Palau: catamaran tour in the La Maddalena archipelago

Discover the La Maddalena Archipelago on a Catamaran from Palau

Few experiences capture the essence of Sardinia quite like a day cruising through the La Maddalena archipelago on a comfortable catamaran. Offered by Escursì, this 7.5-hour tour combines scenic sailing, island exploration, and delicious local flavors — all in a setting that feels like a postcard.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to visit multiple islands, including Caprera, Santa Maria, Budelli, and Spargi, each with their own character and charm. Second, the opportunity to relax on the boat’s sun deck or dive into the crystalline waters. Third, the on-board lunch features fresh, Sardinian specialties paired with Vermentino wine, making the experience both scenic and flavorful.

A potential drawback? The itinerary may shift depending on weather conditions or the skipper’s decisions, which could mean missing certain stops or adjusting timing. That said, flexibility is part of the sailing adventure, and the overall experience is well worth it.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate gorgeous landscapes, enjoy sailing, and want a stress-free way to explore Sardinia’s iconic islands. It’s ideal if you’re keen on good food, relaxing in nature, and discovering hidden bays without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple bookings.

Key Points

• Comfortable Catamaran: Spacious, stable, and equipped with essentials like a Hi-Fi system, outdoor shower, and multiple cabins.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Lunch, fuel, entrance to the National Park, and insurance are covered.
• Flexible Stops: Possible visits to Spargi, Budelli, Santa Maria, Razzoli, or Caprera, depending on weather and skipper’s plans.
• Scenic & Relaxing: Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking in the stunning vistas from the boat.
• Authentic Flavors: Sardinian lunch with local products, fresh fish, and Vermentino wine added to the authentic experience.
• Small Group: Limited to 14 people, ensuring personalized service and a more intimate atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Catamaran Tour Experience

Departure from Palau and What to Expect

Launching from the port of Porto Rafael near Palau, the tour kicks off with a friendly skipper awaiting between Pier F and Pier A. The vessel, measuring 12 meters long and 7.2 meters wide, offers a stable ride and enough space for everyone to relax comfortably, whether on the shaded seats or the sun deck.

Once on board, you’ll be greeted with an aperitif made from typical Sardinian products—a chance to start the day with a taste of local flavors. From here, the focus shifts to the stunning scenery ahead. The boat’s cruisy pace allows plenty of time to soak in the views, snap photos, and get ready for swimming or lounging.

The Islands & Stops

The itinerary is designed to showcase the best of the archipelago. The day may include stops at Spargi, Budelli, Santa Maria, Razzoli, or Caprera, with the exact order and duration depending on weather and the skipper’s judgment.

Spargi Island is often a highlight, with its dramatic cliffs and quiet beaches perfect for swimming. Visitors have shared that the boat often anchors in secret bays or around pristine beaches, allowing for peaceful swims away from crowds.

Budelli, famous for its “Pink Beach,” might be a point of interest—though the tour doesn’t always stop here, reviews suggest that even passing by provides spectacular photo opportunities. It’s a chance to see one of Sardinia’s most iconic sights, even from the boat.

Santa Maria and Razzoli offer smaller, charming villages with colorful houses and calm waters—ideal spots for relaxing and exploring. Caprera, known for its natural beauty and association with Giuseppe Garibaldi, provides a different kind of scenery—more rugged and untouched.

Swimming & Relaxation

The turquoise waters surrounding each island invite you to jump in for a quick swim or snorkel (though snorkeling equipment is not included). Many guests mention how clean and inviting the water is, making it a true highlight of the trip. For those who prefer to stay dry, the sun deck becomes your personal lounge, perfect for soaking up Sardinian sunshine and panoramic views.

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The On-Board Lunch & Drinks

One of the standout features is the lunch served on board. Expect Sardinian specialties like fish-based pasta, freshly prepared on the boat, accompanied by Vermentino wine, beer, fruit, and Sardinian sweets. Reviewers appreciate the quality and authenticity of the meal, noting that it’s a great way to sample local flavors without leaving the boat.

The lunch experience also highlights the value of this tour—combining scenic exploration with a hearty, well-curated meal that rivals many land-based options in quality.

What Travelers Say

• “The views were incredible, and the boat was very comfortable; I especially loved relaxing on the sun deck after swimming.”
• “The lunch was surprisingly good, with fresh fish and local wine that perfectly complemented the scenery.”
• “The skipper was friendly and flexible, adjusting stops based on the weather and our interests.”
• “It was a small group, so we felt like we had a private tour—very personal and relaxed.”

Practical Details and Value

The tour costs include all transportation, fuel, entrance to the park, and insurance—a package that simplifies planning and offers peace of mind. Since the group is capped at 14 people, you’ll enjoy a more intimate experience without feeling crowded.

Timing is flexible, with different start times available, so you can choose a morning or afternoon departure that fits your schedule. The tour is 7.5 hours long, offering a full day of sailing, exploring, swimming, and eating, all with plenty of time to relax and enjoy.

Accessibility and Considerations

While the boat itself is comfortable, it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the nature of the vessel and the activity. Travelers should remember to bring essentials like sunscreen, water, swimwear, and a camera. Pets are not allowed.

Weather can influence the itinerary, so don’t be surprised if stops are adjusted on the day. Still, this flexibility often means better experiences, as the skipper aims to maximize comfort and safety.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who want a laid-back, scenic way to explore Sardinia’s islands without the hassle of multiple bookings or transportation worries. It suits couples, small groups, and solo travelers looking for a mix of relaxation, stunning landscapes, and authentic cuisine.

If you love being on the water, enjoy good wine and local food, or are simply after a hassle-free way to see the archipelago’s highlights, this tour should be on your list. It’s particularly appealing for travelers who value small-group intimacy and personalized service.

However, if you have mobility issues or prefer land-based excursions, this might not be the best fit. Also, those wary of weather-dependent plans should keep an eye on the forecast, although the flexible nature of the tour is designed to adapt.

Final Thoughts

In all, this catamaran tour offers a memorable way to experience Sardinia’s gorgeous islands. The combination of beautiful scenery, comfortable sailing, and delicious Sardinian cuisine creates a well-rounded day trip. The small group size and focus on authentic experiences ensure it feels personalized and special.

For anyone seeking a relaxing day on the water with plenty of photo opportunities, tasty food, and stunning vistas, this tour delivers. It’s a fantastic way to make the most of your Sardinian holiday—especially if you love the idea of sailing past secret bays, swimming in turquoise waters, and savoring local wines with a view.

While weather can influence some stops, the overall experience remains highly praised, with many reviewers emphasizing the value and authenticity of the day. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a picture-perfect day, this tour offers a compelling blend of nature, comfort, and local charm.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, giving you plenty of time for sailing, swimming, and relaxing.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the catamaran, skipper, fuel, entrance to the National Park, insurance, and a Sardinian lunch with drinks.

Can I bring snorkeling equipment?
Snorkeling gear is not included, but you can bring your own if you’d like to explore underwater.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, so consider this if traveling with young children or those with mobility concerns.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, water, a camera, and beachwear for comfort and safety.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially those who enjoy sailing and outdoor activities, but keep in mind the boat’s limitations for mobility issues.

Are pets allowed?
Pets are not permitted on this tour.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The itinerary may change depending on weather conditions, but the tour operator aims to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience regardless.

To sum it up, this La Maddalena archipelago catamaran tour offers a beautifully balanced day of exploration, relaxation, and flavor, ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free yet authentic Sardinian adventure. With stunning views, a cozy boat, and delicious local food, it’s a worthwhile choice for anyone eager to see Sardinia from the water while enjoying a small, friendly group setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: