How to organize a boat tour in the La Maddalena archipelago: complete guide

A boat tour through the islands of the La Maddalena archipelago is one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have in Sardinia. Crystal-clear sea, hidden coves, and unspoiled nature make this destination perfect for those seeking relaxation, adventure, and dreamlike landscapes.

In this guide, we’ll explain how to plan your excursion step by step.

Why choose a boat tour in the La Maddalena archipelago

Located between Sardinia and Corsica, the La Maddalena archipelago is a Mediterranean gem made up of over 60 islands and islets, designated as a National Park for its extraordinary beauty and natural value.

Only the island of La Maddalena, the archipelago’s only inhabited island, and nearby Caprera are accessible by car, thanks to a bridge connecting the two. But it’s only by boat that you can truly discover the wonders of this unique paradise!

The other islands—such as Spargi, Budelli, Santa Maria, Razzoli, and Santo Stefano—can only be reached by sea. A boat is the only way to explore the most authentic and untouched parts of the archipelago.

Among the most iconic stops

• Spiaggia Rosa (Pink Beach) on the island of Budelli (visible only from the sea)

• Piscine Naturali (Natural Pools) on the island of Budelli

• Cala Coticcio (nicknamed Tahiti) on the island of Caprera

• Cala Corsara on the island of Spargi

Choosing the type of boat

Catamaran

Offers excellent stability, generous space, and the charm of sailing. Perfect for those seeking comfort and a social atmosphere. Discover the Catamaran Sailing Tour >

Sailboat

More compact spaces, ideal for true sailing enthusiasts and those looking for a more adventurous experience.

Yacht

The most elegant and comfortable option, with high-end services and refined interiors. Discover the Exclusive Yacht Tour >

Motorboat

Versatile and comfortable, with a good level of service. Ideal for couples and small groups. Discover the Private Boat Tour >

Historic boats

Fascinating for their atmosphere and craftsmanship, but with some compromises in terms of comfort.

Inflatable boats (RIBs)

Budget-friendly and basic, perfect for getting close to the coast but offering minimal services.

Private or shared tour?

Those who wish to explore the La Maddalena archipelago can choose between private and shared tours—two very different, yet equally fascinating ways to experience the sea. The first offers total freedom and customization, while the second is a more accessible and social option. Depending on your travel style, expectations, and the kind of experience you’re dreaming of, you’ll find the perfect solution to discover this extraordinary corner of Sardinia.

Private tours

Private tours offer a fully customizable experience. The itinerary is planned together with the skipper, based on your preferences and interests. You can choose from different types of boats and enhance the day with optional services such as food and drinks on board, stops at exclusive restaurants accessible by sea, water activities, or games for children. Perfect for those seeking privacy, comfort, and a tailor-made day that fits their travel style.

Shared tours

Shared tours, on the other hand, follow a fixed schedule with set times and stops. They are generally all-inclusive: the price covers fuel, access to the National Park, lunch on board, drinks, and snorkeling gear. This is a more affordable and social option, ideal for solo travelers or those who want to share the experience with others.

Features	Private Tour	Shared Tour
Itinerary	Customizable with the skipper	Fixed schedule with pre-set stops
Privacy	Full privacy, exclusive to your group	Shared with other participants
Extra Services	On request: onboard lunch, drinks, water sports, special stops	Included in the price: lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear
Type of Boat	Wider choice in terms of style and size	More limited selection, simple and functional boats
Price	Higher, but fully personalized	More affordable, suitable for everyone
Ideal For	Couples, families, and groups seeking an exclusive experience	Solo travelers, couples, and small groups looking to socialize

When to Go

The best time to visit the La Maddalena Archipelago is from May to October, when the weather is most favorable and the sea offers ideal conditions for boat excursions.

• May and October: low season months, perfect for those seeking peace and more affordable rates. The weather can be more variable, but there are often beautiful days. In recent years, the season has noticeably extended, with October increasingly offering excellent conditions.

  
  

• June and September: the ideal time to avoid the crowds, with great temperatures and warm waters. September, in particular, is becoming one of the best months to explore the archipelago.

  
  

• July and August: high season, with busy beaches and harbors. During this period, it's highly recommended to book well in advance, especially for private tours.

What to Bring on Board

To make the most of your day at sea, we recommend bringing:

• Swimsuit, towel, sunglasses, and a hat

• Eco-friendly sunscreen — perfect for protecting your skin and preserving the marine environment

• Action cam or camera to capture your best memories

• A light sweatshirt for the return trip, especially in May and October, when the air might feel cooler (depending on your personal comfort)

• Comfortable footwear, such as flip-flops or light shoes — you'll mostly be barefoot on board

• Something to eat and drink if not already included in your tour or requested as an extra service

…and of course: good vibes and a big love for the sea 😎

How to book a boat tour in La Maddalena

To enjoy a truly memorable experience, it's best to rely on local operators with experience, well-maintained boats, and professional skippers. Always check that the services are clear and transparent, and that boats are licensed and well-reviewed.

Many companies allow direct online booking, while others offer custom quotes based on dates, group size, and preferred boat type.

We recommend booking in advance, especially in the summer months when demand is high and the most popular boats get fully booked quickly.

Explore our tours or send us a message, we’ll help you plan the perfect day at sea.