famous pink sands from the boat. The sight remains impressive, serving as a reminder of the importance of respecting fragile natural sites.

Porto della Madonna and Cala Lio’ for Short Swims

The cruise makes a 30-minute stop at Porto della Madonna, specifically at Cala Lio’, a small inlet perfect for a short swim from the boat. The inclusion of this swim spot offers a refreshing break amid the day’s sightseeing. The admission ticket covers access, and the calm waters make for a peaceful experience.

This stop highlights the calm and clear waters that make the archipelago a standout for water-based activities. It’s an ideal moment to relax, cool off, and admire the surrounding landscape.

Cala Garibaldi and Its Dense Pine Forest

Next, the large cove of Cala Garibaldi on the west side of Caprera provides a scenic setting named after Giuseppe Garibaldi, whose house is nearby. The beach is backed by a dense pine forest, creating a striking contrast with the turquoise waters. Visitors have about 1 hour of stop time to explore, swim, or walk along the shore.

This location stands out for its combination of history and natural beauty, with the pine forest adding extra shade and ambiance. The admission ticket is included, making the visit straightforward and convenient.

Cala Coticcio, Known as Tahiti

The final major stop is Cala Coticcio, also called Tahiti for its vibrant scenery and small beaches. It’s especially popular among boaters because of its easy access by boat and close proximity to Costa Smeralda. Despite being busy, the 30-minute stop allows enough time to swim, take photos, and enjoy the stunning landscape.

Cala Coticcio’s notable features include its small, secluded beaches and the crystal waters perfect for swimming. The admission ticket covers the visit, ensuring a smooth experience at this picturesque spot.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes fuel surcharge as part of the price, simplifying cost considerations. However, lunch, landing and facility fees, and private transportation are not included, so travelers should plan accordingly if they want a full day’s experience.

This flexibility allows for exploring the islands without additional costs, but it’s worth considering bringing snacks or drinks. The tour also emphasizes safety, with weather-dependent itinerary adjustments to ensure passenger well-being.

Practicalities and Booking Information

Confirmation occurs at the time of booking, with full refunds available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. The cancellation policy is strict within 24 hours, with no refunds possible if canceled later. The tour operates most days of the week with a minimum number of participants to run, but if canceled due to weather or low bookings, a different date or full refund is offered.

The tour is designed for most travelers, including those with service animals, and is suitable for those comfortable on boat excursions. It offers a relaxing pace with different stops to enjoy swimming, sightseeing, and beach exploration.

Recognized for Its Stunning Sea Views and Beaches

The reviews highlight the breathtaking scenery of the islands, especially noting the sea’s vivid colors at Spargi and other stops. Cala Corsara and Cala Coticcio are particularly praised for their beauty, though some review mentions that time at certain stops can be shortened, which might disappoint those eager to spend more time at their favorite beaches.

The overall rating of 4.0 stars reflects a positive experience, especially appreciated by those seeking relaxing, scenic boat trips that showcase the natural splendor of Sardinia’s archipelago.

Final Thoughts on the La Maddalena Archipelago Cruise

This 7-hour daily cruise presents an accessible, scenic way to enjoy some of Sardinia’s most stunning beaches and landscapes. It offers value with included admission tickets and a well-organized itinerary that covers key stops like Cala Corsara, Cala Garibaldi, and Cala Coticcio.

While the tour is not all about lengthy stops, it excels at providing short, impactful visits with plenty of opportunities for swimming and sightseeing. The pass-by of Pink Beach offers a unique view, even if the landings are no longer permitted.

This cruise is suited for those who enjoy relaxed days on the water, beautiful scenery, and gentle exploration of the archipelago’s highlights. It’s a reliable choice for travelers looking for an affordable, scenic, and well-structured boat trip in Sardinia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included. Travelers should plan to bring snacks or meals if desired.

How long is the cruise?
The total duration is approximately 7 hours.

Can I swim during the stops?
Yes, during stops at Cala Lio’ and Cala Coticcio, swimming is possible, with short swims from the boat at Cala Lio’.

Are all stops landable?
No, only Cala Corsara, Cala Lio’, Cala Garibaldi, and Cala Coticcio are landable. The Pink Beach is viewed from the boat.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, water, and possibly snacks, as food and drinks are not included.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
Most travelers can participate, but the physical demands depend on individual mobility, especially for landings and short walks.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The itinerary may change for safety reasons. If canceled due to weather, a different date or full refund is offered.

How do I cancel the booking?
Cancelling more than 24 hours in advance grants a full refund. Less than 24 hours, cancellations are not refunded.