From Porto San Paolo: Half-Day Tour Tavolara & Molara

If you’re looking for a way to appreciate Sardinia’s spectacular coastline without dedicating an entire day, this half-day tour to Tavolara and Molara offers a wonderful balance of relaxation, exploration, and scenery. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable captains aboard charming vintage vessels, this experience promises crystal-clear waters, scenic islands, and plenty of chances to enjoy the sea.

What makes this tour stand out? It’s the eco-friendly boats, the expert guides who share interesting stories, and the stunning swimming stops that let you truly connect with nature. You’ll also love the relaxed pace, the delicious snacks and prosecco, and the chance to visit Tavolara itself—one of Sardinia’s most iconic islands.

A potential consideration? The tour is about four hours long, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy short, yet immersive outings. If you’re after a full-day adventure or prefer private, bespoke trips, you might find this tour more suited as a charming addition to your Sardinian holiday.

Overall, it’s ideal for small groups, couples, families, or anyone who craves an authentic, laid-back experience with a touch of luxury and local flavor.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly vintage boats enhance the authentic Sardinian feel and ensure a smooth, scenic ride.
• Three exclusive swimming stops offer opportunities to snorkel, explore natural pools, and visit historic sites.
• Expert guides provide engaging commentary, sharing insights and curiosities about the islands.
• All-you-can-drink soft drinks and snacks with a prosecco toast make the trip fun and refreshing.
• Flexibility to go ashore on Tavolara and enjoy free time on the island.
• Suitable for families and pregnant women thanks to stable boats and short stops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Full Breakdown of the Experience

The Meeting Point and Departure

Your adventure begins at Porto San Paolo, where a green box with flags on the left marks the meeting spot. The friendly captain from Sailing San Paolo will greet you right there, ready to set sail on one of their beautifully restored vintage boats. The departure is usually timed based on availability, so it’s smart to arrive a bit early to settle in.

The Vintage Boat Charm

The vessels used for this tour are part of the experience itself. These traditional Sardinian boats combine rustic charm with all the comforts needed for a relaxed cruise. Their slow navigation style means you can take in the scenery, snap photos, and settle into the gentle rocking of the boat without feeling rushed.

Guests often comment on the comfort and stability of the boats—important if you are traveling with children or pregnant. The boats are equipped to ensure safety and relaxation, making the voyage enjoyable for everyone.

First Stop: Hidden Coves for Snorkeling

The first swimming stop is usually in a secluded cove, where the transparent waters invite you to snorkel among lively marine life. The provided masks and snorkels make it easy to explore the vibrant seabed. Reviewers have raved about the clarity of the water and the diversity of sea creatures visible at this spot.

A guest named Marion noted that the guide, Alfonso Fofo, “showed us wonderful places to discover,” adding that the stops are carefully chosen. The calm, sheltered waters ensure a safe and peaceful environment for swimmers of all levels, including children and those less confident in the water.

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Second Stop: Tavolara Island Exploration

Next, the boat anchors near the island of Tavolara, one of Sardinia’s most striking landmarks. Here, you’re offered the chance to go ashore for a short visit—exploring the island, strolling along the beach, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of this iconic location.

Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and the effort they make to share the island’s stories and natural beauty. João Vitor described the experience as “amazing,” emphasizing how the guides kept drinks flowing and showed “the best crystal-clear water” he had ever seen.

Third Stop: Molara’s Natural Pools

The final swimming session takes place in Molara’s famous natural pools—spectacular spots where the water’s colors shift from deep blue to turquoise and emerald, creating a truly mesmerizing setting. Many guests—like Marion—mentioned the “spectacular colors” and the feeling of timeless tranquility. It’s an ideal way to unwind and take in Sardinia’s trademark beauty.

Food, Drink, and Celebrations

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy fresh fruit, snacks, and unlimited soft drinks, ensuring you stay refreshed. The highlight might be the Prosecco toast, perfect for celebrating atop the boat as you soak in the views. Reviewers consistently mention the friendly atmosphere created by guides like Alfonso, who ensures everyone is well looked after.

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience suits a wide range of travelers—families with kids, couples seeking romance, or small groups of friends. The boats’ stability and short stops make it comfortable for pregnant women, and the relaxed pace is perfect for those wanting a low-stress, scenic adventure. If you’re particularly looking for a more active or full-day experience, you might want to consider other options, but for a balanced taste of Sardinian waters, this tour hits the mark.

Why This Tour is Worth Considering

The value lies in the combination of authentic vintage boats, expert guides, and carefully selected stops that showcase Sardinia’s best natural features. The inclusions—snorkeling gear, snacks, drinks, and a short visit ashore—make it a hassle-free day out. For around four hours, you gain access to secluded coves, vibrant marine life, and iconic landscapes without feeling exhausted or rushed.

The small group sizes and friendly guides, like Alfonso and Carlo, ensure a personalized experience. Many reviews mention how attentive and caring the guides are, making the trip not just scenic but genuinely engaging. The fact that the tour is highly rated (4.9/5 from 51 reviews) speaks to its consistency and quality.

Pricing-wise, the trip offers good value compared to full-day tours or private charters, especially considering the inclusions and the unique experience of sailing on vintage boats. It’s a memorable way to see Sardinia’s coast, especially if you want to avoid the crowds and have a more intimate encounter with the sea.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Arrive on time at the meeting point to ensure a smooth start.
• Bring biodegradable sunscreen to protect the environment and your skin.
• Towels are not included, so pack one if you plan to swim.
• Snorkels are provided, but you might prefer your own mask for comfort.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.
• No pets are allowed on board.
• It’s advisable to check availability in advance, as starting times vary.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around four hours, including three swimming stops, ashore time on Tavolara, and time on the boat.

What should I bring?
Bring biodegradable sunscreen, a towel if you wish to dry off after swimming, and any personal items. Snorkels are provided, so no need to bring your own unless preferred.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
Yes, the stability of the boats and short stops make it safe for children and pregnant women. The relaxed pace is ideal for families.

Can I go ashore on Tavolara?
Yes, there’s an opportunity to visit the island briefly, explore, or relax on the beach.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes vintage boat sailing, three swimming stops, snorkeling gear, snacks, fresh fruit, unlimited soft drinks, a prosecco toast, and guidance from an expert guide.

Are there any extra costs?
Towels and windproof jackets are not included, and you’re responsible for your own snorkeling equipment if you prefer your own mask.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s wise to reserve beforehand, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot and check the most suitable starting times.

Final Thoughts

This half-day Tavolara & Molara tour from Porto San Paolo offers a relaxing yet adventurous glimpse into Sardinia’s coastal beauty. Its vintage boats, engaging guides, and stunning stops make it an experience packed with natural wonder, cultural charm, and good vibes. It’s especially well-suited for travelers seeking a laid-back, authentic taste of Sardinia, with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, explore, and toast to beautiful moments.

Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or with friends, this trip combines value, comfort, and genuine Sardinian hospitality—making it a memorable chapter in any Mediterranean getaway.

You can check availability for your dates here: