Cagliari: Small-Group Boat Tour & 5 Swim Stops with Aperitif

Summary

Swim in Cagliari’s secret coves taste Sardinian flavors and relax on a wooden boat

You’ll sail from Cagliari on a wooden gozzo with just eight people, stopping at five coves to swim or snorkel using local gear. Taste Sardinian cheeses and salumi with cold wine during an onboard aperitif as your guide shares stories about Sella del Diavolo and Poetto beach. Expect laughter, new friends, and honest flavors—the kind you remember long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

I have to admit, I nearly lost my hat to the wind before we even left the pier in Cagliari. Our captain—Paolo, I think?—just grinned and said it was good luck. The boat itself had this worn wood smell, like sun and salt had soaked into every inch. Eight of us squeezed onto the cushions (surprisingly comfy), and as we drifted away from the city, someone put on music that sounded like summer. First stop: Cala Bernat. The water was so clear I could see my own pale feet dangling over the side—always a shock after months in sneakers.

We made five swim stops around the Gulf of Cagliari, each one different. At Sella del Diavolo (the Devil’s Saddle), Paolo handed me a mask and pointed out these weird rock stacks underwater—I tried to follow his directions but mostly just floated and watched tiny silver fish dart around. He told us a story about the cliff’s name but I missed half of it because someone popped open prosecco right then (priorities). At Calamosca beach, you get this mix of rocky bottom and soft sand, plus wild rosemary in the air if you pay attention. The SUP board was there for anyone braver than me—I stuck to snorkeling.

Lunch—or really, aperitif—was simple but honestly perfect: slices of salty pecorino cheese, paper-thin salumi, crunchy guttiau bread. We ate with wet hands and plastic cups of cold white wine while Paolo pointed out Poetto beach in the distance and told us how locals come here all year round. There was laughter when someone tried to say “guttiau” right (I didn’t even attempt it). The sun felt stronger by then; I forgot sunscreen behind my knees so now I’ve got a weird stripe as a souvenir.

I still think about that quiet moment drifting near a cave only reachable by sea—the light went greenish-blue inside, almost unreal. It’s not fancy or anything; just real Sardinia with strangers who felt like friends by the end. If you’re looking for something polished or private, maybe not your thing—but for me? That afternoon is stuck in my head every time I smell saltwater now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour with swim stops and aperitif

• Depart from the pier
• Stop at Cala Bernat beach
• Stop at Sella del Diavolo for snorkeling
• Admire largest cave from boat
• Stop at Cala Fighera cove and cave visit
• Stop at Calamosca beach for swim
• Stop at Poetto beach with aperitif

Top questions

How many swim stops are included on this Cagliari boat tour?

The tour includes five swim stops at different coves around the Gulf of Cagliari.

Is snorkeling equipment provided during the day trip?

Yes, snorkeling masks are provided for guests onboard at each stop.

What food is served during the typical Sardinian aperitif?

You’ll get local salumi (cold cuts), pecorino cheese, guttiau bread, and a glass of white wine or prosecco.

How many people are on each shared boat tour?

The group size is limited to eight people per tour for comfort.

Are there any facilities for getting into the water easily?

Yes, there’s an onboard ladder to help guests enter and exit the sea safely at each stop.

Which beaches or coves will we visit during this tour?

The itinerary includes Cala Bernat, Sella del Diavolo (Devil’s Saddle), Cala Fighera, Calamosca beach, and Poetto beach.

Is stand-up paddleboarding available on this tour?

A SUP board is available onboard for guests who want to explore further during swim stops.

Are infants allowed on this boat tour?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap throughout the trip.

What’s included

Your day includes departure from Cagliari’s pier aboard a classic wooden gozzo with space for eight guests; five swimming stops at coves like Cala Bernat and Sella del Diavolo; use of snorkeling equipment and SUP board; an onboard aperitif featuring Sardinian salumi, pecorino cheese, guttiau bread; plus chilled white wine or prosecco served as you relax between swims—all guided by a local skipper before returning to port.