Snorkeling in La Maddalena: Kayak to Caprera and Testa del Polpo

Paddle out, snorkel in, eat on an island you reach by kayak

Snorkel in La Maddalena with a guided kayak paddle to Caprera and the white beach of Testa del Polpo, where you swim among fish, octopus and starfish before a typical Sardinian aperitif on a private islet. The activity runs two and a half hours with snorkeling gear, a guide in your choice of four languages, and a shower and water bar at the base afterward. Children from age one are welcome, and you choose between a double or single kayak.

The experience

La Maddalena's waters are the draw here: you paddle a kayak of your choice (double or single) across clear sea toward Caprera, passing the large rocks smoothed by wind and water. The route takes you to Testa del Polpo, a white beach where you anchor and slip into the water with snorkeling gear to watch fish, octopus and starfish move through the shallows. A native guide leads the paddle and the snorkel, speaking English, Spanish, Italian or French depending on your group.

After the water, you pull ashore on a small private islet for a typical Sardinian aperitif. The meal and the setting are part of what you pay for, not an add-on. Back at the base, a cool shower rinses off the salt, and a water bar lets you refill before you leave. The whole outing runs two and a half hours from start to finish.

What’s included

• Snorkeling equipment.
• choice of double or single kayak.
• guide in English, Spanish, Italian or French.
• typical Sardinian aperitif on a private islet.
• shower and water bar at the base.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 15:00Last departure this season: 30 Nov

Book up to4h before

AgesAdult (11 to 70 years) · Child (1 to 10 years)

GroupUp to 10

Live guideEnglish, Spanish, French 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. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Low physical effortInfant seats availablePublic transport nearbyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Ecosport Sardinia

Is this one for you?Book this if you want a small group or a private paddle: you choose the kayak type and move at your own pace in the water, with the guide navigating the route and timing the snorkel and the meal stop. Families with young children work well here because infants can ride along and specialized seats are available.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English, Spanish, French and Italian.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (1 to 10 years).

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's the water like for snorkeling in La Maddalena?

The snorkeling happens in clear shallow water where you'll see fish, octopus and starfish. The route takes you to Testa del Polpo, a white beach on Caprera where the water is calm enough for the snorkel portion of the paddle.

Do I need kayaking experience to book this?

No experience is required. The paddle is across clear, protected waters, and you choose between a double kayak (easier to manage) or a single one. The guide leads the route and is with you the whole time.

Is the Sardinian aperitif included, or do I pay extra?

The typical Sardinian aperitif on the private islet is included in the price. It comes after the snorkel, as part of the activity.

What should I bring or wear?

Wear swimwear and bring a towel. Snorkeling equipment is provided. A cool shower is available at the base after the trip, so you can rinse off before leaving.