Sailing Sella del Diavolo in Cagliari: Learn to sail

Four hours of sailing, swimming and learning how a boat actually works

A four-hour sailing class in the Gulf of Cagliari where you learn the principles of sailing hands-on, adjust sails and take the helm while the boat moves toward Sella del Diavolo, a cliff formation named for its beauty. The route includes a stop in a cove for swimming and snorkeling, and a visit to a cave accessible only by water. A live guide in English, Spanish or Italian leads the instruction throughout.

The experience

The morning starts with a briefing on board about basic rules and safe behavior, then the guide organizes the boat's setup based on the wind direction and strength. You'll sail toward Sella del Diavolo (the name itself comes from a local legend about demons struck by the gulf's beauty), and along the way you'll learn how a sailboat works, what different maneuvers do, and how to handle the helm, adjust the sails and execute turns and jibes. The guide invites you to take an active part in steering and sail work rather than watch from the side.

The boat heads toward Poetto beach, and if sea and wind conditions permit, you'll anchor in a cove beneath a cliff where you can swim and snorkel in clear water. A hidden cave accessible only by water sits nearby. The guide will take the group there to explore. Life vests are available on board for both children and adults. Fresh drinks are provided throughout the sail.

Dolphins sometimes follow the boat during navigation, though sightings are not guaranteed. The whole experience runs four hours and suits all fitness levels, though it is not recommended for people with physical disabilities. Infants and small children can come along. Infants must sit on an adult's lap, and prams or strollers are available if needed.

What’s included

• Fresh drinks throughout the sail.
• life vests for children and adults.
• instruction in basic sailing principles and hands-on practice with the helm, sails and maneuvers.
• access to a cove for swimming and snorkeling.
• a visit to a hidden cave accessible only by water.

Before you book

Days and timesMonday to SaturdayDeparts at 09:00

Book up to1h before

AgesAdult (14 to 80 years) · Child (2 to 13 years) · Infant (under 2)

GroupUp to 10

Live guideEnglish, Spanish and Italian

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 10 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortStroller-friendlyPublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Sailing toward the Devil's saddle

Is this one for you?The guide speaks English, Spanish or Italian, so choose the language that matches your comfort level. If you want to learn sailing hands-on rather than just hear about it, this tour puts you at the helm and the sail controls. If you prefer to relax and watch, a standard sightseeing boat may suit you better.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English, Spanish and Italian.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (2 to 13 years); Infant (under 2).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What does "learning to sail" actually mean on this tour?

You'll learn the basic principles of how a sailboat works: how the sails function, what different maneuvers do, and how the helm controls direction. The guide invites you to take an active part in the boat's conduct: adjusting sails, executing turns and jibes, and steering, so you're not just watching but doing the work yourself.

Where exactly is Sella del Diavolo and why is it called that?

Sella del Diavolo is a cliff formation in the Gulf of Cagliari. Local legend says even demons were struck by the beauty of this gulf, which is how the spot got its name. The boat sails toward it as the main landmark of the route.

Can I swim during the tour, and where?

Yes, if sea and wind conditions allow it. The boat stops in a cove under a cliff where you can swim and snorkel in clear water. A hidden cave nearby is also accessible by water, and the guide will take the group there to explore.

What's included in the four hours, and what do I need to bring?

The tour includes the sailing instruction, the guide, fresh drinks on board, and access to the swimming and cave stops. Life vests for children and adults are available on board. You'll want to bring a swimsuit, a towel and sun protection. The boat is exposed to the sun for the full four hours.