Costa Smeralda: Hybrid Boat Tour & Swim Stops with Aperitif

Summary

Swim wild coves and taste Sardinia’s sea breeze on a gentle eco cruise

You’ll slip away from Palau on a hybrid-powered boat along Costa Smeralda’s coast, pausing for swims at secret bays like Grande Pevero and Liscia Ruja. With only 12 people max, you’ll share carasau bread and local drinks as your guide shares stories of Sardinia’s wild side. Expect laughter, quiet moments in emerald water, and an easygoing return as the sun drifts west.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed was the quiet — just the soft hum of the hybrid boat as we slipped out of Palau’s port, salt in the air and that stubborn morning sun already warming my face. Our skipper, Marco, grinned and pointed at Bear Rock (Roccia dell’Orso) looming above the water. I’d seen it in photos but up close it actually does look like a bear hunched over, which made me laugh. There were only ten of us on board, so it felt more like a day out with new friends than anything official.

The water off Baia Sardinia really is that clear — you can see every ripple on the sand below. When we stopped at Grande Pevero beach, I hesitated before jumping in (it’s always colder than you think), but then just went for it. The shock faded quick and suddenly I was floating, staring up at green hills and thinking how weirdly peaceful it all felt. Marco handed me a mask to try snorkeling; didn’t spot anything wild, just tiny silver fish darting around my toes.

Somewhere past Cala di Volpe — where apparently James Bond was filmed? — we drifted into Baia del Principe. It was quieter there, just our group and a couple of seagulls arguing overhead. I sat on the warm deck rail while Sara (our assistant) passed around carasau bread stuffed with cheese and herbs. She told me her grandmother makes it every Sunday; I tried to say grazie mille in my best Italian and she laughed (probably deserved). The wine tasted sharper out here somehow.

On the way back toward Palau, everyone got a bit quieter — maybe sun-drowsy or just not wanting it to end yet. We toasted with mirto (that berry liqueur locals love), watching sunlight flicker off Liscia Ruja’s long beach behind us. I still think about that last swim, how salty my skin felt and how easy everything seemed for those few hours — no rush, no noise except water slapping gently against the hull.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Costa Smeralda boat tour with swim stops

• Set sail from Palau port
• Cruise past Bear Rock
• Sail by Baia Sardinia and Poltu Quatu
• Swim and snorkel at Grande Pevero beach
• Swim at Baia del Principe
• Pass Cala di Volpe bay
• Swim and sunbathe at Liscia Ruja beach
• Enjoy Sardinian aperitif on return

Top questions

How many people are on the Costa Smeralda boat tour?

The tour has a maximum of 12 guests for a small group experience.

Is lunch included on this Costa Smeralda hybrid boat tour?

A Sardinian-style aperitif is included onboard with carasau stuffed bread and drinks.

Are there swim stops during the Costa Smeralda boat trip?

Yes, there are several swim stops including Grande Pevero beach and Liscia Ruja.

Does this Costa Smeralda cruise include pickup?

The tour departs from Palau port; public transport options are nearby but hotel pickup is not specified.

Is this boat tour suitable for children or infants?

Yes, infants can ride in a stroller or sit on an adult’s lap; all fitness levels are welcome.

What drinks are served during the Sardinian aperitif?

You get soft drinks, prosecco, wine, beer, and mirto; alcoholic drinks only for guests 18+.

Which landmarks do you see on this Costa Smeralda cruise?

You’ll pass Bear Rock (Roccia dell’Orso), Baia Sardinia, Poltu Quatu fjord, Cala di Volpe bay, among others.

What’s included

Your half-day includes cruising on an eco-friendly hybrid boat from Palau with a professional skipper and assistant guiding you to swim spots like Grande Pevero beach and Liscia Ruja. You’ll be served a Sardinian-style aperitif featuring carasau stuffed bread plus soft drinks or local wine, prosecco or beer—mirto too if you want to try it—before heading gently back to port together.