From Palau: La Maddalena Cruise with Lunch & Drinks

Sardinia’s La Maddalena Archipelago offers some of Italy’s most breathtaking seascapes, and this small boat tour from Palau promises to show you its highlights in a relaxed, intimate setting. While I haven’t experienced it myself, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s perfect for travelers looking for a mix of stunning scenery, authentic local atmosphere, and comfort.

What really catches our eye about this cruise are three things: the chance to visit less crowded beaches, the inclusion of a full Sardinian lunch with drinks, and the knowledgeable guides who make the experience special. The main caveat? The itinerary might shift due to weather, so flexibility is key. This tour is ideal for those who love scenic boat trips, small-group intimacy, and a taste of Sardinian hospitality, but it’s less suited for travelers prone to seasickness or with mobility issues.

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Key Points

Small, Comfortable Boat: Offers a more intimate and relaxed experience compared to large tour boats.
Multiple Swimming Stops: Access to pristine beaches and coves, often less crowded than the main tourist spots.
Inclusion of Food & Drinks: A full Sardinian lunch with soft and alcoholic beverages adds great value.
Expert Commentary: Guides provide insight into the region’s sights and history during the cruise.
Snorkeling Gear on Board: Equipment is provided, making it easy to explore underwater beauty.
Flexible Cancellation & Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The day kicks off at the meeting point in front of Villanova Caffé in Palau. From there, you board the Jasmine 1, a cozy yet comfortable motorboat suitable for around 12 guests, which means plenty of space for everyone to enjoy the ride and views. The small group size ensures a more personal experience with attentive service—something many reviews praise highly.

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First Stop: La Maddalena Archipelago & Hidden Beaches

Your journey begins with a cruise toward the Island of Spargi, home to some of the most gorgeous and less crowded beaches like Cala Soraya and Cala Granara. These stops are particularly favored by visitors who seek tranquility away from the busier tourist spots. Reviews highlight the quiet, untouched nature of these beaches, perfect for swimming and relaxing in crystal-clear waters. One reviewer noted how “the remote beaches weren’t just less crowded but potentially even more beautiful,” emphasizing their unspoiled charm.

Second Stop: Lunch on Budelli Island & Spiaggia Rosa

Next, you’ll cruise to Budelli Island, famous for its Spiaggia Rosa (Pink Beach). The boat anchors nearby, allowing you to snap photos of this iconic stretch of pink-hued sand—a rare chance to see a natural wonder. The highlight here is the lunch, included in the tour, served on the boat. Expect Sardinian antipasto featuring cheeses, salami, and a simple but delicious pasta with fresh tomato sauce. The reviews are glowing about the generous portions, with many mentioning the quality of the food and the drinks, including local wine, beer, and espresso.

Third Stop: Santa Maria Island & Relaxation

The third major stop is Santa Maria Island, with its inviting sandy beach accessible via a tender boat. You’re free to swim, sunbathe, or just enjoy the scenic surroundings. Some reviewers appreciated the flexibility here—being able to arrive directly on the beach via the tender means less waiting and more relaxing time in the sun.

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The Return Journey: Scenic Coastal Views

On the way back to Palau, you’ll cruise along the coast passing Capo d’Orso, famous for its distinctive rock formation. This part of the trip offers photo opportunities and a chance to admire the rugged beauty of the coastline. The cruise concludes at the original meeting point, after a full day of discovery and fun.

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What Makes This Tour Special?

Expert Guides and Live Commentary

Vincenzo, the captain, is frequently praised for his knowledge, friendly demeanor, and storytelling skills. One reviewer mentioned how he shared insights about the region’s sights, making the experience both fun and educational. As the cruise proceeds, guides highlight regional history and landmarks, enriching your understanding of Sardinia’s unique landscape.

Authentic, Less Crowded Experiences

Unlike larger boats filled with dozens of passengers, this tour’s smaller size means you’ll visit secluded beaches and coves. Guests commented on how quiet and peaceful their stops were, making it easier to relax and enjoy nature. The inclusion of a tender for beach excursions also allows for direct access to beaches that are often inaccessible to bigger vessels.

Good Value for Money

Considering the full-day experience, the inclusion of lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and guided commentary, many reviews agree it’s a solid value. One reviewer noted, “The food was delicious and the drinks plentiful,” emphasizing how the tour balances price with quality.

Scenic Views and Photo Opportunities

From the boat, you’ll enjoy panoramic vistas of the archipelago’s rugged coastline, rock formations like Capo d’Orso, and the famous Pink Beach. These moments make for fantastic photographs and memories.

Practical Details & Tips

Meeting Point & Timing

The tour starts at Piazza del Molo in Palau, with check-in beginning an hour prior. It ends back at the same spot, making logistics straightforward. Check availability for specific start times, as they can vary.

Duration & Group Size

The cruise lasts approximately 7 hours, giving ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The limited group size (around 12 people) means you’ll get personalized attention and avoid the chaos of large tour groups.

What to Bring

Travelers should bring water, sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable shoes, a towel, and a passport or ID. The tour offers plenty of shade and seating, but packing sun protection is essential.

Accessibility & Suitability

This experience isn’t suitable for people with mobility issues or wheelchair users. Plus, those prone to seasickness may want to consider this before booking, as the itinerary involves open water sailing.

What’s Not Allowed

Alcohol and drugs are prohibited onboard, but soft drinks, beer, and wine are included in the lunch package, adding to the convivial atmosphere.

Authentic Experiences & Real Guest Insights

Guests consistently praise the friendly and knowledgeable guides, especially Vincenzo and Mirko, for making the trip memorable. One reviewer mentioned how Vincenzo’s storytelling enriched the trip, while others appreciated the generous serve of drinks and the delicious, straightforward lunch. Many appreciated the quiet beaches, especially in comparison to the crowded spots often visited on larger tours.

Another guest shared that the boat has both an upper deck for sunbathing and a shaded lower deck, providing options depending on the weather or mood. The snorkel gear on board received positive remarks for allowing easy exploration of underwater sights.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, intimate day in Sardinia’s scenic waters. It suits those who enjoy small-group atmospheres, great scenery, and authentic regional cuisine. If you want a guided experience that balances comfort, stunning landscapes, and cultural insights, this tour ticks all those boxes.

It’s especially recommended for families, couples, or small groups looking for a more personalized adventure. Budget-conscious travelers will find it a good value, considering the included lunch, drinks, and snorkeling gear. However, if you prefer a more active or extensive exploration, or have mobility concerns, you might want to explore other options.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a full Sardinian lunch with antipasto, pasta, and drinks included in the price.

How many stops are there during the cruise?
There are three main swimming stops at beaches and coves, plus a stop near the Pink Beach for photos.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Absolutely. Snorkeling sets are provided onboard so you can explore the underwater scenery at your leisure.

Is the boat comfortable for all passengers?
The boat is small but comfortable, with both shaded and sunbathing areas, accommodating around 12 guests for a personal experience.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable shoes, a towel, water, and your passport or ID. It’s advisable to have a hat and some cash or cards for any extras.

Are there any physical limitations?
This tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. Seasickness can also be an issue for sensitive travelers.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The itinerary may change due to weather conditions, but the operator’s flexible cancellation policy allows you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This La Maddalena cruise from Palau offers an authentic, scenic, and relaxing way to experience Sardinia’s famous archipelago. With personalized service, stunning beaches, delicious local food, and engaging guides, it’s a well-rounded choice for travelers wanting a taste of Sardinian waters without the crowds. Whether you’re into swimming, photography, or simply soaking up the sun, this tour has something to delight every nature lover and sea enthusiast.