Cagliari Boat Tour: Devil’s Saddle, Snorkeling & Wine Tasting

Summary

Swim under Devil’s Saddle, taste local wine, explore wild Sardinian coves

You’ll ride from Poetto beach on a maxi rib boat with a local skipper, stopping to swim and snorkel in three hidden coves near Cagliari—including under Devil’s Saddle. Homemade white wine is poured between swims, with snorkeling gear provided at no extra cost. It’s salty air, laughter, and wild coastline—leaving you with that lingering feeling only Sardinia gives.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I heard was the slap of water against the hull as we left Poetto beach—someone’s laughter carried over the engine hum. Our skipper, Marco, waved us aboard the white zodiac (not as fancy as I pictured but honestly more fun). He handed out snorkeling masks and grinned like he knew a secret. The sun hit that early Sardinian angle where everything looks a bit too bright. We set off along Cagliari’s coastline, past old men fishing from rocks and teenagers waving at us from shore.

I didn’t expect Devil’s Saddle to look so dramatic up close—layers of rock stacked like someone got impatient building them. Marco pointed out a cove only reachable by boat or a long hike (“but why walk when you can float?” he joked). The water here is unreal—clear enough to see your own toes dangling off the side. When we stopped for our first swim, I hesitated (cold!) but everyone else just jumped in. There was this weird silence underwater except for my own bubbles and distant clicking—maybe shrimp? No idea. But floating there with sunlight flickering above felt sort of private, even though we were all together.

Between stops, Marco poured us glasses of his cousin’s homemade white wine. It tasted sharp and cold—maybe not what you’d find in a fancy bar but perfect after saltwater. Someone tried to ask for another glass in Italian and totally butchered it; Marco just laughed and filled it anyway. We drifted into Cala Fighera next, cliffs rising up all pale gold and scrubby green. There was time for one more swim before heading back toward Poetto beach—the wind picked up a little and made my towel flap around my shoulders like a cape.

I keep thinking about that last cove—the way the light bounced off the rocks and how quiet it felt out there, even with strangers around. Sardinia gets under your skin in these small ways you don’t notice until later.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour with swimming and snorkeling

• Depart from Poetto beach
• Tour Devil's Saddle area
• Stop for swimming and snorkeling
• Visit Cala Fighera cove
• Visit Calamosca cove
• Visit Sant'Elia cove
• Return to Poetto beach

Top questions

Where does the Cagliari boat tour start?

The tour starts from Marina Piccola at Poetto beach in Cagliari.

Is snorkeling equipment included on this boat tour?

Yes, snorkeling sets are provided at no extra cost during the tour.

How many swim stops are there on the Cagliari boat tour?

The tour includes three swim stops in protected coves along the coast.

Do I need to bring my own food or drinks?

No need—homemade white wine is included; bring snacks if you want more than that.

Which places will we see on this day trip from Cagliari?

You’ll visit Devil’s Saddle, Cala Fighera, Calamosca, Sant’Elia, and several secluded coves.

What size is the boat used for this tour?

The boats are maxi ribs/zodiacs of 8.5 or 10 meters depending on group size.

Is this boat tour suitable for families with kids?

Yes—it’s suitable for all fitness levels and infant seats are available if needed.

What’s included

Your day starts at Marina Piccola on Poetto beach where your skipper welcomes you aboard either a white or black zodiac depending on bookings; fuel is covered; snorkeling equipment is ready for use; three swim stops await in sheltered coves; you’ll be offered one or two glasses of homemade white wine between swims—and then return to shore salty-haired and sun-warmed.