La Maddalena Sailing Tour: Swim, Island Lunch & Snorkeling

Summary

Sailing la maddalena archipelago with lunch stops swimming and island walks

You’ll sail from Palau through La Maddalena’s wild blue waters with a small group and local captain—swimming at Cala di Santa Maria, walking Budelli’s pink beach, sharing homemade snacks and Sardinian lunch on deck with wine and laughter. Expect salty hair, sun-warmed skin, and those quiet moments that stay long after you’re back on land.

What’s the experience like?

I’d wanted to see those wild blue waters around La Maddalena ever since I saw a photo online—didn’t expect to actually jump off a boat into them. We left Palau early, just a handful of us and our captain (he introduced himself as Marco, but everyone called him “Capitano”). The wind was soft but steady; you could smell the seaweed and something almost sweet in the air. I was nervous about the sailing part but Marco made it feel like we were just out for a picnic with friends. He let me help pull the ropes once—my hands stung after, but in a good way.

First stop was Cala di Santa Maria. The water really is that color—sort of electric turquoise—and I’m not sure if I’ve ever laughed so much just diving in. Someone (I think her name was Anna?) brought homemade almond cookies for the aperitif, which we ate still dripping wet on deck. There’s this moment when you’re drying off, salty hair sticking to your face, sipping cold wine, and you forget every single thing except how good it feels right then.

We sailed over to Budelli next. Capitano took us by dinghy so we could walk along Spiaggia Rosa—the pink sand isn’t bright or fake-looking, just this soft blush under your feet. There were little shells everywhere. Lunch happened back on board: pasta with clams, fresh bread, local wine (maybe too much). I tried saying “grazie” with a Sardinian accent—Marco laughed and said I sounded like his aunt from Milan.

After lunch we drifted toward Spargi for more swimming and snorkeling. The sun felt heavy by then; I lay on the deck half-asleep listening to someone humming quietly nearby. It’s funny what sticks with you—the taste of salt on your lips or how quiet it gets when everyone’s just floating in their own thoughts. On the way back to Palau I kept thinking about how ordinary everything looked from shore compared to out there between islands. Still can’t quite shake that feeling.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sailing and island activities in Maddalena

• Start from Porto Turistico Palau
• Sail to Cala di Santa Maria, anchor
• Swim in turquoise water
• Enjoy aperitif with snacks
• Visit Spiaggia Rosa at Isola Budelli
• Tour Isola Budelli by dinghy
• Walk at Spiaggia Rosa beach
• Have lunch with wine, beer, and drinks
• Sail to Cala Granara at Isola Spargi
• Swim and snorkel from the deck

Top questions

How long is the sailing tour from Palau?

The tour lasts most of the day with several stops for swimming and lunch before returning to Palau.

Is lunch included during the La Maddalena sailing tour?

Yes, lunch is included on board along with drinks like wine and beer.

Can you swim during the tour?

Yes, there are multiple stops for swimming in different coves including Cala di Santa Maria and Spargi.

Do you visit Spiaggia Rosa on Isola Budelli?

Yes, there is a stop at Spiaggia Rosa where you can walk along the pink sand beach with a dinghy transfer.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

The reference doesn’t specify equipment but mentions time for snorkeling at Spargi.

Are drinks included in the price?

Yes, alcoholic beverages like wine and beer plus soft drinks are included.

Is this sailing trip suitable for all fitness levels?

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

Where does the tour start?

The sailing tour starts at Porto Turistico Palau.

What’s included

Your day includes departure from Porto Turistico Palau aboard a comfortable private sailboat with snacks and an aperitif after your first swim stop at Cala di Santa Maria; lunch served on board featuring local dishes plus wine, beer, soda or water; time ashore at Budelli’s pink beach; more swimming or snorkeling at Spargi before cruising back as afternoon light fades over the archipelago.