La Maddalena Catamaran Tour: Islands, Swim & Sardinian Lunch

Summary

Sail la maddalena archipelago swim eat sardinian food relax on deck

You’ll sail through La Maddalena’s islands on a roomy catamaran with a small group and local skipper. Swim in crystal-clear coves, snorkel among fish, taste fresh Sardinian food and wine on deck, and soak up stories about these wild little islands. It’s relaxed — more like joining friends than following a tour script.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever tried carasau?” That’s what Paolo asked as he handed me this thin, crunchy bread — I’d barely dried off from our first swim near Spargi. The day started early in Palau, with the sun already warming the dock and a salty breeze that made my hair stick up in weird directions. There were just eight of us plus Paolo, our skipper (and apparently a lifeguard and windsurf instructor too — he mentioned it so casually while checking the ropes). The catamaran felt open and kind of homey — not crowded at all. We set off into the Maddalena Archipelago, and I swear the water looked like someone had turned up the color settings too high. It’s almost silly how clear it is.

We drifted past Budelli and its pink-tinged sand (Paolo pointed out where you’re not allowed to walk — strict rules for good reason), then anchored in these shallow pools between three islands. The silence was only broken by someone laughing or splashing. I kept dipping my face under with the snorkel gear they gave us, just watching tiny fish dart around rocks. Lunch was simple but honestly perfect: salame, pecorino cheese that tasted like grass and sun, more carasau (I still can’t say it right), pasta with this herby tomato sauce, white wine that Paolo poured straight from a cold bottle. Someone spilled a bit on deck but nobody cared.

After eating we just lounged around, some folks napping in the shade of the sails while others swapped stories about other trips or tried to spot dolphins (no luck for us). Paolo told us bits of history about each island — like how smugglers used to hide out here — but never in a rehearsed way; sometimes he’d just stop mid-story if something caught his eye on the horizon. I liked that. The whole day felt unhurried and sort of improvised depending on where the wind took us — literally. If you want a rigid schedule this isn’t it. But if you want to float, eat well, maybe get sunburned in spite of your best efforts… well, you know.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sail and explore Maddalena Archipelago

• Sail through Maddalena islands
• Stop at Spargi, Budelli, or others
• Visit natural pools near islands
• Swim and snorkel in clear waters
• Enjoy Sardinian appetizer on board
• Have lunch with Sardinian flavors
• Learn local history from skipper

Top questions

Is lunch included on the La Maddalena catamaran tour?

Yes, lunch is served onboard and includes Sardinian antipasto, pasta, wine, fruit, coffee, mirto liqueur, and water.

What islands do you visit during the catamaran tour?

The itinerary depends on wind conditions but usually includes Spargi Island, Budelli Island, Santa Maria Island or Razzoli Island.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is included for all guests.

How many people are on the catamaran?

The group size is small; typically around 8 guests plus the skipper.

Are children allowed on this tour?

This tour is not recommended for children under 5 years old.

Does the price include Maddalena Park fees?

Yes, all park entry fees are included in your booking price.

Is there hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup; you need to arrive at Palau port 30 minutes before departure.

Can I join if I have mobility issues?

The tour is suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes sailing through La Maddalena’s archipelago with a certified skipper guiding your route based on weather; all park fees and taxes; snorkeling gear; fuel; plus an onboard Sardinian lunch featuring antipasto (salame, pecorino cheese, carasau bread), typical pasta dish with wine or beer, fruit dessert, coffee and mirto liqueur before heading back to port in the afternoon.