Cagliari Catamaran: Snorkeling, Prosecco & Secret Bays Tour

Summary

Catamaran cruise Cagliari coast with snorkeling stops prosecco toast local tales and city views

You’ll sail along Cagliari’s coast on a catamaran with a small group, stopping for snorkeling in turquoise bays beneath white cliffs. Hear local legends from your guide, taste Sardinian snacks, and share a prosecco toast as sunlight dances on the water. The memory of those colors—and that easy laughter—might stay with you longer than you expect.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the water near Cagliari to look so clear—almost unreal, like someone turned up the color just for us. We set out from the port while the city was still shaking off its morning sleepiness; you could smell the sea mixing with coffee drifting from the docks. Our guide, Gianni, waved at a fisherman he knew and pointed out old stone buildings clinging to the cliffs. He told us about Capo Sant’Elia’s lighthouse—said it’s been there longer than his grandmother remembers (and she remembers everything).

The catamaran glided past Cala Mosca and then Cala Fighera—white limestone rising sharp against all that blue. There was this moment when we drifted close to the Grotta dei Colombi. Gianni started telling us the legend of the Devil’s Saddle (Sella del Diavolo), but honestly I got distracted by a flock of pigeons swooping in and out of the cave. The wind picked up a little, salty and cool, and someone tried to say “Cala Fighera” with an English accent—everyone laughed, including our crew.

We anchored near these pale cliffs where you could see straight down through emerald water to rocks below. Snorkeling felt like slipping into another world; schools of fish darted around my legs and I kept thinking how quiet it was under there compared to the chatter on deck. Afterward, we dried off in patches of sun and shared some Sardinian cheese—crumbly and tangy—and toasted with prosecco that tasted extra cold after swimming. I guess it was just one of those afternoons where time stretches out in a good way.

On our way back toward Poetto beach, I noticed how locals wave at boats passing by—small things you don’t catch unless you’re right there. I still think about that view back toward Cagliari: city stacked up behind us, cliffs glowing white in late light. It’s not something photos really get across—you have to be out on that water yourself.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran tour and snorkeling

• Depart from Cagliari port
• View Cagliari coast and monuments
• Pass Cala Sant'Elia bay
• Pass Cala Mosca bay
• Pass Grotta dei Colombi ravine
• Stop for swimming and tasting Sardinian products
• Return to port

Top questions

How long is the Cagliari catamaran excursion?

The tour lasts about half a day, including sailing time and stops for swimming or snorkeling.

Is snorkeling equipment included on this tour?

Yes, snorkeling gear is provided for all guests during the excursion.

Does this catamaran tour include food or drinks?

You’ll enjoy a prosecco toast and taste some typical Sardinian products onboard.

Where does the catamaran depart from in Cagliari?

The tour starts at Cagliari’s main port area.

Are hotel transfers available for cruise passengers?

If you’re arriving by cruise ship, transfer options can be arranged upon request.

What happens if sea conditions are rough?

If it’s too rough near Sella del Diavolo, your first swim stop will move closer to Poetto beach for safety.

Is this tour suitable for families or beginners?

Yes—it’s suitable for all fitness levels and children can join if they sit on an adult’s lap when needed.

Are there any safety measures onboard?

The crew is trained in first aid and there is always a defibrillator onboard just in case.

What’s included

Your day includes sailing from Cagliari port on a comfortable catamaran with a friendly local crew trained in first aid (and yes—a defibrillator is always onboard). You’ll use included snorkeling equipment at swim stops, float on tubes if you want extra support, taste Sardinian snacks with your prosecco toast, and transfers can be arranged if you’re coming from a cruise ship or nearby hotel.