From Stintino: Sailing Trip to Asinara with Lunch

A Complete Guide to the Stintino Sailing Trip to Asinara with Lunch

This sailing tour from Stintino offers an authentic way to explore Sardinia’s northwest coast and the unspoiled beauty of Asinara Island. While we haven’t personally booked the trip, extensive reviews and detailed descriptions reveal a well-regarded experience that combines scenic sailing, cultural discovery, and delicious local cuisine.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the vintage wooden sailboat is not only visually charming but also crafted using traditional techniques, adding a nostalgic feel to your day on the water. Second, the expert guidance from a passionate, knowledgeable crew—highlighted by reviews praising guides like Alessandro—makes all the difference in understanding the island’s secrets. Third, the combination of swimming, exploring, and dining offers a full sensory experience of Sardinia’s coast.

A potential consideration is the weather dependency; as with any outdoor sea activity, conditions can change, which might cause some itinerary adjustments. This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, intimate day out on the water with a taste for local culture and nature.

If you’re someone who enjoys scenic boat rides, discovering hidden coves, and savoring regional flavors in a laid-back setting, this experience is likely to delight.

This experience made our article of 11 Top-Rated Stintino Cruises And Boat Tours.

Key Points

• Authentic vintage sailboat crafted with traditional techniques offers a nostalgic sailing experience.
• Expert guides like Alessandro provide informative commentary and share stories about Asinara’s history.
• Multiple swimming stops in crystal-clear coves allow for refreshing dips and sunbathing.
• A hearty Sardinian lunch onboard pairs regional cold cuts, cheeses, pasta, and local wine—delivered in a relaxed, scenic setting.
• Flexible itinerary with stops at Cala Reale, Li Giorri, and the natural pools of Fornelli ensures varied experiences.
• Comfortable boat design includes amenities like a bathroom, kitchen, freshwater shower, and shaded areas for comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Hidden Treasures of the Asinara Coast

This tour truly offers a well-rounded look at Sardinia’s northwest coast, blending natural beauty, history, and local flavors. Starting from the charming port of Stintino, you’ll set sail aboard the all-wood gozzo, a vessel that’s both beautiful and functional, built with mahogany, fir, azobé, and Sardinian oak. The boat, approximately 10 meters long, can comfortably accommodate up to 12 guests, making it ideal for those who prefer a more intimate experience rather than large, crowded excursions.

The sailing experience begins with a scenic route along Sardinia’s coast, giving you a chance to enjoy the marine landscape from a different perspective. As you cruise, the young, enthusiastic skipper—someone who also built the boat—shares stories about the area’s geography and history, adding an educational element that many travelers find enriching.

Stops for Swimming and Exploration

One of the highlights is the stop at Cala Reale, located within the Asinara National Park. Here, the water is famously clear, inviting you for a swim in one of Sardinia’s most stunning coves. According to reviews, this stop generally lasts around an hour, giving plenty of time to bob in the water, snorkel, or simply relax on the boat. Reviewers like Olga highlighted how attentive the crew was—providing refreshments and making sure everyone was comfortable—and also praised the delicious onboard lunch.

Following Cala Reale, the boat continues along the coast to places like Li Giorri or the natural pools of Fornelli, where additional swim stops of about half an hour are typically arranged. These locations are praised for their natural beauty and tranquility, perfect for soaking up the sun or snapping photos of the rugged coastline.

The Sardinian Lunch Experience

A major part of this tour’s appeal is the lunch served onboard. Included in the price, the meal features regional specialties such as a platter of cold cuts, cheeses, Sardinian bread, and a first course of gnocchetti pasta with Sardinian sausage sauce. Seasonal vegetables, regional wine, water, coffee, and a digestif round out the meal. Reviewers like Anna said that the hosts, Patrizia and Alessandro, made them feel “at home,” emphasizing the warm, genuine hospitality.

The food isn’t just filling—reviewers appreciate it as a chance to enjoy authentic flavors in a relaxed setting. The combination of regional ingredients and freshly prepared dishes makes the meal a highlight, especially considering it’s served in the middle of a day of sailing and swimming.

Comfort and Practical Details

The boat itself is designed for comfort and safety. It features amenities such as a bathroom, kitchen, and freshwater shower, making it suitable even for longer outings. The shaded awning provides relief from Sardinia’s sun, and the ladder makes it easy to climb in and out of the water. Its construction using durable wood not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also ensures a stable, buoyant ride.

Movement around the boat is straightforward, and the tiller rudder ensures easy steering, even for first-timers. The maximum capacity of 12 passengers means you won’t be crammed, and the small group size allows for a more personalized experience—something highly valued by reviewers.

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The Overall Experience and Value

The entire 8-hour experience—dependent on weather—is designed for relaxation and discovery. Unlike large-scale tours, this trip offers a more intimate connection with Sardinia’s coast and its natural surroundings. The inclusion of lunch, guided commentary, and swimming stops makes it a good value for those seeking a full day of activity, culture, and leisure.

Pricing is reasonable when you consider the comprehensive nature of the tour; you get a scenic sail, a delicious regional meal, multiple swimming opportunities, and the chance to learn about the island’s history from a passionate crew.

What Reviewers Say

Giorgia expressed how Alessandro, the guide, built the boat herself and was very open to questions, adding a personal touch that many travelers appreciate. Olga noted Alessandro’s attentiveness, ensuring everyone’s needs were met, from snacks to insightful advice on how to enjoy each stop. Anna called the entire experience “perfect,” highlighting the welcoming atmosphere created by Patrizia and Alessandro.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers looking for a relaxed day on the water with a focus on authentic cultural and natural discoveries. It suits those who enjoy scenic sailing, swimming in pristine coves, and sampling regional food and wine in a casual, friendly environment. Families, couples, and small groups will appreciate the intimate setting and personalized service.

It may not be the best choice if you prefer high-energy, fast-paced tours or have mobility issues, as the stops involve swimming and boat movement. But if you want to explore Sardinia’s coast in a laid-back, authentic way, this trip offers a memorable experience.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the experience is generally family-friendly, children should be comfortable with boat rides and swimming. The small group size allows for a more personalized experience, which can be great with kids.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The meeting point is at Stintino Marina Tourist Port, where you can park nearby for a small fee. The activity starts in front of the marina kiosk.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and water. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also recommended to stay protected from the sun during the day.

Are there vegetarian or lactose-free options?
Yes, options for vegetarians and lactose-intolerant guests are available upon request—just mention your preferences when booking.

How long is the sailing?
The total duration is about 8 hours, with the exact start time depending on the day’s schedule. Check availability for specific start times.

What is the capacity of the boat?
The boat can carry up to 12 passengers plus 2 crew members, ensuring a comfortable, uncrowded atmosphere.

Is there a restroom onboard?
Yes, the boat includes a bathroom, as well as other amenities like a freshwater shower and kitchen.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to weather conditions. In case of bad weather, the itinerary may be modified or canceled, with options for rescheduling or refund.

Final Thoughts

For those craving an authentic, laid-back day exploring Sardinia’s stunning coast, this sailing trip from Stintino to Asinara offers a wonderful mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and regional flavors. The vintage wooden sailboat, attentive guides, and carefully curated stops make it a memorable way to experience Sardinia beyond the typical tourist spots.

Perfect for lovers of the sea, small-group adventures, and genuine local cuisine, this tour provides a relaxed yet enriching escape into one of Italy’s most beautiful islands. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful day of swimming, a taste of Sardinian hospitality, or simply stunning coastal vistas, this trip will not disappoint.

Experience provider: Escursì
Duration: 8 hours
Rating: 4.9/5 from 104 reviews
Price includes: Boat excursion, skipper, fuel, insurance, lunch with regional products
Price excludes: Municipal landing fee (€5), water
Meeting point: Stintino Marina Tourist Port (parking available for €5)

You can check availability for your dates here: