From Olbia: Tavolara and Molara Archipelago day trip by boat

Planning a boat trip in Sardinia? This Tavolara and Molara Archipelago excursion from Olbia is a fantastic way to explore the stunning marine protected areas with all the comforts of a private boat. It promises a blend of scenic views, local stories, and authentic experiences that leave most travelers feeling like they’ve uncovered a secret corner of paradise.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s exclusively private, meaning you won’t be sharing the boat with strangers—just your group and the skipper. Second, the all-inclusive approach covers food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and even the mooring fees in the marine protected area. And third, the local skipper shares insights and anecdotes about the islands, making it not just a boat ride but a cultural journey.

One thing to keep in mind? The itinerary is flexible, but it’s tailored to your preferences, which might mean some stops are shorter or longer depending on your interests. This is a great fit for travelers who value customization, scenic beauty, and a relaxed pace. If you’re after a structured tour with fixed timings, this might feel a bit more laid-back than some prefer. Overall, it’s a wonderful choice for couples, families, or small groups seeking an authentic Sardinian sea adventure.

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Key Points

Private, all-inclusive experience with a local skipper
Flexible itinerary, including swimming, snorkeling, and local cuisine
Highlight on dolphin watching and exploring less touristy spots
Boat safety and comfort guaranteed by the AMP-approved Federico Primo
Ideal for those seeking personalized, relaxed outings
Tour duration around 8 hours with customizable activity timing

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Tavolara and Molara Boat Trip

This tour offers a wonderfully intimate way to see Sardinia’s famed islands, with the boat acting as your floating base for exploring, relaxing, and indulging in local flavors. Led by Federico Primo—in the boat rental business for over 20 years and a member of the AMP Tavolara-Capo Coda Cavallo consortium—you’re in capable, knowledgeable hands.

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How the Day Unfolds

The trip begins with a pickup from three convenient locations: Golfo Aranci, Porto San Paolo, or Olbia’s Lungomare. From there, it’s about a 30-minute scenic drive to the marine protected area, giving you time to settle in, enjoy the coastline views, and get excited for the day ahead.

Once aboard the Federico Primo, your skipper will give you a brief overview of the islands’ history and environment. The boat itself is around 10 meters long, offering enough space for comfort and movement without feeling crowded. It’s equipped with safety gear, and fuel, mooring fees, and soft drinks are included—no hidden costs to worry about.

Exploring Tavolara and Molara

Tavolara Island is famous for its striking vertical cliffs and a history intertwined with local legends and a family-owned territory. Your skipper will share anecdotes about the island’s past and its unique status as a natural monument. Expect stunning panoramic views as you cruise along, with plenty of opportunities for photos.

Molara Island is renowned for its natural pools, which are world-famous for their transparency. The clear waters here are perfect for snorkeling and swimming. You will be able to float in these vibrant waters while observing the abundant marine life. According to reviews, the water’s colors are truly stunning, with some describing it as “like swimming in a giant aquarium.”

Along the way, the boat stops at less touristy spots, giving you the genuine chance to relax and soak in the natural beauty away from crowds. The skipper often points out interesting fauna, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins during your trip—an experience many guests loved and described as “absolutely magical.”

Onboard Delights and Activities

The tour prides itself on providing all the essentials: snorkeling masks, SUP boards, and a delicious onboard meal. Guests report that the lunch features local specialties prepared fresh on the boat, alongside an aperitif with cold cuts and cheeses, which perfectly complements the laid-back vibe of the day.

You’ll also have the freedom to decide how active or relaxed you want to be. Whether you want to lazily lounge on deck, paddle around on a SUP, or snorkel in the crystal waters, the skipper will accommodate your wishes.

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Customization and Flexibility

Unlike many group tours, this experience emphasizes flexibility. Guests can choose when to swim, snorkel, or just enjoy the scenery. The skipper’s passion for the area shines through, and reviews often highlight the personalized attention—”we felt like we had a friend showing us around the islands.”

You might find that the tour’s focus on authentic, intimate experiences makes it stand out from more commercialized options. With no fixed schedule, your day can be as leisurely or active as you like, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups who appreciate a tailored approach.

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The Return and Drop-off

After a full day of exploring, swimming, and tasting local flavors, the boat returns to the original pick-up spot, with drop-offs scheduled at Olbia, Porto San Paolo, or Golfo Aranci. The cruise generally lasts around 8 hours, giving enough time to enjoy multiple stops without feeling rushed.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

When you consider that all fuel, soft drinks, snorkeling gear, and a delicious onboard meal are included, the cost becomes quite reasonable for a full-day private experience. The personalized service and the chance to access less touristy spots make this trip stand out, especially for those who want more than just a generic cruise.

The safety measures and local knowledge add an extra layer of confidence, and reviews often mention how the boat and the skipper’s care made the day comfortable and memorable. The tour’s flexibility means you’re not locked into a rigid schedule, allowing the experience to suit your rhythm.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This boat trip is perfect for travelers who value privacy, customization, and authentic experiences. If you’re seeking a laid-back day on Sardinia’s waters, with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying local cuisine, this will hit all the right notes. It’s especially suited for small groups or families who appreciate personal attention and want to explore the islands at their own pace.

Couples looking for a romantic escape will love the intimate setting, while adventure seekers will enjoy the dolphin sightings and water activities. It’s also an excellent choice for those who want to avoid the crowds common on more commercial tours.

FAQs

What is the tour duration? The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at a time you can check upon booking.
Where do I get picked up? Pickup options include Porto di Golfo Aranci, Porto San Paolo, and Lungomare di Olbia.
Is the tour private? Yes, the experience is for private groups only, offering a tailored and exclusive outing.
What is included? The tour includes a skipper, fuel (for Tavolara AMP), snorkeling masks, SUP board, boat rental, soft drinks, and a typical onboard meal with local products.
Can I request special drinks or decorations? Yes, if you want specific wines, beverages, or event decorations, contact the provider directly.
What should I bring? Bring your passport or ID, a towel, and enjoy the water comfortably. High heels, weapons, or fireworks are not permitted.
Are the water activities suitable for everyone? Most guests find snorkeling and paddleboarding accessible, but check if you have mobility restrictions.
Is the boat safe? The boat is authorized by the AMP Tavolara consortium and equipped with safety gear.
What if I want to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is there a dress code? Casual, comfortable beachwear is best—no high heels or restrictive clothing.

This Olbia to Tavolara and Molara day trip offers an excellent way to experience Sardinia’s coastal treasures in a relaxed, personalized manner. The combination of scenic cruising, snorkeling, local food, and dolphin sightings makes it a well-rounded day out for small groups craving authentic, flexible adventures on the water.

Ideal for those who prefer privacy and a tailored experience, this tour provides a perfect balance of discovery, relaxation, and local charm. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a leisurely escape, it’s hard to go wrong with this intimate boat journey in Sardinia’s Marine Protected Area.

If you’re after a scenic, customizable, and comfortable day on Sardinian waters, this tour is a stand-out choice. It’s a genuine way to connect with the islands and enjoy the sea like a local—without the crowds or rush.