La Maddalena Archipelago: Comfort Boat Tour & Beaches

Summary

Swim at Spargi, see Budelli’s pink beach, wander La Maddalena streets

You’ll float between islands on a spacious boat from Palau—with stops for swimming at Spargi’s beaches and close views of Budelli’s pink sand. Stroll La Maddalena town’s alleys and catch glimpses of old forts and colorful houses before heading back past Bear Rock. It’s not just scenery—you’ll feel part of Sardinia for a day.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered if the sea could really be that blue? I did, until we left Palau’s port and the water around the boat turned almost cartoon-bright. Our guide, Marco, kept grinning at my face—apparently I wasn’t hiding my surprise very well. The breeze was salty but warm, and even though the boat could fit 250 people, there were maybe 70 of us with plenty of space to stretch out (I’m not great with crowds). We stopped first at Spargi Island. The sand there was so fine it squeaked under my feet, and I found myself just standing in the shallows watching tiny silver fish dart around. Someone pointed out a rock shaped like a bulldog—took me a minute to see it, but once you do, you can’t unsee it.

Lunch happened while anchored near Spargi—simple stuff but somehow tastes better when you’re bobbing on clear water. After that we sailed past Santa Maria Island; Marco told us about monks who lived here centuries ago (he said “Benedettini” with this rolling Sardinian accent), and I tried to imagine what it’d be like waking up every day to these colors. On Budelli Island, we drifted close enough to see the famous Pink Beach—no one’s allowed to walk on it now because people used to take the sand as souvenirs (honestly, I get it). The color is real though, kind of subtle but definitely pinkish against the white foam. That stuck with me longer than I expected.

Later in La Maddalena town itself, the buildings looked sun-faded and cheerful all at once. We wandered through narrow alleys—“carrugi,” Marco called them—and watched locals chatting outside little shops. There was this old man selling lemon granita who winked when I tried ordering in Italian (I probably butchered it). On the way back toward Palau we passed Bear Rock on the shore; someone joked it looked more like a slouching dog than a bear. Sunburned and happy by then, I just let myself drift for a bit, not really wanting the day to end.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour of La Maddalena archipelago

• Start tour at Spargi island beach
• Explore Spargi island granite rocks
• Lunch break near Spargi island
• Sail to Budelli island pink beach
• View Budelli island natural park
• Visit La Maddalena city by boat
• Shop and see historical sites
• Admire Santo Stefano island NATO base
• See Bear Rock near Palau
• Return to port of Palau

Top questions

How many people are on the La Maddalena comfort boat tour?

The boat holds up to 250 but only takes about 80 guests per trip for extra space and comfort.

Does the tour include stops for swimming?

Yes, there are beach stops where you can swim or relax on Spargi Island.

Can you walk on Budelli's Pink Beach?

No, walking on Spiaggia Rosa is not allowed due to environmental protection rules.

Is lunch included during the tour?

The tour includes a lunch break while anchored near Spargi Island; details may vary by operator.

Is this boat tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible and specialized infant seats are available.

Are service animals allowed on board?

Yes, service animals are permitted during the tour.

What historical sites can you see in La Maddalena town?

You’ll see 18th-century buildings, old forts like the Old Guard fort, and artifacts gifted by Admiral Nelson in St. Maria Maddalena church.

How long does each island stop last?

The exact timing may vary but expect enough time for swimming or exploring at each main stop.

What’s included

Your day includes full risk insurance for peace of mind plus all captain services and fuel costs covered. There’s guaranteed seating both in sun or shade aboard a spacious boat departing from Palau—with time ashore at islands like Spargi for swimming and La Maddalena town for wandering before returning in comfort.