Cala Gonone: Gulf of Orosei Cruise with Cala Goloritzè

Exploring the Gulf of Orosei: A Detailed Look at the Cala Gonone Boat Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day spent lounging on sandy beaches surrounded by crystal-clear waters, this Gulf of Orosei cruise from Cala Gonone checks all the boxes. This tour takes you on a scenic motorboat journey to some of Sardinia’s most iconic beaches, including Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu, and Cala dei Sisine, with a special highlight being a photo stop at Cala Goloritzè, crowned Italy’s most beautiful beach for 2025.

What we love about this experience is how it balances adventure and relaxation — a perfect mix for those who want to soak up Sardinia’s stunning coast without the hassle of driving or planning multiple transfers. The on-board amenities, like a bar and aperitif service, add a touch of comfort, making it feel like a part of your holiday rather than just a sightseeing trip.

A potential consideration is that the boat can get crowded, especially during peak seasons, so if you prefer quieter, less populated spots, you might find some beaches a bit busy. Plus, timing is flexible — you can choose between different departure and return slots — so planning around your preferred pace is easy.

This tour is ideal for families, young travelers, or anyone who loves a leisurely day under the Sardinian sun, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snapping photos, and just unwinding on some of Italy’s most pristine beaches.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Flexible scheduling: Multiple departure and return times allow you to tailor your day.
• All-inclusive comfort: Aperitifs, audio guides, and a boat with modern amenities make for a relaxed experience.
• Beach hopping: Three stops for swimming and relaxing, plus a special photo stop at Cala Goloritzè.
• Environmental fee: A small additional cash fee of €3 applies, supporting local conservation.
• Language options: Guides and audio are available in several languages, including English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish.
• Ideal for families and young travelers: Plenty of space and organized stops make this a friendly, accessible trip.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins at Viale Colombo, 10, where you’ll meet at a shop called Un Mare di Gadget. Early check-in with priority boarding ensures smooth sailing — literally — and the tour lasts about 8.5 hours, with departure times spread throughout the morning and early afternoon.

Depending on your chosen schedule, you can start at 9:00 AM or as late as 12:00 PM, giving you the flexibility to plan your day around other activities in Cala Gonone. Be prepared to pay a €3 environmental contribution in cash before departure — a small fee that helps preserve the natural beauty you’re about to enjoy.

The Boat and Onboard Amenities

The boats are described as very clean and comfortable, with one reviewer noting the vessel was “standing-room only on the return trip,” highlighting its capacity. The on-board bar serves drinks and aperitifs, which are perfect for relaxing while taking in the scenery. The audio guide in multiple languages enhances your understanding of the area, making the trip both entertaining and educational.

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The Itinerary and Beach Stops

You will visit three beaches, each offering ample time for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring. The stops are staggered, so you can choose how long to stay — for example, if you start at 11:00 AM, you’ll have only two stops, which might suit those eager to reach Cala Luna earlier or avoid long waits.

Cala Goloritzè is the star attraction for many. The photo stop here allows for incredible images of this stunning, rocky cove, often regarded as “the most beautiful beach in Italy” for 2025. Several reviews mention the well-organized nature of visits — passengers appreciated the guidance and the ample space to enjoy the scenery.

However, some travelers noted that beaches can get crowded, especially during peak hours. One guest described the experience at Cala Luna as “crowded when dropped off at some beaches,” emphasizing the popularity of these spots. That said, crowds are part of the charm of Sardinia’s famous beaches, and early departure might help beat the rush.

The Experience on the Water

Reviewers frequently mention the cleanliness and comfort of the boat, along with the quality of the aperitif and snacks. The wine and cheese pairings receive praise for adding a touch of luxury to the day, giving the trip a more indulgent feel without breaking the bank.

The scenery is undeniably breathtaking. We loved the way the boat glides along the coast, offering views of rugged cliffs, hidden caves, and lush green islands. The photographic stops are a real highlight, giving plenty of time to snap photos and take in the scenery without feeling rushed.

Practical Tips

• Bring cash (€3) for the environmental fee and any extra snacks or drinks.
• Wear comfortable footwear and beach shoes if planning to explore rocky beaches.
• Pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses — the Sardinian sun can be intense.
• Arrive early for priority check-in and boarding.
• Consider your timing: later departures mean fewer hours on the first beach but more time on subsequent stops.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise offers a relaxed, well-organized way to explore Sardinia’s coastline. It’s perfect for families with kids, as the boat is spacious and the stops allow plenty of swimming and playing. Young travelers will appreciate the informative guides and scenic views, while photography enthusiasts will find the Cala Goloritzè stop particularly rewarding.

If you’re someone who enjoys laid-back days in nature, with the option to swim, take photos, and sip local drinks, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s also suited for those who want to avoid the hassle of renting boats or navigating the area independently.

The Verdict: Is It Worth It?

Considering the price, which includes the boat, guide, aperitif, and three beach stops, this tour offers good value for money. The experience captures the essence of Sardinia’s rugged beauty, with flexible scheduling accommodating different travel plans. The reviews attest to the professionalism of guides, the boat’s cleanliness, and the overall organization, making it a reliable choice for a memorable day.

While it can get crowded, that’s often part of a popular destination’s charm, and the scenic beauty more than compensates. For families, friends, or solo travelers eager for a day of sunshine, swimming, and stunning scenery, this cruise hits the sweet spot.

The Sum Up

This Gulf of Orosei cruise from Cala Gonone is a fantastic way to experience Sardinia’s most famous beaches without the hassle of organizing multiple transfers or boat rentals. The three stops and a photo opportunity at Cala Goloritzè ensure you’ll get plenty of memorable moments, whether splashing in the water, lounging on the sand, or capturing perfect photos.

The comfort of the boat, combined with informative guides and a laid-back atmosphere, makes it suitable for a broad range of travelers — from families with kids to adventurous young groups. The option to choose different departure times allows you to tailor the day to your personal pace, whether you want to maximize beach time or avoid crowds.

If you’re looking for a balanced, scenic, and well-organized day trip in Sardinia, this tour is a dependable, picturesque choice that combines natural beauty with comfort and a touch of luxury.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8.5 hours, with departure times from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, depending on your chosen schedule.

What beaches will I visit?
You’ll visit three beaches, including Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu, and Cala dei Sisine, with a special photo stop at Cala Goloritzè.

Is there a guide on board?
Yes, the tour includes an audio guide available in multiple languages, including English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish, providing interesting insights along the way.

Do I need to pay for anything extra?
Apart from the €3 environmental contribution (paid in cash), most amenities like drinks and snacks are included. You might want to bring extra cash for souvenirs or additional snacks.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for the environmental fee, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and beach shoes if planning to explore rocky beaches. A camera or smartphone for photos is also recommended.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Absolutely. The boat offers enough space, and the stops are relaxed and kid-friendly. The flexible timing makes it easier to plan around children’s needs.

Whether you’re in Sardinia for a week or just a few days, this Gulf of Orosei cruise offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, relaxation, and local charm. It’s a day dedicated to enjoying Sardinia’s breathtaking coastline with comfort, flexibility, and a touch of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby