Dinghy tour Cala Goloritze Mariolu Biriala and Grotta del Fico

Key Points

• Price and Duration: This 7 to 8-hour full-day cruise costs $81.89 per person and includes all fees and taxes.
• Spectacular Stops: The tour visits Cala Goloritze, Cala Mariolu, Grotta del Fico, Piscine di Venere, Cala Biriala, and Cala dei Gabbiani, showcasing some of Sardinia’s most beautiful coves and caves.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides lead you through geological, historical, and cultural stories of each location, enhancing the experience.
• Activities: Expect swimming and snorkeling at multiple secluded beaches, with snorkel kits available onboard.
• Accessibility: The tour is suitable for most travelers; however, some stops like Cala Mariolu involve a demanding trek suited for experienced hikers.
• Group Size: Limited to 24 participants for a more personalized experience.

Sardinia’s Coastal Gems by Dinghy

This full-day dinghy tour in Sardinia offers a chance to explore the island’s most spectacular coastlines and caves that can only be accessed from the water. Starting at Santa Maria Navarrese, the tour, priced at $81.89 per person, lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours and provides an excellent balance of relaxation and adventure. The tour is well-rated with a 4.5/5 based on 20 reviews, praised for expert guides and breathtaking scenery.

The experience suits travelers looking for a full day of scenic boat rides, swimming, and discovering hidden coves. The tours are limited to 24 people, ensuring comfort and personalized attention. While the tour offers many natural highlights, travelers should be prepared for some stops that involve limited accessibility, especially Cala Mariolu, which requires an expert trek to reach from land.

What Makes This Sardinian Dinghy Tour Stand Out

This tour focuses on some of Sardinia’s most iconic coastal features: Cala Goloritze, Cala Mariolu, Grotta del Fico, Piscine di Venere, Cala Biriala, and Cala dei Gabbiani. Each stop offers a unique perspective of Sardinia’s crystal-clear waters, rugged cliffs, and hidden caves.

The visits to the caves and coves are the highlights, with Grotta del Fico standing out as a famous cave with a guided tour lasting about an hour. Visitors learn about geology, speleology, and the history of the cave from professional guides trained by the Italian Tourist Caves Association.

The time spent at each location ranges from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, giving ample opportunity to swim, snorkel, and explore without feeling rushed. The snorkel kits are available on board, making it easy to enjoy the marine life in secluded bays inhabited by colorful fish and sometimes dolphins.

Detailed Look at the Stops: Cala Goloritze and Its Marble Majesty

The first stop at Cala Goloritze introduces visitors to one of Sardinia’s most photographed sights. The turquoise waters are surreal and transparent, flowing from underwater karst springs. The marble rocks that emerge from the sea include the iconic natural arch and the pyramid-shaped spire of Monte Caroddi, which rises 143 meters above.

This pristine cove is surrounded by cliffs 500 meters high covered in Mediterranean scrub, filling the air with fragrant aromas. Behind the cliffs, a forest of holm oaks and strawberry trees adds to the wild beauty. The 30-minute stop here is perfect for photography and swimming in an unspoiled landscape that embodies the harmony of sea and mountain.

Cala Mariolu: Snowflake Pebbles and Striking Blue Tones

Next on the itinerary is Cala Mariolu, famed for its white and pink pebbles that resemble snowflakes. The name pùlige de nie (snow fleas) hints at the white pebbles mixed with sand. The panoramic views feature endless shades of blue, emerald green, and azure, making it one of the most visually stunning spots.

The surrounding cliffs reach up to 500 meters and drop sharply into the water. Access from land is challenging due to the steep terrain and Mediterranean scrub, so most visitors arrive by boat. The hour and a half stop allows for swimming and snorkeling in waters rich with marine life, especially near the rocky edges.

Inside the Grotta del Fico: An Easy yet Fascinating Cave Tour

The Grotta del Fico is a key highlight of this tour, offering a guided exploration that lasts around 45 minutes. The professional guides explain its geology, history of speleology, and the cave’s past use by shepherds. The easy path, mostly on steel walkways, makes this accessible for most visitors.

Inside, the environment varies, with different rooms, galleries, and spectacular concretions and colors. The temperature is around 18°C, which is a slight coolness compared to the summer heat outside, so a jacket is recommended. The sea view from the inside adds a special touch to the experience, making it both educational and visually impressive.

Swimming in the Piscine di Venere and Cala Biriola

Following the cave visit, the tour stops at Piscine di Venere, where the crystalline waters invite swimming in emerald-colored seas. The sea’s transparency makes it easy to see the seabed, which enhances the sense of tranquility. It’s a perfect spot for relaxation and picture-taking.

Close by, Cala Biriola offers a white pebble beach, protected by a limestone cliff arc. The surrounding grove of holm oaks, junipers, and Mediterranean scrub creates a peaceful setting. The hour and a half stop here allows for snorkeling among fishes or simply lounging on the delicate sands.

Cala dei Gabbiani and Its Understated Charm

The tour then visits Cala dei Gabbiani, recognized in 2017 as Italy’s second most beautiful beach by Skyscanner. This lesser-known cove features crystal waters, white pebbles, and smooth cliffs that have been shaped over time. Its quiet, unspoiled atmosphere provides a peaceful escape from more crowded beaches.

This hour and 30 minutes stop is ideal for swimming and relaxing, especially if visitors wish to avoid the busier tourist spots. Its hidden location enhances its appeal as a genuine “hidden pearl”.

Practicalities and Access Considerations

The tour departs at 9:00 am from Sardinia Natural Park Tours’ port in Santa Maria Navarrese. The group size is limited to 24 participants, ensuring a comfortable experience. The dinghies used are four in total, accommodating up to 12 people per boat.

The tour includes private transportation, snorkel kits, bottled water, and fuel, making it a comprehensive package. However, tickets for Grotta del Fico cost 10 euros for adults and 5 euros for children, payable on-site. Lunch and environmental taxes are not included, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Weather conditions can influence the itinerary, as stops are subject to favorable sea and weather conditions. The guides can modify the schedule, shorten, or postpone stops to ensure safety.

The Experience of the Guides and Overall Atmosphere

Reviews consistently highlight the expertise and friendliness of the guides. Silverio, in particular, is praised for his knowledge and pleasant manner, enhancing the overall enjoyment. The skipper’s professionalism and helpfulness receive frequent commendations, contributing to a relaxing yet engaging atmosphere.

The balance between relaxation and activity is well-managed, with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and photo opportunities. Most reviews note the stunning landscapes and clear waters as the main attractions, with many calling the experience unforgettable.

Final Thoughts on the Sardinia Dinghy Tour

This 7 to 8-hour boat trip offers an authentic and scenic exploration of Sardinia’s most beautiful coastline. The stops at Cala Goloritze, Cala Mariolu, Grotta del Fico, and others provide a varied experience, combining natural beauty, geological wonder, and marine life.

The price of $81.89 includes guides, snorkel gear, water, and fuel, making it a good value for the quality of the sights visited. The guided cave tour is particularly well-reviewed, and the multiple stops ensure a diverse day of discovery.

Travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, scenic boat rides, and exploring secluded beaches will find this tour especially rewarding. Some stops require a good level of mobility, so those with limited mobility or less hiking experience should plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $81.89 per person, including all fees and taxes.

How long does the tour last?
It spans approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from the Sardinia Natural Park Tours port in Santa Maria Navarrese.

What stops are included?
Stops include Cala Goloritze, Cala Mariolu, Grotta del Fico, Piscine di Venere, Cala Biriola, and Cala dei Gabbiani.

Are snorkeling kits provided?
Yes, snorkel kits are available on board for use during the stops.

Is the cave tour included?
The guided tour of Grotta del Fico costs an additional 10 euros for adults and 5 euros for children.

What should I bring?
Bring a jacket for the cave visit, swimwear, towels, and sun protection.

Are there any physical limitations?
Some stops, like Cala Mariolu, involve demanding treks, so the tour may not be suitable for everyone.

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

Who is the tour provider?
This experience is offered by Sardinia Natural Park Tours.
Contact: +393240949094 or [email protected].

This dinghy tour provides a well-rounded adventure in Sardinia’s stunning coastal scenery, combining natural beauty, geological marvels, and marine exploration. With expert guides and carefully selected stops, it promises a memorable day amidst some of Italy’s most captivating landscapes.