Palau is the port with the most daily departures to the La Maddalena Archipelago, but it also offers experiences different from the classic tour: kayaking under the Bear Rock, private inflatables with a skipper, and rental without a license for independent exploration.
The ferry (55€ with lunch) is the worry-free choice. Renting an inflatable without a license (180€ per day, up to 6 people) is worth it with just 3-4 people and provides the freedom to choose the coves: the initial map briefing makes navigation easy even for first-timers.
Palau is the only port in the area where kayaking takes center stage: the outing at Capo d'Orso follows granite coastlines shaped by the wind until reaching the famous rock, with snorkeling stops in coves accessible only from the water. Those preferring autonomy can rent an inflatable without a license: the initial briefing with a map of the coves makes the first outing easy, and the range covers Spargi and Santa Maria. At sunset, hiking to the Fortezza di Monte Altura or the Bear Rock ends the day with the most beautiful view of the Bonifacio Strait.
Palau is the windiest spot on the coast: an advantage in summer, when the mistral cools things down, but a factor to consider for kayaks and inflatables. Check the wind forecast the evening before: under 15 knots, all activities are comfortable. The parking areas near the port fill up by 9 AM in August: arrive early or use the long-term parking at the entrance of the town. Afternoon departures of ferries, where available, are often less crowded than those in the morning.
Yes: the route hugs the shore in protected waters and the guide adjusts the pace to the group. Only a minimal level of fitness and a willingness to paddle for a couple of hours are required.
About 15€ round trip per person, car excluded; ferries depart every 30 minutes from early morning until night. For the archipelago tour only, it’s not needed: excursions leave directly from the port of Palau.
With a 40 HP without a license, you can comfortably reach Spargi, Budelli, and Santa Maria: the classic tour of the archipelago on your own. The initial briefing indicates the anchoring zones allowed by the Park and those prohibited: respect them, as checks are frequent in high season.
Yes, in high season: some ferries offer half-day afternoon trips and private inflatables also go out for sunset. However, the widest choice remains in the morning, with departures between 9 and 10:30.