The Best Boat Trips To La Maddalena: A Local Guide

This post may contain affiliate links. Further info in my disclosure.

Looking for the best boat trips to La Maddalena? I can help.

I visit La Maddalena every summer, and over the years I have done pretty much every kind of La Maddalena boat tour available: large group cruises, catamaran tours, zodiac excursions, sailing trips, and even self-drive dinghies.

The truth is that not all La Maddalena boat tours feel the same.

Some are cheaper but crowded. Some focus more on swimming stops. Others are slower and more relaxing. Your departure point can make a difference too: tours leaving from Palau or La Maddalena Town usually spend more time inside the archipelago and less time navigating there compared to tours departing from Baja Sardinia, Santa Teresa di Gallura, or Olbia.

If you are short on time, do not have your own boat, or simply want an easier way to explore the islands, joining a boat tour is one of the best ways to experience La Maddalena National Park.

In this guide, I will compare the different kinds of La Maddalena boat tours, explain who they are best for, and help you choose the right one for your budget and travel style.

My post, A Complete Guide To La Maddalena, shares more information on the many beaches, places to visit and things to do on this gorgeous island.

Piscine Naturali di Budelli, one of the most beautiful spots in La Maddalena Archipelago.
The Piscine Naturali di Budelli during a La Maddalena boat tour by gozzo boat

Quick Answer: What Is The Best La Maddalena Boat Tour?

For most travelers, the best boat trip to La Maddalena is a small-group tour departing from Palau or La Maddalena Town. These tours usually spend less time navigating and more time swimming and exploring the islands of the archipelago.

That said, the right tour depends on your budget, travel style, and the kind of experience you want. Here’s a quick overview to help you choose.

  • Best overall: small-group boat tour – the best balance of swimming time, comfort, and flexibility.
  • Best budget option: large group boat tours – cheaper and widely available, though usually more crowded and less flexible.
  • Best for comfort: catamaran tours – more space onboard, shade, easier boarding, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
  • Best for swimming: zodiac/RIB tour – faster boats that can reach smaller coves and spend more time at swimming stops.
  • Best for families: catamaran or larger boat with facilities – generally easier if you are traveling with children or older relatives, thanks to better seating, shade, and onboard toilets.
  • Best departure point: Palau or La Maddalena Town – both are much closer to the archipelago, meaning less navigation time and more time around the islands.
  • Avoid if possible: departures from Olbia – these tours involve significantly longer navigation and often less time swimming or exploring the archipelago itself.
Cala Coticcio, in Caprera, can be visited on a La Maddalena boat tour.
Cala Coticcio, probably the most famous beach in La Maddalena Archipelago

Comparing The Different La Maddalena Boat Tours

Tour TypeBest ForMain Downside
Small-group boatOverall experienceMore expensive
Large group boatBudget travelersCrowded
CatamaranComfort and familiesHigher price
Zodiac/RIBSwimming and snorkelingRougher ride
Sailing boatRelaxed atmosphereSlower itinerary
Private boatFlexibility and privacyExpensive

Good to know: There is no single “best” La Maddalena boat tour for everyone. The right choice depends mostly on your budget, how much comfort you want, and whether your priority is relaxing onboard or spending as much time swimming as possible.

Cala Granara Beach in Spargi.
Cala Granara Beach in Spargi is visited during small group La Maddalena boat tours

The Best Boat Trips To La Maddalena By Type

Large Group Boat Tours

Why choose this

  • Usually, this is the cheapest way to visit La Maddalena Archipelago.
  • Good option if you are traveling around Sardinia on a tighter budget.
  • Easy to book, with many departures available in summer.
  • Tours typically include several stops around the islands.
  • Larger boats are generally more stable in rougher seas.

Downsides

  • Boats can feel crowded in July and August.
  • Less flexibility with swimming stops and itinerary.
  • Boarding and disembarking can take longer because of the number of passengers.
  • Usually noisier and less intimate than smaller boats.
  • You spend more time moving groups around.

My take

  • I think these tours are perfectly fine if budget is your priority and you mainly want to see the archipelago without spending too much.
  • Personally, I prefer smaller boats because the experience feels much more relaxed, and you usually get more swimming time.

This is by far the most budget-friendly La Maddalena boat tour, but also the most basic. You will be traveling on a large charter boat that can sit up to 300 passengers. You’ll have shade on the boat, and you’ll find toilets and even a small café where you can buy snacks or drinks.

