Boat trips La Maddalena Archipelago
Boat trips to La Maddalena are an incredible experience for anyone who wants to discover the beauty of Sardinia. La Maddalena is an archipelago of islands and islets located in the north-eastern part of Sardinia, in the heart of the Archipelago National Park of La Maddalena. This park was established in 1994 and its protected area covers approximately 180 km², of which 150 km² is sea.
Boat trips in the Magdalena offer a wide range of options, from one-day excursions to multi-day cruises. There are many types of boat trips to choose from, such as sailing boat trips, motor boat trips, boat trips with or without a skipper, boat trips with lunch on board, boat trips with snorkelling and many others. Boat trips in La Maddalena are suitable for all tastes and budgets, and there are many companies offering these services.
In short
- La Maddalena is an archipelago of islands and islets located in the north-eastern part of Sardinia, in the heart of the La Maddalena Archipelago National Park.
- There are many types of boat trips to choose from, such as sailing boat trips, motor boat trips, boat trips with or without a skipper, boat trips with lunch on board, boat trips with snorkelling and many others.
- Boat trips in La Maddalena are suitable for all tastes and budgets, and there are many companies offering these services.
Types of boat trips La Maddalena
There are different types of boat trips to La Maddalena, each with different characteristics and destinations. Here is an overview of the main options available:
Half-day tripshalf-day trips are the ideal choice for those who want to enjoy a short offshore experience without taking up too much time. They usually last about four hours and allow you to visit the most beautiful beaches in the area.
Full-day tripsfull-day trips are perfect for those who want to explore La Maddalena and the surrounding islands. They last about 8 hours and include stops for swimming and lunch on board.
Customised tripsSome companies offer the possibility of customising your trip according to your needs. You can choose the destinations, the duration and the activities to be performed during the day.
Boat trips La Maddalena: departures, timetables
Where the boat trips depart from
Boat trips to the La Maddalena Archipelago depart mainly from:
Palau
St. Teresa Gallura
Cannigione
Baja Sardinia
La Maddalena
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 best boats
Consorzio delle Bocche
Petagus
Luxury Virginia
Lady Moon
Dolphin Tours
are among the main boats making trips to the La Maddalena Archipelago
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.
How much are boat trip tickets La Maddalena
- Adult tickets: from € 40 to € 60
- Children's tickets: from € 20 to € 30
- Infant tickets: from € 0 20 to € 20
The cost varies depending on the duration of the excursion and the type of boat chosen.
For a 4-hour boat trip, prices range from 50 - 70 euro for boat trips around 100 100 - 150 euro from 50 euro per person for the boat excursions sailing
It is also possible to hire a dinghy in La Maddalena for a full day with and without a skipper. The price for a full day starts from 200 euro
You can book your place on board the Gite in Barca La Maddalena directly online, on the company's official website.
Please note that ticket prices usually increase during the high season months - July and August - and return lower in September.
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
When is the best time
Boat trips to La Maddalena are one of the most popular activities for tourists visiting northern Sardinia. However, choosing the best time of year for the boat trip is crucial to fully enjoy the experience.
The period for boat trips is from May to October. During these months, the summer climate makes boating and discovering the area pleasant and one can enjoy the beauty of the beaches.
However, it is important to keep in mind that in the high season (July and August) the area can become very crowded and prices can increase considerably. Therefore, if you want to avoid the crowds and save money, it is advisable to visit the area during the months of May, June and September.
Northern Sardinia in particular is buffeted by the Mistral, a cold wind blowing from the north. During these days, boats do not leave the harbour for the safety of passengers and the boats themselves. So book a boat trip online with free cancellation
What to bring for a boat trip
To best enjoy a boat trip to La Maddalena, keep these tips in mind:
ClothingIt is advisable to wear comfortable, light clothes, such as t-shirts, shorts and sandals. However, it is also important to carry a jumper or light jacket to cover yourself in case of wind or a drop in temperature.
Hat and sunscreenThe sun can be very strong at sea, so it is important to protect your head and skin with a hat and high-protection sun cream.
Water and foodIt is important to take enough water and food with you for the duration of the boat trip. It is advisable to bring light, easily digestible food such as fruit, sandwiches and snacks.
Towel and swimming costumeIf you plan to stop for a swim, it is important to bring a towel and a swimming costume.
Mask and finsIf you want to snorkel or swim near the coast, it is advisable to bring a mask and flippers.
Waterproof bagTo protect personal belongings from water, it is advisable to carry a waterproof bag.
The La Maddalena Islands
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
- Spargi (and Spargiotto) and its coves
- Budelli e la 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 Boniface. 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 at SpargiCala Santa Maria on the island of the same name and the Our Lady's Mantle, Coticcio Cove e La Spiaggia del Relitto a 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.
It is 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
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.
Spargi
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 from the evocative 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.
History of the Magdalene
La Maddalena is an island located in the north of Sardinia, opposite the Costa Smeralda. The island is named after the Maddalena, a Spanish ship that sank off the coast in 1583. Over the centuries, the island has been disputed by various European powers, including Spain, France and the Kingdom of Sardinia.
In the 19th century, La Maddalena became a naval base for the Italian Navy. During World War I, the island was used as a base for naval operations against the Austro-Hungarian Empire. During World War II, La Maddalena was occupied by German forces and used as a base for their submarines.
After the war, the island remained a naval base of the Italian Navy until 2008, when the base was closed and the island was returned to the local community. Today, La Maddalena is a popular tourist destination, with numerous white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The island is also famous for its cuisine, which includes fresh fish dishes and local specialities such as pane carasau and Sardinian pecorino cheese.
La Maddalena Archipelago National Park
It was established in 1994 and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. 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.
It consists of land and sea and covers about 19,000 hectares with over 180 km of coastline. It includes the La Maddalena Archipelago and the north-eastern coast of Sardinia.
It is divided into zones at different safeguard levels, the zoning of the Park.
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 peeping through the waters of the park.
The park is characterised by a wide variety of landscapes, ranging from white sandy beaches to sheer cliffs, from holm oak forests to posidonia meadows. Animal species in the park include the Corsican seagull, the sea turtle, the dolphin and the cormorant.
The park offers numerous activities for visitors, including boat excursionshiking or cycling, snorkelling, scuba diving and guided tours of sites in the area.
In summary, the La Maddalena Archipelago National Park is a unique place in the world, where nature and culture come together to offer visitors an unforgettable experience
Frequently asked questions
quick answers ⚡
How much does a boat trip to La Maddalena cost?
Prices for a boat trip to La Maddalena can vary depending on the type of boat and the duration. In general, prices for a typical half-day excursion start at around €50 per person, while a full-day excursion can be expected to cost around €80-€100 per person.
Motorboat excursions cost around €40-60 per person
Where do the excursions to La Maddalena depart from?
Boat excursions to La Maddalena depart from various locations on the north coast of Sardinia. The main ones are Palau, Santa Teresa di Gallura and Cannigione, Baja Sardinia
What can you see during the excursion?
Among the main points of interest to visit by boat in La Maddalena are the island of Budelli, famous for its pink beach, the island of Spargi, with its coves and inlets, and the island of Santa Maria, where the famous Conigli beach is located.
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:
- snorkelling mask
- 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'.
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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.