Tavolara & San Teodoro: 5 Islands Boat Tour with Swimming

Summary

Swim in Tavolara’s wild pools, spot pirate coves and limestone shapes

You’ll swim in clear natural pools near Tavolara Island, hear local legends from your skipper as you explore caves and beaches, and share snacks with curious fish during this 5 island tour from San Teodoro. Bring your own lunch or try a beach kiosk—either way, you’ll leave with salt in your hair and new stories to tell.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wonder if the water could really be that blue? I did too—until we left La Cinta Beach behind and the boat picked up speed. Our skipper, Matteo (who grew up around here), pointed out Punta Aldia’s old watchtower first—he said pirates used to sneak past there. The wind was salty and warm, and honestly, I almost dropped my phone trying to take photos of Cala Brandinchi. There were only a few people on our boat—some families got their own ride—and it felt like everyone relaxed after the first swim stop. Someone handed out crackers for the fish; I didn’t expect them to swarm so fast.

The day trip around Tavolara and Molara was a mix of swimming, floating, and Matteo telling us little stories about each spot. At Lu Furru cave (he called it “The Oven”), sunlight came through this hole in the rock—made everything inside shimmer greenish-blue. I tried saying “Molara” in Sardinian; Matteo laughed but didn’t correct me. We stopped at Cala Spagnola for more swimming—by then my towel smelled like sunscreen and seaweed, which weirdly felt comforting.

Lunch was just whatever you brought or grabbed at the beach kiosk on Tavolara Island—no fancy stuff, just sand between your toes and that long view across the water. Some people wandered off to find the ‘vanishing beach’ (it really does disappear underfoot). On the way back, we drifted by these granite rocks shaped like animals—the Turtle one is obvious but I never found “the Coffee Pot.” Waves slapped against the hull while everyone got quiet for a bit. I still think about that silence sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — 5 Island and Beach Tour Highlights

• Depart from La Cinta Beach
• Photo stop at Punta Aldia camp
• Stop at Cala Brandinchi for swimming
• Pass Punta della Guardia and Lu Impostu beach
• Sail past Ruia Island near Salina Bamba
• Visit Lu Furru cave for photos and swim
• Swim and snorkel at Molara Island pools
• Stop at Cala Spagnola
• Explore Tavolara Island and swim
• Free time at Spalmatore di Tavolara beach
• Sail to Isola Cana for photos and swim
• Visit Cala Girgolu and Cala delle Vacche
• Stop at Coda Cavallo cove for swimming
• Return to starting point

Top questions

How long does the 5 islands tour from San Teodoro take?

The total duration includes travel time; expect a full day on the water with multiple stops for swimming and exploring.

Is lunch included on the Tavolara boat tour?

No, lunch isn’t included—you can bring your own or buy something at a beach kiosk or restaurant during the stop on Tavolara Island.

Can children join the Tavolara & San Teodoro boat tour?

Children aged 5-17 can join if accompanied by an adult; it’s not suitable for kids under 5 years old.

Do I need to bring snorkeling gear for this day trip?

Yes, you should bring your own snorkeling equipment if you want to snorkel during swim stops.

Are there lifeguards or guides on board?

Your skipper is also a qualified lifeguard and will answer questions about Tavolara and Molara along the way.

Where does the tour depart from?

The tour departs from La Cinta Beach in San Teodoro.

What should I bring for this 5 islands boat tour?

You’ll need sandals, sunscreen, towel, swimwear, passport or ID card, snorkeling gear if desired, and lunch if you don’t want to buy it at a kiosk.

What’s included

Your day covers all landing fees and fuel surcharges so you can just focus on enjoying each swim stop. You’ll have a qualified lifeguard skipper guiding you between islands like Molara and Tavolara—with plenty of free time for photos, snorkeling or picking up snacks at a beach kiosk before heading back to San Teodoro.