Cannigione, a charming fishing port on Sardinia’s northern coast, is a fantastic base for exploring the nearby La Maddalena Archipelago. Its deep waters, scenic islands, and calm bays make it ideal for boat trips and sailing adventures. We especially love the From Cannigione: La Maddalena Archipelago Boat Trip, which offers a full day of swimming, sightseeing, and island exploring without feeling rushed. Whether you’re after a relaxed day on the water or a more luxurious experience, Cannigione’s tours cater to a variety of interests.
If a leisurely cruise with a local flavor sounds appealing, this list will guide you through options that include everything from snorkeling to gourmet lunches. For those who want to combine sightseeing with comfort and style, there are multi-island tours and full-day sailing trips. Now, let’s dive into the details of each experience to help you pick the perfect one.
1. From Cannigione: La Maddalena Archipelago Boat Trip
This 7-hour cruise is a standout for its comprehensive itinerary and diverse stops. It includes two swimming sessions, a visit to La Maddalena town, and visits to iconic sites like Love Bay, Pink Beach, and the Manto della Madonna lagoon. The trip begins at Spiaggia di Cannigione and takes you around the archipelago’s stunning islands—each with its own character.
What makes this tour special is the balance of relaxation and exploration. You’ll have ample time for swimming in crystal-clear waters as well as strolling through La Maddalena’s quaint streets. The boat’s spacious design, combined with a friendly crew, means comfort is a priority. Reviewers mention the boat not feeling crowded and the hosts being “incredibly kind and helpful,” making the experience feel welcoming rather than rushed. The highlight for many is the exclusive access to Love Bay, where swims are often off-limits to larger groups.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a full day of swimming, sightseeing, and local culture, all in a relaxed setting. Prepare for an 8-hour adventure that mixes natural beauty with charming town visits.
2. Northern Sardinia: La Maddalena Archipelago Boat Trip
At number 2, this full-day boat tour is an excellent choice for those wanting a comprehensive look at the archipelago with the added bonus of lunch onboard. It covers the main islands—Spargi, Caprera, Budelli, and La Maddalena—while offering plenty of opportunities to swim and relax in pristine waters.
The trip’s highlights include crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling, and a delicious, homemade pasta dish served during the cruise, which elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing. The itinerary is designed for flexibility, with multiple drop-off points to suit your needs. Reviews praise the friendly crew and the well-planned stops, noting that the long stops at key locations make the day worthwhile without feeling rushed.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want to spend a relaxing day on the water with good food and fascinating island scenery. The emphasis on a balanced itinerary ensures you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and exploring at a comfortable pace.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a full-day, all-inclusive experience with excellent food and a chance to see the islands’ underwater world, this trip is a top contender.
3. Cannigione: boat tour Maddalena Archipelago with lunch
This 8-hour trip combines the beauty of La Maddalena’s islands with the comfort of a sailing boat. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed day away from crowds, aboard a 20-meter sailing vessel. The boat departs from Cannigione harbor and takes you around the archipelago, offering opportunities to swim, snorkel, and enjoy the scenery.
What stands out here is the intimate group size—limited to just 12 guests—which adds a personal touch to the day. You’ll get to experience the sea, relax on deck, and enjoy Sardinian products during a shared lunch. The boat is equipped for comfort, providing a peaceful and scenic environment to take in the views.
Reviews highlight the serenity of the trip and the chance to experience La Maddalena from a different perspective. The small group size means more personalized attention from the crew, making it a favorite for couples and those seeking a quieter, more tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who prefer a smaller, calmer cruise with a focus on comfort, good food, and authentic sailing.
4. Cannigione: Full-Day Sailing Boat Tour
For around 9 hours, this sailing adventure aboard a Jeanneau Sun Odissey 43 offers a chance to relax, sail, and explore. With a large sundeck, you’ll have plenty of space to soak up the Sardinian sun and enjoy the sea breeze. The boat accommodates up to 12 guests comfortably, with options to try stand-up paddleboarding (with 2 paddles on board).
The experienced crew will navigate to scenic beaches and quiet coves, using the tender to explore shoreline spots that are inaccessible from land. It’s ideal for travelers who want a mix of sailing, swimming, and active water sports. The longer duration means plenty of time at each stop, and the large deck is perfect for lounging or socializing.
Reviews mention the boat’s comfort and the fun of trying paddleboarding. This trip is well-suited for those who enjoy sailing and want a flexible, fun day on the water with the option to be active.
Bottom Line: A good pick for active travelers who want to sail with comfort, enjoy water sports, and explore Sardinia’s coast in style.
5. Maddalena: full tour of the archipelago from Cannigione
This full-day private cruise offers a tailor-made experience aboard a brand new Saver 870 boat. Your skipper will craft the perfect itinerary, based on weather, preferences, and your interests, making this the most flexible option on our list.
Highlights include scenic speedboat rides, visits to Cala Corsara Beach, Pink Beach, and Cala Portese, with stops for swimming, marine life viewing, and stand-up paddleboarding. A typical aperitif with local products and a delicious lunch make the day even more memorable. The itinerary includes multiple swimming spots, beach visits, and scenic cruises, all designed for maximum comfort and exploration.
Guests rave about the personalized service and the well-chosen stops, which blend natural beauty with moments of relaxation. This trip is best for travelers who want an exclusive, luxury experience with a high degree of customization.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those seeking a private, luxury day on the water with very flexible plans and personalized attention.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When picking a boat experience in Cannigione, consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and your interests. For a full-day, relaxed cruise with excellent food, the Northern Sardinia: La Maddalena Archipelago Boat Trip offers great value. If you prefer a more intimate sailing experience, the Cannigione: boat tour Maddalena Archipelago with lunch might suit you best. For a private, tailor-made day, look into the Maddalena: full tour of the archipelago from Cannigione.
Timing also matters—most tours operate from spring through early fall, with summer being the busiest. Booking early is advisable, especially for private or small-group trips, to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Cannigione is a perfect jumping-off point for exploring La Maddalena Archipelago and its surroundings by boat. Whether you want a full day of swimming and sightseeing, a private luxury cruise, or a sailing adventure, there’s an experience that matches your style and interests. The variety ensures you can find something for a laid-back day with family, a romantic escape, or an active water sports outing.
For the best experience, consider your priorities—whether that’s comfort, flexibility, or gourmet treats—and book early to ensure availability. No matter which tour you choose, Sardinia’s stunning coastline won’t disappoint.