Olbia isn’t just a gateway to Sardinia’s stunning beaches—it’s a hub for fantastic boat excursions. Whether you’re eager to see dolphins in the wild, explore unspoiled islands, or enjoy a sunset aperitif on a traditional boat, this port offers a wide array of options. We particularly love tours that combine breathtaking scenery with authentic local experiences, such as the Olbia Tavolara Park Shared Boat Tour with Aperitif & Wine, which includes a boat ride, snorkeling, regional food, and wine, all with stunning coastal views. It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed yet immersive day at sea.
If you’re short on time but still want a memorable encounter with Sardinian wildlife, the Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling Boat Tour offers an unforgettable chance to see playful dolphins in their natural habitat. For a full-day adventure, the Day Trip on a Sailing Catamaran lets you explore Tavolara and the Marinella Gulf while enjoying optional activities like kayaking or paddleboarding. For a more intimate and eco-friendly experience, the Ecological Dolphin Spotting Trip emphasizes animal welfare and sustainable viewing.
Below, you’ll find a detailed review of each tour, helping you decide which experience matches your interests, schedule, and energy level.
At number 1, this 8-hour shared boat tour takes you through Sardinia’s most beautiful bays, with stops at Tavolara and Molara Marine Natural Park. The highlight is a delicious regional aperitif served onboard, with local wines complementing the stunning coastal scenery. The boat, a new super-fast model with 3 powerful engines, makes zipping between stops a thrill. The tour includes multiple snorkeling and swimming sessions in crystal-clear waters, making it perfect for water lovers.
What makes this trip stand out is its combination of adventure and comfort—from swimming at the Pools of Molara to the photo-worthy rock formations around Tavolara. The itinerary features seven stops, including beach breaks, snorkeling, and marine life viewing, with a generous two-hour onboard meal featuring regional cuisine. Reviewers love the friendly crew, delicious food, and intimate atmosphere, with one saying, “The boat itself is top notch and the places we visited were beautiful.” This tour is ideal for those seeking a full-day, all-inclusive experience with plenty of swimming, sun, and good company.
Bottom line: Perfect if you want a comprehensive day on the water with excellent food, snorkeling, and scenic views in a small group setting.
2. Olbia: Boat tour to watch Dolphins and snorkeling
For around 3.5 hours, the Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling tour offers a quick but packed adventure. This trip focuses on spotting playful dolphins in the wild, combined with snorkeling at Cala Moresca on Figarolo Island. The boat is guided by experts who share insights about the dolphins’ behavior and marine environment, making it both fun and educational.
Travelers rave about the high probability of dolphin sightings—over 95%—and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere onboard. The tour also includes a tasting of a typical local aperitif with breathtaking views, adding a touch of Sardinian flavor. Families and nature lovers find this experience especially rewarding, as one reviewer noted, “We saw dolphins almost next to the boat and enjoyed the swim in beautiful waters.” The tour is short enough to fit into a busy itinerary but offers a genuine chance to connect with marine wildlife.
Bottom line: Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and those wanting a shorter, dolphin-focused excursion with snorkeling.
3. Day trip on a sailing catamaran in Sardinia
At around 10 hours, this full-day small-group cruise offers a luxurious and relaxed way to explore Sardinia’s coastlines. Departing from Olbia, the cruise visits Tavolara Island and Marinella Gulf, with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, or just soaking up the sun. The boat’s spacious layout allows for comfortable lounging, and all equipment for water activities is provided.
The trip’s highlight is the personalized experience—only up to 8 guests per boat—ensuring you aren’t just another face in the crowd. The itinerary includes multiple stops for swimming and snorkeling, plus a tasty onboard lunch featuring local ingredients. Reviews praise the captain’s friendly attitude and the yacht’s comfort, with one saying, “It’s a perfect day for anyone wanting a laid-back, intimate experience on the water.”
This tour is best suited for active travelers who want flexibility and a full day of exploration aboard a well-equipped vessel. The inclusion of kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling makes it versatile for different interests.
Bottom line: Great for those seeking a full day of relaxed exploration with optional water sports in a small-group setting.
4. Olbia: Ecological boat trip for dolphin spotting
This short, 2-hour eco-friendly tour emphasizes sustainable dolphin watching. Guided by a provider committed to animal welfare, the trip offers a high probability of spotting dolphins, with over 95% chance based on reviews. The boat is designed to minimize disturbance, making it a responsible choice for nature lovers who want to see these intelligent mammals in their natural environment.
The guide shares facts about dolphins and marine ecology, adding educational value to this peaceful excursion. Travelers highlight how respectful and professional the crew is, describing the trip as “absolutely perfect” and “a beautiful trip with stunning views of dolphins and nature.” The small group size creates an intimate setting, ideal for those interested in wildlife without the crowds.
