Sardinia Catamaran: Maddalena Islands Swim, Pink Beach & Lunch

Summary

Catamaran journey through Maddalena’s wild bays and pastel waters

You’ll board a catamaran in Cannigione with a small group and local skipper, cruise through Maddalena’s islands, swim in clear blue bays near Spargi and Santa Maria, see Budelli’s protected Pink Beach from the water, and share a fresh Sardinian lunch with wine on deck. Expect laughter, salt on your skin, and quiet moments you might remember long after.

What’s the experience like?

We stepped onto the catamaran at Cannigione—barefoot, sunscreen already half-smeared, feeling that salty morning air. Our skipper, Paolo (who looked like he’d lived a thousand summers here), grinned and handed me a coffee before we even left the dock. The engine hummed softly as we drifted out; I could smell seaweed and something floral on the breeze—maybe wild herbs from the shore? Sardinia’s coastline slid by in slow motion. I kept thinking: this is what postcards try to capture but never really do.

The first stop was Spargi. Paolo dropped anchor in this bay where the water looked almost fake—so clear you could count pebbles on the bottom. I jumped in and instantly forgot how cold it was; it felt like swimming in liquid glass. Some folks swam all the way to the white sand beach, laughing at each other’s flippers. I just floated for a while, listening to muffled voices and gulls overhead. We passed around snorkels (mine fogged up immediately—classic) and tried to spot fish darting between rocks.

We cruised past Budelli’s famous Pink Beach next—Paolo slowed down so we could take photos from the deck. You can’t set foot there anymore (strictly protected), but honestly, seeing that pale coral-pink sand against turquoise water was enough. He told us about Michelangelo Antonioni filming here; I pretended to know who that was. There was this hush while everyone stared at the colors—nobody really spoke for a minute or two. Kind of rare on a boat full of strangers.

Lunch came out just as we reached Port of the Madonna—a bowl of pasta with local fish, olive oil so green it almost glowed, plus bread and cold Vermentino wine. The sun was hot by then and someone spilled their drink but nobody cared much. After eating, some people napped on deck while others wandered over to Santa Maria island for another swim (I just lay back and watched clouds shape-shift). Heading home took longer than I expected—wind had picked up—but honestly, I didn’t mind dragging it out.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran tour of Maddalena Archipelago

• Depart from CNA pier in Laconia
• Stop at Spargi island bay for swimming and snorkeling
• View and photograph Pink Beach from boat
• Visit Port of the Madonna for swimming and beach time
• Explore Razzoli and Santa Maria islands
• Snorkel and sea-watch in emerald lagoon
• Return to departure point

Top questions

How long does the catamaran tour from Cannigione last?

The day trip lasts approximately 8 hours including sailing between stops.

Is swimming allowed at Budelli's Pink Beach?

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

Are drinks included during the Maddalena catamaran tour?

Yes, bottled water, soda/pop, coffee or tea, and alcoholic beverages are included.

Is lunch provided during the day trip to Maddalena Archipelago?

Yes, lunch is served onboard featuring typical Sardinian products and fish-based pasta.

Can children join the catamaran tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; strollers are allowed but infants must sit on an adult's lap.

Are snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, snorkeling gear is available for use during swimming stops.

Where does the catamaran depart from?

The tour departs from CNA pier in Laconia near Cannigione.

What happens if there are food intolerances?

No special requests can be managed except vegetarian or no-fish options; otherwise bring your own packed lunch.

What’s included

Your day includes departure from Cannigione’s pier with a seasoned local skipper at the helm; all drinks (water, soda, wine); use of snorkeling gear for those blue-water swims; access to onboard bathrooms; plus a fresh Sardinian lunch with pasta and local specialties before sailing back in late afternoon.