Dinghy tour Cala Goloritze Mariolu Biriala and Grotta del Fico

Sardinia’s coastline is famed for its rugged beauty, and this dinghy tour offers an intimate way to experience its most striking spots. Covering some of the most breathtaking beaches, caves, and coves—reachable only by sea—this full-day adventure combines natural beauty, history, and fun.

What makes this experience stand out? We particularly love how accessible it makes some of Sardinia’s hidden treasures without the need for strenuous hikes or long drives. The guides are knowledgeable, and the small group size keeps things personal and relaxed.

One thing to consider is the weather, as the tour relies heavily on good sea conditions. If the water is choppy or forecasts are uncertain, the itinerary might change or be shortened—so flexibility is key.

This trip is perfect for travelers who want to combine snorkeling, sightseeing, and a taste of Sardinia’s wild coast without the hassle of organizing separate boat trips or hikes. It’s suitable for those who enjoy natural landscapes, culture, and a touch of adventure.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: With only 4 dinghies for around 12 people, expect an intimate experience and personal attention from guides.
• Expert Guides: The reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, like Silverio and Roberto, who enrich the experience with insights and friendly service.
• Stunning Stops: Beaches like Cala Goloritze and Cala Mariolu are breathtaking, often described as almost surreal due to their crystal-clear waters.
• Varied Experience: From swimming and snorkeling to exploring caves, this tour balances relaxing and adventurous activities.
• Value for Money: At approximately $81.89 per person, considering all included transport, guide, and snorkeling gear, many find it to be very good value.
• Weather Dependency: The tour is subject to sea conditions, and plans might shift if weather isn’t suitable.

In-Depth Review of the Dinghy Tour Experience

Overview and Practicalities

Starting from Santa Maria Navarrese, this tour lasts about 7 to 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to savor each stop without feeling rushed. The meeting point at Sardinia Natural Park Tours port is straightforward, and most travelers book roughly three weeks in advance—an indication of its popularity. The tour costs around $81.89 per person, which covers private transportation, snorkeling kits, bottled water, fuel, and all fees and taxes. Notably, the only additional costs are the €10 for Grotta del Fico tickets and optional contributions like the €1 ecological fee and €2 tax.

Small group sizes and the use of just four dinghies mean you’ll avoid the crowds typical of larger boat tours. This setup fosters a relaxed, more personalized atmosphere, perfect for snapping photos and chatting with guides.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Cala Goloritze:
Our journey begins at this iconic beach, famous for the marble rocks, natural arch, and pyramid-shaped Monte Caroddi. The water’s transparency is dazzling—many reviews mention the incredible visibility, ideal for snorkeling. Surrounded by high cliffs and fragrant Mediterranean scrub, it’s a stunning introduction to Sardinia’s coast. Expect around 30 minutes here, just enough to take in the sights, swim, or snap photos.

Cala Mariolu:
Next, the boat glides to Cala Mariolu, nicknamed after the monk seals that once roamed these waters. The pebbles here are unique—white, pink, snowflake-like—and the water is a painter’s palette of blues and greens. With around an hour and a half, you have ample time to snorkel over the vibrant seabed, often described as looking like a painting. This beach’s sheer surrounding cliffs make it accessible only by boat or demanding treks, keeping it relatively untouched. Reviewers mention it as a “stunning” and “memorable” highlight.

Grotta del Fico:
Inside this famous cave, a guided 45-minute tour reveals impressive stal concretions, colorful mineral deposits, and sea views from inside the cave. The guides, experienced and multilingual, share stories about the cave’s geology, history, and local lore. The environment inside is cool, about 18°C, so packing a jacket is advisable. The cave’s accessibility on steel walkways makes it suitable for most visitors.

Piscine di Venere:
This stop offers perhaps the clearest waters of the day—an emerald, almost hypnotic, where the seabed is visible even from the surface. Many reviewers describe it as a “paradise” and a “magnet” for swimming. It’s a perfect spot to cool off and enjoy some of the best snorkeling. Expect about 30 minutes here.

Cala Biriala:
A tranquil cove of white pebbles framed by a limestone arch and ancient holm oaks. The waters are transparent and teeming with small fish, making it excellent for snorkeling or just relaxing on the beach. The spruced-up environment, with its rocky arch and lush surroundings, earns it a prominent spot on many travelers’ lists.

Cala dei Gabbiani:
Often overshadowed by Cala Mariolu, this cove earned its fame by being rated Italy’s second most beautiful beach in 2017. Its tranquil, green-tinged waters and white pebbles create a peaceful, less crowded alternative. It’s a fitting final stop, lasting around 90 minutes.

Authentic Experiences and Insider Tips

Guests frequently mention how guides like Silverio and Roberto elevate the day with their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make everyone feel comfortable. Reviewers also appreciated tips about the best swim spots and cave insights, turning a boat ride into a mini cultural and natural lesson.

Many reviewers noted the crystal-clear waters and the chance to see colorful fish and even dolphins, which added extra magic to the trip. Snorkeling gear is provided, so you can enjoy the underwater world hassle-free. Some travelers expressed slight disappointment over the water supply—only a small bottled water was included—so consider bringing your own refillable bottle.

The Value and Overall Experience

Given the itinerary, the small-group setting, and the expert guidance, many find that the price is justified. You gain access to secluded beaches and caves that would be hard to reach alone, combined with the comfort of a well-organized tour. The experience offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural insight—a well-rounded way to explore Sardinia’s coast.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is sea conditions—the tour’s success depends on weather. If the sea is rough, the itinerary might be cut short or modified for safety reasons. While this is understandable, it’s worth planning your trip during the calmer months or being flexible with your scheduling.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who value small-group intimacy, expert guides, and stunning scenery. It’s perfect if you want to avoid large crowds and prefer a more personalized experience. Snorkelers and lovers of natural landscapes will find plenty to enjoy here—each stop offers pristine waters and photo-worthy views.

It’s also ideal for those who want a full-day adventure without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed yet adventurous day will appreciate the balance of activities.

Final Thoughts

This dinghy tour offers a wonderful way to experience Sardinia’s famed coast with ease and comfort. The combination of beautiful beaches, captivating caves, and expert guidance makes it a standout choice for travelers eager to see Sardinia beyond the usual tourist spots.

Most reviewers agree that the knowledgeable guides and breathtaking scenery are the tour’s best features. The small group size fosters a relaxed atmosphere, allowing for plenty of personalized attention and spontaneous moments of wonder. The cost is reasonable considering the diversity of stops, snorkeling gear, and private transport included.

While weather can affect plans, the overall experience is highly praised—many call it a “fantastic” or “unforgettable” day. If you’re looking for a curated, authentic way to explore Sardinia’s coast without the crowds, this tour should definitely be on your list.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, allowing enough time to visit all the stops comfortably.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, snorkeling kits, bottled water, all fees and taxes, guide, and fuel.

Are the caves accessible for most people?
Yes, the Grotta del Fico is accessible via steel walkways and has a straightforward path suitable for most visitors.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 23 days in advance, as it’s a popular tour.

What are the main highlights?
Expect stunning beaches like Cala Goloritze and Mariolu, the impressive Grotta del Fico, and the crystal-clear waters at Piscine di Venere and Cala Biriola.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling kits are available on board for all participants.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, providing peace of mind.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, suntan lotion, a waterproof camera if you like, and possibly extra water if you want more than the provided small bottle.

In the end, this dinghy tour offers an authentic, beautiful, and fun way to see Sardinia’s coast. Whether you’re a nature lover, snorkeler, or simply seeking stunning scenery, it’s a journey that many will find well worth the investment.