From San Teodoro Grand Tour of the Tavolara Archipelago

Explore Sardinia’s Tavolara Archipelago with a 6-Hour Dinghy Tour from San Teodoro

The From San Teodoro Grand Tour of the Tavolara Archipelago offers a scenic day out in Sardinia, Italy, for just $86.43 per person. This 6-hour paddle journey is perfect for those eager to see the natural beauty of the Tavolara region, with daily departures starting at 9:00 am from Toucan Travel‘s meeting point in San Teodoro.

While the tour is praised for its stunning views and variety of stops, it also includes snorkelling opportunities, visits to notable islands, and free time to explore some locations independently. It is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 36, and provides use of scuba equipment. However, note that lunch is not included, and the snorkelling experience may not meet expectations for marine life enthusiasts.

Key Points

• Duration: 6 hours from San Teodoro with multiple scenic stops
• Price: $86.43 per person, with tickets booked on average 39 days in advance
• Stops: Includes Cala Brandinchi, Molara Island, Tavolara Island, and Cala Girgolu
• Activities: Snorkelling at Molara and Tavolara, exploration of the islands, scuba equipment included
• Guides: Led by experienced staff who provide commentary on each location
• Limitations: No lunch included, some reviews mention less exciting snorkelling and minimal guide information

Departing from San Teodoro’s Toucan Travel at 9:00 am

This dinghy tour departs daily from Toucan Travel in San Teodoro. The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, making access straightforward for most travelers. The tour concludes back at the same meeting point after the six-hour expedition, with a route designed to showcase Sardinia’s most appealing coastlines and islands.

Participants are advised to arrive promptly, as the activity has a maximum of 36 travelers to ensure an intimate experience. The mobile ticket simplifies check-in, and confirmation is received immediately after booking.

Discover Cala Brandinchi, Known as Little Tahiti

The tour begins with a 30-minute stop at Cala Brandinchi, praised for its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beach. Often called Little Tahiti, this spot is a favorite for its breathtaking scenery and calm waters, making it an ideal location for a first glimpse of the archipelago’s beauty. The admission ticket is included, giving full access to this iconic beach.

While it’s a brief stop, the views here set the tone for the rest of the trip. Visitors can relax or take photos of the azure water and surrounding nature before moving on to the next destination.

Snorkelling at Molara Island’s Natural Pools

The second stop takes you to Molara Island, where natural pools with turquoise water await. This 40-minute visit is free of charge and provides a chance to snorkel in calm, clear waters. The pools are famous for their tranquil atmosphere, though some reviews mention that the marine life might be less abundant than anticipated for avid snorkellers.

This stop is perfect for those who want a relaxed break to enjoy the sea and sun, and for families seeking a safe, accessible spot for swimming and snorkelling.

Visit to Tavolara Island, The Smallest Kingdom in the World

One of the most unique parts of the tour is a 1 hour and 30 minutes stop on Tavolara Island, known as the world’s smallest kingdom. The island’s dramatic limestone cliffs and stunning landscapes provide ample opportunities for photos and exploration. The island’s rugged beauty is a highlight, and visitors can enjoy free time to walk around or take in the scenery.

The admission is free, but the island’s remarkable geology and distinctive silhouette make it a must-see. The snorkelling beneath the limestone cliffs offers additional glimpses of the marine surroundings, even if fish sightings are limited.

Cala Girgolu and the Tartaruga di Roccia

The tour’s next stop is Cala Girgolu, where the famous Tartaruga di Roccia (Rock Turtle) remains are visible. This 40-minute exploration spot allows visitors to admire the rock formation that resembles a turtle, adding an element of fun and curiosity.

This location also features Cows’ Beach, a peaceful stretch of coastline. It’s an excellent place for a short walk or to simply enjoy the peaceful beach atmosphere before heading back out on the water.

Snorkelling Under Tavolara’s Limestone Cliffs

The final snorkelling stop takes place under the limestone cliffs of Tavolara Island. This spot is ideal for scenic views and a last chance to enjoy the crystal waters. While marine life may not be abundant, the spectacular limestone backdrop provides a visually impressive setting.

Following this, the boat disembarks on Tavolara Island, where travelers have independent time for lunch and to explore Cala Tramontana. This autonomy allows for a relaxed break amid breathtaking surroundings.

Lunch and Free Time on Tavolara Island

After the snorkelling, travelers can disembark on Tavolara Island for lunch (not included in the tour price). The Cala Tramontana area offers a charming environment for a self-guided visit, giving flexibility to enjoy the scenery at your own pace. The opportunity to explore this suggestive location adds a personal touch to the overall experience.

Relaxing Return Route: Cows’ Beach and Flat Stones

The tour concludes with a scenic return along the coast, skirting Cows’ Beach and the Sassi Piatti (Flat Stones) of Punta Molara. This stretch provides a final view of Sardinia’s coastline, emphasizing the natural beauty that characterizes the region.

The return to the starting point wraps up the day, leaving travelers with plenty of stunning vistas and memories of Sardinia’s coastlines and islands.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the $86.43 price is the use of scuba equipment, allowing participants to snorkel comfortably in select locations. The tour includes admission tickets for Cala Brandinchi and Molara Island, but lunch is not included, giving flexibility in how travelers choose to spend their time on Tavolara Island.

The tour is accessible to most, with confirmation received immediately, and the group size capped at 36 travelers to maintain a more personal experience.

Honest Review: Highlights and Limitations

This tour earns a high rating of 5.0/5 from 8 reviews, mainly for its breathtaking views and varied stops. However, some comments mention less engaging snorkelling and minimal guidance or commentary during stops, which could disappoint those expecting more marine life or educational insights.

The scenic stops and independent exploration options on Tavolara are definite highlights, but those seeking vibrant marine ecosystems might find the snorkelling somewhat underwhelming. The price point and duration make this a reasonable choice for most visitors wanting a rundown of the archipelago.

Best Suited For: Nature Lovers and Sightseers

This tour is ideal for those who want to experience Sardinia’s scenic coastline, enjoy short snorkelling sessions, and explore islands with minimal guide interference. It suits travelers who appreciate stunning landscapes and free time to discover destinations at their own pace.

While the snorkelling may not satisfy hardcore marine enthusiasts, the views and variety of stops compensate with their visual appeal and relaxed pace.

Summary of the Sardinia Tavolara Dinghy Tour

The From San Teodoro Grand Tour of the Tavolara Archipelago offers a well-rounded day of sea views, island exploration, and snorkelling, all within a comfortable 6-hour window. The scenic spots like Cala Brandinchi, Molara Island, and Cala Girgolu serve as highlights, especially for those who cherish picturesque landscapes.

While some might wish for more engaging snorkelling experiences, the tour’s emphasis on beauty and freedom makes it a solid choice for nature lovers seeking a balance of exploration and relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included. Travelers have free time on Tavolara Island to find their own food or bring snacks.

What equipment is available for snorkelling?
Use of scuba equipment is included in the tour, making snorkelling comfortable and accessible.

How long is each stop?
Stops range from 30 minutes at Cala Brandinchi to 1 hour and 30 minutes at Tavolara. Snorkelling around Molara and Tavolara lasts about 40 minutes each.

Can I explore Tavolara Island independently?
Yes, the tour offers free time for exploration and lunch at Cala Tramontana, allowing personal discovery.

What should I bring?
Bring swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and personal snacks if desired. The tour provides scuba equipment but no mention of food or beverages.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the sea conditions and activity nature if traveling with young children.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book around 39 days in advance for availability, especially in peak seasons.