Maddalena Archipelago: Catamaran Day Tour & Sardinian Lunch

Summary

Sail turquoise waters from Porto Cervo to hidden coves and pink sands

You’ll board a catamaran in Porto Cervo with a small group and set sail through Sardinia’s Maddalena Archipelago—swimming at Spargi, gazing at Budelli’s protected Pink Beach, then anchoring for a long lunch with local wine as turquoise water laps below. Expect laughter, quiet moments, salt on your skin—and maybe a story or two you’ll want to remember.

What’s the experience like?

We stepped onto the catamaran at Poltu Quatu, still rubbing sunscreen into our arms and squinting at the light bouncing off the water. Our skipper, Marco, had that sun-baked look you only get from years out here—he grinned and told us today’s route depended on the wind. Sardinia feels different from the mainland, I swear; even the air smells faintly of wild herbs and salt. The boat glided out, leaving behind the chatter of Porto Cervo for something quieter—just the slap of water against hull and someone’s laughter drifting back from up front.

First stop was Spargi. I nearly tripped over my own feet getting to the edge when Marco pointed out how clear the water was—like glass, honestly. We jumped in (I hesitated for a second; it looked cold but wasn’t) and floated around, watching tiny fish dart under us. Someone tried snorkeling for the first time and came up sputtering but grinning. The main keyword here is Maddalena Archipelago, but what sticks with me is how soft the sand felt between my toes when I finally waded ashore.

Budelli’s Pink Beach was next—not for swimming this time, just for staring. You can’t walk on it anymore (protection rules), so we hovered quietly offshore while Marco explained about the crushed coral giving it that color. It felt like everyone went silent for a bit—maybe out of respect or just not wanting to break whatever spell that place has. I tried saying “Spiaggia Rosa” in Italian; Li laughed at my accent and promised hers wasn’t much better.

Lunch happened somewhere between Razzoli and Santa Maria—anchored in this lagoon where three islands almost touch each other. The sea there is so clear it looks fake in photos. They brought out Vermentino wine and plates of seafood that tasted like they’d been caught an hour ago (maybe they were). There was a little breeze by then, enough to ruffle napkins and make me wish I’d brought a sweater—not that I minded much. After coffee and a sip of myrtle liqueur (strong stuff), we just lay back on deck listening to Marco tell stories about old sailors who used to hide out here.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran tour of Maddalena Archipelago

• Depart from Poltu Quatu port
• Stop at Spargi island for swimming and snorkeling
• Pass by Pink Beach at Budelli island
• Visit Cala Portese, Shipwreck Beach
• Swim at Porto della Madonna natural pool
• Explore Razzoli and Santa Maria islands
• Enjoy traditional Sardinian aperitif on board
• Have fish lunch at anchor
• Relax and sunbathe on catamaran

Top questions

Where does the Maddalena Archipelago catamaran tour start?

The tour departs from Poltu Quatu port near Porto Cervo.

Is lunch included on this Maddalena Archipelago day trip?

Yes, a fish lunch with local wine is served onboard while anchored.

Can you swim at Budelli's Pink Beach?

No, swimming or walking on Budelli's Pink Beach is not allowed due to protection rules.

What islands do you visit during this catamaran tour?

The itinerary usually includes Spargi, Budelli, Razzoli, and Santa Maria islands.

Are drinks provided during the tour?

Yes, drinks like Vermentino wine, prosecco, beer, myrtle liqueur, soda, bottled water, coffee or tea are included.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, masks and snorkels are available onboard for guests to use.

How long is the boat used for this tour?

The sailing catamaran is 12 meters long.

Is this day trip suitable for children or infants?

Yes; infants can ride in strollers or sit on an adult’s lap during the tour.

What’s included

Your day includes departure from Porto Cervo with all drinks—Sardinian aperitif plus Vermentino wine or prosecco—served onboard along with bottled water and soda. A fresh seafood lunch anchors your midday pause while you float among islands; snorkeling gear and paddle boards are ready if you want them. Coffee or tea wraps things up before heading back toward port together.