Asinara: Gita in barca a vela nel parco dell’Asinara

If you’re craving a day of sunshine, sea, and scenic beauty in Sardinia, a sailing trip around the Asinara National Park is an excellent choice. This 7.5-hour tour offers a blend of relaxing waterborne adventures, exquisite local food, and the chance to explore one of Sardinia’s most fascinating islands.

What makes this experience particularly appealing are the intimate group size, the authentic Sardinian meal on board, and the opportunity to swim directly from the boat in crystal-clear waters. That said, it’s worth noting that it’s not suited for travelers with mobility impairments or those looking to visit specific on-island attractions – the focus here is on the water and natural scenery. This tour suits nature lovers, foodies, and those wanting a peaceful, luxe escape on the sea.

Key Points

• Small group experience ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Authentic Sardinian cuisine served on board adds a delicious local touch.
• Multiple swimming stops allow you to enjoy Sardinia’s famously transparent waters.
• Visiting Asinara Island offers a chance to explore a unique natural area, with options to go ashore.
• Expert skipper and guides ensure safety and insightful commentary.
• Flexible itinerary based on weather conditions maximizes fun and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Sailing Trip in Sardinia

Planning a day on the water in Sardinia is all about balancing relaxation with adventure. This tour ticks both boxes by combining scenic sailing, swimming opportunities, and a taste of Sardinian culture—all aboard a comfortable sailing boat that caters to a small group of up to 11 guests.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The experience begins at the point d’incontro at the marina of Stintino, where you meet your skipper and crew. The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, but the exact starting time varies, so checking availability is key. Once aboard, you’ll set sail towards the breathtaking Asinara National Park, a protected natural area renowned for its stark beauty, wildlife, and pristine waters.

The skipper, with knowledge of the day’s best route, will tailor the itinerary to current weather conditions, ensuring that your day is both safe and enjoyable. Expect a relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunities to stop the boat for swimming or to explore on land if you choose.

Discovering the Islands and Beaches

Your route might include visits to some of Sardinia’s most renowned spots. La Pelosa beach, famous for its shallow turquoise waters and white sand, often features in the day’s plans. Other possible stops include the granite quarries, Punta Lunga, and Spalmatore beach—each with distinctive scenery and photo-worthy views.

The boat anchors in secluded coves, where you can jump straight into the water from the boat, a highlight for many travelers. The ocean here is famously clear, offering excellent conditions for swimming and snorkeling, especially if you bring your gear.

The Experience of Being on Board

The boat itself offers a perfect vantage point, with ample space for lounging and taking in the views. The crew creates a friendly, intimate atmosphere—fitting for small groups—that allows for more personalized interaction.

Many reviews mention the exceptional knowledge of the guides, who share insights about the natural surroundings, marine life, and local culture. Guests have appreciated the way the skipper adapts the route based on weather, maximizing the experience.

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Food and Drink: Sardinian Flavors at Sea

One of the tour’s standout features is the authentic Sardinian meal served on board. After a morning of swimming and exploration, you’ll enjoy a multi-course meal of fresh fish dishes, accompanied by a selection of local wines, including Vermentino, which perfectly complements the seafood.

The aperitivo, served mid-morning, is based on typical Sardinian products such as guttiau bread, sausage, and pecorino cheese. This snack sets a relaxed tone for the day and helps curb appetites before the main lunch.

The lunch itself is hearty, featuring a fish starter and a fish main course, with water, white wine, coffee, and a local grappa or brandy to finish. Many guests find this meal to be excellent value, as it features high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.

Swimming and Exploration

During the tour, you’ll have multiple chances to swim directly from the boat, which many consider the highlight of the day. The waters are famously transparent, inviting you to float and soak in the Sardinian sun. If you’re feeling adventurous, snorkeling gear is recommended—some reviews mention bringing their own for a better experience.

For those interested in land-based exploration, there’s the option to disembark on Asinara Island, which is known for its wildlife and unique landscapes. The island’s history as a former prison and its current status as a protected park add interesting context for visitors. However, the focus is largely on the water, and guests should not expect a full sightseeing tour of the island itself.

Practicalities: What You Should Know

The tour is designed to be comfortable and manageable. It’s particularly suitable for those who enjoy small group experiences and appreciate authentic, laid-back atmospheres. The maximum group size of 11 ensures a more intimate setting, but it’s important to note that the tour isn’t accessible for people with mobility impairments or non-folding wheelchairs.

Bring along essentials such as sun protection (sunscreen, hats, sunglasses), swimwear, towels, camera, and comfortable clothes. Snorkeling gear is recommended if you wish to explore beneath the surface, but check with the operator if you need to rent or bring your own.

The tour operates in good weather, but guests will be contacted at least two hours beforehand if weather conditions threaten to affect the schedule. Cancellation policies are flexible, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which is reassuring in case of unpredictable weather.

Price and Value

While the tour’s exact price isn’t specified here, the all-inclusive package—covering aperitivo, lunch, drinks, and the boat ride itself—offers good value considering the level of personalization, food quality, and the chance to explore both sea and land in Sardinia’s stunning waters. Guests consistently mention how the experience feels like a special day out, with many praising the high quality of food and the knowledgeable guides.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This sailing trip is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed day immersed in Sardinia’s natural beauty, away from crowded beaches and touristy spots. The combination of swimming, scenic sailing, and authentic cuisine makes it a well-rounded experience that appeals to both nature lovers and foodies.

If you’re after a peaceful, intimate adventure on the water with the chance to enjoy Sardinian specialties and scenic stops, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate expert guides, beautiful views, and local flavors, all delivered in a laid-back, friendly atmosphere.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This experience is perfect for couples, families, or small groups who want a leisurely day at sea with a touch of Sardinian culture. If you enjoy sailing, snorkeling, and good food, you’ll find this tour satisfying. However, it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or those expecting a full land-based sightseeing tour on Asinara.

It’s also a fantastic choice for those who like flexible itineraries driven by weather and natural conditions, and who value personalized attention in a small-group setting. If your idea of a perfect holiday involves relaxing on a boat, swimming in unspoiled waters, and tasting local seafood paired with excellent wine, you’ll likely find this trip a highlight.

FAQs

Is transportation included to the meeting point?
No, travelers need to meet directly at the marina of Stintino at the designated meeting point, Punto d’incontro al chiosco bar P26.

What should I bring with me?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen (biodegradable preferred), and snorkeling gear if you have it. Also, packing insect repellent and outdoor clothes is recommended.

Are pets allowed on this tour?
Pets are not permitted, with assistance dogs being the exception. Pets and assistance animals should be arranged separately.

Can I visit attractions on Asinara Island?
The tour primarily focuses on the water and scenic stops. While you can disembark on Asinara, the tour emphasizes nature, swimming, and enjoying the landscape rather than specific attractions.

What is the group size?
Up to 11 guests, which helps ensure a personalized experience.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or non-folding wheelchairs. Children are welcome if they are comfortable on the boat and can enjoy the water activities.

What happens in bad weather?
Guests will be contacted at least two hours before departure to confirm if the tour will be canceled or rescheduled, ensuring safety and comfort.

Choosing this sailing tour around Sardinia’s Asinara offers a harmonious mix of relaxation, scenic beauty, and cultural flavor. The small-group setting, expert guides, and excellent food make it a standout option for travelers seeking an authentic, leisurely day on the water.

Whether you’re swimming in crystal-clear coves, snapping pictures of stunning coastlines, or savoring Sardinian specialties, this experience promises a memorable day in one of Italy’s most captivating regions. It’s especially perfect for those who value intimate encounters with nature, good company, and excellent local cuisine.

If your ideal holiday includes a gentle sail, refreshing ocean swims, and a taste of Sardinia’s authentic flavors, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: