The gulf of Olbia and the coast stretching from Tavolara to Costa Smeralda are best explored from the sea. Here you'll find all the boat trips departing from Olbia and its surroundings: from group tours on motorboats to sunset sailing cruises, and evening outings for dolphin watching.
Group tours are the most economical choice (39-85€ per person) and cover all the classic itineraries. If you're traveling with family or a group, consider a private tour: by splitting the cost of the boat among 8-10 people, the price difference decreases, and you gain total flexibility on timings and stops.
All trips include fuel, skipper, and crew. Most also offer snorkeling equipment and an aperitif or lunch on board: check the 'Highlights' section of each experience for details on what's included in the price.
Three routes dominate departures from the gulf. The first heads southeast towards Tavolara and Molara, within the Marine Protected Area: it's the snorkeling and turquoise water route. The second heads north, along the coast of Golfo Aranci to Porto Rotondo and Costa Smeralda: it's the sunset aperitif itinerary, with the pink granite coast glowing as the sun sets. The third stays within the gulf, among mussel farms and calm waters where dolphins live: it's the most suitable for families and those who fear choppy seas.
Short outings (dolphin watching, sunset aperitif) last 2-3 hours and leave the day free for the beach. Half-day trips (5-6 hours, like the Tavolara tour) include two or three swimming stops and often an aperitif. Full-day trips (7-8 hours) reach the archipelago or Costa Smeralda with lunch on board: they are the most complete but require stable weather conditions and some experience with boating.
Outings in the gulf of Olbia (dolphins, fisherman's lunch) sail in protected waters and are the calmest. Avoid days with strong north winds and prefer morning departures when the sea is calmer.
It depends on the boat: inflatable boats and fast boats carry 10-14 guests, catamarans around 24, and motorboats even 80-100. If you're looking for an intimate atmosphere, check the maximum number of participants indicated in each experience before booking.
Yes: birthdays, marriage proposals, and corporate outings are frequent requests. Private tours start from around 590€ per boat and include a skipper and fuel; aperitifs and setups are agreed directly with the operator.
The inner gulf is among the calmest sea areas in Sardinia: dolphin outings and tours among the farms are also suitable for the most sensitive. For external routes (Tavolara, Costa Smeralda), choose early morning and sit at the back, where the movement is felt less.