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Planning a day out on the water in Sardinia? The Five Star Relax Cruise with Solevento Sail promises a luxurious, personalized sailing experience through the stunning La Maddalena Archipelago. This private tour is rated 5.0 out of 5 stars based on 42 reviews, with nearly all travelers recommending it. At around $325 per person, it’s a journey that balances comfort, authentic flavor, and breathtaking scenery.
What makes this experience stand out? The intimate, private setting with a small group, the chance to swim at iconic beaches, and the delicious onboard lunch paired with local wine. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is weather-dependent and non-refundable if canceled for reasons other than poor weather. Perfect for those who seek a relaxed, exclusive day on the water with personalized service—especially if you love good food and stunning coastal views.
Key Points
- Private sailing experience tailored to your group offers flexibility and exclusivity.
- A full day of stops at renowned beaches like Spargi, Budelli, and Caprera give ample swimming and relaxation opportunities.
- Delicious onboard lunch featuring local Sardinian cuisine, paired with complimentary wine and refreshments.
- Small group size (max 10 people) ensures personalized care and a cozy atmosphere.
- Expert hosts Francesco and Paola make every moment enjoyable with their hospitality and local knowledge.
- Weather reliance means the tour is subject to good sailing conditions; cancellations are handled with options or refunds.
An Authentic and Relaxing Sardinian Sailing Day
Imagine a calm morning in the port of Cannigione, waiting to step onto a beautifully maintained 14-meter sailing boat named Solevento. That’s exactly what awaits you on this full-day private tour. The boat’s spacious deck, adorned with soft sun cushions, invites you to settle in for what promises to be a smooth, scenic ride through one of Italy’s most picturesque archipelagos.
What’s immediately noticeable is how personalized this experience feels. Unlike crowded boat tours, this is limited to around 10 guests, which means plenty of space to relax, chat, and enjoy the views without feeling rushed or crowded. Francesco, the skipper, pairs his seasoned sailing skills with a warm, approachable manner that makes even first-time sailors feel at ease. His wife Paola, besides managing deck duties, prepares the delicious Sardinian-style lunch, making this a true family-run affair.
More ways to experience La Maddalena from the water include these boat tours
Itinerary Breakdown and Highlights
The Morning: Setting Sail and First Stops
The tour begins around 9:30 am, leaving from Porto Turistico in Arzachena. After a brief safety briefing and introduction, you’ll cast off into the sparkling waters. The sailing itself is a highlight—there’s something inherently relaxing about feeling the wind in the sails and gliding past rugged coastlines and tiny islands.
The first major stop is at Spargi Island, famous for its pristine beaches and clear waters. Reviewers mention how the crew anchors here, giving you the freedom to swim ashore and explore. The shallow, calm waters make for perfect swimming conditions, and the experience of floating in such a scenic spot is hard to beat.
Midday: Exploring and Snorkeling
Next, the boat moves to Budelli Island, home of the legendary “Pink Beach,” although access can sometimes be restricted. The area offers stunning scenery, with reviewers highlighting the crystal-clear water and vibrant marine life. Here, you’ll find time to snorkel, paddleboard, or just lounge on the boat and soak up the sun.
The Lunch Break: Sardinian Flavors on the Water
No sailing adventure in Sardinia would be complete without a delicious meal, and Solevento’s crew impresses with an onboard lunch featuring local ingredients. Reviewers rave about the fresh Sardinian cuisine—think seafood, local cheeses, and simple yet flavorful dishes. Paola’s preparation is often mentioned as a highlight, and guests appreciate the all-inclusive drinks, including soda, bottled water, coffee, and local wines like Vermentino.
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Afternoon: More Island Hopping and Swimming
After lunch, the boat ventures to Caprera Island, a favorite for its scenic beauty and historical significance. Here, guests can bathe, snorkel, or relax in the sun, with the hosts ensuring everyone’s comfort. Some reviews mention how the crew makes sure even the least confident swimmers feel safe and included.
Return: A Gentle Sail Back
As the day winds down, the boat heads back towards port, often with a pleasant breeze and relaxed conversation. The entire experience typically lasts about 8 hours, giving ample time to enjoy the islands, the sea, and the company.
The Experience From a Guest Perspective
Many reviewers emphasize the personalized attention they received, with Francesco making sure everyone felt comfortable and well taken care of. The hosts’ warmth, combined with their extensive knowledge of the area, added an extra layer of authenticity to the trip.
The food and drinks are a consistent highlight. Guests mention Paola’s delicious Sardinian dishes and the generous wine offerings, which elevate the experience from a simple boat ride to a genuine culinary adventure on the water. One reviewer noted how the local drinks—including Mirto and sparkling wine—were always available, adding to the relaxed atmosphere.
The scenery, of course, is breathtaking. Many describe the beaches and islands as simply stunning, with reviews mentioning how the swimming spots were some of the best they experienced during their trip to Sardinia. The boat’s stability and the crew’s skill ensure that even on a low-wind day, guests felt comfortable and safe.
Practical Details and Considerations
Price and Value
At roughly $325 per person, this tour is on the higher end compared to group excursions but offers intimate, exclusive service. The private setting, combined with a full-day itinerary, gourmet lunch, and all-day refreshments, justifies the price for those seeking a memorable, tailored experience. Unlike larger group tours, you’ll enjoy the undivided attention of your hosts, which many reviewers say makes a significant difference.
Group Size and Booking
This tour accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers, fostering a cozy, friendly environment. Booking about a month in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.
Timing and Weather
The tour departs at 9:30 am and lasts approximately 8 hours. Be prepared for variable weather—while good weather is essential, cancellations due to poor conditions are handled with rescheduling or refunds. Reviewers noted that even on days with less-than-perfect weather, the experience remained enjoyable because of the attentive hosts and beautiful scenery.
What to Bring
Towels are not included, so it’s smart to pack your own. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are must-haves, especially given the high sun exposure on the open water. The boat is spacious and comfortable, but bringing a light jacket or layers isn’t a bad idea if the breeze picks up.
Who Will Love This Tour
This sailing adventure is perfect for travelers who want a luxurious, private day on the water, away from crowded group tours. It’s ideal for those who appreciate authentic local cuisine, stunning scenery, and personalized service. Families, couples, or small groups of friends will find the experience intimate and relaxed.
Those with a keen interest in swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the beaches will be thrilled with the stops, while avid food lovers will enjoy the Sardinian flavors and drinks onboard. If you’re after a calm, scenic, and food-filled day with a touch of adventure, this tour ticks all the boxes.
The Sum Up
The Five Star Relax Cruise with Solevento Sail offers a memorable, intimate way to explore La Maddalena’s incredible islands. The combination of beautiful scenery, delicious local food, and attentive hosts creates a truly authentic experience. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking luxury, personalization, and a chance to truly unwind on Sardinia’s most iconic coastal spots.
While the price may seem steep for some, the exclusivity, quality of service, and stunning locations deliver solid value. This tour is best suited for those who want a relaxed, gourmet day out on the water, especially if they enjoy swimming, scenic views, and learning about the area from friendly, knowledgeable hosts.
FAQ
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, beginning at 9:30 am and returning in the evening.
What is included in the price?
The tour includes a gourmet onboard lunch, soda, bottled water, coffee or tea, and all-day refreshments. Towels are not included.
Are there opportunities to swim or snorkel?
Yes. The boat anchors at several beaches, such as Spargi, Budelli, and Caprera, where you can swim, snorkel, or relax on the boat.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the small group size makes for a family-friendly environment. However, it’s best for children comfortable with boats and water activities.
What should I bring?
Bring towels (not provided), sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and perhaps a light jacket for the breeze.
Can I book this tour last minute?
Booking around 33 days in advance is common, but last-minute availability depends on season and demand.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Who are the hosts?
Francesco and Paola run Solevento Sail, providing a welcoming experience with extensive local knowledge and excellent hospitality.
Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Porto Turistico in Arzachena.
This private sailing trip combines comfort, authenticity, and spectacular scenery—an experience you’ll cherish long after the sails are furled.
