Palau to Maddalena: Sailboat Day Tour with Lunch & Swim

Summary

Sail across la maddalena archipelago from palau for swims pink sands and fresh sardinian food

You’ll set sail from Palau with a local skipper, glide past La Maddalena’s islands, swim in clear coves near Spargi or Budelli’s pink beach, and share a Sardinian lunch with wine onboard. Expect laughter over strong coffee and maybe a splash of myrtle liqueur as you watch sunlight dance on turquoise water.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the water around La Maddalena to look like that — almost too bright, like someone turned up the color just for us. We left Palau a little after 9:30am, shoes off and toes already salty. Our skipper, Marco (who’s got that sun-worn smile you only get from years at sea), pointed out the islands as we drifted past — Spargi first, then Budelli in the distance. He told us stories about smugglers and fishermen; I tried to repeat one of the island names and totally mangled it. Marco just grinned and poured more coffee.

The breeze picked up as we neared Budelli’s famous pink beach — you can’t actually walk on it anymore (protected now), but seeing that pale blush of sand from the boat felt special anyway. There was this hush when we cut the engine, except for gulls and someone opening a can of Ichnusa beer nearby. The water really is turquoise, not just in photos. We swam off Spargi, kind of giggling at how cold it was at first, but then not wanting to get out. Salt on my lips, sun on my back — simple stuff you remember later.

Lunch happened somewhere between swims — pasta with fish (I think Marco said it was bottarga?), bread still warm from below deck, and Vermentino wine that tasted sharper than I expected. Someone passed around myrtle liqueur after; not sure I liked it but everyone laughed at my face so maybe that’s part of it. The day trip from Palau to Maddalena is less about ticking off sights and more about just being there — floating, eating, talking with people you’ve only just met. On the way back I sat by the rail watching Caprera slip by in late afternoon light. Still thinking about that view now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sailboat tour around Maddalena Archipelago

• Depart from Palau at 9:45 am
• Pass by the famous pink beach
• Stop at Spargi for snorkeling and swimming
• Lunch and swim in natural pool area
• Return to port around 5:30 pm

Top questions

How long does the sailboat tour from Palau to Maddalena last?

The tour departs around 9:45 am from Palau and returns by 5:30 pm.

Is lunch included on the Maddalena Archipelago sailboat tour?

Yes, lunch is served onboard featuring pasta with fish plus snacks and drinks.

Can I swim during the day trip from Palau to Maddalena?

Yes, there are stops for swimming and snorkeling in coves like Spargi or near Budelli.

Are drinks provided during the tour?

Your day includes soft drinks, bottled water, Vermentino white wine, beer, coffee or tea, and Sardinian myrtle liqueur.

Is snorkeling equipment available?

Snorkeling gear is included for use during swimming stops.

Are children allowed on this sailboat tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed onboard.

Does the itinerary always include Budelli’s pink beach?

The itinerary may vary due to weather or sea conditions; Budelli is often seen from the boat since access is restricted.

Are vegetarian or non-fish lunch options available?

No-fish or vegetarian options are possible if requested in advance; other dietary needs can’t be accommodated onboard.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from Palau port by your local skipper, all sailing between islands like Spargi or Budelli depending on weather, use of snorkeling equipment for swim stops in clear coves, soft drinks plus bottled water throughout the journey, a Sardinian-style lunch with fresh fish pasta and bread served onboard along with Vermentino white wine and beer for adults—plus coffee or tea after your meal and a taste of traditional myrtle liqueur before heading back in late afternoon light.