The tour lasts up to 9 hours, depending on the departure point, and will take you to the various islands – Santa Maria, Spargi, Budelli (home of the famous Spiaggia Rosa, the Pink Beach), and the natural pools of Porto della Madonna.

You will have the chance to disembark (and spend time on the beach) in Santa Maria island, and most tours also stop for an hour or so in Spargi.

These large boat tours never stop in Caprera, so don’t book this if you are looking to make a stop at Cala Coticcio. You will, on the other hand, stop in La Maddalena Town, and for an additional fee, you can opt for a panoramic bus tour.

You can browse some of the best large group tours here:

Boats docked in Cala Napoletana, Caprera.
Boats docked in Cala Napoletana, Caprera

Catamaran Tours

Why choose this

  • More comfortable and spacious than regular boats.
  • Usually quieter and less chaotic than large group tours.
  • Great option for couples, families, and travelers who want a more relaxing day.
  • Better shade and seating compared to many smaller boats.
  • Often, catamaran tours include lunch, drinks, or snacks onboard.

Downsides

  • Usually more expensive.
  • Catamarans are slower than zodiacs and RIBs.
  • Some tours still carry quite a few passengers.
  • Not all catamaran tours reach smaller coves.

My take

  • I really enjoy catamaran tours when I want a slower, more relaxing day around the islands.
  • They are especially nice if comfort matters to you or if you are traveling with children or older relatives.

This is a great mid-range option, where, for a bit more money, you get to spend time on a smaller boat that carries a smaller group of people – usually no more than 12 passengers.

You will have shade on the catamaran – if you sit at the back, and even at the front of the boat, where you can relax, but that depends on the time of day and the sails. There are also toilets on board, and you will enjoy lunch and snacks too.

The first stop is typically Spargi, where the highlight is Cala Soraya (a beach named after Princess Soraya, who visited in the 1960s), or the nearby Cala Corsara. The rest of the itinerary depends on the winds and the weather – but that’s the beauty of traveling in a catamaran.

Although catamarans are a bit slower than regular boats, they are also way quieter, so you will feel at one with nature. I have taken this tour and enjoyed it – it’s very relaxing to lie on the net for a nap as the catamaran sails its way through the archipelago.

You can browse some of the best catamaran tours here:

Gorgeous beach in Caprera.
Impressive beach in Caprera

Sailing Tours

Why choose this

  • Usually quieter and more relaxed than motorboat tours.
  • A good option if you want a slower pace and a smaller group.
  • Sailing feels more connected to the natural environment of the archipelago.
  • Often popular with couples looking for a calmer experience.

Downsides

  • Wind conditions can affect the itinerary significantly.
  • Navigation is slower than with motorboats or zodiacs.
  • Less ideal if your priority is visiting as many stops as possible.
  • Facilities onboard can be limited depending on the boat.

My take

  • I enjoy sailing tours for the atmosphere more than for sightseeing efficiency.
  • If you like the idea of spending a full day at sea without rushing from stop to stop, this can be a very good choice.

This tour is perfect if you enjoy sailing and want to be in a small group of no more than 12 people. The boat has a toilet and shade.

The experience is slightly different from that of a catamaran, because the boat is different. Indeed, a sailboat is even slower, and the ride can be quite rocky even with the slightest wind – don’t opt for this tour if you are prone to sea sickness.

Good to know: I am normally fine on zodiacs, regular boats, and even catamarans, but I get almost immediately sick on sailboats. Use this as a reference.

Depending on your departure point, during the tour, you get to admire Porto San Rafael from a distance and the Punta Sardinia lighthouse. Tours usually stop at the islands of Santa Maria, Budelli, and Spargi, where you will have a chance to disembark, too.

There will be plenty of chances to swim and snorkel right off the boat, too.

You can browse some of the best sailing tours here:

RIB boat in La Maddalena Archipelago.
RIB boat tours are an excellent option to explore La Maddalena Archipelago

Zodiac/RIB Tours

Why choose this

  • Usually, RIB tours are the best option for swimming and snorkeling.
  • Smaller groups make the experience feel more personal.
  • Faster boats mean less navigation time and more time in the water.
  • These tours can often access smaller coves and areas larger boats cannot reach.
  • Great if you want a more active experience.

Downsides

  • The ride can be rough, especially when the sea is choppy.
  • Usually very little shade onboard.
  • They do not have toilets.
  • Not ideal for travelers with back problems, mobility issues, or very young children.

My take

  • This is usually my favorite type of La Maddalena boat tour.
  • I like that you spend more time swimming and exploring instead of transporting large groups between stops.
  • That said, they are definitely not the most comfortable option.

If you want a more active experience around La Maddalena Archipelago, a RIB (rigid inflatable boat) tour is usually one of the best options.

These tours typically use fast zodiac-style boats that carry small groups, usually no more than 10 to 14 passengers. Because the boats are smaller and faster than larger catamarans or tourist boats, they can spend less time navigating and more time swimming and exploring the islands.

Most RIB tours stop at places such as Spargi, the Natural Pools near Budelli, and Santa Maria, though the exact itinerary always depends on sea and wind conditions. Some also stop in La Maddalena Town for a short visit.

The experience is much more informal and adventure-focused compared to larger boats. You are closer to the water, the ride can be quite fast, and the atmosphere on board is usually relaxed and social.

Keep in mind that comfort is more limited. While many RIBs have some shade, toilets are not available on board. You will also need to bring your own food and water.

Personally, I think this is one of the best ways to experience La Maddalena if your priority is swimming, snorkeling, and spending as much time as possible around the islands rather than sitting on board a large boat.

You can browse some of the best RIB/zodiac tours here:

Shallow waters around Ile Piana in Corsica.
You can visit île Piana during boat trips to La Maddalena

Private Boat Tours

Why choose this

  • Maximum flexibility with itinerary and swimming stops.
  • Ideal for families, groups of friends, or special occasions.
  • Much more private and relaxed experience.
  • You can often customize the day depending on the weather and preferences.
  • Usually the best overall experience if budget is not an issue.

Downsides

  • Significantly more expensive than shared tours.
  • Prices increase quickly in peak season.
  • Some private tours still have fuel surcharges or extra costs.
  • Booking last-minute in summer can be difficult.

My take

  • If you are traveling as a group, private tours can actually make more sense financially than many people think.
  • They offer by far the most flexibility and the least stressful experience, especially in high season.

If you are traveling with a small group of friends and would rather do your own thing, a private boat tour may be the best option. The good news is that it is not nearly as expensive as you may think, and if there are many of you traveling, it can be as cheap as €70 per person.

The boats may have a toilet (not if it is a Zodiac), and they usually have shade.

These tours are super flexible in terms of timings and itineraries, and captains are usually very experienced skippers. They’ll be able to suggest the best places to stop based on the winds and the weather.

Depending on the day, you may make it all the way to île Piana and Lavezzi, off the coast of Corsica.

You can browse some of the best private boat tours here:

Boats around La Maddalena Archipelago.
Various kinds of boats docking in La Maddalena Archipelago

Where Do La Maddalena Boat Tours Depart From?

Boat tours to La Maddalena Archipelago depart from several locations in northern Sardinia, but not all departure points offer the same experience.

The main departure points are:

Palau

Palau is one of the best places to depart from for boat trip to La Maddalena Archipelago. This small town on the northern coast of Sardinia is located directly across from La Maddalena Island and is also where ferries to the archipelago leave from.

Because Palau is so close to the islands, tours departing from there usually spend less time navigating – which means you spend more time swimming and exploring.

There are many tours available from Palau, including large group boats, catamarans, zodiac tours, and private excursions.

La Maddalena Town

La Maddalena Town is another excellent departure point and one of my personal favorites.

If you are already staying in La Maddalena, departing directly from La Maddalena makes the most sense. Tours reach the swimming spots very quickly and you avoid the extra navigation time from mainland Sardinia.

There is a good choice of tours departing from the marina, especially smaller boats and zodiac tours.

Poltu Quatu

Poltu Quatu is a small marina near Baja Sardinia and the Emerald Coast. Some higher-end catamaran and private tours depart from there.

It is a convenient option if you are staying around Baja Sardinia, Porto Cervo, or nearby areas, though navigation times are slightly longer compared to Palau or La Maddalena Town.

Other Departure Points

Boat tours to La Maddalena also depart from:

  • Cannigione
  • Santa Teresa Gallura
  • Porto Rafael
  • Porto Pollo
  • Olbia

Cannigione and Santa Teresa Gallura – two small coastal towns in the Gallura Region of northeastern Sardinia – are both reasonable options and still fairly close to the archipelago.

Olbia, on the other hand, is significantly farther away. Tours departing from there usually involve much longer navigation times, meaning less time spent around the islands themselves.

Sailboats in Spargi, La Maddalena Archipelago.
Sailboats and speedboats in Spargi, La Maddalena Archipelago

Where Should You Depart From?

In general, the best departure points for La Maddalena boat tours are Palau and La Maddalena Town.

Both are very close to the archipelago, which means:

  • shorter navigation times;
  • more swimming stops;
  • more time around the islands;
  • less time sitting on the boat.

If you are staying elsewhere in northern Sardinia, I honestly think it is often worth driving to Palau and joining a tour from there rather than booking a longer excursion departing from farther away.

Natural pools of Budelli.
Natural pools of Budelli, a classic stop during La Maddalena boat tours

Where Do Boat Tours In La Maddalena Go?

La Maddalena Archipelago has more than 60 islands and islets, but most boat tours focus on the largest and most scenic ones. The exact itineraries vary depending on the type of tour, sea conditions, and wind, so no two days are ever exactly the same.

These are the places most La Maddalena boat tours usually visit.

Budelli

Budelli is one of the most famous islands in the archipelago and is part of a highly protected area of La Maddalena National Park. It is best known for Spiaggia Rosa, the Pink Beach. To protect the beach, landing is strictly prohibited, and visitors can only admire it from the boat or from designated viewpoints.

You can visit the Spiaggia Rosa of Budelli (that’s the name in Italian) on tours led by guides of La Maddalena National Park that depart from the Spiaggia del Cavaliere, also in Budelli. A man lived on the island for more than 30 years but was evicted.

Many tours also stop nearby for swimming in the incredibly clear waters around the island.

The Natural Pools

Near Budelli you will find the famous Natural Pools, one of the highlights of most La Maddalena boat tours.

The water here is shallow, calm, and unbelievably transparent, with shades of turquoise that almost look unreal. This is usually one of the best swimming and snorkeling stops of the day.

Santa Maria Island, one of the stops of boat trips to La Maddalena.
Santa Maria Island, one of the stops of boat trips to La Maddalena

Santa Maria

This is one of the few inhabited islands in the archipelago and is home to a beautiful white sandy beach with shallow water.

Many tours stop here for swimming and beach time. It is usually one of the calmer and more family-friendly stops.

Cala Granara in Spargi.
Cala Granara in Spargi

Spargi

Spargi is one of the wildest and most scenic islands in La Maddalena Archipelago.

The island has several beautiful coves and beaches, including Cala Granara, Cala Soraya, and Cala Connery. Depending on the tour and sea conditions, this is often one of the longest swimming stops of the day.

Wild boars live on the island and occasionally wander to the beaches looking for food, and you may even spot them by the water. Make sure not to feed them or approach them – after all, they are wild animals.

La Maddalena

Some full-day tours stop briefly in La Maddalena Town, usually for lunch or a short walk around the historic center and marina.

Personally, I think this is a nice addition if you have never visited the town before, though I generally prefer tours that maximize swimming and time around the islands instead.

Cala Coticcio can be reached via an easy hike.
Some RIB boat trips to La Maddalena stop in Cala Coticcio

Caprera

Caprera is connected to La Maddalena Island by bridge and is famous for Cala Coticcio, Cala Brigantina, and the home of Giuseppe Garibaldi.

Most larger boat tours do not stop there because the island is easy to visit independently by car from La Maddalena. Smaller zodiac and RIB tours, however, sometimes stop nearby for swimming.

Santo Stefano

Some tours departing from Palau pass by Santo Stefano, a small island known for its luxury resort and beautiful coastline.

Not all tours stop there, but it occasionally appears on private or smaller-group itineraries.

Razzoli

Razzoli is one of the northernmost islands in the archipelago and is much less frequently visited.

Only some smaller boats and private tours include it in their itinerary, usually when sea conditions are particularly good.

Selfie during a boat tour in La Maddalena.
Posing with my friend Margherita during a boat trip to La Maddalena

Renting A Boat Vs. Doing A Guided Tour

Some people prefer renting their own RIB boat to explore La Maddalena Archipelago independently. Indeed, you can rent a small 40-horsepower Zodiac that you can drive without having any specific boat license.

The price of a Zodiac rental starts from €200 for the day for a group of five or six, to which you have to add the cost of fuel.

However, I advise against it, for many reasons.

First of all, having to drive your own boat means that you have to concentrate and pay attention to other boats, people swimming, etc. It is not nearly as relaxing as it seems, especially if you are not experienced.

Secondly, La Maddalena Archipelago can get very windy, which makes navigation difficult in some cases, and some spots harder to access (and others more sheltered from the wind). Only an expert captain will know the best spots to visit when it gets windy.

Margherita swimming in Budelli, La Maddalena Archipelago.
My friend Margherita relaxing in the natural pools of Budelli

Another thing you need to keep in mind is that La Maddalena is a protected national park. This means you can’t just anchor anywhere – for example, you are not supposed to throw your anchor wherever there is Posidonia algae. You may do it by mistake, and this may be damaging to the environment and also land you a fine.

Finally, you can’t just take the dinghy or zodiac to shore whenever you like. You will have to offload the passengers and whatever equipment you have using the specific lane (and waiting in line in case there are other boats), then take the boat back out to sea, anchor and swim to shore – again, it may be stressful for some.

Overall, for a more relaxing experience, it’s simply better to join one of the many boat tours of La Maddalena that depart regularly during the summer months.

Lunch during my latest La Maddalena boat tour.
Lunch on Enzo’s boat

My Favorite Boat Tour Of La Maddalena

Whenever I go to La Maddalena Archipelago, I take the Gozzo boat tour with Enzo. His company is based at the Villa del Parco Hotel in La Maddalena Town which is managed by his wife Doriana. That’s where I normally stay whenever I visit La Maddalena.

Enzo runs what I honestly believe is the best La Maddalena boat tour. He has a tour that goes to Maddalena Archipelago and Corsica (Bonifacio Strait) and stops at Lavezzi Island and île Piana, and another that only goes to Maddelan Archipelago. I have done both multiple times, and I much prefer the Maddalena Archipelago tour.

He is a very experienced captain. His boat (the gozzo) carries no more than 10 passengers (though you can also ask to do a private tour, if you are willing to pay the difference), and there is a toilet and shade.

The tour – which lasts all day – includes a delicious lunch that he prepares from scratch, complete with appetizers, a seafood pasta dish, salads, and wine. He also offers snacks and fruits and accommodates dietary needs.

You can book the tour even if you are not staying at the hotel. They can pick you up in Palau if you wish. You can also rent the whole boat to yourself if you are traveling in a small group.

Selfie taken during a boat trip to La Maddalena.
Selfie taken during a boat trip to La Maddalena

Tips For Choosing The Right La Maddalena Boat Tour

Before booking your boat trip to La Maddalena Archipelago, there are a few practical things you should know. Choosing the right tour — and arriving prepared — can really make a difference to your experience.

Think About The Kind Of Experience You Want

Not all La Maddalena boat tours feel the same.

  • Large group boats are cheaper and usually more social, but they can feel crowded in peak season.
  • Catamarans are more comfortable and relaxing, especially for couples and families.
  • Zodiac and RIB tours are usually the best for swimming and snorkeling, but they are less comfortable and can be rough when the sea is choppy.
  • Private tours offer the most flexibility, but they are obviously more expensive.

Consider The Departure Point Carefully

If possible, choose tours departing from Palau or La Maddalena Town.

They are much closer to the archipelago, which means:

  • less time navigating;
  • more swimming stops;
  • more time around the islands.

Tours departing from Olbia usually involve significantly longer boat rides.

RIB boats in La Maddalena Archipelago.
RIB boats in La Maddalena Archipelago

Keep Seasonality In Mind

La Maddalena boat trips run from late spring (May) until early October.

July and August are the busiest and most expensive months, and tours often sell out several days in advance — especially catamarans, smaller-group tours, and private boats.

If you are visiting in peak season, I strongly recommend booking ahead.

Be Realistic About Comfort

Smaller boats and zodiacs are fantastic for exploring the archipelago, but they are not always the most comfortable option.

Many:

  • have limited shade;
  • do not have toilets onboard;
  • can get very bumpy if the wind picks up.

If comfort is a priority, opt for a catamaran or a larger boat.

Getting to shore during a boat tour in La Maddalena.
Boat tours of La Maddalena will provide you with a life jacket if needed

Tips For Enjoying A Boat Tour In La Maddalena

Prepare For A Full Day In The Sun

The sun in Sardinia can be extremely strong in summer, especially when you spend the entire day on the water.

Make sure to:

  • apply sunscreen regularly;
  • wear a hat;
  • bring sunglasses;
  • stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day.

Bring A Beach Towel And Snorkeling Gear

Many tours provide snorkeling masks, but if you already have your own gear, I recommend bringing it.

A beach towel is also essential because you will likely spend a good part of the day swimming.

Boats docked in Spargi, La Maddalena Archipelago.
Boats docked in Spargi, La Maddalena Archipelago

Bring Motion Sickness Pills If Needed

Even on calm days, the sea around La Maddalena can become rough unexpectedly.

If you are prone to seasickness, it is definitely worth bringing motion sickness tablets with you — especially for sailboats and RIB tours.

You may also want to bring some anti jelly-fish sunscreen, which protects you from the sun and jellyfish at the same time.

Respect The National Park Rules

La Maddalena Archipelago is a protected national park.

Do not:

  • take sand or shells;
  • disturb wildlife;
  • leave trash behind;
  • remove marine life from the water.

Some areas, including Spiaggia Rosa on Budelli, are strictly protected and landing is prohibited.

Cala Brigantina - photo by Marco Mul @shutterstock
Cala Brigantina – photo by Marco Mul @shutterstock

FAQs on La Maddalena Boat Tours

What is the best boat tour to La Maddalena?

For most travelers, the best boat tour to La Maddalena is a small-group tour departing from Palau or La Maddalena Town. These tours usually spend less time navigating, which means you have more time to swim and enjoy the islands. If comfort is your priority, catamaran tours are usually the best option. Zodiac and RIB tours are better if you want a more active experience with lots of swimming stops.

Is it better to depart from Palau or La Maddalena?

Both are excellent departure points. Tours departing from Palau are usually easier to access if you are staying in mainland Sardinia, while La Maddalena Town is the best option if you are already staying on the island. In both cases, navigation times are short compared to tours departing from other places in northwestern Sardinia, and you will spend more time around the islands.

Are La Maddalena boat trips worth it?

Absolutely. A boat tour is one of the best ways to experience La Maddalena Archipelago, especially if you are short on time or do not have your own boat. Many of the most beautiful beaches, coves, and swimming spots are only accessible from the sea, and tours allow you to visit several islands in a single day.

Can you visit La Maddalena without a boat tour?

Yes. You can take the ferry from Palau to La Maddalena Island and explore independently by car, scooter, bike, or bus. This is a good option if you prefer slower travel or want to spend more time on individual beaches. However, the only two islands you can explore are La Maddalena and Caprera – the other islands of the archipelago are only accessible by boat, so you will not see as much as you would on a tour.

Do boat tours stop at Pink Beach?

No. Landing on Spiaggia Rosa, the famous Pink Beach on Budelli Island, is strictly prohibited to protect the ecosystem. Boat tours usually pass by the beach slowly so passengers can see it from the boat, and some tours stop in the Natural Pools area for swimming.

Which La Maddalena boat tour is best for families?

Catamaran tours and larger boats are usually the best option for families because they offer more space, better shade, seating areas, and onboard toilets. Smaller zodiac and RIB tours can be fun for older children, but they are often bumpier and less comfortable for younger kids.

Should I rent a dinghy or join a guided tour?

It depends on your experience and travel style. Renting a dinghy gives you more flexibility and privacy, but navigating around La Maddalena Archipelago can be challenging if the wind picks up and there are strict National Park regulations to follow. Guided tours are easier and less stressful, especially if it is your first time visiting the archipelago.

Final Considerations

A boat tour is easily one of the best ways to experience La Maddalena Archipelago, especially if you are short on time and want to see several islands in a single day. The key is choosing the right kind of tour for your travel style and expectations.

Personally, I generally prefer smaller boats and zodiac tours because they usually allow more time to swim and explore quieter coves. That said, catamarans are hard to beat for comfort, while larger group boats remain a good option if you are traveling on a budget.

No matter which tour you choose, try to depart from Palau or La Maddalena Town whenever possible, book well ahead if traveling in July or August, and remember that weather and wind conditions always influence the itinerary.

Most importantly, remember that La Maddalena is a protected national park, not an open-air resort. Follow the rules, avoid taking shells or sand, and respect protected areas such as the Spiaggia Rosa.

