Boat Tour in La Maddalena National Park

Taking a boat trip through La Maddalena National Park promises a scenic adventure filled with turquoise waters, unspoiled beaches, and charming island towns. While this tour offers many highlights, it’s fair to say that some travelers have experienced crowds and logistical hiccups along the way. We’ve gathered detailed insights to help you decide if this day-long experience fits your travel style.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see some of the most iconic sights of Sardinia’s archipelago, including the famous Pink Beach on Budelli Island, the crystal-clear pools around Porto della Madonna, and the photogenic Cala Corsara on Spargi Island. The opportunity to relax on soft sands, swim in turquoise lagoons, and wander through lively La Maddalena town are real high points.

One potential consideration is the level of crowding, especially at popular stops, as some reviews mention beaches getting flooded with visitors. The tour’s 8-hour duration is packed, but for those craving serenity, it might sometimes feel a little hectic. Still, it’s perfect for sea lovers, nature buffs, and anyone eager to enjoy Sardinia’s rugged beauty in a day.

This experience suits travelers looking for a full day of scenic cruising, island exploration, and authentic local vibes. If you prefer quiet, remote spots with minimal crowds, some stops might not fully meet expectations. But if you’re after postcard views, fun swims, and a lively atmosphere, this boat trip is a compelling choice.

This experience made our article of 14 Of The Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Italy.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: The tour offers spectacular views of unspoiled beaches and colorful granite rock formations.
• Iconic Stops: Pink Beach on Budelli Island and Cala Corsara on Spargi Island are highlights, perfect for photos and relaxation.
• Flexible Options: You can buy an onboard lunch and pay extra for disembarkation, allowing some customization.
• Crowd Considerations: Popular beaches can become busy, which might affect your experience if tranquility is your goal.
• Comfortable Boat: The G.Garibaldi II provides indoor and outdoor spaces, with amenities like toilets, a bar, and a kitchen.
• Authentic Town Visit: The tour ends in La Maddalena town, giving you free time to explore, shop, or enjoy local treats.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Departure and Scenic Coastal Drive

Starting from Palau port, the boat departs around 9:45 AM aboard the Motonave G.Garibaldi II. The vessel is comfortable, with enough space for relaxing or taking photos, and the guided commentary helps you understand the significance of each stop. Expect a breezy, scenic ride along Sardinia’s northern coast, where you’ll pass by Porto Rafel and Cala Francese on La Maddalena Island.

Pink Beach on Budelli Island

The first major highlight is Pink Beach, a natural marvel that has fascinated visitors since its protection status was established in 1994. From the boat, you’ll get a perfect view of its vivid pink sands, a rare sight that’s best appreciated through photos. Since access to the beach itself is restricted, this stop offers a chance to admire the beauty without disturbing the environment. One reviewer noted, “The photos of Pink Beach are incredible, and seeing it from the boat really gives a sense of its untouched beauty.”

Porto della Madonna (Natural Pools)

Next, you’ll visit the Porto della Madonna, a series of turquoise lagoons nestled between Budelli, Razzoli, and Santa Maria islands. This spot is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, ideal for a refreshing swim or just floating lazily in the Mediterranean sunshine. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a glimpse of the local marine life, and the calm waters make it suitable for all swimming abilities. However, as one disappointed reviewer pointed out, “beaches can be flooded with visitors, making it less peaceful than expected.” Still, it’s one of the most breathtaking swimming spots in the area.

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Cala Santa Maria and Optional Lunch

The trip includes a stop at Cala Santa Maria on Santa Maria Island. The beach features soft sands and shallow waters, perfect for sunbathing or a relaxed dip. Here, you may choose to indulge in an onboard meal—a Sardinian sausage pasta available for a small fee (10 euros). This adds a local flavor to your day, but options are limited, so if you’re a foodie, you might want to bring your own snacks or plan accordingly.

Spargi Island and Cala Corsara

In the early afternoon, the boat heads south through the Bocche di Bonifacio strait to Spargi Island. The highlight here is Cala Corsara, a small bay surrounded by wind-sculpted granite rocks and tiny coves. This spot is often described as paradise-like, with beautiful swimming waters and dramatic scenery. It’s a favorite for photographers, and many visitors comment on the stunning views. One reviewer called it “the most photogenic bay in the archipelago,” and noted that swimming here feels like being in a private lagoon.

La Maddalena Town

The final leg is a trip into La Maddalena town, where you get free time to explore its lively streets. Here, you can shop for local crafts, enjoy a gelato, or simply relax in the piazzas. This part of the tour allows for a taste of local Sardinian life, away from the beaches and nature stops.

Return to Palau

The boat returns around 5:45 PM, giving you a full 8-hour day of exploration and relaxation. While most travelers find the day well worth it, some mention the crowded beaches and busy schedules as minor drawbacks.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour comes with the essentials—scenic navigation, a comfortable boat with onboard amenities, and a multilingual guide sharing interesting facts about the archipelago. The lunch is additional, at 10 euros, offering a simple Sardinian pasta dish, while the landing fee of 5 euros is mandatory for disembarking on the islands.

If you’re on a budget, consider that paying for lunch and the landing fee adds to the base price but also allows you to customize your experience. The boat itself provides a good balance of comfort and practicality, with plenty of space to relax or take in the views.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This boat trip is perfect for sea lovers and nature enthusiasts eager to see Sardinia’s iconic islands and beaches without the hassle of multiple boat rentals or complicated logistics. It’s also great for families and couples wanting a mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and a touch of local culture.

However, if you prefer quiet, secluded beaches, be aware that some stops can be crowded, especially during peak season. The tour’s packed schedule may also feel rushed for those wanting more time at each location.

It’s an ideal option for first-timers to La Maddalena, or travelers who want a rundown of the archipelago in one day, with the convenience of guided commentary and onboard facilities.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The La Maddalena boat tour offers an impressive route through one of the most beautiful marine parks in the Mediterranean. Expect breathtaking vistas, refreshing swims, and the chance to explore both natural wonders and lively Sardinian towns. The comfort on board and guided insights make it an accessible, enjoyable experience.

That said, the popularity means some beaches can feel crowded, and the day’s schedule is quite full. For those craving solitude, this might not be the perfect escape. But if you’re after iconic scenery, memorable swims, and a taste of Sardinian charm, this tour delivers solid value.

It’s a wonderful choice for anyone wanting to combine sightseeing with relaxed beach time, especially if they’re okay with some lively, bustling spots. Just keep in mind that some beaches might be busy, and consider packing your own snacks if you prefer avoiding extra costs.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with departure around 9:45 AM and returning by 5:45 PM, depending on the day.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a towel, swimwear, and perhaps some snacks or water. You can purchase lunch onboard if desired.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the G.Garibaldi II offers both indoor and outdoor seating, toilets, a bar, and a kitchen, ensuring a comfortable ride.

Can I buy lunch on the boat?
Yes, a simple Sardinian pasta dish can be purchased onboard for 10 euros. You can also bring your own food.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, a 5 euro landing fee is mandatory for disembarking on the islands.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Absolutely, it’s suitable for families, especially those who enjoy scenic boat trips and beach days.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, the tour is offered in Italian, English, Spanish, and French, with guides sharing insights about the archipelago.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change.

In summary, this boat tour provides a well-rounded experience of the La Maddalena archipelago—highlighting its most iconic sights with the convenience of guided commentary and onboard amenities. While it might not be the quietest escape, it offers incredible scenery, memorable swims, and a taste of Sardinian life that’s hard to beat.

You can check availability for your dates here: