Maxi raft trip in the Gulf of Orosei cala Mariolu cala Luna cala Biriala

Travelers seeking a mix of adventure, breathtaking scenery, and genuine coastal charm will find this maxi raft trip in Sardinia’s Gulf of Orosei to be a memorable experience. Led by an experienced skipper, the journey promises water-based exploration of some of Italy’s most iconic beaches, with stops at Cala Mariolu, Cala Luna, and Cala Biriala. It’s a carefully designed day that balances scenic cruising with time for swimming, relaxing, and discovering hidden corners of this stunning coastline.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, the professional guidance from knowledgeable skippers makes all the difference—ensuring safety and enriching your understanding of the coast’s fascinating features. The comfortable inflatable boat, with a capacity for just 12 passengers, keeps the experience intimate and enjoyable. Plus, the tour’s flexibility—complete refunding in bad weather—offers peace of mind.

However, a minor consideration is the shorter time at each beach, which might leave some wanting more than the scheduled stops. But for those looking for a compact yet comprehensive day in the Gulf, this trip hits the right notes.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of scenic cruising, beaches, and expert insight without over-crowding or overly long waits. If you’re after a well-organized day with authentic Sardinian coastal views, this experience could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Expert Skipper: Knowledgeable guides who point out coast features and share stories, enhancing the experience.
• Intimate Group Size: Maximum 12 passengers, providing comfort and personalized attention.
• All-Inclusive Fuel & Skipper: One price covers petrol, skipper, and safety gear, simplifying costs.
• Multiple Beach Stops: Visits to Cala Mariolu, Cala Luna, and Cala Biriala, with opportunities for swimming from the dinghy.
• Flexible & Refundable: Full refund if weather conditions are unsuitable for sailing.
• Practical Extras: Optional cooler bags and beach umbrellas—ask in advance for these comforts.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Departure & Setting Off from Arbatax

Your day begins early at 8:30 am, with a check-in at the Arbatax marina where you’ll spot the distinctive Nereo Charter signs. The boat, a 7.5-meter dinghy powered by a robust Suzuki 250 horsepower motor, promises a smooth and safe ride along the coast. The skipper, whose expertise has been praised in reviews, is key to making this trip a success—he’s both knowledgeable about the coast’s geology and eager to share stories about landmarks like Pedra Longa (129 meters high) and Punta Giradili (730 meters high).

Scenic Cruising & Coastline Highlights

Once underway, you’ll quickly realize this trip isn’t just about beaches—it’s about the journey. The skipper will point out notable features like the Cave of the Pigeons, accessible only from the sea, and the dramatic vaulting of the Falcon of the Queen. The coast’s cliffs and inlets, including Portu Pedrosu and Portu Cuau (featuring a WWII wreck from the 1960s), serve as a dramatic backdrop for your cruise.

Travelers have commented on how engaging the guides are. One review mentions, “The skipper’s commentary made the trip even more special—they knew every highlight and shared stories that brought the coast to life.”

Cala Mariolu – The First Stop (1 Hour)

Cala Mariolu is often highlighted for its crystal-clear waters and rocky coves. This stop offers a guided tour, allowing travelers to explore the beach and snorkel from the dinghy. The seafood-colored pebbles, coupled with the transparent water, make it ideal for photos and relaxing. Reviewers note that the skipper ensures everyone gets plenty of time to swim or simply enjoy the scenery.

More Great Tours Nearby

Cala Luna – The Main Attraction (2 Hours)

The longer stay at Cala Luna is a highlight. Known for its large, sweeping beach backed by impressive cliffs, Cala Luna offers enough time for a proper exploration. Many guests appreciated the extra hour here, highlighting that the “guides made sure we had ample time to explore and swim,” which is crucial given the popularity of this beach.

Cala Biriala – The Final Beach (1 Hour)

The last stop at Cala Biriala is described as a quieter, more intimate spot. It’s perfect for a relaxed swim and soaking up the last moments of your sea adventure. Reviewers mention that “the water here was incredibly clear, and the calm atmosphere made it a perfect place to unwind after a busy morning.”

Return & Reflection

The trip ends back at Arbatax around 5:00 pm. Along the way, the skipper continues to highlight coast features, making the return as engaging as the outward journey. Guests have described the experience as “well-paced, with just enough time at each stop to feel fulfilled but not rushed.”

Practical Details & What’s Included

This tour offers a straightforward, all-in-one package. The price includes parking at the harbor, gasoline, and the skipper’s expertise. You’ll need to bring your own food, drinks, sunscreen, and beach gear, but optional extras like a cooler bag or beach umbrella are available if requested beforehand.

It’s worth noting that access to beaches might require a small fee (up to 2 euros), and entry to the Cave of the Pigeons isn’t included—so plan accordingly.

What to Bring & What to Avoid

Pack essentials like sunglasses, a sun hat, camera, and biodegradable sunscreen. For comfort, bring beachwear and a daypack. Conversely, avoid high heels, pets, fishing gear, and any littering—respect for the environment is key.

Meeting & Endpoints

Meet at the Arbatax marina, clearly marked with Nereo Charter signs. The tour is designed as a full-day experience, ending right where it started, making logistics simpler.

The Value of This Experience

For the cost—considering the boat, fuel, guide, and multiple stops—the tour offers good value. The small group size and expert commentary elevate it beyond generic boat rides, making it more enriching.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys a mix of scenery, swimming, and learning about coastal features from passionate guides, this trip will suit you well. It’s ideal if you want an active day but also some relaxing beach time. It’s not suited for pregnant women or those unable to handle a full day on the water, but otherwise, it’s a balanced adventure.

Travelers who appreciate authentic experiences, rather than large touristy crowds, will find this outing particularly satisfying. The personalized touch from the skipper, combined with the stunning natural beauty, makes for a memorable Sardinian day.

Final Thoughts

This Maxi raft trip in the Gulf of Orosei offers a practical yet enchanting way to see Sardinia’s coast. The combination of expert guidance, small group intimacy, and carefully selected stops provides both safety and a genuine connection with the landscape.

While the tour’s schedule is packed, the stops at Cala Mariolu, Cala Luna, and Cala Biriala deliver enough time to relax, explore, and enjoy the scenery. The overall value lies in the personalized approach, scenic routes, and the opportunity to swim in some of Italy’s clearest waters.

For travelers craving a well-organized, authentic coastal adventure without the crowds, this tour is a solid choice. It’s suitable for those who want a taste of Sardinia’s natural beauty with the assurance of expert guidance, making it a worthwhile addition to any itinerary focused on marine and beach exploration.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The full-day tour departs at 8:30 am and returns around 5:00 pm, with specific stops and time allocations throughout the day.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers parking, gasoline, the skipper’s guidance, and the use of the inflatable boat. Snacks, drinks, and optional extras like coolers or umbrellas are to be arranged separately.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, it’s best for children who can handle a full day on the water and are comfortable in a boat environment.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes. The trip is 100% refundable if adverse weather conditions prevent safe sailing.

What should I bring?
Pack sunglasses, sun hat, camera, biodegradable sunscreen, beachwear, cash for small fees, and a daypack.

Are there any additional costs?
Beaches might charge a small access fee (up to 2 euros), and entry to the Cave of the Pigeons isn’t included.

Is the tour bilingual?
Yes. Guides speak both Italian and English, making it accessible for most travelers.

Can I reserve and pay later?
Absolutely. You can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility for your plans.

This full-day boat adventure promises a great mix of scenic beauty, authentic coastal stops, and expert guidance, making it a fantastic way to experience Sardinia’s Gulf of Orosei.

You can check availability for your dates here: