Maddalena Archipelago: Catamaran Day Trip with Sardinian Lunch

Summary

Catamaran journey through Maddalena’s wild turquoise coves and secret beaches

You’ll board a catamaran from Cannigione for a day exploring Maddalena’s wildest bays—swimming at Spargi, drifting by Budelli’s famous Pink Beach, sharing Sardinian pasta and Vermentino wine on deck. Between swims and stories from your local crew, you’ll taste real island flavors and end up carrying home more than just salt in your hair.

What’s the experience like?

You know that feeling when you step barefoot onto a boat deck and the wood is already sun-warmed? That’s how our day started in Cannigione — just a quick hello to the skipper (Antonio, who had this easy smile and a fisherman’s tan), and we were off. The water around the Maddalena Archipelago really does look unreal, like someone dialed up the color. I kept squinting at Cala Coticcio — it was almost too blue. There was this salty breeze, not strong but just enough to mess up your hair if you cared (I didn’t). Someone pointed out dolphins, but I missed them because I was busy trying to pronounce “Budelli” right — Li laughed at my attempt.

We stopped near Spargi first. The water was so clear you could see every ripple of sand below. I jumped in without thinking; it was colder than expected but worth it. There were tiny fish everywhere — silver flashes darting past my legs. Our guide handed out snorkels and masks, and for a while it was just quiet underwater sounds and sunlight flickering above. We cruised past the Pink Beach on Budelli next — you can’t walk on it or swim there anymore (protected now), but honestly just floating nearby felt special enough. The pink hue is real, by the way, not Instagram magic.

Lunch smelled amazing before we even sat down. Pasta with local fish, cooked right there on board — Antonio joked that his mother would judge his cooking if she saw him using so little garlic. There was Vermentino wine (crisp and cold), and some kind of fennel salami for the aperitif that I still think about sometimes. After lunch came coffee and this sweet myrtle liqueur that burned in a good way. Sunlight started turning gold on the return trip; people got quieter, maybe tired or just full of sea air.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran tour of Maddalena Archipelago

• Depart from Cannigione at 9:45am
• Visit Cala Coticcio and Cala Portese
• Photo stop at Pink Beach of Budelli
• Swim and snorkel at Spargi island bay
• Enjoy typical Sardinian aperitif on board
• Lunch with pasta and fish on board
• Visit Port of the Madonna lagoon
• Explore Razzoli and Santa Maria islands
• Return to Cannigione around 5:30pm

Top questions

What time does the Maddalena Archipelago catamaran tour start?

The tour starts around 9:45 am from Cannigione port.

Is lunch included on the Maddalena catamaran day trip?

Yes, lunch is cooked onboard with Sardinian pasta and fish (vegetarian or no-fish options available if requested when booking).

Can I swim at Budelli’s Pink Beach during the tour?

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

Are drinks provided during the Maddalena Archipelago tour?

Yes, white wine (Vermentino), beer, soft drinks, bottled water, coffee/tea, fruit, sweets, and myrtle liqueur are included.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this catamaran trip?

Yes, snorkeling gear is available for guests to use during swim stops.

How long does the Maddalena Archipelago catamaran tour last?

The tour runs from about 9:45 am until 5:30 pm.

Are infants allowed on board the Maddalena catamaran tour?

Yes, infants can join; they may ride in a pram/stroller or sit on an adult's lap.

Does the itinerary change based on weather conditions?

The captain may adjust stops for safety depending on weather or sea conditions.

What’s included

Your day includes departure from Cannigione port with all navigation fees covered; stops at several islands in the Maddalena Archipelago; use of snorkeling equipment; an aperitif of Sardinian specialties; a freshly prepared seafood pasta lunch (vegetarian/no-fish options possible if booked ahead); unlimited white wine Vermentino, beer, soft drinks and bottled water; fresh fruit; sweets; coffee or tea; plus a glass of traditional myrtle liqueur before heading back in the late afternoon.