Ferries Tavolara
The island of Tavolara is a hidden gem located off the northeastern coast of Sardinia, Italy. Known for its majestic limestone mountain rising from the sea, Tavolara is a place of extraordinary natural beauty and an important protected area.
The island, about 6 kilometers long and less than 1 kilometer wide, offers breathtaking views, crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling and diving, and unspoiled beaches for relaxation.
Tavolara also has a rich history, which includes local legends and the unique fact of being, for a short period, an independent kingdom under the Bertoleoni family.
Today, the island is part of the Tavolara-Punta Coda Cavallo Marine Protected Area, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Tavolara can only be reached by sea; you can get there by renting a boat or by purchasing the ferry ticket to Tavolara departing from Porto San Paolo.
With its unique charm and serene atmosphere, Tavolara is an ideal place for a relaxing escape immersed in nature.
Tourism numbers in Olbia (2025)
According to open data from the Tourism Observatory of the Sardinia Region, in 2025 Olbia recorded 362,778 arrivals. The busiest months: August (67,922 arrivals), July (65,960 arrivals), June (53,551 arrivals).
- August: 67,922 arrivals, 260,780 overnight stays
- July: 65,960 arrivals, 249,774 overnight stays
- June: 53,551 arrivals, 177,793 overnight stays
How to get to Tavolara?
There are several ways to reach Tavolara.
Tavolara is located about 10 kilometers from Porto San Paolo, therefore it can only be reached by renting inflatables, excursions, or by ferry.
Where to catch the ferry to Tavolara?
You can reach the island of Tavolara by taking a small ferry / shuttle departing from Porto San Paolo.
It's important to contact local services or transport providers to verify schedules, availability, and transfer options, as they may vary based on the season and local conditions.
How early should I arrive?
It's advisable to arrive a little early, even just to buy the ticket or for any boarding operations. The boarding process is usually quick, especially since the ferries are small.
How far is Tavolara from Porto San Paolo?
The island of Tavolara is located about 10 kilometers northeast of Porto San Paolo, which is one of the main departure points to reach the island.
How long does the ferry to Tavolara take?
The ferry to Tavolara departing from Porto San Paolo takes about 20 minutes.
How much does the ferry to Tavolara cost
The prices are for round trip
| Passenger | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults | € 20.00 |
| Children 4-10 | € 10.00 |
| Children 0-3 | Free |
Ferry timetable to Tavolara
Departure times
| DEPARTURES |
|---|
| 9:00 |
| 9:30 |
| 10:00 |
| 10:30 |
| 11:00 |
| 11:30 |
| 12:00 |
| 12:30 |
| 13:30 |
Return times
| RETURNS |
|---|
| 13:00 |
| 15:30 |
| 16:30 |
| 17:30 |
| 18:30 |
Where to buy ferry tickets to Tavolara
Porto San Paolo is a small seaside village, but it's important to remember that the ticket office where you can buy ferry tickets to Tavolara is just a few meters from the ferry boarding point. Check the map.
How to book the ferry to Tavolara
Booking tickets varies by operator: some allow online or phone bookings, while others require direct purchase at the ticket office. It’s always advisable to check in advance with the service provider or restaurant (if it's a transfer related to a restaurant reservation).
Where to catch the ferry to Tavolara
- buy your ticket at the ticket office at via Molara, 11
- go to the boarding point at via Caprera 13
Restaurant da Tonino Re di Tavolara
If you want to have lunch or dinner at a unique restaurant, this is definitely the Restaurant Da Tonino in Tavolara. The Restaurant da Tonino Re di Tavolara is located by the sea, surrounded by the natural landscape of the island of Tavolara, a sought-after destination for its stunning beauty. The staff and the delicious dishes offered are now famous and renowned. Fresh and genuine ingredients, carefully selected by the chef himself, turn the dishes into a true journey through the culinary history of the fishing tradition.
Restaurant da Tonino: where it is located
It is located right on the island of Tavolara, facing the ferry docking pier.
Ferry to the restaurant da Tonino Re di Tavolara
To reach the restaurant “Da Tonino Re di Tavolara” on the island of Tavolara, you can take a rented inflatable or the ferry that departs from Porto San Paolo.
If you want to get there by ferry, follow these instructions:
- book your dinner or lunch at the restaurant and inform them that you also want to book the ferry
- the ferry departs with a minimum number of passengers, so if this number is reached, the ferry will leave.
More information for the ferry to the restaurant da Tonino
Times
Departure 19:30
Return 22:30
Everything is done in collaboration between the Tavolara ferry company and the Restaurant da Tonino.
Costs
Ticket per person € 20