La Maddalena archipelago tour: four island stops, seven hours

Four island stops in one morning departure, no planning required

A seven-hour boat tour of La Maddalena archipelago from Palau includes four long stops: Cala Corsara beach on Spargi island, the Pink Beach and Natural Pools of Budelli, and the historic center of La Maddalena town. The modern vessel Riviera Di Gallura carries a live guide in English or Italian and has a restroom on board; the operator has run this route for over 40 years.

Step-by-step itinerary

Explore La Maddalena archipelago

• Depart from Palau port at 10:00
• Stop at Cala Corsara beach on Spargi island
• Relax, swim, and explore viewpoints at Cala Corsara
• Admire Pink Beach on Budelli island
• Stop at Budelli Natural Pools for swimming
• Swim and snorkel at Porto Madonna Natural Pools
• Visit historic center of La Maddalena island

The Experience

The boat leaves Palau commercial port at 10am and reaches Spargi island within minutes. Your first stop is Cala Corsara, a two-hour beach stay where you can swim in turquoise water, walk the nearby paths to viewpoints, or examine the rock formations the locals name — the Witch's Head, the Bulldog Dog, the Italian Boot. The beach sits below the Zavagli Battery, a historical fortification still visible from the shore.

The second stop moves north to Budelli island and the Natural Pools. You'll pass the famous Pink Beach first (protected, so no landing) and then anchor for an hour and a half at Spiaggia di Cavalieri in the heart of the Natural Pools, where the water is clear enough to snorkel. Bring your own snorkeling gear if you want to see the seabed; the third stop at Porto Madonna (also called Piscine Naturali) is a shorter swim break in the same waters.

The final stop is La Maddalena town itself, the only island in the archipelago with an urban center. You'll walk the historic squares, visit monuments, and browse the main shopping streets on foot before returning to Palau. The tour runs approximately seven hours total, with about two hours spent actually sailing between stops.

What’s included

• Departure from Palau at 10am.
• four long stops at Cala Corsara beach, Pink Beach viewpoint, Natural Pools swimming area, and La Maddalena historic town.
• live guide in English or Italian.
• restroom on board.
• approximately seven hours total including two hours of sailing time.

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot for heart conditionsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Riviera di Gallura - Escursioni e gite in barca a La Maddalena

Is this one for you?Spend your morning island-hopping across La Maddalena's four best beaches and anchorages with a structured itinerary and long stops for swimming, exploring, and relaxing—no logistics to handle yourself.

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Top questions

What's the difference between Cala Corsara and the Natural Pools stops on this tour?

Cala Corsara on Spargi island is a two-hour beach stop where you can swim, sunbathe on white sand, and explore nearby walking paths and historical sites like the Zavagli Battery. The Natural Pools of Budelli are a one-and-a-half-hour swimming stop in crystal-clear water ideal for snorkeling, with the Pink Beach viewable but not accessible due to environmental protection.

Do I need to bring snorkeling gear, or is it provided?

Snorkeling equipment is not provided on the tour. The operator recommends bringing your own gear if you want to explore the seabed at the Natural Pools stops, where the water clarity makes it worthwhile.

Is there food or lunch available on the boat?

The tour includes a restroom on board but does not include lunch. You may want to bring snacks or eat before departure, or plan to purchase food in La Maddalena town during the final stop.

Can I bring young children or infants on this tour?

Yes. Infants and small children can travel; infants must sit on an adult's lap, and prams or strollers are permitted on board. The tour is suitable for all fitness levels, though it is not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health.

What language is the guide, and how much instruction or commentary do I get?

A live guide leads the tour in English or Italian (you choose when booking). The guide accompanies you to each stop and provides information about the sites, though the tour is structured around long independent beach and swimming time rather than continuous narration.