Palau or La Maddalena: wooden boat tour to the archipelago

Exploring Sardinia’s iconic La Maddalena Archipelago on a traditional wooden boat is a highlight for many visitors, and this tour promises a full day of relaxation, discovery, and delicious local flavors. This experience, rated 5 out of 5 by 27 travelers, combines scenic sailing with prime snorkeling spots and a hearty, fresh Sardinian lunch—all led by a knowledgeable skipper and crew.

What I love about this tour? First, the chance to cruise on a vintage gozzo — a classic Sardinian boat that adds charm and authenticity. Second, the flexibility of the itinerary, which adapts to weather conditions to ensure the best possible experience. Third, the focus on local food, with generous, fresh dishes served on board. The only thing you might want to consider is the meeting point, which can be a bit confusing at first, but the effort is well worth it for the memorable day ahead.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a small, intimate group experience with personalized attention, stunning scenery, and an authentic feel. If you love the idea of sailing in crystal-clear waters, swimming at unspoiled beaches, and enjoying delicious Sardinian cuisine in a relaxed setting, this is likely to be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Travel aboard a vintage wooden gozzo, adding charm and character.
• Flexible Itinerary: Stops at Spargi, Caprera, Budelli, and other islands are tailored to weather conditions.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a cozy vibe.
• Local Cuisine: Enjoy a hearty lunch with fresh seafood, homemade cakes, and regional drinks.
• Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and beach stops make the day active and fun.
• Expert Guides: The skipper and crew are knowledgeable, with some reviews praising their friendliness and insight.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Setting Sail from Palau

Your day begins at the port of Palau, a lively hub for Sardinian excursions. The meeting point can vary depending on your booking option, which might cause initial confusion, but the staff are helpful with directions. Once aboard your vintage gozzo, you’ll feel transported back in time. The boat’s size, comfortably accommodating up to 10 guests, allows for a relaxed atmosphere where everyone can enjoy the panoramic views and personalized service.

The Itinerary and Adaptability

The beauty of this tour lies in its flexibility. The captain, Enzo, and his crew tailor the route based on weather conditions, ensuring calming waters for swimming and snorkeling. Typical stops include Spargi, Caprera, and Budelli, along with Razzoli and Santa Maria islands, each offering distinct sights and experiences.

• Spargi: Known for its rugged cliffs and pristine coves, perfect for a swim or snorkel in clear waters.
• Caprera: The island where Giuseppe Garibaldi spent his later years, offering scenic landscapes and historical charm.
• Budelli: Famous for its “Spiaggia Rosa” (Pink Beach), although access varies, the crew often makes stops nearby for photos and exploration.

Guests have appreciated the crew’s ability to find calm bays, even on windy days—reviewers like Dan highlight how Enzo’s flexibility turned a potentially windy day into a perfect swimming opportunity.

Swimming, Snorkeling, and Beach Access

The tour includes at least three stops lasting about an hour each, giving plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on deck. Reviewers love the ease of jumping straight from the boat into the water, with snorkel gear provided. When conditions permit, tender transfers allow for beach stops where you can set foot on unspoiled sands.

One guest, Charlotte, shared how she and her family swam to a nearby beach at one stop, spotting wild boars along the shore—an example of the unique, off-the-beaten-path moments you can enjoy. The availability of paddleboards and snorkel equipment adds to the fun, making the day active without feeling rushed.

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The Lunch Experience

Lunch on this tour is consistently praised as a highlight. Served directly on the boat, it features a variety of fresh, local products. Typical offerings include seafood salads, fried fish or meatballs, mussels, and a fresh fish of the day depending on what’s available. Reviewers like Rishi call the food “amazing” and “incredible,” especially noting the freshness and regional flavors.

Along With the savory dishes, drinks, coffee, and regional liqueurs are included, along with a sweet homemade cake treat in the afternoon. The focus on local ingredients and simple but hearty presentation makes this a memorable part of the day, especially considering the setting.

Comfort and Safety

The vintage gozzo is well equipped with life jackets, safety kits, and snorkeling gear, ensuring peace of mind for all guests. The boat’s size and layout promote intimacy and comfort, with enough space for everyone to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Though not included, note that hotel pickup isn’t part of this experience, so you’ll need to meet at the designated location, which can be a bit chaotic without clear directions—something previous guests have pointed out. Still, the effort is minor compared to the overall enjoyment.

Additional Details

• Duration: 8 hours, with multiple stops, providing a relaxed pace.
• Group Size: Small group, with a maximum of 10, fostering a friendly, personalized atmosphere.
• Price and Value: With included meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and paddleboards, the cost reflects good value for a full day of activity, discovery, and mouthwatering local food.
• Language: Guides speak Italian and English, making communication clear for most travelers.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for pregnant women, and infants up to 11 months are free but must be informed beforehand.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a genuine, laid-back adventure with intimate group sizes and the chance to swim in crystal waters, this tour is a fantastic choice. Nature lovers, foodies, and small-group fans will appreciate the personalized service and authentic Sardinian touches. Those seeking a more structured or family-friendly experience might find the open water and variable itinerary a little less predictable, but overall, it’s a well-rounded adventure for curious travelers.

The Sum Up

This wooden boat tour to La Maddalena Archipelago offers an ideal mix of scenic sailing, engaging activities, and delicious local cuisine—all in a small, friendly group setting. You’ll love the chance to see the islands from a traditional vessel, enjoy the freedom to swim and snorkel at pristine spots, and indulge in a regional feast that feels like a celebration of Sardinian flavors.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers craving an authentic, relaxed experience away from large crowds. The flexibility of the itinerary means you’ll get the best possible day, whatever the weather, and the knowledgeable crew ensures you’re well looked after.

While the meeting logistics might take some initial navigating, the overall value and genuine atmosphere make this tour a worthwhile addition to your Sardinian itinerary. Expect a day filled with natural beauty, tasty bites, and friendly faces — a true highlight for anyone wanting to experience the archipelago in comfort and style.

FAQ

Do I need to bring anything for this tour?
Yes, you should bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), water, and beachwear. It’s also a good idea to have a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.

Is the tour suitable for children or infants?
Infants up to 11 months old are allowed free of charge, but you must inform the skipper beforehand. The tour is generally suitable for children who enjoy swimming and small group settings.

Will I get to swim or snorkel?
Absolutely. The tour includes multiple stops at prime swimming and snorkeling spots, with equipment provided. You can also use paddleboards if you like.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The itinerary can be modified depending on weather conditions, prioritizing safety and comfort. The skipper is experienced in choosing the best routes for each day.

Are meals included?
Yes, a hearty lunch featuring fresh seafood, local specialties, drinks, and homemade cakes is included. The menu varies daily based on availability.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You will need to meet at the designated starting point, which can sometimes be confusing, so check your directions carefully.

This tour offers a wonderful way to enjoy Sardinia’s stunning islands with a mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic local flavors. It’s a small-group experience that balances comfort with an authentic touch, making it a memorable part of any trip to the island.

You can check availability for your dates here: