Cala Gonone boat trips are one of the best ways to explore the Gulf of Orosei and visit some of the most famous beaches in Sardinia, such as Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu, Cala Sisine, and Cala Goloritzé. Tours depart regularly from the small harbor and range from large mini cruises to small-group zodiac tours and self-drive dinghy rentals.
I have been visiting Cala Gonone for years and have tried several boat tours here over time. The best option really depends on your budget, travel style, and how comfortable you are at sea.
Some Cala Gonone boat tours focus on comfort, with larger boats that have toilets, shade, and easier boarding ladders. Others are faster and more adventurous, with smaller groups, swimming stops, and access to quieter coves along the coast. You can also rent a dinghy and explore independently if you feel confident navigating the Gulf of Orosei on your own.
In this guide, I will compare the different Cala Gonone boat trips, explain who each one is best for, and share practical tips to help you choose the right tour and avoid common mistakes.
Quick Answer: Best Cala Gonone Boat Trips
There are several types of Cala Gonone boat trips, and the best one really depends on your travel style, budget, and how you want to experience the Gulf of Orosei.
Some tours focus on comfort and convenience, while others are faster, more adventurous, or better for swimming and snorkeling. These are the options I generally recommend depending on what you are looking for:
- Best overall: Small-group zodiac tours, which usually offer a more flexible itinerary, longer swimming stops, and a less crowded experience overall. These are typically the tours I enjoy the most myself.
- Best for families and comfort: Large mini-cruises with toilets, shade, and easier boarding ladders. They are slower and more crowded, but generally much easier with children and less confident swimmers.
- Best budget option: Larger hop-on hop-off cruises. These are usually the cheapest way to see part of the Gulf of Orosei by sea, great for anyone visiting Sardinia on a smaller budget.
- Best for independent travelers: Self-drive dinghy rental, especially if you feel comfortable navigating at sea and want complete flexibility throughout the day.
- Best for snorkeling: Smaller zodiac tours, which can usually access quieter coves and spend more time at swimming stops.
- Best luxury option: Private boat tours, which are ideal if you want a quieter, more personalized experience and the flexibility to customize your itinerary.
- Best for a quieter experience: Sailing tours, which are typically slower-paced and more focused on relaxation than covering as many beaches as possible.
- Best for travelers prone to seasickness: Larger boats, which are generally more stable than zodiacs, especially on windy days.
If you are visiting Cala Gonone for the first time, I usually recommend either a full-day mini cruise or a small-group zodiac tour. Larger boats are more comfortable and accessible, while Zodiac tours feel more adventurous. Dinghy rental can also be fantastic, but only if you feel confident spending a full day navigating independently in the Gulf of Orosei.
Cala Gonone Boat Trips Compared
| Tour Type | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Large mini cruises | Families, comfort, first-time visitors | Toilets, shade, easier boarding, stable ride, usually cheaper | More crowded, less flexible, fixed itinerary |
| Small-group zodiac tours | Couples, swimmers, adventurous travelers | Smaller groups, faster boats, longer swimming stops, more flexible | Less shade, rougher ride, not ideal for seasickness |
| Self-drive dinghy rental | Independent travelers | Complete flexibility, explore at your own pace, stop where you want | Requires confidence at sea, physically tiring, and fuel costs extra |
| Private boat tours | Luxury travelers, families, groups of friends | Personalized itinerary, privacy, flexible schedule | Expensive, should be booked well in advance in summer |
| Sailing tours | Couples, relaxed travelers | Slower pace, quieter atmosphere, scenic experience | Usually visit fewer beaches, more dependent on wind conditions |
| Cala Luna shuttle boats | Budget travelers, short trips | Cheapest option, easy way to visit Cala Luna | Limited itinerary, very basic experience |
In general, larger boats are better if comfort and stability are your priorities, while smaller zodiac tours are better if you want a more active and scenic day at sea. Dinghy rental offers the most freedom, but it is not always the easiest option for first-time visitors to the Gulf of Orosei.
Best Cala Gonone Boat Trips
There are a few options leaving from Cala Gonone each day, typically between 8:30 and 9:00 am, though hop-on hop-off boat tours tend to have more departures.
Large Mini Cruises From Cala Gonone
Pros
- Usually the most affordable full-day option
- Toilets and shaded seating areas on board
- Easier boarding ladders and a more stable ride
- Good option for families and less confident swimmers
- Typically stop at several famous beaches in the Gulf of Orosei
Cons
- Can feel crowded, especially in July and August
- Less flexibility in the itinerary and stop duration
- Boarding and disembarking can take longer because of the group size
- Often noisier and less personal than smaller tours
Who They Suit
- Families with children
- First-time visitors to the Gulf of Orosei
- Travelers looking for a comfortable and easy experience
- Budget-conscious travelers
Hop-on hop-off cruises are the best options for families and for travelers who don’t want to spend much money on a boat tour. This is the best option for families with small children, as getting on and off the boat is quite easy – the staff on board places a ramp that passengers can use.
There are several boats available, with a capacity ranging from about 60 to about 300 people, so this isn’t exactly an intimate experience. On the plus side, there is plenty of shade on the boat, which also has toilets.
There will be staff on board of the boat, but don’t expect to have a proper guide: the information you will receive is very basic.
The tour includes two to three stops on the main beaches, where you get to spend up to 1.5 hours. Some tours also stop by the Sea Oxen Grotto. However, admission is not included in the price of the tour.
Photography lovers also adore this type of tour, because the boat is the most stable of all the boat tour options.
When taking hop-on hop-off Cala Gonone boat trips, you will have to bring whatever you need for the day – including your umbrella for the beach, towels, and your food and drinks.
Zodiac Rental
Pros
- Complete freedom to explore at your own pace
- Flexible itinerary and swimming stops
- Can reach smaller coves and quieter areas
- One of the best options for independent travelers
Cons
- Requires confidence navigating at sea
- Physically tiring, especially on windy days
- Fuel is not included in the rental price
- No skipper, shade, or onboard facilities
- Can become stressful during peak season around busy beaches
Who They Suit
- Independent travelers
- Confident swimmers and boaters
- Groups of friends sharing costs
- Travelers who want maximum flexibility
In Cala Gonone, you also have the option to rent a zodiac (typically with a 40-horsepower engine if you don’t have a boating license, or a more powerful one if you do) and plan your day entirely according to your own schedule.
A Zodiac is small, relatively easy to drive, and gives you much more freedom than a larger boat tour. You can move at your own pace, stop where you want for swimming, and spend as much time as you like at your favorite beaches and coves along the Gulf of Orosei.
That said, I only recommend this option if you feel reasonably confident navigating at sea and spending a full day under the sun with very limited facilities. Even on calm days, the sea conditions can change throughout the afternoon, and driving back to Cala Gonone can become tiring, especially if there is wind or choppy water.
Another thing to keep in mind is that boats cannot dock directly on the beach. Usually, you will need to approach the designated boat lane to unload passengers and beach gear, then move the zodiac offshore and swim back to the beach. This is not difficult, but it can feel stressful during peak season when there are many boats moving around at the same time.
Zodiacs also have very limited shade and no toilets on board. You will need to bring everything you may need for the day, including towels, sunblock, plenty of water, food, and an umbrella if you want shade on the beach. Fuel is not included in the rental price and is paid separately at the end of the day.
Personally, I think Zodiac rental works best for confident travelers who want maximum flexibility and already feel comfortable spending time at sea. Families with very small children, less confident swimmers, or travelers who simply want a more relaxing experience will usually enjoy a guided boat tour much more.
Small-Group Zodiac Tours
Pros
- Smaller groups and more personal atmosphere
- Faster boats mean more time swimming and exploring
- Usually more flexible than large mini cruises
- Better access to smaller coves and swimming spots
- Excellent for snorkeling
Cons
- Rougher ride on windy days
- Usually limited shade onboard
- Not ideal for people prone to seasickness
- Boarding can be more difficult for some travelers
Who They Suit
- Couples
- Adventurous travelers
- Strong swimmers
- Travelers who prioritize scenery and swimming stops
If you prefer to explore in a small group and on a faster boat, you should book one of the many Zodiac / RIB tours that depart daily from Cala Gonone and travel around the Gulf of Orosei. You will have a captain managing the boat for you, while you enjoy your day in the sun, swimming in the clear waters of this stunning coast of Sardinia.
Zodiacs carry up to 12 passengers, which means getting on and off the boat is very quick, and they move quite fast, which means you get to see more places and spend more time at the beach.
Your captain will be a very skilled local and know a lot about the area, the beaches and everything you might be curious about. Just remember that you won’t have a toilet on board the Zodiac, and there’s often little shade. You will need to bring whatever you need for the day.
Private Boat Tours From Cala Gonone
Pros
- Fully personalized itinerary
- More privacy and flexibility throughout the day
- Ability to avoid the busiest times and locations
- Relaxed pace compared to group tours
- Excellent for special occasions and small groups
Cons
- Significantly more expensive than group tours
- Should be booked well in advance in summer
- Prices can increase considerably in peak season
Who They Suit
- Families traveling together
- Groups of friends
- Luxury travelers
- Couples celebrating a special occasion (i.e., on honeymoon)
If you are traveling with a small group of friends or your family (up to 12 passengers) and don’t want the hassle of having to manage a Zodiac, a private group may be the best option. You will be traveling at your own pace, though it’s best to listen to what the captain suggests, as he is the local expert on the area.
You will have a cooler on the dinghy, and will be provided with an umbrella you can take to the beach, but will have to bring your own food and drinks. Like for all other Zodiacs, there won’t be a toilet on board and shade can be limited.
The main plus of having a private tour is that you can make as many stops you want, for as long as you want (save for local regulations on protected beaches that work on a time-slot system).
Sailing boat trips
Pros
- Relaxed and quieter atmosphere
- Scenic and slower-paced experience
- Smaller groups than mini cruises
- Pleasant option for couples and relaxed travelers
Cons
- More dependent on wind and sea conditions
- Usually visit fewer beaches during the day
- Less suitable if your priority is maximizing swimming stops
- Not the fastest way to explore the Gulf of Orosei
- Not ideal if you are prone to seasickness
Who They Suit
- Couples
- Relaxed travelers
- Travelers who enjoy sailing itself as part of the experience
- People looking for a quieter day at sea
To some, the best Cala Gonone boat trips are by sailboats. It’s a truly unique experience but I only recommend it if you have been on a sailboat before and know you won’t get seasick – because sailboats tend to move much slower and tilt much more than regular boats.
The boats used here can fit a maximum of twelve people and are equipped with a toilet and have plenty of shade for the hottest hours of the day.
It’s the most expensive option for Cala Gonone boat tours, but it’s also an excellent chance to spend a day on a beautiful sailboat, with a skilled guide and the beautiful Gulf of Orosei scenery, which you will enjoy at a slow pace.
Keep in mind that lunch is not included, so make sure to bring some food and drinks with you for the day.
What You Can See On Cala Gonone Boat Tours
Every corner of the Gulf of Orosei is breathtaking and deserves its own post, but here are the main (though not all) places you will see during your Cala Gonone boat trip.
Grotte del Bue Marino
Best known for: impressive sea caves and guided underground visits.
Known in English as the Sea Oxen Grotto, this complex cave system is one of the most impressive cave systems in Sardinia. You can visit them with a guided tour (there are regular departures in a variety of languages), but make sure you have enough time to do so during your boat trip.
Many boat tours from Cala Gonone stop at the grotto, but not all – if it’s something you want to see, make sure to double-check it’s included in your itinerary.
My post, A Useful Guide To The Grotte Del Bue Marino, shares more information about this remarkable cave system.
Cala Luna
Best known for: caves on the beach, easy swimming, and family-friendly scenery.
The cove originated from the erosion of a river and is currently the longest (about 800 meters, or 0.5 miles) beach in the area. Cala Luna is one of the most recognizable beaches in Sardinia, which has been used as a set for several movies. This is also one of the best spots for snorkeling in the area, so make sure to bring your snorkeling gear.
Along the beach, you will find a few caves that provide shade during the hottest hours (but they are also very humid). There is a small restaurant at the very back of the beach, hidden in the vegetation.
My post A Complete Guide To Cala Luna shares more information on this gorgeous beach, including how to get there on a hike.
Piscine di Venere
Best known for: incredibly clear water and swimming stops straight from the boat.
The name Piscine di Venere, which literally means “The Pools of Venus”, is quite fitting. The water here is exceptionally transparent, so the boats seem to be floating in the air.
It’s the must-go spot for snorkeling in Sardinia. You can’t even tell how deep the water is, because it’s so clear that the bottom looks just a few centimeters away.
Cala Mariolu
Best known for: white pebble shore and some of the clearest water in the Gulf of Orosei.
Cala Mariolu is one of the best-known beaches in the area. It got its name from the monk seals that used to steal the fish from the fishermen – who in turn called them thieves, marioli.
It’s usually one of the longest stops on most Cala Gonone boat tours, because it’s everyone’s favorite. Enjoy the tiny white pebbles that look like snowflakes – “ispuligidenie” locally, and the turquoise water. The contrast between the white pebbles and the water color is extraordinary.
Today, the beach is highly protected and works on a time slot system for people who want to spend time there (don’t worry, boat tours have everything worked out). There’s a small kiosk that sells drinks and snacks on the beach.
My post, A Short Guide To Cala Mariolu, tells you everything you need to know about this beautiful cove.
Cala Sisine
Best known for: dramatic mountain backdrop and a wider beach than most Gulf coves.
Cala Sisine is one of the longest beaches in the Gulf of Orosei. It has deep, transparent water and a mix of sand and white pebbles mixed with tiny white pebbles. The beach is a favorite stop during boat tours from Cala Gonone, but can also be reached via an easy hike from the parking lot, about 2 km (1.2 miles) away.
A word of warning if you decide to visit again by car: it’s best to have a 4WD as depending on how much it rains in the winter months, the road can be in very bad conditions. There’s a small restaurant on the way to the beach from the parking lot.
Cala Biriala
Best known for: snorkeling and dramatic limestone formations.
Cala Biriala can be reached via a very strenuous hike (one of the most impressive hiking trails in Sardinia) starting in the Golgo Plateau, above Baunei. I don’t recommend attempting to tackle that hike without a guide and you should only do it if you are a very expert hiker.
The beach has clear turquoise water and striking limestone formations emerging from the sea that make it a great spot for snorkeling. The sand is actually made of tiny white pebbles, a bit like in Cala Mariolu.
Cala Goloritzé
Best known for: its limestone pinnacle and protected UNESCO-listed coastline.
Let me start by saying that not all Cala Gonone boat trips stop in Cala Goloritzé, and that those that do only have it as a very last stop. In any case, boats can’t land there, but you can take some pictures, or you can dock at 300 meters (about 0.2 miles) from the shore and either swim or row your way to the beach.
The beach originated from a landslide in 1962 and is therefore quite a recent cove. It can also be reached via a hike on an easy-to-follow 4 km (about 2.5 miles) (one way) trail that departs from the Golgo Plateau – almost entirely downhill on the way to the beach, and a steep uphill on the way back.
Head over to my post, The Ultimate Guide To Cala Goloritze, for more information on how to get to this iconic cove.
Good to know: Depending on the Cala Gonone boat trip you choose and the sea conditions, the itinerary and the length of each stop may vary slightly from day to day.
What To Know Before Booking A Cala Gonone Boat Trip
Before booking a Cala Gonone boat tour, there are a few practical things you should know. The Gulf of Orosei is one of the most beautiful parts of Sardinia, but it is also a protected and relatively remote stretch of coastline, with limited facilities once you leave the harbor.
Don’t Expect Empty Beaches
Even though many coves in the Gulf of Orosei can only be reached by boat or long hikes, they are still very popular during the summer. Cala Mariolu, Cala Luna, and Cala Goloritzé can all become quite crowded between June and September, especially in July and August.
Boats Cannot Land Directly At Cala Goloritzé
Most Cala Gonone boat tours stop near Cala Goloritzé, but boats are not allowed to dock directly on the beach because the area is protected. Depending on the tour and sea conditions, you may stop offshore for swimming and photos instead.
The Sun Is Extremely Strong
The sun in Sardinia can feel surprisingly intense, especially during a full day at sea, where there is constant reflection from the water. Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and more water than you think you may need.
Shade And Facilities Vary A Lot Between Boats
Larger mini cruises usually have toilets and shaded seating areas, while smaller Zodiacs and dinghies often have very limited shade and no onboard facilities at all. Always double-check what is included before booking.
Bring Water Shoes And Snorkeling Gear
Many beaches in the Gulf of Orosei are made of tiny pebbles rather than sand, and the rocks near the shore can be slippery and sharp to walk on. Snorkeling is excellent throughout the area, so bringing your own mask can really improve the experience.
Food Options Are Limited
Cala Mariolu has a small kiosk selling drinks and snacks, and there’s a small restaurant in Cala Luna behind the beach. The other beaches have no food options. It is always a good idea to bring enough water, snacks, and possibly lunch for the day.
Parking In Cala Gonone Can Be Difficult In Summer
Unless you are staying in Cala Gonone and can walk to the harbor, you will be getting there by car. There’s only one road reaching this lovely coastal village – the scenic road that connects it to Dorgali. It’s a very winding mountain road that takes around 20 minutes to drive.
If you are visiting Cala Gonone by car, try to arrive early in the morning. Parking near the harbor fills up quickly during peak season, especially on weekends.
Respect The Beaches And The Marine Environment
Removing sand, shells, or pebbles from Sardinian beaches is illegal and can result in very high fines. Make sure to take all your trash with you and avoid stepping on marine vegetation while swimming or snorkeling. If you spot marine stars, don’t take them out of the water. Likewise, don’t fish out jellyfish, as they are protected.
Common Mistakes People Make When Booking Cala Gonone Boat Tours
Over the years, I have noticed that visitors often choose Cala Gonone boat trips based only on price or photos, without really considering what spending an entire day at sea actually involves.
These are the mistakes I see most often:
- Assuming all boat tours are basically the same. Large mini cruises, small-group Zodiac tours, sailing trips, and dinghy rentals offer completely different experiences in terms of comfort, pace, flexibility, and atmosphere.
- Renting a dinghy without realistically considering the effort involved. Driving a Zodiac for a full day can be fantastic, but it is much more demanding than many people expect. Between anchoring, swimming back and forth to shore, waves, heat, and constant sun exposure, it is not always the relaxing experience social media makes it look like.
- Choosing the wrong tour for windy days. The Gulf of Orosei can become quite rough in the afternoon, even during summer. Smaller boats and Zodiacs can feel uncomfortable for travelers prone to seasickness, while larger boats are usually much more stable.
- Booking too late in peak season. The best small-group tours and private excursions often sell out well in advance during July and August. If you already know which experience you want, book early.
FAQs About Cala Gonone Boat Trips
The best Cala Gonone boat trip really depends on your travel style. Large mini cruises are usually best for comfort and families, while small-group Zodiac tours offer a more flexible and adventurous experience. If you feel confident at sea, renting a dinghy gives you the most independence.
Yes. Many of the most beautiful beaches in the Gulf of Orosei are difficult to reach on foot, and seeing the coastline from the sea is genuinely spectacular. A boat trip is usually the easiest and most enjoyable way to explore the area.
In Italy, you can rent smaller Zodiacs with engines up to 40 horsepower without a boating license. Renting a dinghy gives you complete flexibility, but it also requires more effort and confidence at sea. Guided tours are easier and more relaxing, especially for first-time visitors, families, or travelers who do not want to navigate independently.
Yes, some (not all) Cala Gonone boat tours stop near Cala Goloritzé, but boats are not allowed to dock directly on the beach because the area is protected. Depending on the tour and sea conditions, you may stop offshore for swimming or photos.
Most of them don’t. Some tours include snacks, drinks, or lunch, but usually they only include the boat transportation itself. Always check carefully what is included before booking.
Large mini cruises are usually the best option for families because they are more stable and typically offer toilets, shaded seating areas, and easier boarding ladders.
Most full-day Cala Gonone boat tours last between 7 and 9 hours, usually departing in the morning and returning in the late afternoon. Shorter excursions to Cala Luna are also available.
I recommend bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, towels, snorkeling gear, water shoes, and plenty of water. If your tour does not include food or drinks, bring snacks or lunch as well.
Cala Gonone generally offers more tour options and easier access to famous beaches such as Cala Luna and Cala Mariolu. Santa Maria Navarrese and Arbatax can be a good alternative if you are staying further south along the east coast. Santa Maria Navarrese is the closest access point to Cala Goloritzé.
Usually, only larger mini cruises and some private boats have toilets on board. Smaller Zodiacs and dinghies do not. Always check before booking if this is important to you.
Cala Gonone boat trips operate from late spring (May) until the beginning of October, though the highest number of departures is usually available between June and September. If swimming is important to you, the best time to visit Sardinia is between July and mid-September, which generally offers the warmest and most pleasant sea temperatures in the Gulf of Orosei.
Final Thoughts on The Best Cala Gonone Boat Trips
Choosing the right Cala Gonone boat tour can completely change your experience in the Gulf of Orosei. Some tourists will prefer the comfort and simplicity of a large mini cruise, while others will enjoy the flexibility of a Zodiac tour or even the independence of renting a dinghy for the day.
Personally, I think exploring this stretch of coastline by sea is one of the best experiences you can have in Sardinia. Many beaches are difficult to reach on foot, and seeing the limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and incredibly clear water from the boat gives you a completely different perspective of the Gulf of Orosei.
The key is choosing the option that best matches your travel style, expectations, and comfort level at sea. If you are visiting during peak season, make sure to book in advance, arrive early in Cala Gonone unless you are staying there, and come prepared for a full day under the sun.
Whichever Cala Gonone boat trip you choose, I hope you enjoy this part of Sardinia as much as I always do.
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Hello Simon, let me know if you need a consultancy. Otherwise, I honestly thing a boat tour from Cala Gonone is a great idea.
claudia, i enjoyed your article. my family of 9 will be coming the first week of june from the US and will be staying in oliena for a few days, we have 2 of the 3 days mapped out but i’m looking for some advice for the last day.
The first day we will tour the area ie nuro,some museums, orgosolo and mamoiada.
The second day we plan to travel to Bosa
For the 3rd day i wanted some ideas for a combined hike and beach or boat around the south of cala gonone or if you have any other ideas in that area if you could help. thank you Simon Cofrancesco