Porto Vecchio: Boat Tour to Maddalena Archipelago (Sardinia)

Imagine a day spent aboard a sailboat gliding between two beautiful islands, with stops for swimming in crystal-clear waters, a leisurely exploration of an Italian town, and plenty of opportunities to relax and soak in the scenery. That’s what the Porto Vecchio: Boat Tour to Maddalena Archipelago promises—a well-rounded day combining adventure, relaxation, and authentic local charm.

This nine-hour trip, operated by Corsica Sud Croisieres, is highly rated and offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, marine fun, and cultural exploration. It’s designed for travelers who want more than just a quick glance at the islands but prefer a guided, intimate experience with small-group intimacy.

One of the standout features is the chance to swim at Toro and Budelli Islands, rarely included in standard tours, along with the option to explore La Maddalena town at your own pace. However, the trip does not include food, which could be a consideration if you’re hungry after all that sailing and swimming. Still, the overall value and uniqueness make it ideal for those seeking an authentic, active day on Sardinia’s waters.

This tour suits travelers who love marine activities, small-group experiences, and want to combine natural beauty with a touch of Italian culture. If you’re after a relaxed yet adventure-filled day with knowledgeable guides and stunning views, this boat trip could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Rare Swim Stops: Includes visits to Toro and Budelli Islands, offering unique swimming spots often missed elsewhere.
• Two Hours Free Time: Allows ample opportunity to explore La Maddalena town, enjoy a seaside picnic, or just relax.
• Active Marine Options: Snorkeling gear, sea scooters, paddles, and sub-aquatic equipment are all free, perfect for marine lovers.
• Guided Experience: Professional sailors and a small group (max 12) ensure a personalized and informative journey.
• Culinary Touches: Corsican aperitifs, coffee, and canistrelli biscuits served onboard give a relaxed, local flavor.
• No Food Included: You’ll need to bring your own lunch or plan to dine in La Maddalena if you want a proper meal.

An Authentic Day in the Maddalena Archipelago and Sardinia

This boat tour stands out primarily because of its carefully planned itinerary and relaxed pace, making it an attractive option for those who want a taste of Sardinian and Corsican maritime life without the hassle of self-organizing. The journey begins early, setting sail from Porto-Vecchio, with the boat—either the Santa Maria or Sperenzà—ready to take you on a full-day adventure.

Crossing the Strait of Bonifacio

The trip kicks off with a scenic crossing of the Strait of Bonifacio, a narrow body of water separating Corsica from Sardinia. As you depart, you’ll quickly notice the sparkling sea and vivid coastal cliffs. The crew, comprised of professional sailors, are known for their friendly attitude and insightful commentary, often sharing stories and local knowledge that bring the landscape to life.

Swim Stop at Toro Island

The first major highlight is the swim stop at Toro Island. Here, the waters are famously clear—crystal blue with visibility that invites snorkelers to explore beneath the surface. The onboard crew serves coffee and traditional canistrelli biscuits, a Corsican specialty, which add a bit of local flavor while you relax in the sun. Several reviewers mention how this calm, scenic stop sets the perfect tone for the day, with the sea scooters and paddles making marine exploration feel effortless and fun.

Crossing to Budelli and La Maddalena

Next, the boat heads toward the island of Budelli, known for its famous pink sandy beach. The inclusion of a Corsican aperitif with local charcuterie and wine here is a delightful touch, allowing guests to savor regional flavors while soaking in the views. The crew’s relaxed, friendly service enhances this part of the trip, with many appreciating the laid-back vibe and good company.

Afterward, you’ll arrive at La Maddalena, a charming Italian town full of lively streets, colorful buildings, and seaside cafes. You get around two hours of free time, which many guests use for a leisurely stroll, quick shopping, or relaxing by the waterfront. Some reviews mention that the town feels authentic, with fewer travelers than you might expect, which adds to the experience.

Snorkeling and Marine Fun

Throughout the day, marine activities are plentiful. Snorkeling masks, paddles, sea scooters, and sub-aquatic equipment are all provided at no extra cost, allowing everyone to explore the underwater world at their own pace. Reviewers highlight how the marine equipment was new and easy to use, making snorkeling accessible even for beginners. The marine life in these waters is described as vibrant, with clear visibility making it a highlight for many.

The Final Swim at Porto Novo

As the trip winds down, a final swim stop in Porto Novo offers a pristine, secluded cove accessible only by boat. The water here is pristine, calm, and perfect for a last dip before heading back to Porto-Vecchio. Guests often comment on the peacefulness of this spot and how it caps off a day full of natural beauty.

Return and Coastal Views

On the way back, the boat cruises past Santa Giulia and Palombaggia, two renowned Corsican beaches, providing stunning coastal views and photo opportunities. Many guests find these moments particularly relaxing after a full day at sea.

What Makes This Tour Special?

One of the key aspects that travelers seem to love is the small group size—limited to 12 participants—which fosters a friendly, intimate atmosphere. This means better interaction with the guides and a more personalized experience. Reviewers frequently mention the knowledgeable guides and professional sailors, who add stories and insight that elevate the entire trip.

The cuisine and onboard drinks are another highlight. The Corsican aperitif and snacks complement the scenery perfectly, and the fact that beverages are included adds to the overall value, especially considering the tour’s $199 price tag.

The inclusion of snorkeling gear and marine equipment means you can spend more time enjoying the marine environment without extra costs. Several reviews point out that the marine activities, especially the sea scooters, made snorkeling more fun and accessible, even for less experienced swimmers.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts around 9 hours, starting early in the morning, which is ideal for maximizing your day. The meeting point is straightforward—the Corsica Sud Croisière ticket office at Porto-Vecchio port—though it does require you to arrange your own transportation to the departure site, as hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

While the trip emphasizes sightseeing and marine activities, lunch is not included, so bringing snacks or planning to dine locally in La Maddalena is advisable. There’s plenty of time to explore and choose from numerous restaurants or enjoy a picnic on the waterfront.

The group size is capped at 12 people, which makes the experience feel exclusive without being overly intimate or crowded. The live guide speaks French, so some basic understanding or translation might enhance your experience if you’re not fluent.

Weather can impact the day—bright, sunny days will make the water look even more spectacular, but always check the forecast before booking. Reviewers have noted that the seas can be calm or slightly choppy, so bring appropriate clothing and sunscreen.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for marine enthusiasts, small-group lovers, and travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace and authentic local touches. It’s perfect if you enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and exploring new towns at your own leisure.

A great fit for those who don’t mind bringing their own lunch, as food isn’t included, and for travelers comfortable with a French-speaking crew. It’s not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, as the activities involve walking and swimming.

If you’re looking for a day packed with stunning scenery, marine activities, and a taste of local life, this boat tour offers a compelling and memorable experience.

FAQ

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, you need to arrange your own transport to the Corsica Sud Croisière ticket office at Porto-Vecchio port.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. You can bring your own or plan to dine in La Maddalena during your free time.

What marine equipment is provided?
Snorkeling masks, paddles, sea scooters, and sub-aquatic equipment are all complimentary, making marine exploration accessible and fun.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, from departure to return, including swimming, exploring La Maddalena, and sightseeing.

Is the group size small?
Yes, limited to 12 participants, which creates a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour from Porto Vecchio to the Maddalena Archipelago offers a genuinely enjoyable mix of natural beauty, marine adventures, and cultural exploration. The inclusion of rarely visited swim spots like Toro and Budelli makes it stand out, while the two hours in La Maddalena provide a perfect balance of guided sightseeing and independent exploration.

The knowledgeable guides, friendly crew, and quality equipment elevate the experience, making it suitable for travelers who want an authentic, active day at sea. While not including lunch, the overall value remains high, especially considering the small group size and personalized service.

If you love the idea of combining stunning island scenery with marine fun, and you’re happy to organize your own meals, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially fitting for those seeking a relaxed, intimate day away from crowded tours and looking for a genuine taste of Sardinian and Corsican waters.

Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just a lover of coastal scenery and snorkeling, this trip offers a memorable way to experience the best of both islands in one day.