Private tour, archipelago of La Maddalena

Travelers seeking a luxurious, personalized way to discover Sardinia’s most breathtaking islands will find this private tour of the La Maddalena Archipelago offers just that—an intimate, flexible day on the water, with access to some of Italy’s most stunning and less crowded beaches. With a dedicated skipper, a fully equipped dinghy, and the ability to customize your itinerary, this experience promises a blend of scenic beauty, exclusivity, and comfort.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances expert guidance with the freedom to tailor your day’s adventures. The chance to stop at unspoiled beaches like Cala Brigantina and Cala Coticcio, snorkel in pristine waters, and enjoy Sardinian snacks on board makes it feel both indulgent and authentic. However, potential guests should note that the boat’s condition has been a concern for some—especially at the higher price point—so careful consideration is wise.

This tour suits those who value personalized experiences, enjoy exploring remote beaches, and appreciate small-group or private boat trips. It’s ideal for friends, couples, or small groups wanting to avoid crowded tourist spots and make the most of Sardinia’s natural beauty at their own pace.

Key Points

• Flexibility in itinerary allows for a personalized day out on the waters of La Maddalena.
• Expert skipper and crew enhance the experience with local knowledge and friendly service.
• Uncrowded beaches and crystal-clear waters make for memorable swimming and photo opportunities.
• Includes snacks and an aperitif, adding a touch of Sardinian hospitality.
• A bit of concern about boat condition—some reviews mention it being outdated or with broken parts.
• Ideal for small groups (up to 12 people), offering intimacy and tailored experiences.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins at Noleggio Le Isole in Cannigione, a convenient location for travelers based in northern Sardinia. Starting promptly at 10:00 am, the tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, making it a full but manageable day that balances sightseeing, relaxing, and snorkeling.

The Customizable Itinerary

One of the main attractions of this private tour is its flexibility. While a suggested itinerary is provided, the skipper is open to adjusting plans based on your interests. This means if you’re eager to spend more time at a particular beach or explore additional spots, the crew is flexible—an advantage many travelers find valuable.

The First Stops: Cala Brigantina & Cala Coticcio

The day kicks off with a swim at Cala Brigantina on Caprera Island. It’s described as a wild, unspoiled stretch of beach where you’ll likely have it all to yourselves—an experience many reviewers cherish. It’s an ideal spot for your first dip of the day, and the calm, pristine waters make it perfect for snorkeling or simply soaking up the sun.

Next, you’ll head to Cala Coticcio, often called “Tropical Beach” for its stunning, clear waters and dramatic landscape. The area is protected by a buoy field, ensuring a calm and private environment for swimming without the hassle of boats around. Visitors report that the skipper often skirts Caprera’s ravines, making for spectacular views and a chance to observe the island’s rugged coastline.

The Budelli and Santa Maria Stops

Moving onward, you’ll visit Budelli, home to the famous Pink Beach (Cala Rosa). While the beach itself is off-limits for walking or landing, the natural pools nearby offer a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy Sardinian snacks—an experience highlighted by reviews praising the captain’s kind gesture of offering typical Sardinian products during the stop.

The longest stop of the day is at Cala Santa Maria on Santa Maria Island. Here, you’ll have about an hour and a half to unwind on the beach, swim, or explore the surrounding scenery. This break is perfect for a leisurely lunch, which, while not included in the price, offers the chance to choose a local restaurant or picnic on the sand.

The Iconic Rosa Beach and Spargi Island

From Santa Maria, the tour takes you to the Rosa Beach, famous for its unique, pink-hued sands. Access is exclusive—no swimming or walking on the sands—so it’s best enjoyed through photos. It’s a highlight for many guests, especially those interested in capturing stunning images.

Later, the boat visits Cala Granara, Cala Soraya, and Cala dell’Amore on Spargi Island. These secluded coves are described as spectacular bathing spots, with clear waters perfect for a quick swim. Reviewers mention that anchoring just meters from the shore allows for easy access and plenty of time to relax.

Cala Corsara and the Finale

The tour’s highlight for many is Cala Corsara, renowned for its beautiful setting and crystal waters. Guests often spend an hour here, enjoying the peaceful environment and taking photographs of the surrounding cliffs and lush surroundings.

As the day winds down, the boat makes a scenic return trip, passing the monumental Roccia dell’Orso, a famous rock formation resembling a bear that is a symbol of Palau. The overall route offers memorable views of the island’s western side and surrounding islands.

Authentic Experiences and Insights from Reviewers

Multiple reviewers emphasize the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. Antonio, the skipper praised for his professionalism and warm attitude, is repeatedly mentioned as making the trip memorable. One reviewer noted, “Antonio’s hospitality and expertise made the experience unforgettable,” highlighting the importance of a good guide for a personalized tour.

Snacks, aperitifs, and snorkeling equipment are included, and guests appreciate the extra touches of Sardinian hospitality—such as the captain offering drinks and local delicacies during the day.

However, some reviews point out the boat’s condition, describing it as “many parts broken and outdated”, which is worth considering if you’re paying premium prices. While the majority still recommend the experience, this is a factor to keep in mind if your expectations are very high.

The Value for Money

At $1,382.87 per group (up to 12 people), the tour is priced to reflect its private, customizable nature and the exclusivity of visiting some of Sardinia’s most stunning spots. When considering the inclusion of snacks, snorkel gear, and the guide’s knowledge, many guests find the tour offers good value, especially for those wanting to avoid crowded beaches and enjoy a tailored experience.

Who’s This Tour Perfect For?

This experience is best suited for small groups or couples looking for a luxurious, personalized day on the water. It’s ideal if you value flexibility, natural beauty, and a more intimate experience. Families with older children or groups of friends wanting to explore Sardinia’s remote beaches will also appreciate the privacy and customizability.

It’s less suited for travelers on a tight budget or those who prioritize new, top-condition boats, given some reviews mentioning boat issues. However, if you’re seeking a unique, scenic adventure with attentive hosts, this trip is worth considering.

The Sum Up

This private boat tour of the La Maddalena Archipelago offers an exceptional way to see some of Sardinia’s most famous and hidden beaches. The flexibility to customize your day, combined with knowledgeable guides like Antonio, ensures a memorable and personalized experience. While the boat’s condition might give some pause, the overall value — with stunning scenery, snorkeling opportunities, and Sardinian hospitality — makes it a compelling choice for those seeking an exclusive escape.

Perfect for small groups, couples, or families wanting to avoid crowded spots, this tour delivers a chance to relax and explore in style. The experience’s authentic charm, combined with carefully curated stops, creates a wonderful mix of adventure, beauty, and local flavor.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s exclusively for your group, up to 12 people, offering a tailored experience with a dedicated skipper.

What’s included in the price?
Snacks, an aperitif, and snorkeling equipment are all included. The tour also provides a boat with a skipper who will guide and assist throughout the day.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. While a suggested route is provided, the skipper is happy to adapt the stops based on your preferences.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, starting at 10:00 am and returning by late afternoon.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but you can choose to dine at local restaurants or bring your own. The tour provides a relaxing stop at Santa Maria Beach to facilitate lunch.

What about boat safety and condition?
Some reviews mention the boat being somewhat outdated or with broken parts. If boat condition is a concern, you might want to inquire specifically before booking.

Is snorkeling suitable here?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and the clear waters around the islands are perfect for exploring marine life.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for children who are comfortable on boats and in water.

Whether you’re after a scenic day, secluded beaches, or a flexible, intimate boat trip, this La Maddalena archipelago tour offers a blend of beauty, comfort, and personalized service that’s truly worth considering.