Cala Gonone: Gulf of Orosei Tour with a Vintage Sailing boat

Planning a day out on the water in Sardinia? This Gulf of Orosei tour aboard the vintage Dovesesto offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and laid-back luxury. Over roughly eight hours, you’ll explore some of the most beautiful beaches and caves along the coast, all while enjoying the nostalgic feel of a nearly 100-year-old sailing ship.

What makes this experience special? We love the personalized attention from a small, intimate group, the stunning scenery that’s best seen from the water, and the opportunity to relax and swim in crystal-clear waters. However, be prepared for some rules like no onboard lunch and sunscreen restrictions—these help keep the boat in top shape and ensure a pleasant day for everyone. This tour suits travelers who appreciate comfort, authentic maritime vibes, and a flexible, scenic itinerary.

Key Points

• Authentic vintage boat experience with a nearly 100-year-old sailing ship
• Customized route exploring the Gulf of Orosei’s best beaches and caves
• Small group size (maximum 12) for a relaxed and personalized atmosphere
• Multiple swim stops in pristine waters with options for sunbathing and picnicking
• Expert crew providing informative commentary and friendly service
• Strict onboard rules to preserve the vessel and environment, including no sunscreen or food on deck

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Day on the Water in Sardinia

This tour operates on a charming, vintage motorsailer called the Dovesesto, which has been sailing these waters for nearly a century. Departing daily from the port of Cala Gonone at 10:30 AM, the crew of three – including the captain, a sailor, and a hostess – ensures a cozy, friendly environment. With only 12 passengers allowed, you’ll feel more like a guest on a private yacht than part of a crowded tour.

The boat itself is spacious, measuring 23 meters long and 5 meters wide, with plenty of room to sit in the shade or lie on the deck soaking up the Sardinian sun. Reviewers praise the boat’s condition, noting it’s well-maintained despite its age. During the trip, you can choose where to relax—whether under the shaded awning or basking in the sun—making for a personalized experience.

The crew really makes the day special. They’re described as friendly, helpful, and informative, with many reviews highlighting how they go above and beyond to ensure guests are comfortable and entertained. You’ll also be offered some snacks and drinks, including wine and ice cream, to add to the relaxed vibe.

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Dawn to Dusk

Departure and Early Highlights

The tour kicks off with a check-in at Viale Colombo 10 in Cala Gonone, where you exchange your voucher for a ticket. Make sure to arrive by 9:45 AM to avoid missing the boat—delays mean no refunds, and the boat departs sharply at 10:30 AM. The small group size, maximum of 12, ensures you’ll get plenty of space and personalized attention.

Your day begins with a scenic cruise along the coast, where you’ll pass the famous Grotte del Bue Marino, although these caves are usually skipped due to time constraints. Many reviewers note that you might want to visit them separately later, as they require a two-hour commitment.

Visiting Cala Luna and Cala Sisine

Mid-morning, you’ll reach either Cala Luna or Cala Sisine—both incredibly popular but often crowded in the mornings. To avoid the crush, the boat typically stops here on the way back, giving you a more peaceful experience. Expect stunning landscapes, white sands, and impressive rock formations. Reviewers mention that the beaches are busy but still worth a quick visit to take iconic photos or enjoy a short walk.

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Swimming and Lunch Breaks in Less Crowded Beaches

Next, the boat visits Cala Biriola and the Piscine di Venere, where you’ll stop for about an hour. These spots are praised for their crystal-clear waters and tranquil settings perfect for a refreshing swim. One reviewer notes, “the first swim at Piscine di Venere was a highlight,” emphasizing how inviting the waters are.

The longer stop of around two hours is usually held at one of the quieter beaches, such as Cala Mariolu, Cala Gabbiani, or Sorgenti Beach. Here, you can enjoy your packed lunch, rest, and take more swims. Many guests find this to be the best part of the trip—a peaceful haven away from crowds, with enough time to unwind, explore, or simply soak up the scenery.

The Highlight: Cala Goloritzè

The final major stop is Cala Goloritzè, famous for its natural arch and stunning cliffs. As it’s part of a protected national park, access is restricted to foot traffic, so the boat approaches with caution, respecting the environment. Many reviewers comment on how impressive the scenery is, with some mentioning that they chose to swim from the boat instead of trekking to the beach, thanks to the captain’s discretion.

Return Journey and Sunset Views

The return trip is around 6 PM, giving you a full day of exploration and relaxation. As the boat makes its way back, the scenery continues to impress, especially during the late afternoon when the light hits the cliffs at just the right angle. Most passengers feel the trip is well-paced, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price covers exploration of the Gulf of Orosei, swimming in beautiful waters, and guided descriptions of the coastline’s highlights. You’ll need to bring your own lunch and drinks for the day, as onboard meals are not provided. The experience costs €3 per person as an environmental tax, payable before departure—an eco-friendly way to help preserve these natural wonders.

Rules for a Smooth Day

Strict rules are in place to protect the boat and environment: no food or sunscreen on board, and no smoking. These restrictions are generally welcomed by reviewers, who appreciate the effort to keep the vessel in mint condition and the beaches pristine.

Meeting Point and Timing

Check-in must be done by 9:45 AM at Viale Colombo 10, Cala Gonone, with the activity starting promptly at 10:30 AM. Be punctual—if you arrive late, you might miss out, and refunds aren’t available. Remember to bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, camera, and a fully charged smartphone. Don’t forget your packed lunch and a garbage bag for your waste.

Duration and Group Size

This is an 8-hour excursion, perfect for those wanting a full-day adventure. The small group size, capped at 12, means you won’t be overwhelmed and can enjoy a more intimate experience. The boat has a maximum capacity of 12, making it feel exclusive but comfortable.

Authentic Experiences from Guest Reviews

Guests consistently highlight the friendly and knowledgeable crew—many mention specific team members like Captain Gianpaolo and Angela, who go out of their way to ensure everyone feels accommodated. One reviewer praised the professional yet relaxed atmosphere, describing it as a “fabulous, relaxing time” with “fantastic stops,” including caves and beaches.

Many reviews mention how clean and well-maintained the boat is, especially considering its age. The bespoke experience includes surprises like espresso coffee, sweets, and even ice cream, offering a touch of Sardinian hospitality.

The beauty of the locations is often described as breathtaking, with many guests saying they appreciated visiting less crowded beaches later in the day, which enhanced their sense of serenity. They also loved the fact that they could swim from the boat at Cala Goloritzè, especially since reaching the beach on foot is only allowed for hikers.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day with a touch of history. It appeals to those who value small-group experiences, personalized service, and authentic maritime charm. It’s perfect for families, couples, or friends looking for a memorable day at sea without the crowds.

If you love breathtaking coastline views, swimming in crystal waters, and discovering secluded beaches, then this trip offers a fantastic way to see the Gulf of Orosei from the comfort of a vintage sailboat.

Final Thoughts

The Cala Gonone Gulf of Orosei tour on the Dovesesto stands out as a reasonably priced, genuinely special day on the water. The combination of a historic vessel, expert crew, and carefully curated stops makes it a highlight for many travelers exploring Sardinia.

You’ll enjoy the unique ambiance of sailing on a nearly 100-year-old boat, the beauty of the beaches and caves, and the peace of swimming in untouched waters. While rules like no sunscreen on board and bringing your own lunch might seem small, they’re part of what makes the trip so well-organized and environmentally friendly.

This experience suits those who are eager to enjoy Sardinia’s coastline authentically and comfortably, away from the chaos and crowds, with plenty of opportunities to relax, explore, and take in the stunning views.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, you’ll need to bring your own lunch to enjoy during the longer stop at one of the secluded beaches.

What should I bring for this trip?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, a camera, fully charged smartphone, and packed lunch. A garbage bag is also handy for your waste.

Can I use sunscreen on the boat?
No, sunscreen isn’t allowed onboard to protect the vessel’s surfaces and the environment. You can apply it 2 hours before departure.

How many people are on the boat?
The boat is designed for a maximum of 12 passengers, ensuring a comfortable and intimate experience.

What are the main stops during the tour?
Highlights include Cala Luna, Cala Biriola, Piscine di Venere, Cala Mariolu, and Cala Goloritzè, with optional cave visits.

Is there any flexibility in the schedule?
The itinerary is guided by the captain’s discretion, based on weather conditions and guest safety, but generally follows the planned route.

What if I arrive late for check-in?
Arriving after 9:45 AM means missing the boat, as departure is at 10:30 AM sharp, and refunds aren’t provided for late arrivals.

Enjoy Sardinia’s coastline on a vintage sailing adventure that combines nature, history, and tranquility. It’s a delightful way to experience the Gulf of Orosei’s best-kept secrets with a touch of maritime nostalgia.

You can check availability for your dates here: