Porto Rotondo is a shining star on Sardinia’s northeast coast, known for its luxury yachts, crystal-clear waters, and lively marina. But beyond just soaking up the sun on the beach, this seaside town offers a variety of tours that reveal its stunning coastline and vibrant marine life. We’re especially fond of tours that combine scenic sailing, snorkeling with dolphins, and sunset drinks—each provides a different way to experience Sardinia’s beauty.
If you’re looking to explore from the water, the options range from full-day sailing trips along the coast to quick, relaxing boat rides for sunset cocktails. One standout is the From Alghero: sailing boat tour, which takes you to quiet coves and offers a chance to snorkel in the seabed at Punta Giglio. For a shorter but equally scenic experience, the sunset aperitif in an inflatable boat promises a memorable evening with friends as the day winds down.
Below, we detail each of these top experiences, so you can pick the one that best fits your style and schedule.
1. From Alghero: sailing boat tour
At number 1 on our list is a 7.5-hour sailing trip from Alghero, which makes a natural addition to your Sardinian itinerary if you’re based farther west. This tour offers a beautiful sail along Sardinia’s northwest coast, with stunning views of Capo Caccia and Porto Conte. What makes this trip stand out is the chance to swim in quiet coves and explore underwater at Punta Giglio with snorkeling gear included.
A key highlight is the onboard lunch, featuring local Sardinian flavors, served while you drift past dramatic cliffs and tranquil waters. The boat itself is comfortable, with plenty of space to relax and admire the scenery. The guide, Antonio, receives rave reviews for his warm hospitality and generous attitude—”Antonio made us feel very welcome,” one traveler notes. This tour is perfect if you want a full day of sailing, swimming, and enjoying Sardinia’s coast in comfort.
Bottom line: If you love sailing, seafood, and remote coves, this tour offers a memorable full-day experience with excellent value. It’s ideal for those wanting to see Sardinia from the water in a relaxed setting.
2. From Porto Rotondo: boat tour to Porto Cervo & Golfo Aranci
For around four hours, the boat tour from Porto Rotondo takes you to some of Sardinia’s most stunning beaches and coves, including Elefante Beach, Liscia Ruja, and Cala di Volpe. This trip is especially suited for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic cruise with plenty of time for swimming and sunbathing.
The highlight is the opportunity to enjoy an aperitif on board while soaking in views of the coastline’s colorful harbors and vivid waters. The skipper, Gabriele, is praised for his friendly, helpful demeanor, making the experience more enjoyable. Many reviews mention how much they appreciated the crystal-clear water and the chance to swim with goggles, emphasizing how relaxing and fun it was. If you like exploring beaches without the hassle of driving, this tour offers a perfect morning or afternoon escape.
Bottom line: This tour is a great pick for those who want a short, scenic boat trip with good swimming, beautiful scenery, and a laid-back vibe.
3. From Porto Rotondo: dinghy snorkeling tour with dolphin sighting
Number 3 is a 3.5-hour snorkeling adventure on a modern dinghy, which provides a more active, up-close experience with marine life. What makes this tour special is the possibility of dolphin sightings, combined with snorkeling in Sardinia’s clear waters. It’s perfect for travelers who want a small-group, intimate experience with nature.
This tour departs from Passeggiata del Porto and offers a chance to snorkel, swim, and observe dolphins and marine wildlife. The boat is equipped with device charging ports—ideal if you want to keep your camera or phone ready for photos. Snacks and soft drinks are included, adding a nice touch of comfort. Reviews highlight the scenic views and the thrill of dolphin spotting, with many guests describing it as “an unforgettable adventure.”
Bottom line: If marine wildlife and snorkeling appeal, this tour delivers a quick but memorable taste of Sardinia’s underwater paradise, especially for families or wildlife enthusiasts.
4. From Porto Rotondo: sunset aperitif in an inflatable boat
Finally, for a relaxing evening, the sunset aperitif on a luxury inflatable boat offers a 2-hour cruise with drinks, music, and stunning views. This tour features a 10-meter inflatable boat with a top-notch stereo system, delivering a fun, exclusive vibe perfect for friends or couples.
During sunset, you’ll glide along Sardinia’s coast while enjoying cool drinks and engaging music. This experience is less about sightseeing and more about unwinding in style, making it ideal for those celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to toast Sardinia’s famous sunset. The high praise from reviewers for the “uniqueness of service” indicates this is more than just a boat ride—it’s a memorable moment.
Bottom line: If you’re after a stylish, laid-back way to end your day, this sunset cruise is a fun, intimate choice.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When selecting among these options, consider your budget, time available, and what kind of experience excites you most. For a full-day adventure with snorkeling and scenic sailing, the Alghero sailing trip offers great value. If you want a shorter, beach-focused cruise, the Porto Rotondo boat tour is ideal. For wildlife lovers, the snorkeling and dolphin tour provides a more active, nature-oriented experience. Finally, if relaxation and a memorable sunset are your goals, the sunset aperitif offers a luxurious wind-down.
Booking early is recommended, especially for the popular sunset and dolphin tours, which tend to fill up quickly in high season. Think about your preferred pace—whether a full day at sea or a quick evening toast—then pick the experience that suits your style.
Final Thoughts
Porto Rotondo offers a wonderful range of boat excursions that suit different interests and schedules. For those who love a full day on the water, the sailing boat tour from Alghero delivers a well-rounded adventure. If short and sweet appeals, the Porto Rotondo boat cruise hits the spot. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the snorkeling and dolphin sighting — a true highlight in Sardinia’s underwater world. And for a relaxed, festive finish, the sunset aperitif guarantees an unforgettable evening.
Whatever your travel style, these tours will help you make the most of Sardinia’s stunning coastline. Be sure to book early, especially during peak season, and enjoy your time on the water in Porto Rotondo.