La Maddalena & Lavezzi: Full-Day Boat Scuba Diving Trip

If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and stunning island scenery, this full-day boat adventure around Sardinia’s La Maddalena and Lavezzi Archipelago might just be what you’re looking for. Offered by Scuba Point srl, this experience combines diving, snorkeling, island views, and local Sardinian cuisine into a compact, well-organized 7-hour tour.

What we love about this trip is the chance to explore two different marine parks in one day—the La Maddalena Archipelago and the Lavezzi Marine Park—without feeling rushed. The boat is comfortable, and the itinerary ensures you get ample time for multiple dives and relaxation. A potential drawback is that the tour is not suitable for children under 11 or those prone to seasickness, so it’s best for adventurous, certified divers or experienced snorkelers.

This experience appeals most to travelers seeking authentic marine encounters and scenic island hopping. If you’re comfortable with diving, crave diversity in your underwater adventures, and want to enjoy Sardinia from the water with an expert guide, this tour will deliver.

Key Points

• Two Marine Parks in One Day: Explore La Maddalena and Lavezzi, known for their vibrant sea life and stunning walls.
• Multiple Dives & Snorkeling: Enjoy 2 or 3 dives at different sites, with ample time for snorkeling and relaxing onboard.
• Local Sardinian Cuisine: Savor a light lunch featuring fish, cheese, and salami, complemented by fresh croissants and fruit.
• Comfort & Convenience: The tour departs from Palau, just a 45-minute drive from Olbia airport, making it accessible.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized guidance and a more intimate atmosphere.
• Expert Guidance: All diving is led by a PADI instructor, with equipment included.

An In-Depth Look at the Full-Day Boat Trip

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins at Scuba Point Diving Center in Palau, a convenient hub close to Sardinia’s northeastern coast. The meeting time is at 9:00 AM, and from there, a speedboat whisks you away across the waters. The boat ride itself is relatively short—about 40 minutes to the first dive site—so travelers don’t have to endure long, tiring transfers.

The overall tour lasts around 7 hours, with the schedule carefully structured to maximize underwater time while allowing for breaks and meals. The small group size (up to 10 people) helps keep the experience personal and flexible, allowing guides to tailor some aspects based on weather conditions or the group’s preferences.

Exploring the Lavezzi Archipelago

First stop: Lavezzi, a part of the Marine Park famous for its dramatic seabed and colorful marine fauna. The initial dive here lasts about 1.5 hours, during which you might encounter groupers, barracudas, snappers, and even stingrays. The reviews suggest the underwater visibility is excellent, making it easier to appreciate the marine biodiversity.

We loved the way guides carefully select dive sites that balance visual spectacle with safety. The calm waters and clear visibility provide a gentle but engaging experience, especially if you’re a certified diver. For snorkelers, the opportunity to swim amid vibrant fish and around stunning underwater walls is equally rewarding.

Lunch and Relaxation

After the morning dives, you’ll settle into a delicious Sardinian-style lunch onboard. The menu features local specialties—fresh fish, cheeses, and salami—paired with croissants, fresh fruit, and drinks. This laid-back meal is a real highlight, giving you a chance to unwind, chat with fellow travelers, and enjoy the views.

The onboard reviews emphasize the quality of the food, with many noting that the light lunch hits the perfect note—fresh, flavorful, and satisfying enough to keep you energized for the afternoon.

Exploring La Maddalena Archipelago

Post-lunch, the boat heads over to La Maddalena, a national park renowned for its rugged coastline and crystalline waters. The second dive lasts about 1.5 hours and offers the chance to see marine life such as amberjacks, smaller reef fish, and perhaps even dolphins—if luck is on your side, as one reviewer pointed out.

The underwater scenery here features stunning walls of Mediterranean gorgonians and expansive meadows of posidonia oceanica, a critical habitat for marine species. The gentle currents and excellent visibility make this a favorite for underwater photographers and those who simply love soaking in the vibrant underwater environment.

Additional Activities & Experience

For non-divers or those who want a break from diving, snorkeling is encouraged, and the boat’s ample space makes it easy to hop in and out of the water. Plus, the tour’s timing ensures you’re back at Palau by early to mid-afternoon, giving you a chance to explore more of Sardinia or relax afterward.

Guides and Equipment

Guided by a PADI instructor, the dive team is seasoned, attentive, and keen on safety. Equipment—such as masks, fins, wetsuits, and tanks—is included, so you only need to bring your dive certification, logbook, and essentials like sunscreen and a hat.

What About the Price?

At $328 per person, this trip offers good value considering the inclusions: multiple dives, expert guidance, all equipment, and a local lunch. The price reflects the quality of the experience and the access to pristine marine environments that are otherwise difficult to access independently.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is perfect for certified divers looking to explore the underwater richness of Sardinia’s marine parks. Snorkelers and experienced water lovers will also find plenty to enjoy, thanks to the transparent waters and diverse marine life. However, it’s not suitable for children under 11 or those with mobility or seasickness issues.

If you’re traveling solo or as part of a small group, you’ll appreciate the intimate setting and personalized attention. The tour is also a fantastic option for travelers who appreciate local cuisine, scenic island vistas, and marine wildlife in one seamless package.

Final Thoughts

This full-day boat trip around La Maddalena and Lavezzi offers a rich blend of underwater discovery, scenic island scenery, and authentic Sardinian food. It stands out as a well-rounded marine adventure, especially for those who love to explore different underwater environments in one day.

While the price might seem high to some, the combination of multiple dives, expert guiding, and delicious local cuisine makes it a worthwhile investment for those eager to see Sardinia’s marine treasures. The small group size and the variety of sites visited ensure a personalized, memorable experience that combines adventure with relaxation.

If you’re craving a well-organized, authentic, and visually stunning trip that highlights Sardinia’s marine biodiversity, this tour deserves serious consideration.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a guide (PADI instructor), scuba gear, 2 or 3 dives at different sites, croissants, fresh fruit, beverages, and a light Sardinian lunch with local specialties.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 7 hours, starting at 9:00 AM and returning in the early to mid-afternoon.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Scuba Point Diving Center in Palau, just a 45-minute drive from Olbia airport.

Are non-divers allowed?
Yes, non-diving companions are welcome but need to be booked separately. Snorkeling is an option during the free time in between dives.

Is this suitable for children?
Not for children under 11 years old or those with back problems or prone to seasickness.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, your diving certification, and your dive log.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any additional costs?
Transportation to the diving center is not included; extras like wine or Champagne are available but must be booked separately.

Do I need a special certification?
Yes, you must have a diving certification and bring your logbook.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather conditions may affect the site choice, but the operator will do their best to ensure a safe, enjoyable experience.

This full-day boat adventure around Sardinia’s La Maddalena and Lavezzi offers an authentic, immersive experience into some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful marine environments. Whether you're a seasoned diver or an adventurous snorkeler, it’s a chance to connect with Sardinia’s stunning natural beauty in a truly memorable way.