Olbia is a lively hub for exploring the beautiful coastlines and marine life of Sardinia. Its prime location offers a wide variety of tours & experiences that cater to different interests, whether you’re craving a relaxing boat cruise, a wildlife encounter, or a taste of local culture. One standout is the Olbia: Tavolara Park Shared Boat Tour with Aperitif & Wine, which combines stunning scenery with regional flavors, making it perfect for those wanting a full-day escape on the water. Meanwhile, the Olbia: Boat tour to watch Dolphins and snorkeling offers a more intimate experience, with chances to see playful dolphins and explore crystal-clear waters. For travelers who seek a bit of everything, the Day trip on a sailing catamaran in Sardinia delivers a relaxed, activity-filled day with options for snorkeling, paddleboarding, or just soaking up the sun. Whatever your style, Olbia’s diverse selection of tours promises memorable moments in Sardinia’s spectacular natural environment.
Quick Overview
Olbia is known for its marine adventures, luxury excursions, and cultural experiences. You can explore Sardinian bays and islands by shared boat tours, such as the Tavolara Park cruise, or enjoy dolphin-watching with eco-friendly tours. For those wanting a more personalized experience, a private island-hopping tour in the La Maddalena Archipelago might be ideal. Cultural lovers will appreciate the small-group tour of Costa Smeralda, which combines stunning scenery with local villages. Food and craft enthusiasts can enjoy a pasta-making workshop. Now, let’s look at each option in detail.
This full-day boat tour offers a perfect mix of scenic beauty, marine activities, and regional flavors. Starting from Marina di Olbia, you’ll cruise in a brand-new super-fast boat, taking in stunning views of Tavolara Island, the Molara islands, and the Pools of Molara. The highlight is the rich aperitif onboard, featuring local wines and regional snacks, as you relax with panoramic coastal views. The tour includes swimming, snorkeling, and marine life viewing in the protected marine reserve, with stops at secluded beaches and caves. The experience is ideal for those who want a day of sun, sea, and good food in a small, intimate group.
Guests rave about the quality of the boat, the authentic regional food, and the friendly hosts. One reviewer called it a “beautiful & modern boat with stunning remote beaches” while another noted how memorable the secluded beaches and delicious onboard meal were. The tour is great for active travelers who enjoy snorkeling, sunbathing, and scenic photography.
Bottom line: A top choice for a relaxing yet adventure-filled day with excellent regional food, perfect for small groups and those wanting a luxury boat experience.
2. Olbia: Boat tour to watch Dolphins and snorkeling
This dolphin-focused boat tour lasts around 3.5 hours and offers the rare chance to see playful dolphins in their natural habitat. Departing from Olbia’s coast, the tour includes snorkeling at Cala Moresca and exploring the Capo Figari promontory, with expert guides sharing insights into marine life. The highlight? The guaranteed dolphin sightings, thanks to the tour’s focus on eco-friendly whale and dolphin watching. Plus, you’ll taste a local aperitif while enjoying scenic views.
Reviewers consistently mention the “beautiful weather,” “friendly guides,” and the thrill of seeing dolphins close enough to touch. One quote summarizes it well: “This was the best part of our trip; we loved swimming and spotting dolphins.” It’s perfect if you want a shorter, nature-centric experience with a good chance of wildlife encounters.
Bottom line: Ideal for wildlife lovers and families, this tour offers a memorable, eco-conscious adventure that’s less than half a day but packed with excitement.
3. Day trip on a sailing catamaran in Sardinia
For around $248, the full-day sailing trip departs from Olbia and visits Tavolara Island and the Golfo di Marinella. It’s a small-group tour capped at 8 participants, perfect for those who prefer a personalized experience. Onboard, you can choose from snorkeling, paddleboarding, or kayaking, with all gear provided. The boat offers plenty of space for sunbathing or relaxing in the shade, making it suitable for all comfort levels.
The itinerary includes swimming in pristine waters, a delicious onboard lunch, and time to explore the scenic coastlines. Travelers praise the “professional crew” and “beautiful, secluded beaches,” with many saying it “felt like a private charter.” This tour is best suited for active travelers or families who want a flexible day on the water, enjoying both relaxing and engaging activities.
Bottom line: A fantastic value for those seeking an all-inclusive, intimate day on Sardinia’s coast, with options for water sports and relaxing.
4. Small Group Costa Smeralda P. Cervo San Pantaleo Sardinia ITALY
This small-group tour lasts about 5.5 hours and takes you from Olbia to the famous Costa Smeralda. The journey includes stops at Porto Cervo, known for its luxury yachts and high-end boutiques, and the charming village of San Pantaleo, with its rustic architecture and mountain views. The guide, Luca or Ivana, shares detailed insights into the area’s history, culture, and local life.
Travelers love this tour for its blend of luxury scenery and authentic Sardinian charm. One reviewer appreciated the “beautiful towns, helpful guide, and relaxed pace.” It’s perfect if you want to see the glamorous side of Sardinia while also discovering its traditional villages.
Bottom line: Best for travelers interested in a mix of luxury, culture, and scenic coastal views, with a small, friendly group atmosphere.
5. One Day Private Excursion to the La Maddalena Archipelago
This private tour caters to small groups (up to 6 people) seeking a personalized day exploring Sardinia’s most iconic islands. Your captain will tailor the itinerary, focusing on Spargi, La Maddalena, and Budelli with its famous Pink Beach. The tour includes swimming, snorkeling, visits to historic sites, and stops at the most beautiful beaches chosen for your preferences.
Guests rave about the “customized experience,” with one reviewer saying, “Alberto was fantastic, showing us all the best beaches and giving fascinating insights.” The flexibility makes it ideal for families or couples wanting to craft their perfect day.
Bottom line: The perfect choice for those wanting a bespoke, intimate experience with plenty of swimming and sightseeing options.
6. Olbia: Dolphin Watching & Swim with Prosecco Aperitif
This 3.5-hour eco-friendly dolphin tour departs from Olbia and offers a high chance of dolphin sightings. With a 95% success rate, your guide will take you around Figarolo Island with soft drinks and prosecco served onboard. You’ll get plenty of opportunities to snorkel and swim in the clear waters, with marine biology insights shared along the way.
Reviewers mention the “professional crew” and “beautiful scenery,” with one happily noting, “we saw dolphins and learned so much about marine life.” It’s an excellent option if you want a short, eco-conscious trip with wildlife viewing at its core.
Bottom line: Great for families and wildlife enthusiasts looking for a quick but memorable marine experience.
7. Gulf of Olbia: Dolphin Watching by Dinghy
This dolphin-watching by dinghy is a compact 1.5 to 4-hour trip that focuses on marine wildlife and scenic coastlines. Led by experienced skippers and marine biologists, you’ll swim in clear waters near Cala Moresca or Figarolo, with the chance to see dolphins in a small, relaxed group. The tour’s intimate size means plenty of time for snorkeling and wildlife observation.
Guests love the personalized approach, with one saying, “Seeing dolphins was a highlight, and the skipper’s knowledge made it even better.” It’s perfect if you want an up-close wildlife encounter without a full-day commitment.
Bottom line: An excellent short option for wildlife lovers seeking a personal, relaxed experience.
8. From Porto San Paolo: Half-Day Tour Tavolara & Molara
This half-day tour offers a quick but immersive experience exploring Tavolara and Molara Islands. You’ll sail on vintage boats, discovering crystal-clear coves, historic lime kilns, and natural pools. The tour includes snorkeling among fish and an onboard aperitif with regional drinks.
Guests praise the authenticity and fun, with one reviewer mentioning “Alfonso’s great guiding” and the “wonderful time” they had. It’s suitable for travelers short on time but eager to see Sardinia’s beautiful coastlines.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a shorter, authentic boat experience with a focus on scenery and local traditions.
9. Olbia: Ecological Boat Trip for Dolphin Spotting
This eco-focused dolphin trip lasts about 2 hours and emphasizes marine animal welfare. You will sail near Figarolo Island in search of dolphins, with a probability of over 95% to spot them. The activity is led by certified guides committed to ethical wildlife viewing and environmental education.
Reviewers appreciate the “professional crew,” and one noted, “We saw dolphins dozens of times, and the guides were very respectful of the animals.” It’s a good choice if animal welfare and short excursions are priorities.
Bottom line: Ideal for eco-conscious travelers who want a short, responsible wildlife experience.
10. Olbia: Traditional Pasta-Making Guided Workshop
This pasta workshop is a fun, hands-on way to experience local Sardinian cuisine. Over four hours, you’ll learn to make traditional pasta, from kneading dough to shaping different types. Afterwards, enjoy your creations with a glass of regional wine.
Guests often mention how interactive and delicious the experience is, and many say they will try making pasta at home. It’s perfect for food lovers or families eager for a communal cooking activity.
Bottom line: A practical, tasty cultural experience that’s great for culinary enthusiasts and those wanting an authentic local activity.
11. From Olbia: Tour to Tavolara, Molara, and Aperitif
This 3.5-hour boat tour combines sightseeing and relaxation, sailing among Tavolara and Molara islands. Highlights include an hour on Tavolara to explore beaches and nature trails, along with sheltered stops for swimming and snorkeling. The tour ends with prosecco and soft drinks onboard.
Reviewers love the scenic route and relaxed pace, with one saying, “The trip took us to three different spots, each unique, with a lovely aperitif.” It’s ideal if you want a balanced mix of sightseeing and swimming in a calm, sheltered environment.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers seeking scenic views and gentle activity with a social touch.
12. Porto San Paolo: Tavolara & Molara Vintage Cruise with Lunch
This 7-hour vintage boat tour offers a leisurely exploration of Tavolara and Molara with a local Sardinian lunch onboard. Traveling on a traditional boat, you visit stunning beaches, coves, and natural pools while hearing stories from your captain.
Guests praise the relaxed atmosphere and authentic experience, with one reviewer calling it “a perfect day to unwind and enjoy Sardinia’s beauty.” It’s ideal for travelers looking for an authentic, laid-back day with good food.
Bottom line: Best suited for those wanting a longer, cultural cruise with authentic local cuisine and scenic beauty.
13. Olbia: Dolphin Watching and Snorkeling Tour on Figarolo Island
This 3-hour tour offers snorkeling in colorful waters and dolphin watching near Figarolo Island. Led by experienced skippers, you’ll explore the most beautiful coves, spotting dolphins and tropical fish along the way. The tour includes snorkeling gear and refreshing drinks.
Guests mention the beautiful waters and friendly crew, with one saying, “The dolphins and colorful fish made this trip unforgettable.” It’s perfect for those short on time but wanting a marine adventure.
Bottom line: A compact, lively trip ideal for families and snorkelers eager to see Sardinia’s marine life.
14. Olbia: Sunset Aperitif on a Boat
This 4-hour sunset experience offers a chance to enjoy Sardinia’s coast at twilight. You’ll sail on a traditional fishing boat, sipping local wine, beer, and sausage while watching the sun sink behind the islands.
Guests rave about the authentic feel and personal guidance of the local skipper. One reviewer called it “a unique way to experience Sardinia’s sunset, away from crowds.” It’s best for travelers seeking a quiet, intimate moment at day’s end.
Bottom line: Perfect for couples or small groups wanting a relaxed, authentic sunset activity.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Olbia
Picking the right tour depends on your interests and how you want to experience Sardinia. If you want a full-day adventure with delicious regional food and snorkeling, the Tavolara Park cruise is a standout. For wildlife lovers, the dolphin-watching trips and eco dolphin tour offer high chances of sightings in responsible ways. Those seeking a personalized experience might prefer the private La Maddalena tour.
If cultural discovery appeals more, the small-group Costa Smeralda combines scenic scenery with authentic villages, while foodies will enjoy the pasta workshop. Budget, time, and activity level are key considerations—choose a shorter tour if pressed for time, or indulge in a full-day cruise for a relaxed, immersive experience.
Final Thoughts
Olbia offers a wide variety of tours & experiences that cater to different tastes—from wildlife encounters and luxury boat trips to cultural excursions and culinary workshops. Whether you’re traveling as a family, couple, or small group, there’s a Sardinian adventure waiting for you. The best advice is to book early, especially for popular trips like dolphin watching or the private La Maddalena tour. With such a diverse range, you’re sure to find at least a couple of experiences that will turn your trip into a memorable story.
Enjoy your time in Olbia—every trip on this list promises an authentic slice of Sardinian life, stunning scenery, and plenty of opportunities for fun or relaxation.