CALA GONONE: Exclusive dinghy with skipper

Imagine gliding across the shimmering waters of Sardinia’s Gulf of Orosei on a private 8-metre dinghy, with just your group and a seasoned skipper at the helm. That’s exactly what this tour offers—a chance to explore some of Italy’s most breathtaking coastline spots at your own pace. We’ve looked into the details to help you decide if this is the perfect adventure for your Sardinian itinerary.

What we love about this experience is its personalized approach, the stunning scenery, and the flexibility to choose stops and timing with your skipper. It’s an intimate, tailored way to see some of the most iconic beaches and caves in the Gulf. But, it’s worth noting that some travelers have found the boat’s amenities on the basic side, and the organization at check-in could be smoother. Still, if you’re after an authentic, scenic day on the water, this tour hits many marks.

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers, nature lovers, or anyone seeking a private, flexible boat trip around Sardinia’s coast. If you’re after a guided, intimate day on the sea with options to customize your stops, then this tour could be just right. However, those expecting luxury amenities might want to consider other options or be prepared for a more straightforward experience.

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Key Points

Private, personalized tour on an 8-metre dinghy for your group only
Flexible itinerary: choose stops and timings with your skipper
Spectacular scenery, including famous beaches and caves of the Gulf of Orosei
Swim and relax at pristine beaches like Cala Biriola, Cala Luna, and Cala Goloritzè
Basic amenities included: umbrellas, cooler with ice, fuel, and skipper’s guidance
Not inclusive of food and drink, so bring your own or plan accordingly

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from this Dinghy Experience in Cala Gonone

Looking for more options in Cala Gonone? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Starting Point and Timing

The tour departs from the port of Cala Gonone, with options at 8:30 am or 10:30 am. The early start is generally recommended, especially if you want to enjoy the cooler morning air and avoid the later crowds. Check-in is crucial, with strict times: for the 8:30 am departure, arrive no later than 8:10 am; for the 10:30 am, no later than 10:00 am. Fail to meet the deadline, and unfortunately, refunds aren’t available.

Parking is straightforward—during the high season, a paid lot at the port or free shuttle options make getting there convenient. The meeting point is in Viale Colombo 10, at the Mare di Gadget shop, just a short walk from the port.

The Dinghy and Group Size

The boat itself is a comfortable 8-metre vessel, designed for just 12 guests, ensuring plenty of space and a more exclusive feel. The boat comes with a skipper, who is your guide and captain for the day. From reviews, skippers like Agostino are knowledgeable and accommodating, adding valuable insights about the coast and caves, making the trip more engaging.

The Route and Stops

The core of this tour is the coastal navigation, which offers spectacular views of Sardinia’s rugged coastline and caves, including Grotta dei Cormorani, Grotta Azzurra, and the Cathedral. The skipper will take you close enough for great photos and to admire the caves’ natural beauty, some even inviting you to swim inside if conditions permit.

You’ll make several stops, each carefully chosen for their beauty and swimming potential:

Cala Biriola: This pinkish beach with emerald waters is perfect for a quick swim and photo ops.
Le Piscine di Venere: A natural swimming pool with crystal-clear waters where you can relax and cool off.
Cala Goloritzè: Famous for its natural arch, this beach offers fantastic swimming and stunning scenery.
Cala Sisine and Cala Luna: While the trip doesn’t spend extended time here, these beaches are among the most iconic in the region and are visible en route.

The longest stay is at Cala Mariolu, where you’ll have approximately 2.5 hours to rest, swim, and enjoy a packed lunch or simply soak up the serenity. The availability of umbrellas on board means you can shield yourself from the sun during these breaks.

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The Experience on Board

While the boat provides basic amenities—beach umbrellas, a cooler with ice, and fuel—reviewers note that it’s quite a bare-bones experience. There are no included meals, water, or beach towels, so bring your own essentials. Some travelers found the boat “bare bones,” and organization at check-in has been described as less than smooth, suggesting that you should arrive prepared and patient.

There's plenty more to explore in Cala Gonone

Scenic Highlights

The real magic of this tour lies in the panoramic views. From the boat, you’ll get up-close looks at caves and inlets, with the opportunity to swim in some of Sardinia’s clearest waters. Expect stunning photos, memorable vistas, and a peaceful atmosphere—provided by the early start and quiet sea.

Is It Worth the Price?

The tour costs include the private boat, skipper, fuel, umbrellas, and coolers, which collectively offer good value for a personalized experience. However, since food and drinks are not included, you’ll need to factor in bringing your own or purchasing on land. Based on reviews, the experience is more suited for those who value guided, flexible exploration over luxury or amenities.

Some travelers, like the reviewer who said, “the boat is bare bones,” might find it a bit basic, but others loved the knowledge and friendliness of their guides. If you’re looking for a scenic day on the water with the ability to customize your stops, this tour offers a real sense of freedom and intimacy.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Day

Arrive early for check-in to avoid losing your spot or refund issues.
Pack light but bring essentials: water, snacks, a towel, and sun protection.
Bring cash (€3 environmental tax per person) and your packed lunch for longer stops.
Prepare for waves—Cala Gonone can be windy, but wind usually doesn’t impact navigation.
Use the umbrellas provided for shade during beach stops.
Be flexible—some stops are short, but the coastline is full of sights to enjoy from the boat.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private dinghy trip is ideal for small groups seeking a tailored, scenic day on Sardinia’s coast. It suits those who enjoy personalized guidance and are comfortable with a straightforward boat experience. It’s perfect for nature lovers, swimmers, and adventure seekers who want to explore iconic beaches and caves without the crowds.

However, if you’re looking for luxury amenities or a fully catered day, this may not meet your expectations. The basic facilities and organization may require a bit of patience, but for many, the stunning scenery and flexible itinerary outweigh these considerations.

FAQ

How early should I arrive for check-in?
For the 8:30 am departure, arrive by 8:10 am. For the 10:30 am start, check in by 10:00 am to ensure smooth boarding.

Is there parking available?
Yes, a paid parking lot is available at the port, and during high season, a free shuttle or small train runs to the port from nearby lots.

What should I bring on the tour?
Pack water, snacks, a towel, sun protection, and your packed lunch. The boat doesn’t provide water or beach towels, so bring your essentials.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included; you should bring your own or plan to purchase on land.

Can I swim during the stops?
Yes, many stops are ideal for swimming, especially Cala Biriola, Cala Goloritzè, and the Piscine di Venere.

What amenities are on the boat?
The boat includes umbrellas, a cooler with ice, and fuel. It’s quite simple, so adjust expectations accordingly.

Is this activity accessible for all?
It is wheelchair accessible, but the boat’s interior might have limitations. Check with the provider if needed.

How long are the stops?
The longest stop is around 2.5 hours at Cala Mariolu, with other stops being shorter for swimming and sightseeing.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The activity can be canceled with a full refund if weather conditions are unsuitable, but check with the provider for specific policies.

The Sum Up

This private dinghy tour from Cala Gonone offers a wonderfully personalized way to explore Sardinia’s stunning Gulf of Orosei. The chance to experience iconic beaches and caves with a knowledgeable skipper makes it a memorable outing, especially for those who value flexibility and intimacy. While the boat’s amenities are basic and organization can be improved, the scenery and sense of adventure more than compensate.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a guided, privacy-focused day on the water, with the freedom to decide how long to stay at each stop. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic experience with opportunities for swimming and photography, this tour is a solid pick. Be prepared with your essentials, arrive on time, and enjoy Sardinia’s breathtaking coastline from a perspective few get to see.

Would you prefer a different type of boat experience or want options with more amenities? Check out similar experiences in Cala Gonone and the Gulf of Orosei, linked below, for the perfect match to your style.
Additional Sardinian boat tours & excursions