Boat Tours Cala Gonone
Are you wondering why everyone is talking about boat tours in Cala Gonone? This article will guide you through the wonders of the Gulf of Orosei, with useful tips on how to plan your experience, what to see, and what to expect. If you love the crystal-clear sea, wild beaches, and an adventure full of discovery and fun, keep reading.
Boat Tours Cala Gonone: where they depart from
The tours in Cala Gonone mainly depart from the Cala Gonone tourist port, located in the heart of the village. This port is the reference point for boat tours in the Gulf of Orosei. Here you will find several companies ready to offer you a wide range of options, including:
Mini cruises organized on motorboats.
RIB rental to explore the bays independently.
Tours on sailboats for those looking for a unique experience.
The port is easily reachable by both car and on foot, and offers nearby parking for those coming from outside. From here, tours head directly to the most spectacular coves, such as Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu, Cala Sisine, Cala Goloritzé, and to famous caves like the Bue Marino Cave.
Boat Tours Cala Gonone: prices
The prices for tours in Cala Gonone vary based on the type of experience chosen. Here’s an overview:
RIB rental: The price for renting a RIB starts at around 80 euros per day, but fuel is generally not included in the price.
Boat trips on a motorboat: Motorboat trips, which offer a more comfortable and organized experience, cost around 40-50 euros per person. These tours usually include beach stops and visits to the caves.
Mini cruise on a sailboat: If you want a more particular experience, a mini cruise on a sailboat costs around 60-80 euros per person, depending on the duration and included services.
Make sure to check what is included in the price at the time of booking, such as stops at beaches and visits to caves, to avoid surprises.
What makes the Gulf of Orosei unique?
The Gulf of Orosei is one of the most spectacular stretches of coastline in Sardinia. The stunning limestone cliffs eroded by the sea, the crystal-clear waters, and the hidden bays make it a paradise for nature lovers. The beaches, accessible only by sea or through challenging treks, provide a truly unique experience.
Here, you will find dreamlike bays such as Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu, Cala Sisine, and Cala Goloritzé, each with its own unique charm. To complete the picture, there is the opportunity to visit spectacular caves like the Bue Marino Cave and the Fico Cave.
How to book a tour in Cala Gonone?
Booking a boat tour in Cala Gonone is simple and quick. You can do it:
- Online, through the official websites of companies offering tours.
- Via WhatsApp, a convenient option to receive all necessary information.
- Directly at the Cala Gonone port, where you will find operators ready to help you organize your day.
Tip: Book in advance, especially during high season, to secure your spot on board.
Should you rent a RIB or take a mini cruise?
The choice between renting a RIB or taking a mini cruise depends entirely on the type of experience you are looking for!
If you’re in adventure mode, the RIB is perfect for you. It’s super flexible: you can go wherever you want, stop at the beach whenever you please, explore hidden coves, and experience the adventure with total freedom. And the best part? You can do it without a boating license! It’s a top choice if you want to set the pace of the day and are looking for a bit of adrenaline.
If instead you wish to relax and enjoy a day of pure beauty without worrying about anything, the mini cruise on a boat is the way to go. The boat takes you along the Gulf of Orosei, stops at the most iconic beaches, and allows you to visit the caves without stress. You can take a dip in the crystal-clear waters and discover a bit of everything while enjoying the scenery. Perfect if you want a more leisurely experience, perhaps with some comfort, snacks on board, and no worries.
So, if you want freedom and a bit of adrenaline, go for the RIB! If you prefer relaxation and breathtaking views, the mini cruise is the best choice.
What to see during a tour in the Gulf of Orosei?
The Gulf of Orosei is a true hidden paradise of Sardinia, with its wild beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking scenery. Here’s a description of the most famous beaches, each unique in its own way and perfect for those seeking adventure, tranquility, or simply a dip in dream waters.
Cala Luna
One of the most iconic beaches in Sardinia, Cala Luna is famous for its natural cavities and caves that open directly onto the white sand. The turquoise waters make it a perfect place for swimming or snorkeling. In summer, the beach can be quite crowded, but the view remains incredible. If your idea of a vacation is exploring and discovering, Cala Luna is a must.
Cala Sisine
This is one of the less accessible beaches, but just for that reason, it is one of the most peaceful. Cala Sisine is a paradise corner, surrounded by high cliffs and lush vegetation. The waters are clear and perfect for swimming. It’s the ideal place if you are looking for a day away from the crowd, enjoying peace and natural beauty. Perfect for lovers of unspoiled nature.
Cala Biriola
Accessible only by sea or through a challenging trek, Cala Biriola is a small gem of the Gulf of Orosei. The beach is a mix of sand and white pebbles, while the water takes on an incredible emerald color. It’s also famous for its intimate and less touristy atmosphere. For those looking for a getaway from the hustle, Cala Biriola is ideal. The combination of tranquility and natural beauty makes it a destination not to be missed.
Cala Mariolu
Also known as the “Beach of 1000 Colors”, Cala Mariolu is famous for its incredibly clear waters and a seabed rich in marine life. The white rocks and pebbles create a unique atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for snorkeling and free diving. The crystal-clear waters and the abundance of fish make this beach one of the most scenic places in the Gulf of Orosei.
Cala Goloritzè
Cala Goloritzè is undoubtedly one of the most well-known and appreciated beaches in Sardinia, not only for its beauty but also for its history. Reachable only by sea or through a trek, the beach is dominated by the impressive rocky arch, a natural formation that has earned the nickname “pearl of the Gulf of Orosei”. The crystal-clear water, sandy bottom, and wild scenery are the perfect combination for a day of relaxation or an excursion.
Cala Scirocco
This beach is a bit more difficult to reach, but the views it offers are unforgettable. Cala Scirocco is a small bay surrounded by cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation, with warm and transparent waters. It’s the ideal spot for those looking for a hidden and wild corner of the Gulf of Orosei, away from the hustle. A paradise for those who love to swim in tranquility and without too many people around.
Cala Tramontana
The beach of Cala Tramontana is known for its strategic location and natural charm. It is more difficult to reach compared to other beaches in the area, but once you arrive, you will be rewarded with spectacular views and an atmosphere of pure serenity. The water is a deep blue, perfect for a refreshing dip, while the fine white sand invites relaxation. If you are looking for a beach that combines natural beauty and tranquility, Cala Tramontana is the right place.
Bue Marino Cave
This cave, once a refuge for monk seals, is famous for its unseen light play and majestic stalactites. Visiting the cave is like taking a journey back in time.
How much does a boat tour in Cala Gonone cost?
The prices for tours in Cala Gonone vary depending on the type of experience you choose, so it’s important to understand what each option includes to make the right choice for your budget.
RIB rental: If you decide to rent a RIB, prices range from 90 to 150 euros per day (depending on the season and the size of the RIB). Some rentals include fuel, but often it’s excluded, so it’s good to check in advance. This allows you to explore with total freedom, but remember that you will need to return by the set time.
Mini cruise on a boat: For a more structured experience, a mini cruise on a boat can cost between 40 and 70 euros per person, with some offers also including lunch or snacks on board. During the tour, you will visit the most famous beaches such as Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu, and Cala Sisine, in addition to making a stop at natural caves like the Bue Marino Cave. These excursions are perfect if you prefer to relax and let the boat take you along the gulf.
Boat trips on a motorboat: If you are looking for a more comfortable solution for groups, the cost for a boat trip on a motorboat ranges from 40 to 50 euros per person. This type of excursion offers a longer visit of the gulf and usually includes multiple stops for swimming and exploring the beaches.
So, if you’re in the mood for a super flexible day, the RIB is the right choice. If you want an organized experience with some extras, like the possibility of swimming in the caves and enjoying the landscape, the mini cruise could be your ideal option!
How to organize the perfect boat tour?
To make the most of your tour in Cala Gonone, here are a few useful tips:
- Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to hike in the coves.
- Don’t forget your mask and snorkel to admire the spectacular underwater scenery.
How long does a tour in the Gulf of Orosei last?
Boat tours generally last the whole day, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Some tours offer shorter options, but to truly explore all the pearls of the Gulf, a full day is ideal.
How to contact the companies for information or bookings?
If you have questions or want to book, you can easily contact the companies through their websites or social channels. Some also offer assistance via WhatsApp, making everything simpler and faster.
Why choose Cala Gonone for a boat trip?
Cala Gonone is the gateway to explore the Gulf of Orosei and its spectacular coves. In addition to the natural beauty, the experience of sailing along a unique stretch of coastline will make your vacation unforgettable.
Final summary: what to remember?
- Booking in advance is essential, especially during high season.
- Choose the transport that suits you best: RIB, motorboat, or sailboat.
- Don’t miss Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu, Cala Sisine, and the Bue Marino Cave.
- Bring the essentials for a day at the sea: water, sun protection, and snorkeling equipment.
- Excursions generally last all day, but there are also shorter options available.
Whether you choose a RIB without a license, a mini cruise on a sailboat, or a comfortable motorboat, the excursion in the Gulf of Orosei will be one of the highlights of your vacation in Sardinia!
Frequently asked questions
1. How much does a boat tour in Cala Gonone cost?
Prices vary depending on the type of tour, but typically start from 40-50 euros per person for a boat trip, and from 90-150 euros to rent a dinghy. Don’t forget that some tours also include lunch or snacks, so always check what’s included!
2. Can I rent a dinghy without a license?
Yes, no worries! You can rent a dinghy without a license, as long as it’s under 40 horsepower. It’s super convenient because you can explore the most beautiful beaches of the Gulf of Orosei with complete freedom.
3. Where do the excursions to Cala Gonone depart from?
All excursions depart from the port of Cala Gonone, which is the main departure point for exploring the gulf. If you arrive by car, there’s parking right near the port!
4. How long does a boat excursion last?
Boat excursions in Cala Gonone generally last from 4 to 8 hours, depending on the tour. If you take a mini-cruise, you’re in for a full day of sailing!
5. What will I see during the boat excursion?
You will see dreamy beaches such as Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu, and Cala Sisine. In addition, you'll have the opportunity to stop at the caves like the famous Bue Marino Cave. In short, a sea experience that will leave you speechless.
6. Can I go snorkeling during the excursion?
Absolutely yes! The crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Orosei are perfect for snorkeling. Bring your mask and snorkel and get ready to explore incredible seabeds.
7. How do I book an excursion to Cala Gonone?
You can book directly at the port of Cala Gonone, or in advance online on the excursion companies’ websites. If you want, some allow you to book through WhatsApp, which is super convenient!
8. What does the price of an excursion include?
Usually, the price includes the boat trip and stops at some of the most beautiful beaches. Some tours also offer lunch or snacks on board, while for dinghy rentals, you'll need to consider fuel separately.
9. Can I bring my dog on the boat excursion?
It depends on the company! Some allow dogs on board, but always by reservation. If you’re traveling with your furry friend, it’s best to ask in advance.
10. How do I get to Cala Gonone if I arrive from Alghero or Cagliari?
If you’re coming from Alghero, it will take you about 2 and a half hours by car. From Cagliari, it takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. In any case, once you arrive in Cala Gonone, you will easily find the port from which all excursions depart!
Boat Trips in the Gulf of Orosei
- The Gulf of Orosei is located in Sardinia on the east coast and is easily reachable from Olbia, Nuoro, Arbatax, and Santa Maria Navarrese
- From Cala Gonone trips, excursions, and dinghy rentals depart to visit the entire gulf and its enchanting bays
- The town and port are rich in services, bars, and restaurants
- Rich in services even until late October
Boat Trips in the Gulf of Orosei: How Much Do They Cost?
How much does a ticket for the Gulf of Orosei cost?
- Adult tickets: from € 30 to € 100
- Children tickets: from € 10 to € 30
- Infants tickets: free
The fare varies depending on the duration of the excursion, the type of boat used, the departure port, seasonality, and the services offered.
For example, mini-cruises with the motorboat are cheaper than yachts or excursions in dinghies with a skipper.
The prices are indicative and not binding. Select the type of excursion you prefer to know the official price.
Where do we depart from?
Excursions depart from Cala Gonone, Santa Maria Navarrese, and Arbatax
What time do the departures take place?
Usually, departures are from 9 to 10 AM and returns are scheduled between 5 and 6 PM. It depends on the departure location and the individual motorboat operating the excursion.
You need to arrive early – at least 30 minutes and 45 minutes in August – to properly carry out all check-in procedures before boarding.
What are the boats called for seeing the Gulf of Orosei?
Agostino Charter, Consortium of Cala Gonone Renters, New Consortium of Maritime Transport, Ogliastra Tourism are among the most well-known companies.
You can choose from motorboats, yachts, guided excursions with a skipper, and dinghy rentals.
How much does a ticket for the Gulf of Orosei cost?
- Adult tickets: from € 30 to € 100
- Children tickets: from € 10 to € 30
- Infants tickets: free
The fare varies depending on the duration of the excursion, the type of boat used, the departure port, seasonality, and the services offered.
For example, mini-cruises with the motorboat are cheaper than yachts or excursions in dinghies with a skipper.
The prices are indicative and not binding. Select the type of excursion you prefer to know the official price.
Is it possible to see the Bue Marino Caves?
During almost all boat trips, a stop at the Bue Marino Caves is included.
Please note that the visit is usually optional and subject to an additional fee.
How much does a ticket for the Bue Marino Caves cost?
The ticket price for entry to the Bue Marino Caves is generally not included in the price of the boat trip. The Bue Marino Caves are managed directly by the Municipality of Dorgali, which organizes guided tours with guides who will explain their wonders. The ticket price must be paid directly at the cave ticket office and is about € 8-10 for adults and half for reduced tickets.
Gulf of Orosei: What to See
The most famous coves in the Gulf of Orosei are:
- Cala Luna
- Cala Sisine
- Cala Biriola
- Cala Mariolu
- Cala Goloritzé
- Cala Scirocco
- Cala Tramontana
The Gulf of Orosei is located on the center-eastern coast of Sardinia. It is bounded to the north by Capo Comino near Siniscola and La Caletta. To the south, it is bordered by Capo Monte Santo near Santa Maria Navarrese and Arbatax.
It is easily reachable from Olbia, Budoni, Dorgali, Arbatax, Baunei, and Santa Maria Navarrese via the S.S. 125 national road. To reach the Gulf of Orosei from other cities in Sardinia like Nuoro, Cagliari, Oristano, and Sassari, you can take the S.S. 127 DCN.
In the gulf, you will find the town of Orosei, which gives its name to the gulf, and the village of Cala Gonone, a fraction of the Municipality of Dorgali. The Gulf of Orosei stretches over 60 km of unspoiled and wild coastlines, with cliffs plunging into the sea and fine white sand beaches.
Cala Luna
The beach of Cala Luna has a mixed bottom of very light sand and pebbles with transparent waters of dazzling blue. Behind the beach, there is a small natural lagoon nestled in a delightful grove of oleanders and Mediterranean scrub. Near the beach, there are openings to large caves that are very well-known among climbers who scale the cliffs every day of the year.
Cala Sisine
This cove opens at the end of a river gorge, a codula that originates on the plateau of Golgo, in the Supramonte of Baunei. Set between splendid cliffs, it extends for about 200 meters and is known for its play of light and the incredibly turquoise color of the water.
Cala Biriola
Indigo water that experiments with all shades of blue, dominated by a sheer cliff and a forest of junipers, holm oaks, and Mediterranean scrub.
Cala Mariolu
It seems that the name of this cove is attributed to the monk seal that once stole fish from fishermen, hence the name mariolo (thief). Characterized by crystal-clear shallow waters and surrounded by cliffs over 500 meters high.
Cala Goloritzè
Cala Goloritzè is a National Natural Monument. The beach is famous for its stunning limestone arch and for the Guglia, a limestone monolith about 140 meters high that towers above the small bay. The Guglia of Goloritzè is a natural spectacle as well as a highly sought-after destination for climbers. It is also known because a famous biker performed over 70 consecutive wheelies on the rear wheel of his bike in a space just sufficient to contain the entire bicycle. The beach is made up of tiny white pebbles, and navigation near the beach is prohibited to preserve its integrity.
Cala Scirocco
One of the Fjords of Capo Monte Santo, the southern limit of the Gulf of Orosei. Portu Quau, its name meaning hidden port exposed to the wind blowing from the southeast, is an extremely evocative natural fjord.
Cala Tramontana
Portu Pedrosu is a charming fjord of Capo Monte Santo, its name meaning rocky port exposed to winds that blow from the north. The bay is characterized by ancient junipers, white stones, and emerald-colored water.
Cala Gonone and the Monk Seal
Cala Gonone is a town in Sardinia located on the coast of the municipality of Dorgali. It is an ancient and very charming village, an important seaside and tourist center of the east coast with a historic fishermen's port. Cala Gonone deserves special mention for the presence of the Grotta del Bue Marino which once housed the monk seal.
The Monachus monachus – monk seal or sea cow – is a mammal of the pinniped superfamily that spends most of its life in the sea and on isolated beaches. Once its range of distribution covered the entire Mediterranean Sea. Due to its gentle nature and ease of domestication, many specimens were captured and used in circus acts. Due to other simultaneous misfortunes, the range of the monk seal has gradually decreased, drastically reducing its population. Currently, monk seal colonies are reported in Greece, Turkey, Madeira, and a few other places in the Mediterranean. Occasionally, sporadic sightings of monk seals are reported in Italy: Sicily, Sardinia, Tuscany, and Apulia.
The Grotte del Bue Marino in the territory of Dorgali near Cala Gonone were established, not only for their beauty and uniqueness, but with the intent to preserve the remaining monk seal specimens. Currently, the Grotte del Bue Marino are managed by the Municipality of Dorgali, which organizes guided tours. Departures for the visit to the Grotte del Bue Marino are from Cala Gonone, and depending on the season, there are multiple departures throughout the day.
National Park of the Gulf of Orosei and Gennargentu
Established in 1998, the National Park of the Gulf of Orosei and Gennargentu mainly extends in the province of Nuoro, roughly comprising parts of the municipal territories of Aritzo, Arzana, Baunei, Desulo, Dorgali, Fonni, Gairo, Oliena, Orgosolo, Seui, Talana, Urzulei, Ussassai, Villagrande Strisaili.
The natural area of the Gulf of Orosei and Gennargentu Park includes geographical territories with the most varied characteristics: mountains, plateaus, cliffs, and beautiful beaches. It includes the mountainous area of Punta La Marmora, the highest mountain in Sardinia at 1,830 meters.
The Gennargentu mountain range and the coast of the Gulf of Orosei include flora and fauna typical of Mediterranean coastal areas and the highest mountainous regions. Among the notable plant species are poplar, alder, yew, juniper, holm oak, and cork oak, carob, myrtle, and mastic.
Among the terrestrial fauna, one can spot Sardinian deer, mouflon, wild boar, fox, hare, dormouse, salamander, discoglosso, gongilo. The birdlife is incredibly rich, with frequent sightings of golden eagle, kestrel, peregrine falcon, barn owl, little owl, kingfisher, storm petrel, tern, and Corsican gull.
In the park’s territories, in Barbagia and Ogliastra, there are many paths and famous trekking routes of the Supramonte. The “Selvaggio Blu,” one of the most well-known treks in the world, is located right in this area.