Boat trips La Maddalena Archipelago
Boat trips La Maddalena Archipelago
- The boat excursion to the Archipelago of La Maddalena is a must for anyone visiting Sardinia
- The trip lasts all day and there will be stops for beach runs and dives
- There are departures from PalauSt. Teresa Gallura and the main locations in northern Sardinia
- This tour is suitable for couples, families with children and groups
- Wear a swimming costume and bring your beach towel, sunscreen and hat.
- Bars, restaurants and other services can be found near the embarkation points.
Boat trips in the La Maddalena Archipelago usually depart from the port of Palau, Santa Teresa Gallura, Cannigione and Baja Sardinia. There are also tours departing from Porto Pollo and Poltu Quato. They vary in length, generally one day, and are conducted on board motorboats, yachts, sailboats or fast dinghies. They are suitable for everyone: families with children, couples and groups of friends on holiday. The most beautiful islands of Sardinia are easily reached with a few minutes of sailing.
Choose the departure port of your choice and begin your adventure.
Boat trips La Maddalena: departures, timetables
Where do we start?
Boats to see the archipelago leave from:
Palau
Santa Teresa Gallura
Cannigione
Baja Sardinia
La Maddalena
Some boats also depart from
Golfo Aranci
La Caletta
Orosei
What time do we leave?
Usually departures are from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. and return from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. It depends on the location of departure and the individual motor vessel operating the excursion.
It is necessary to arrive early - at least 30 minutes and 45 minutes in August - in order to be able to carry out all boarding check-in operations correctly.
What are the names of the motorboats that make the trip to the islands?
Petagus, Bocche Consortium, Luxury Virginia, Dolphin Tours are among the best known.
What is a motorboat?
A motorboat is a large boat that can accommodate 150 to 300 people.
They are also usually called small 'ferries" because their capacity is actually more similar to passenger transport than to a small pleasure boat.
Typically, the motor vessel has a deck with tables for dining and large windows to watch the scenery, and an open upper deck to enjoy the crossing and the sun.
To protect passengers during hot weather, they are often equipped with maxi canopies and covers.
Our selection of excursions, boat trips. See all.
La Maddalena boat trips: rates
How much does the boat tour to La Maddalena cost? It is possible to take a day trip by boat to La Maddalena at a very reasonable price.
How much do tickets cost?
- Adult tickets: from € 40 to € 60
- Children's tickets: from € 20 to € 30
- Infant tickets: from € 0 20 to € 20
Please note that ticket prices usually increase during the high season months - July and August - and return lower in September.
The price of the motorboat excursion, such as Petagus, Bocche Consortium, Lady Moon and others is always cheaper than private sailing excursions or the inflatable boat hire with skipper.
In fact, motor vessels can accommodate many people on board, thus keeping prices down and being more competitive.
There is no single price list for all boats, so prices may vary for certain services: for example, the price of the excursion with lunch on board costs more.
How much is the landing fee?
The landing tax is an environmental contribution that the Municipality of La Maddalena asks of any person visiting or landing on the minor islands of the Archipelago via scheduled connections or carriers for commercial purposes
The purpose of this contribution is to invest the money collected in the preservation and protection of the landscape.
Tariffs
May € 2.50
June € 5
July € 5
August € 5
September € 2.50
Children under 6 years of age do not pay landing fees
For more information go to the Municipality of La Maddalena
La Maddalena boat trips: frequently asked questions
During the excursion, is the territory described?
Yes, the captain or an audio guide will describe the itinerary and points of interest encountered during the excursion.
On some motor ships it is possible to listen to descriptions via geolocalised app and earphones.
This service is usually multilingual.
Where can I find parking in Palau?
The place for parking differs depending on which port you choose for departure. However, we recommend that you arrive at the port of departure well in advance so that you can park your car in a suitable place and not incur unpleasant penalties.
Palau
There are pay car parks with columns near the embarkation point, so bring coins for the parking meter.
Cannigione
In front of the harbour you can find a square with paid parking spaces.
Santa teresa Gallura
There are not many parking spaces, so we recommend that you arrive early enough to find a parking space and check in without rushing.
Baja Sardinia
You can find free and paid parking spaces a few hundred metres from the port, in the pine forest.
Always check each activity's card for up-to-date location information.
Is there shade on the boat?
Motor ships are much more than boats, they are almost miniature ferries.
The upper deck is uncovered to enjoy the scenery and fine weather but there are maxi awnings that the crew open to protect passengers from the sun during the hottest hours.
What should I bring?
Take with you:
- swimming costume
- beach towel
- sunscreen
- sunglasses
Some motor vessels provide free of charge:
- mask snorkelling
- parasol
Check whether the ticket you are buying includes these services or not.
We recommend that you also bring a long-sleeved T-shirt because after a sunny day, you may suffer from the temperature difference on the way back. In general, bring what you think is appropriate for a day at the beach.
Can I bring food from home?
Of course, there is no problem.
You can easily bring your favourite food from home to make lunch or a snack.
On most motorboats, however, it is possible to buy lunch on board with starters, main course and coffee.
Is there a bar on board?
Yes, there is a bar on board with sandwiches, snacks, coffee and drinks.
Usually these products are not included in the cost of the ticket. Some motor ships are very environmentally conscious and have abandoned the use of plastic and use only compostable and recyclable products.
Is there a toilet on board?
Yes, there is an on-board toilet.
There is usually a ladies' and gents' bathroom
Is the trip suitable for everyone?
This hike is suitable for everyone. It is perfect for all ages, great for families with children, groups of friends, couples, solo travellers.
You can choose your type of excursion and decide whether you want to book an exclusive boat or book a ticket and share this experience with other travellers.
We suggest you check the 'important information' section of each activity so that you can choose the trip and the provider that best suits your needs.
Is it possible to bathe during the trip?
Of course! It would be a real shame not to swim in this corner of paradise! Each type of excursion includes several bathing stops - usually 3 or 4 - to allow you to relax and fully enjoy a day on a boat in the Maddalena Park.
Some motor vessels are equipped with a 'stern beach', so you can bathe by diving directly from the boat
What is the recommended clothing for the hike?
We recommend that you bring a swimming costume and a towel, for swimming during the stops in the most beautiful bays of the Archipelago. If you feel like it, take a jumper with you as well, it might be useful for the return trip. Don't forget sunglasses or a hat! In short, bring with you what you would bring for a day at the beach.
Is it possible to go down to the beach?
Yes, the itineraries always include stops at the beach.
There are usually 3-4 stops depending on the location of departure and the individual motor vessel making the excursion.
In addition, there will always be a stop for lunch
How do you get down to the beach?
The beaches can be reached by footbridge or on a tender (a small dinghy).
Motorboats are always organised and prepared to provide maximum comfort for passengers of all ages.
Can I bring my dog on board?
Generally, yes.
For many operators, animals are welcome guests on board, as long as they are well-behaved and small in size.
However, it may happen that in August you are not allowed to bring your pet because the heat and the many people in the area may make your pet nervous.
We recommend that you check the description of the individual activity or use the filters by selecting 'pets allowed'.
Boat trips La Maddalena: what you can see
During a holiday in Sardinia, a boat trip to the islands is a must: the tour in the La Maddalena Park is one of the must-do excursions.
The Archipelago is rich in attractions, culture, history, nature and outdoor sports activities.
The boat tour to the islands allows you to visit the La Maddalena Archipelago National Park with its 7 sisters:
- La Maddalena, Little Paris
- Caprera and Garibaldi
- Santo Stefano and the military base
- Spread (and Spargiotto) and its coves
- Budelli and the Spiaggia rosa
- Santa Maria with the Port of Our Lady
- Razzoli and the lighthouse
Where is the La Maddalena Archipelago?
L'La Maddalena Archipelago is located in the north-east of Sardinia near the Bocche di Bonifacio. It consists of a multitude of islands, islets and rocks, and is dotted with bays and white sandy beaches. These granite outcrops are surrounded by an enchanting sea, what the whole world knows as the wonderful sea of Sardinia.
What are the most beautiful beaches on La Maddalena?
It is difficult to say which is the most beautiful beach in the La Maddalena Archipelago: each island is renowned for the incredible beauty of its sea and bays. Among the most famous beaches, one cannot fail to mention La Spiaggia rosa in Budelli, Cala Granara and Cala Corsara in Spargi, Cala Santa Maria on the island of the same name and the Our Lady's MantleCala Coticcio and La Spiaggia del Relitto in Caprera, Cala Lunga in Razzoli. Each view is truly evocative and unique. Each trip is designed and structured to allow you to appreciate all the places you visit during the day.
Is it possible to see the pink beach?
Access to the pink beach has been prohibited since 1998. Find out more about the pink beach
La Maddalena boat trips: how to book
There are two ways to book your excursion:
- Buy the excursion directly at the port
- Buying the excursion online
Buy directly at the port
It is certainly not the most convenient and fastest solution, but it is certainly feasible. Let's see what the advantages and disadvantages are
The boats up close
Taking the boat trips that depart from Palau as an example, you will find along the tourist harbour road many boats ready to set sail for the archipelago, and among boats, mini-ferries, motorboats, gozzi, sailboats you will surely be spoilt for choice
Payment in cash
Buying the excursion directly at the port is a solution if you do not have a credit card or Paypal because you can pay in cash.
Last second
Also, buying in port is a good idea if you don't know quite what to do during the day and attempt a last-second experience
Buying the excursion online
Your place is guaranteed
If you are in Sardinia in May or in the first half of June, this risk is less frequent, but if you intend to see the archipelago in the middle and high season months - late June, July and August - booking online means you are guaranteed a place on board.
During these months, Sardinia hosts a lot of tourists and to be able to make such a coveted excursion, it is necessary to book online in advance
Discounted prices
There is also another advantage to booking online: boats, motorboats, often have discounted prices that are only valid online
Eco-friendly tickets
Another advantage of booking online is the ticket management. In fact, by buying online you will receive your ticket via email and will not need to print it out at all. In this way you reduce paper consumption and adopt a green attitude
Fast refunds
It may happen that the excursion is cancelled. In the event of bad weather, the boat captain cancels the excursion to ensure the safety of the passengers and the integrity of the boat.
So what happens to your payment? Usually, tour organisers offer you two solutions:
1. make the excursion on another date
2.request reimbursement
If you have paid online and will also be in Sardinia for the next few days, you can easily arrange another departure date.
If, on the other hand, you have already scheduled other appointments and request a refund, this is made directly to your payment account (credit card, bank account, Paypal etc.).
In this case, therefore, you will not have to go to the box office to collect your refund in cash because you will receive your credit directly online
La Maddalena and the Islands of the Archipelago
La Maddalena
The island of La Maddalena, from which the park takes its name, is the largest of the more than 60 islands and islets that make up the archipelago.
On the island is the country La Maddalena known as 'La Petite Paris', is a seaside village considered to be one of the most beautiful and evocative in Sardinia thanks to its architectural elements of absolute value and prominence.
Frequented since prehistoric times, it began to be more densely populated around the end of the 1700s. The island has historically always had an important due to its strategic position in the Mediterranean Sea.
In 1973 it was the scene of an attempted invasion by the French army led by Napoleon Bonaparte.
Domenico Millelire in command of the Sardinian fleet drove the French back, convincing them to desist from the enterprise.
On the island there is French Covevery important granite quarry remained active until 1930. It seems that the granite extracted in these excavations was used to make numerous works, including the Ismailia monument placed at the defence of the Suez Canal in Egypt and the tomb of Clelia the eldest daughter of Giuseppe Garibaldi hero of two worlds.
Caprera
The island of Caprera is the second largest in the archipelago and is connected to the island of La Maddalena by a bridge.
It boasts a small settlementthe village of Stagnali, and is famous for hosting Giuseppe Garibaldi in the last years of his life.
On the island is the Garibaldi Compendium where you can visit the Garibaldi's House, the General's Tomb and the Garibaldi Memorial Museum.
A Caprera is also home to the prestigious Caprera Sailing Centre where one learns about real sea sailing aboard high-performance boats and dinghies in what is considered a paradise on earth.
The coastline is one of the most renowned and beautiful beaches on the island include the enchanting Wreck Beach south-east and the wonderful Coticcio Cove northeast.
La maquisThe pine forests that cover it and the juniper and holm oak woods create a magical atmosphere with a characteristic intense scent of nature that cannot be forgotten.
St Stephen's
On the island of Santo Stefano is the famous Villamarina granite quarry active until the mid-1900s.
You can also admire what remains of the US Navy base now disused that characterised the archipelago in the second half of the 20th century.
Spread
Scatter a beautiful island in the Park on which there are remains of shepherds' settlements.
On the north, east and south sides are some of the most beautiful bays: Cala Bonifazzinca. Cala Ferrigno, Cala dell'Amore, Cala Granara, Cala Corsara and Cala Connari.
The beaches of Spargi are coves of white sand surrounded by large granite rocks with a lush vegetation of maquis.
On the north side there are fortifications cleverly hidden among the rocks and vegetation.
The western side of the island is characterised by the cliffsthe slope facing the Mistral that crosses the Gulf of Lion and reaches the Bocche di Bonifacio.
Next to Spargi is Spargiotto, a minor islet of particular environmental importance on which the Corsican Seagull and the Bird of Storms.
Budelli
The island of Budelli is located north of Spargi and is predominantly uninhabitedexcept for the caretaker of the Pink Beach.
Budelli is home to the park's symbol, the famous Spiaggia rosa a true natural monument. The colour of the sand is mainly given by skeletons of bryozoans (mainly Myriapora truncata) and foraminifera (mainly Miniacin miniacea) that give the sand an intense texture.
The pink beach's notoriety is also due to some scenes from the film Deserto Rosso by Michelangelo Antonioni.
This area enjoys the full protectionIt is not possible to get to the pink beach because, in order to preserve its beauty and protect its delicate ecosystem, access to the beach is not allowed.
Santa Maria
The island of Santa Maria is home to a very small cluster of houses and owes its name to the medieval convent of St Mary formerly inhabited by Benedictine monks.
The island has a lovely beach located to the south-east, Cala Santa Maria. To the west, however, it is practically connected to the island of Razzoli by the suggestive Passo degli Asinelli.
In the tranquillity of these places the prestigious screenwriter Franco Solinas has written some of the most important films in Italian cinema.
The stretch of sea bordered by Budelli, Razzoli and Santa Maria is called Port of Our Lady, unequivocally one of the most attractive places in the park. It is a lagoon with enchanting water that offers shelter from virtually any wind.
Razzoli
The island of Razzoli is uninhabited, among those in the park is furthest the Sardinian coast between the islands of the park. It overlooks the stretch of sea known as the Mouths of Boniface.
It is characterised by sparse vegetation and moulded rocks that take on the strangest shapes. Cala Lunga is a charming natural inlet from which a short walk leads to the 19th-century lighthouseancient protection of the passage in the mouths.
The La Maddalena Archipelago National Park
Established in l994, it is a geomarine park created with the intention of implementing significant interventions within the protection, preservation and enhancement of the coastal and maritime territory.
Its surface area is made up of land and sea and covers approximately 19,000 hectares with over 180 km of coastline. It is divided into zones with different levels of protection, the Park's zoning
The National Park and its islands are characterised by the vegetation typical of the Mediterranean coastal strip, strongly influenced by the presence of wind, water scarcity, aridity of substrates and strong sunlight: the macchia.
The main exponents represented in the park are the juniper, arbutusthe mastic tree, the myrtlecistus and euphorbia.
The terrestrial fauna is characterised by the presence of numerous amphibians, reptiles and small-mediums mammals.
The avifauna includes many bird species, typical of the central-western Mediterranean islands, both breeding and migratory. Worth mentioning is the Corsican gull, the herring gull, the bird of storms, the tufted plover, the cormorant, the tern, the greater tern and the lesser tern.
Among the marine fauna, mention must certainly be made of the Pinna nobilis (a bivalve shell that can reach up to one metre in height), the brown grouper, the corvina and the seabream. Together with the large cartilaginous fish even the large marine mammals, such as dolphins and minke whales, often peep through the waters of the park.
2 comments
Does the Magdalena also stop?
There is no rule, it depends on the tours. Some also stop at La Maddalena, others do not. Check the specific itineraries of each boat.