Further Readings

Make sure to check my other posts:

Pin It For Later!
Check out the best boat trips to La Maddalena Archipelago - via @c_tavani
What to wear in Sardinia
What to wear in Sardinia

Claudia Tavani was born and raised in Sardinia, and after moving between the United States and the United Kingdom, she's now back living in her hometown, Cagliari. She's a travel blogger and certified travel designer who loves planning trips and publishing guides, travel tips, and packing lists so that you don't have to. Owner of Strictly Sardinia, cat mom to Minnie. Loves pizza, hiking, archeology, cities, beaches, swimming, and running. Hates peppers.

22 thoughts on “The Best Boat Trips To La Maddalena: A Local Guide”

  1. Hello Joanne, no I am not actually. I think literally everyone does private tours for such a long period of time.

  2. Hi,
    Are you aware of any 7 day shared cruises (not private) around La Maddalena other than Dream Yacht Cruises (they are very expensive).
    Thanks 🙂

  3. Hello! I’ve seen a comment re the Gozzo link above. The link for the Gozzo tour still doesn’t appear to be working – are they still running? Thanks

  4. Hello Jo-Anne, there are various spots in Budelli. You won’t be allowed to get close to and swim to the Pink Beach, which I assume is the one you have in mind, as that is protected – but no tours will go there. You will however have a chance of swimming at “Budelli Pools” where the water is so incredibly clear. Normally life jackets are provided on the boat. The Gozzo tour provides it.

  5. Hi Thank You Claudia, I will be in Sardinia with my BF in August , we are first time travellers here..
    Is Budelli swimmable at all ? I am looking at the tours and was hoping to swim near the beach or do you recommend another option to do this.
    So you recommended the Guzzo tour?
    Do they provide Life jackets for people who cannot swim?
    I see many places of you in the pictures and hoping to see most of them 🙂

    Any tips or further help is appreciated. Have a nice day!

  6. If you are staying at a hotel, you may try to approach other guests at breakfast. This is the only thing I can think of. Otherwise, you are better off (and it will be cheaper) joining a guided tour.

  7. Hello Claudia, I have arrived this morning in La Maddalena and would like to either rent a boat or take part in a boat trip (preferably a sailing boat). I am looking for other people to rent the boat together. I am a skipper would only need a bit of help managing the boat. Any suggestions how to reach out to others that might be interested? Thanks. Cheers, Fernando

  8. To be completely honest there aren’t many good places in La Maddalena. I was just there and we mostly ate at home. We enjoyed L’Alternativa Steakhouse. I have not heard of Antares.

  9. Hi
    We’re visiting Stintino for a couple of days in Sept. we are looking for a nice place to eat with good food (not so touristy). Have you heard of Ittiturismo Antares?
    Is that good? If not, can you please recommend a restaurant?

  10. Taxi boats are the best way to get around La Maddalena, but a car is definitely useful on the island. For the rest of the trip, you will definitely need a car!

  11. Hi Claudia
    Thank you for all the very informative information on Sardinia and La Maddalena. You have certainly supplied us with lots of useful tips and recommendations. We are a family of five (including three adult children) planing to travel around in Sardinia for two weeks in July. Mainly the west and northern parts of Sardinia and La Maddalena. We are considering using public transportation and/or rent a car for shorter periods. We will have our base in two or three different places, and plan both lazy days at the beaches and exploring interesting vicinities. Witch transportation method do you recommend?

    When staying in La Maddalena (Isola La Maddalena). Do we need a car to be able to see the best places and beaches or is it sufficient with taxi and rental boats?
    Grateful for your reply.
    Lesley 🙂

  12. You shouldn’t need wetsuits but in case you feel like they are necessary, you will have to rent them separately. The best tours for snorkeling are the ones on smaller boats (zodiacs).

  13. Hi Claudia,
    We are planning a bathing/snorkeling vacation in La Maddalena mid June. Have two kids (17 and 8), both decent swimmers but not so experienced (yet), with snorkeling. Was thinking of taking a tour day 1 to get to know the area. Which tour would you recommend for us focusing more on snorkeling than spending time in the boat? And do you recommend renting wetsuits separately?

  14. It really depends on your children, to be honest. You are the best one to decide – keep in mind that most of the tour is spent swimming / snorkeling, and only occasionally you will be getting off the boat.

  15. Hello Kelli, to be 100% clear, I am not the company running the tours. To check on the availability, click on the provided links and see if anything is available for your preferred dates.

  16. Hi there! Just curious if you have an available boat tours leaving from Palau on August 20 OR 22 for two people? Thank you!

Leave a Comment