Bottom line: Excellent for eco-conscious travelers seeking dolphin sightings with minimal impact and maximum education.
5. Porto San Paolo: Tavolara & Molara Vintage Cruise with lunch
This 7-hour vintage boat trip combines relaxed sailing with an authentic, intimate atmosphere. The classic boat, with limited guests, offers a gentle cruise through the Tavolara Marine Protected Area. Onboard, you’ll enjoy a delicious Sardinian lunch featuring local flavors, making it a culinary as well as scenic experience.
The itinerary includes stops at Tavolara and Molara islands, with opportunities for snorkeling and swimming along pristine beaches. The guide shares insights into the islands’ history and natural features, enhancing the sense of discovery. Reviewers appreciate the “incredible dexterity” of the captain steering the boat and the friendly vibe. It’s perfect for travelers craving a more authentic, small-group experience with a slower pace.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a traditional sailing experience with regional cuisine and a personal touch.
6. Olbia: Sunset aperitif on a boat
For a more relaxed, romantic option, this 4-hour sunset cruise offers a beautiful way to unwind. You’ll hop aboard a traditional gozzo boat with a local skipper, who shares their passion for the area. As the sun dips, you’ll enjoy an aperitif with local wine, beer, and sausage, making the most of Sardinia’s enchanting evening light.
What sets this tour apart is its authentic atmosphere—no crowds, just a handful of fellow travelers. There’s a stop in the sea to dive in and enjoy the calming waters as the sky turns colors. Reviewers mention how “Gabriele was a very nice host and skipper,” making it feel like a private outing. Perfect for couples or anyone wanting a quiet, scenic escape at sunset.
Bottom line: Best for those seeking a romantic or peaceful evening on the water with local flavors and a personal touch.
7. From Olbia: Tavolara and Molara Archipelago day trip by boat
This 8-hour all-inclusive tour takes you through the Tavolara Marine Protected Area on a boat operated by the Federico Primo, authorized by the AMP Tavolara. It’s a more exclusive experience with a focus on dolphin watching, scenic drives, and the chance to use a SUP board during stops.
The itinerary features scenic drives and multiple stops, including Tavolara, Molara, and other key spots. Pickup options from different Olbia-area ports make it flexible. The boat is operated by local skippers who are well-versed in the area’s natural wonders, and reviews mention the “beautiful stops and the great hospitality.”
This trip suits travelers who want a luxurious, all-included day with dolphin watching, sightseeing, and water activities. It’s perfect if you’re keen on a deeper engagement with Sardinia’s marine environment.
Bottom line: Best for travelers seeking an all-inclusive, luxurious day out with dolphin sightings and optional paddleboarding.
8. Olbia: Aperitif with Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling Boat Trip
Finally, this short 2.5-hour tour combines dolphin watching, snorkeling, and a local aperitif. Departing from Viale Isola Bianca, you’ll ride a speedboat to Figarolo Island, with chances to see dolphins along the way. After snorkeling at Cala Moresca, you’ll enjoy a stop at Golfo Aranci for drinks and dolphin viewing.
It’s a quick, lively trip perfect for those with limited time but who still want the thrill of spotting dolphins and swimming in beautiful waters. Reviewers mention the professionalism of the staff and the “stunning views of dolphins and surrounding nature,” making it a memorable snapshot of Sardinia’s marine life.
Bottom line: Great for travelers wanting a quick, energetic adventure with dolphin sightings and snorkeling.
How to Choose the Right Cruise or Boat Tour
When selecting your ideal boat trip in Olbia, consider your time availability, interest level, and budget. For example, if you’re after a full-day adventure with snorkeling and regional food, the Olbia Tavolara Park Shared Boat Tour is hard to beat. Want a shorter, wildlife-focused experience? The Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling Tour offers a quick, engaging outing. For those seeking luxury and intimacy, the Sailing Catamaran trip or the Vintage Cruise provide more personalized experiences.
Remember, some tours focus on animal welfare and eco-sustainability—great choices if you want to minimize your environmental impact. Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and group size.
The Sum Up
Olbia offers a rich variety of boat experiences, from thrilling dolphin-watching tours and full-day sailing adventures to intimate sunset cruises. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly snorkel trip, a romantic evening, or a luxury day on the water, you’ll find options that suit your style. The shared Tavolara boat tour and the full-day sailing stand out as versatile picks, while eco-conscious travelers may prefer the dolphin spotting for its sustainability focus.
Whichever tour you choose, booking early will ensure you get the date and experience you want—Olbia’s waters are too tempting to miss. Dive in and enjoy Sardinia from the best seat in the house: the deck of a boat.