Santa Teresa Gallura is a perfect base for exploring some of Sardinia’s most stunning coastal scenery. Known for its vibrant port and proximity to the La Maddalena Archipelago, this small town offers a variety of ways to see the crystal-clear waters and rugged islands. We especially like the catamaran trip for its relaxed, all-day experience with excellent food and stunning views, and the dinghy tour for its intimate, hands-on feel. Whether you’re after a leisurely day on the water or a quick scenic cruise, Santa Teresa Gallura doesn’t disappoint.
If you’re unsure which experience suits your style, this guide will help you compare options, from full-day sailing adventures to shorter boat rides. Each offers a different take on Sardinia’s iconic coast, so there’s something for every type of traveler.
Quick Overview
In this article, you’ll find three top-rated tours: the From Santa Teresa Gallura: La Maddalena Catamaran Tour (more detailed here), the Da Santa Teresa Gallura: tour in motonave a La Maddalena (see details), and the Maddalena Archipelago dinghy Tour (review here). Each offers unique ways to experience Sardinia’s famous islands, with options ranging from 7 to 8 hours, sailing, snorkeling, and exploring historic towns.
1. From Santa Teresa Gallura: La Maddalena Catamaran Tour
For those who want to relax and soak in the scenery, this full-day catamaran trip is hard to beat. It’s a 7-hour adventure that takes you through the La Maddalena Archipelago National Park with plenty of chances to swim and snorkel in turquoise waters. The tour stops at three quiet islands, allowing you to explore natural bays and enjoy some free time.
What makes this tour stand out is the emphasis on comfort and leisurely pace—you’re aboard a spacious catamaran, enjoying regional food and wine while you cruise. The highlight is visiting the natural pools of Budelli, famous for their vibrant turquoise hue, which makes for incredible photo ops. The itinerary also includes scenic sailing through the archipelago, with time to relax, eat, and sip Sardinian wine.
Reviewers love the small-group atmosphere and the knowledgeable guides who share local insights. One said, “The guides were amazing, and the seafood pasta and wine made the day perfect.” With its combination of scenic cruising, food, and swimming, this tour appeals to travelers who want a comfortable, all-inclusive day on the water.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and well-organized boat trip with good food, this catamaran tour provides excellent value and memorable views.
This 8-hour boat tour offers a slightly more active day of panoramic navigation with multiple stops around the archipelago. Departing from Santa Teresa Gallura, it includes stops at La Maddalena, Santa Maria, Budelli, and Spargi. The highlight here is the speedboat ride—about 45 minutes at a time—which adds a sense of excitement while covering more ground.
The tour emphasizes scenic views of rocky formations and the chance to stroll through La Maddalena’s historic center, where you can shop and soak in local flavor. It’s well-suited for travelers looking for a mix of exploration and relaxation. The itinerary allows plenty of time for swimming in crystal-clear waters and exploring beaches, such as Santa Maria and Spargi.
Reviewers mention the calming energy of the islands and the “beautiful rocky coastlines,” with some noting the tour’s efficiency in covering multiple islands within a day. A common compliment is the well-paced schedule and the opportunity to see both natural beauty and local culture.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want to see several islands with a combination of scenic cruising, beach time, and a lively boat experience.
3. Maddalena Archipelago dinghy Tour
For travelers who want a more hands-on, intimate experience, the dinghy tour offers a full 8-hour adventure exploring the archipelago in a small, manageable boat. This tour is ideal for those who love swimming, snorkeling, and getting close to the coast without the crowds.
It includes visits to the Pink Beach, one of Sardinia’s most famous spots, where you can snap photos from the boat and, if weather permits, swim in the natural pools of Budelli. The highlight is the visit to the Island of La Maddalena, including its historic center, giving you a chance to stroll streets that have been around for centuries.
Review scores are high, averaging 4.7/5, with travelers praising the personalized feel and the opportunity to see the archipelago from a small boat. At $113.29 per person, it’s a good value for those seeking a more adventurous, flexible experience. The small group size and the ability to stop at key spots make this ideal for active travelers or those looking for more customized time in the water.
Bottom Line: If you prefer an interactive, small-group tour with plenty of swimming and photo opportunities, this dinghy adventure offers a personalized way to explore Sardinia’s coast.
How to Choose
When deciding among these tours, consider your budget, time, and interests. The catamaran trip is perfect if you want a relaxed, all-inclusive day with excellent food and scenic sailing. The motonave tour suits those who want to cover multiple islands with a bit more activity and sightseeing. Meanwhile, the dinghy tour appeals to travelers seeking a more personal and flexible experience with opportunities for swimming and close-up views.
If you’re visiting during peak season, book early as these tours tend to fill up quickly—especially the popular catamaran and dinghy options. Consider your fitness level and how much time you want to spend on the water versus exploring on land. All three tours provide a fantastic way to experience Sardinia’s La Maddalena Archipelago, but your choice depends on whether you prefer a leisurely cruise, a quick scenic exploration, or an active adventure.
Summary
Santa Teresa Gallura offers a range of fantastic boat tours to explore the stunning La Maddalena Archipelago. The catamaran trip is ideal for relaxed, scenic days with excellent food, while the speedboat in the motonave tour offers a mix of sightseeing and island hopping. For those wanting a more personal, adventurous experience, the dinghy tour provides intimacy, snorkeling, and close-up views.
For most travelers, the catamaran tour strikes the best balance of comfort, scenery, and value. But if you’re a more active explorer or traveling with a smaller group, the dinghy might be your best pick. Whatever your choice, booking early guarantees a spot on these memorable trips—and a chance to make the most of Sardinia’s gorgeous coast.