Tavolara & Molara: Dolphin Search Sailing Tour with Lunch

Summary

Turquoise swims dolphin search and Sardinian flavors near Olbia

You’ll sail from Golfo Aranci across bright blue waters to Tavolara and Molara islands with a local crew, searching for dolphins along the way. Swim in clear coves, share Sardinian lunch with Vermentino wine on deck, and feel the quiet magic of these islands — even if you don’t spot dolphins, you’ll carry home more than photos.

What’s the experience like?

We were already out past Golfo Aranci before I realized how salty the breeze actually tastes here — it clings to your lips. The skipper, Mauro, was telling a story about the “King of Tavolara” (I half-listened, half-watched for dolphins). There’s this moment when everyone on board just kind of stops talking because someone thinks they see a fin. It’s quiet except for the slap of water against the hull and that weird metallic smell you get near fish farms. We drifted by Cala Moresca — Mauro pointed at the water and said, “They come here for breakfast.” Didn’t spot any dolphins yet, but nobody seemed disappointed. Maybe it’s the light — everything looks softer out here.

Later, we anchored off Tavolara itself. The island rises straight up like some granite wall, all wild green patches and sharp edges. You jump in and the water is so clear it almost feels fake — like swimming in blue glass. I tried to say “Vermentino” properly when they poured the wine for lunch (Li laughed; I probably butchered it). Lunch was simple: bread, cheese, olives, something salty I couldn’t name. Sardinian food always surprises me — nothing fancy but every bite tastes like sun and sea air. Someone pointed out a lizard sunning itself on a rock; we all just watched it for a while.

After that, we floated over to Molara and dropped anchor again in these shallow turquoise pools they call “Piscine di Tavolara.” I thought about skipping another swim but then changed my mind last second — you know how it is when everyone else jumps in first. On the way back, Mauro kept scanning for dolphins (he says they’re free spirits — “not circus animals!”). We didn’t see any this time but honestly? That didn’t matter as much as I expected. The wind picked up a little and there was this stretch where nobody talked at all. Just sea and sky and that feeling you get when you realize you’ll remember this day longer than most.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sailing, dolphin search, and island visits

• Sail near Siola di Figarolo dolphin area
• Swim in Cala Moresca waters
• Stop at Tavolara for swimming and island visit
• Enjoy aperitif with Sardinian products
• Sail to Molara for swimming and lunch
• Return sail with optional swim stop
• Search for dolphins on return

Top questions

Where does the Tavolara & Molara dolphin tour depart from?

The tour departs from Port of Golfo Aranci near Olbia.

Is dolphin spotting guaranteed on this sailing tour?

No, dolphin sightings are not guaranteed as they are wild animals.

What meals or drinks are included during the tour?

The tour includes brunch or lunch with Sardinian specialties, Vermentino wine, beer, myrtle liqueur, soda/pop, coffee or tea, bottled water.

Are snorkeling equipment and restrooms available onboard?

Yes, snorkeling gear is provided and there is a restroom on board.

How long do we stop at Tavolara island?

You stop at Tavolara for just over an hour to swim and visit beaches.

Can infants or small children join this sailing tour?

Yes, infants can join; strollers are allowed and infants must sit on an adult’s lap.

Is pickup included in this day trip from Olbia?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; departure is from Port of Golfo Aranci.

What’s special about swimming at Piscine di Tavolara?

The Piscine di Tavolara offers shallow turquoise water with high visibility for swimming and relaxing onboard during lunch.

What’s included

Your day includes departure from Port of Golfo Aranci near Olbia with a local skipper guiding your route through Tavolara Marine Protected Area. Snorkeling equipment is available for swims at Cala Moresca, Tavolara beaches, and Molara’s turquoise pools. Enjoy brunch or lunch onboard featuring Sardinian products with Vermentino wine or beer plus coffee or tea. Restroom facilities are provided throughout your private sailing adventure before returning in the afternoon.