Cala Mariolu day trip from Arbatax: Gulf of Orosei boat tour

Boat through limestone fjords and white-sand beaches on the Baunei coast

A day trip from Arbatax marina to Cala Mariolu and the Gulf of Orosei by shared dinghy with a skipper, visiting white-cliff gorges, fjords and small beaches carved into the limestone. The boat departs at 9am, makes stops at Cala Mariolu and Cala Luna for swimming, and returns by 5pm, with an optional cave visit available for an extra fee.

The experience

The dinghy leaves Arbatax marina at 9am and carries up to 12 passengers along a coast where white cliffs and deep gorges carved by streams meet the sea. The route passes Pedra Longa, the cliff of Baus, and the Grotto of the Doves before reaching the two fjords of Portu Pedrosu and Portu Cuau, where a periscope lets you see a wreck that sank in a storm in the 1960s. The skipper adjusts the itinerary for weather and safety, so the exact stops may shift.

The first beach stop is Cala Mariolu, where you swim and rest for about an hour in white sand and clear water. The boat then moves to the pools of Venus before reaching Cala Luna for a second hour-long stop. On the return, there is time for a final swim from the dinghy at Cala Goloritzè. You can also choose to visit the Grotta del Fico instead of one beach stop for an additional 10 euros.

The tour runs about eight hours total and returns to port around 5pm. A live guide speaks English and Italian throughout. Children from age one are welcome on board, and the boat is suitable for all fitness levels, though the operator does not recommend it for pregnant travelers.

What’s included

• Private transportation on the shared dinghy from Arbatax marina.
• a live guide in English or Italian.
• access to all beach stops and viewpoints along the Gulf of Orosei coast.

Before you book

Days and timesThursday to SaturdayDeparts at 08:30Last departure this season: 31 Oct

Book up toStart time

AgesAdult (8 and older) · Child (1 to 7 years)

Live guideEnglish and Italian

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

ConfirmationConfirmation within 48 h

Prices and times updated 12 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortStroller-friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancy

Operated by Nereo Charter

Is this one for you?The tour departs from Arbatax marina at 9am, so you don't need a car or a rental to reach the coast. Just arrange transport to the small port. This works well if you're staying in Baunei or nearby towns without your own vehicle.

Traveler reviews

4.73★★★★★★★★★★

33 verified traveler reviews

5 ★30

4 ★1

3 ★0

2 ★0

1 ★2

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Italian.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (1 to 7 years).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What is Cala Mariolu like as a swimming beach?

Cala Mariolu is a small beach set into white limestone cliffs, with sand and crystal-clear water. You get about an hour to swim and rest there during the tour.

Can I see the wreck the tour mentions?

Yes, a wreck sunk in a 1960s storm lies in one of the fjords, Portu Cuau, and you can view it through a periscope mounted on the dinghy.

How many beach stops does the tour include?

The tour stops at two main beaches: Cala Mariolu and Cala Luna, each for about an hour. There is also a final swim stop at Cala Goloritzè on the return trip, and an optional cave visit to Grotta del Fico for 10 euros extra.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The skipper may modify the itinerary for safety reasons and in agreement with passengers, depending on conditions. The tour runs year-round, but the exact route can change.

Is lunch included in the tour?

Lunch is not included. You should bring food and water, as bottled water is also not provided on the boat.