Palau offers more than just stunning vistas and clear waters — it’s a fantastic place to enjoy a memorable lunch on the water. Whether you want a relaxing cruise, a sailing adventure, or a luxurious yacht day, Palau provides options that cater to different preferences and budgets. We especially like the From Palau: La Maddalena Cruise with Lunch & Drinks for its relaxed, small-group vibe and comprehensive experience, including snorkeling and a full meal. For those who love sailing, the Maddalena Archipelago Sailing Tour and Lunch offers a day on a yacht with local wine and top-notch spots for swimming and snorkeling. These experiences highlight the best of Palau’s marine beauty and culinary delights, making your trip truly special.
If you’re looking for scenic, all-inclusive trips, there are options like the Palau: La Maddalena Archipelago Cruise with Lunch and Drinks and the La Maddalena Archipelago: daily sailing tour with lunch. Both combine sightseeing with hearty local food and drinks, perfect for relaxing and soaking in the views. For a more intimate, vintage sailing experience, the La Maddalena: tour of the islands and lunch aboard the Dolce Vita sailing ship stands out. Whatever your style, Palau’s lunch tours promise a delicious way to explore the islands.
1. From Palau: La Maddalena Cruise with Lunch & Drinks
At number 1 we have the From Palau: La Maddalena Cruise with Lunch & Drinks, which offers a 7-hour journey aboard a small, comfortable motorboat. This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy a relaxed, intimate atmosphere with personalized attention. The cruise takes you through the stunning La Maddalena Archipelago, with three stops at some of the most beautiful beaches and coves where you can swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the sand. The included snorkeling set makes it easy to explore the underwater world, and learning about the region from your captain adds an educational touch to the trip.
What sets this tour apart is the full lunch included with both soft and alcoholic drinks, making it a true all-in-one experience. The friendly guide shares insights about the islands and rock formations as you cruise, making this a great choice for those who want both scenery and storytelling. The reviews highlight the personal touch and delicious food, with travelers raving about the small group size and generous drinks. It’s especially suitable for travelers who value comfort, good food, and a leisurely pace.
Bottom Line: This is a perfect choice if you want a relaxed, small-group experience that combines beautiful beaches, snorkeling, and a hearty lunch.
2. From Palau: Maddalena Archipelago Sailing Tour and Lunch
Number 2 on our list is the Maddalena Archipelago Sailing Tour and Lunch, which offers a full 8-hour sail through the islands. This tour is ideal for sailing enthusiasts or anyone wanting a more authentic experience on a yacht. Departing from Palau, you’ll cruise around the La Maddalena Archipelago, exploring the famed Pink Beach and the island of Budelli—famous for its striking pink sand.
What makes this trip special is the onboard lunch featuring local wine, prepared fresh on the boat, along with stops for swimming, snorkeling, and even stand-up paddleboarding. The reviews emphasize the attention to detail, from the beautiful boat to the delicious food and engaging storytelling from Luca, the skipper. This tour appeals to travelers looking for a leisurely, immersive day at sea, with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery.
It’s best suited for those who love sailing, want a more private experience, or are keen on exploring multiple islands with water activities. The approximately 8-hour duration offers ample time to unwind without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: Perfect for sailing lovers who want to indulge in local wine, fresh seafood, and the stunning scenery of the archipelago.
3. Sardinia: La Maddalena/Palau Catamaran Day Trip with Lunch
In third place, the Sardinia: La Maddalena/Palau Catamaran Day Trip with Lunch offers a 7-hour journey on a spacious catamaran. This experience combines sightseeing at iconic spots like Pink Beach and Spargi’s beaches with a leisurely onboard meal. The trip is known for its relaxed vibe, with plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on local Sardinian cuisine, served with wine and cold cuts, making the meal feel authentic and hearty. The boat’s stable platform and ample shade make it comfortable even on hot days, and dolphin watching adds a fun element. The reviews mention the “superb organization” and “good food,” indicating this is a reliable, well-run option.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, water activities, and good food, all on a comfortable boat. It’s ideal for those looking for a balanced day, without the complexities of a small boat experience.
Bottom Line: Great for families or groups seeking a laid-back day with scenic views and hearty Sardinian food.
4. La Maddalena Archipelago: daily sailing tour with lunch
Number 4 is the La Maddalena Archipelago: daily sailing tour with lunch. This 8-hour sailboat trip offers a peaceful way to see the islands, focusing on relaxing and enjoying typical Sardinian products for lunch. The itinerary includes stops at Spargi, Budelli, and Santa Maria, with swimming and snorkeling opportunities at each location.
What makes this tour special is the small boat (15 meters) providing an intimate atmosphere, and the chance to explore coves and inlets away from crowds. The onboard lunch includes local dishes, and the scenic views are complemented by hikes at Piscine di Budelli. Reviewers appreciate the “wonderful excursion” and the chance to visit multiple islands comfortably.
This trip is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day with plenty of swimming and snorkeling, plus local cuisine. It’s suited for those who prefer a peaceful sailing experience over larger, crowded boats.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking tranquility, scenic beauty, and an authentic Sardinian lunch in an intimate setting.
5. Palau: La Maddalena Archipelago Cruise with Lunch and Drinks
Number 5 features the Palau: La Maddalena Archipelago Cruise with Lunch and Drinks. This 7-hour luxury motorboat cruise is perfect for travelers wanting a more upscale experience. You’ll visit three beaches, swim, and enjoy a full lunch with soft and alcoholic drinks, all on a very comfortable boat. The captain shares insights about the islands, making the journey both scenic and educational.
Reviews praise the “luxurious boat” and the “delicious lunch,” making this a great choice for those who want comfort and quality. The tour is also flexible with a friendly crew that makes everyone feel at home. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a hassle-free, all-inclusive day on the water, with plenty of time for relaxing and swimming.
This tour offers excellent value for those seeking a premium experience with inclusive drinks and a scenic route, especially if your budget allows for a touch of luxury.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers looking for a high-end, all-inclusive day with comfort and convenience.
6. La Maddalena: tour of the islands and lunch aboard the Dolce Vita sailing ship
Number 6 is the La Maddalena: tour of the islands and lunch aboard the Dolce Vita sailing ship. This 8-hour cruise on a vintage sailing ship offers a charming, classic experience. You’ll visit paradise beaches, enjoy local specialties onboard, and have time for swimming and sightseeing.
What makes this tour unique is its old-world charm—sailing on the Dolce Vita, a vintage vessel, adds a romantic and nostalgic touch. The itinerary includes stops at Piscine di Budelli, Santa Maria, Cala Corsara, and Cala Granara, with plenty of time to relax, swim, and sample local wines and cheeses. Reviewers mention the “unforgettable journey” and the “delicious food” served onboard.
This experience is perfect for travelers who appreciate history, vintage boats, and authentic Sardinian cuisine. It’s ideal if you prefer a more leisurely, scenic cruise with a touch of elegance.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those who want a romantic, vintage sailing adventure combined with local food and island scenery.
7. Maddalena Archipelago: Full-Day Sailboat Tour with Lunch
Number 7 offers the Maddalena Archipelago: Full-Day Sailboat Tour with Lunch, a 4-hour trip that focuses on exploring the most beautiful beaches and unusual granite formations. This tour is well-suited for travelers interested in a shorter, more active day, with stops for swimming, and exploring local landscapes and enjoying a traditional lunch.
The reviews note the guide’s passion and the stunning scenery, though the shorter duration might not satisfy those seeking a full day. Still, it provides a solid taste of the archipelago’s highlights, with manageable timing for day-trippers.
Bottom Line: Good for travelers with limited time who want a quality boat experience with scenic stops and local food.
8. La Maddalena boat tour with lunch and drinks included
Number 8 is the La Maddalena boat tour with lunch and drinks. This 7-hour trip includes snorkeling and visits to the best beaches, with an open bar and a focus on comfort. The itinerary features Spargi Island, Razzoli, Santa Maria, and other iconic spots, all with a relaxed pace.
The tour is praised for its spacious boat and excellent crew, making it ideal for those who want a full day of cruising, swimming, and enjoying Sardinian cuisine in a lively atmosphere. Reviewers emphasize the “fantastic all-inclusive” experience and the convenience of snorkeling gear included.
Best suited for those who want a comprehensive, fun-filled cruise with plenty of amenities and opportunities for swimming and relaxing.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for families or groups wanting a lively, inclusive day on a spacious boat.
9. Palau: Maddalena Archipelago 50′ Catamaran Cruise with Lunch
Number 9 features the Palau: Maddalena Archipelago 50′ Catamaran Cruise with Lunch. This 7-hour cruise emphasizes discovering hidden beaches aboard a deluxe catamaran, with antipasti, seafood pasta, and drinks included. It’s a luxurious choice for travelers who enjoy a relaxed, stylish atmosphere.
The cruise stops at Pink Beach and the natural pools of Budelli, offering plenty of time for swimming and photo-taking. Reviewers mention the stunning views and excellent food, making this a top pick for those wanting comfort and style.
Best suited for travelers seeking a sophisticated, scenic day with top-notch food and a focus on exploring the lesser-known spots of the archipelago.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a luxurious, laid-back experience with gourmet Sardinian cuisine.
How to Choose the Best Lunch Experience in Palau
When deciding which tour to book, consider your budget, interests, and desired pace. If you’re after a luxurious, all-inclusive experience, the Palau: La Maddalena Archipelago Cruise with Lunch and Drinks or the Palau: Maddalena Archipelago 50′ Catamaran Cruise with Lunch are excellent choices. For those who love sailing and want a more authentic adventure, consider the Maddalena Archipelago Sailing Tour and Lunch.
If you prefer a vintage, romantic vibe, the La Maddalena: tour of the islands and lunch aboard the Dolce Vita sailing ship offers a charming, nostalgic experience. Shorter trips like the Maddalena Archipelago Full-Day Sailboat Tour are perfect for travelers with limited time but still want a quality tour.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, and consider what kind of experience best suits your travel style—luxury, adventure, vintage charm, or family-friendly fun.
Final Thoughts
Palau’s diversity of lunch-focused boat tours offers something for all—whether you prefer a high-end cruise with drinks at your fingertips or a rustic sailing adventure with fresh local food. For those who want comfort, the Palau: La Maddalena Archipelago Cruise with Lunch and Drinks or the 50′ Catamaran Cruise are fantastic choices. For a more intimate, historical feel, the vintage sailing on the Dolce Vita is hard to beat.
Whatever your style, booking these tours in advance ensures you won’t miss out on a memorable meal with a view. Enjoy your time in Palau, and bon appétit on the water!