Porto San Paolo:Tavolara & Molara Vintage Cruise with lunch

Planning a day on the water in Sardinia? This 7-hour vintage boat cruise promises a relaxed, intimate exploration of Tavolara and Molara islands. With only six guests onboard, it’s designed to give you a personalized experience, complete with crystal-clear swimming spots, stunning scenery, and a delicious Sardinian lunch.

What we really love about this trip? The small-group vibe, ensuring you’re not just another face in a crowd; the expert guidance from the captain, sharing stories and insights that bring the islands’ history to life; and the high-quality local cuisine served onboard. There’s also the chance to snorkel with masks provided, making it a true adventure for water lovers.

A possible consideration? The tour’s focus on a relaxed, unhurried pace means if you’re after a fast-paced, activity-packed day, this might feel a little mellow. But for those seeking genuine tranquility, authentic scenery, and a taste of Sardinian hospitality, this cruise hits the mark perfectly.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate small-group outings, love a mix of sightseeing and swimming, and enjoy local flavors. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to soak up Sardinia’s coastal charm, this trip offers a wonderful balance of everything.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a personalized, intimate experience.
• Expert captain offers insightful stories about local history and nature.
• Delicious Sardinian lunch onboard combines local flavors and fresh ingredients.
• Multiple stops for swimming and snorkeling cater to water lovers.
• Flexible itinerary with the ability to choose destinations and stay durations.
• Comfortable amenities including cushions, shade, stereo, and water shower enhance the trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic, Relaxed Day on Sardinia’s Waters

Imagine stepping onto a vintage boat, just six guests sharing a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. The small group size makes the experience feel exclusive, allowing you to really connect with the surroundings and your fellow travelers. We loved how the boat feels both charming and practical, with cushions along the deck, shaded areas, and snorkel masks for underwater fun.

The trip begins in Porto San Paolo, where you’ll meet at the floating docks near the green box with flags—easy to find after parking your car. From there, the boat heads out on a scenic cruise, setting the tone for the day. The captain, whose name isn’t specified but impresses with his dexterity and local knowledge, will guide you through the day’s adventures, adjusting plans based on your interests and weather conditions.

Exploring Tavolara Island

The highlight for many is a 1.5-hour stop on Tavolara, one of Sardinia’s most iconic islands. You get to explore at your own pace, walk along scenic paths, or just relax and soak up the dramatic views. One reviewer mentioned a guided tour of Tavolara, which enriches the visit, sharing stories about the island’s unique geology and history.

During the visit, you can take photos of the island’s rugged cliffs and panoramic vistas, swim in the clear waters, or snorkel using the masks provided. The calm, protected bays are perfect for underwater exploration, and the water is so transparent you’d think you’re swimming in a giant aquarium. Reviewers noted that the many stops for swimming kept the trip lively and engaging, with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

The Stops and Their Charm

The itinerary includes a sequence of stops designed to maximize your enjoyment of Sardinia’s coast.

• Spiaggia del Dottore offers a quick photo opportunity and a chance to swim and snorkel in its calm waters. Reviewers appreciated the opportunity for multiple dips, calling it “entertaining” and fun.
• A brief sightseeing cruise takes you past other scenic points, with a chance to see the islands from the water.
• Isola Piana provides another great spot for snorkeling and photography, with around 30 minutes allocated for this stop.
• The cruise continues with more scenic sailing, building anticipation for the main event: Molara Island.

The Taste of Sardinia

One of the trip’s standout features is the lunch onboard, a true highlight for many. The captain serves local flavors, showcasing Sardinian products with dishes prepared fresh. Reviewers mention a delicious, typical lunch, emphasizing how it adds a warm, authentic touch to the experience.

The meal is complemented by ice-cold prosecco, local wine, and soft drinks, all included in the package. The onboard setup makes it feel like a floating Sardinian trattoria—relaxed, friendly, and flavorful.

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On to Molara Island

The next stop is Molara, where you can explore at your leisure for about 1.5 hours. The island boasts a combination of rocky scenery, small beaches, and underwater life. Snorkeling, swimming, or just lounging with a drink in hand are popular options here. Several reviewers appreciated the ample time on Molara, noting it was enough to relax and explore without feeling rushed.

Final Highlights: Tavolara and the Return

The cruise continues with a scenic sail around Tavolara, giving you stunning views of the island’s cliffs and the surrounding waters. The final stop includes a guided tour and some photo opportunities before heading back to Porto San Paolo. The trip wraps up with a relaxed cruise back, leaving you with plenty of memories and perhaps a few new snorkeling skills.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Personalized Experience

The small group size (max six guests) is not just about exclusivity; it means your captain, who is also your guide, can tailor the day based on weather, your interests, and even your swimming stamina. As one reviewer noted, the captain “steers his boat with incredible dexterity,” which translates into a smoother ride and more time at the best spots.

Authentic Sardinian Flavors

The onboard lunch isn’t just a quick snack. It’s a well-thought-out meal using local ingredients and prepared with care. It’s a great way to experience Sardinian cuisine without leaving the boat, and the inclusion of prosecco and wine adds to the convivial atmosphere.

Water Access and Snorkeling

With snorkeling masks provided, you can discover Sardinia’s underwater world in calm, protected spots. Reviewers loved the multiple swimming stops, describing them as “entertaining” and a perfect way to cool off from the sun.

Stunning Scenery and Flexibility

From the steep cliffs of Tavolara to the rocky outcrops of Molara, the views are enough to make any camera jealous. The flexible itinerary means you can spend more time at your favorite spots—making this a truly bespoke day out.

Practical Details and Value

The 7-hour duration strikes a nice balance between a full day of adventure and relaxation. The tour’s price includes not only the boat ride and lunch but also water, prosecco, wine, snorkeling gear, cushions, shade, and a water shower. It’s a package that offers excellent value considering the personalized experience and the quality of amenities.

Since the tour is limited to just six guests, you’ll find that the small group setting makes the experience more intimate and relaxing compared to larger, more crowded excursions. The tour departs from Porto San Paolo, a convenient starting point if you’re staying in the area, and check-in is straightforward—just arrive 15 minutes early at the floating docks.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, intimate day that combines sightseeing, water fun, and authentic local flavors. It’s perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers who want a personalized experience.

If you love swimming, snorkeling, and being on the water in a comfortable setting, this tour will fit your style. It also suits those interested in exploring Sardinia’s islands beyond the usual crowded spots—here, you’ll enjoy a genuine and uncrowded adventure.

The Sum Up

This Tavolara & Molara vintage cruise offers a wonderful mix of scenic beauty, authentic Sardinian hospitality, and personalized attention. With expert guidance, multiple swimming stops, and a delicious onboard meal, it’s a full day of relaxation and exploration that leaves you with lasting memories.

For travelers who prioritize intimacy over crowds, quality over quantity, and authentic local experiences, this tour is a smart choice. It’s a fantastic way to see Sardinia’s coast in style, comfort, and genuine charm.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 7 hours, with a variety of stops for sightseeing, swimming, and lunch.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat ride, a Sardinian lunch, water, prosecco, wine, snorkeling masks, cushions, shade, stereo system, and a water shower.

Are there any additional costs?
You might need to bring your own towel and sunscreen, as these are not included.

How many people are on each tour?
The tour is limited to 6 guests, providing a small, personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and your camera. Towels are not provided, but snorkeling masks are.

Can I customize the stops or timing?
Yes, the captain can adjust the schedule based on your preferences and weather conditions, ensuring a flexible experience.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
While the info doesn’t specify, the stops for swimming and snorkeling suggest it’s best suited for confident swimmers or those comfortable in the water.

What language is the guide in?
Guides speak English, French, and Italian, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is parking nearby easy?
Yes, the meeting point is near the floating docks in Porto San Paolo—parking is straightforward in the area.

This scenic, intimate cruise is a fantastic way to deepen your Sardinian coast experience—combining natural beauty, local flavors, and a personal touch you won’t forget.

You can check availability for your dates here: