A fast inflatable boat whisks you from Palau into the Maddalena National Park for six hours of snorkeling, beachtime and coastal cruising. Visit Spargi, Budelli, Santa Maria and Caprera with a local skipper and preserved coves to explore.
A fast inflatable boat whisks you from Palau into the Maddalena National Park for six hours of snorkeling, beachtime and coastal cruising. Visit Spargi, Budelli, Santa Maria and Caprera with a local skipper and preserved coves to explore.
You push off from a small Palau dock, the engine of a fast inflatable humming as the granules of Sardinian sun sparkle off the sea. In minutes the mainland shrinks and the archipelago opens: low granite islands rimmed with white sand and water so clear it dares you to dive in.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by BlueIslandSardinia · Palau, Sardinia
You push off from a small Palau dock, the engine of a fast inflatable humming as the granules of Sardinian sun sparkle off the sea. In minutes the mainland shrinks and the archipelago opens: low granite islands rimmed with white sand and water so clear it dares you to dive in.
This six-hour circuit threads through protected marine reserves and islands shaped by granite and wind. The Maddalena National Park, created in the 1990s, protects Posidonia seagrass meadows and a coastline where Garibaldi once lived on nearby Caprera. Geologically the islands are ancient Variscan granites, smoothed by waves into rounded headlands and sheltered coves.
Cultural touches arrive in small things: a skipper born in Sardinia who knows where the fish gather, a glass of local Vermentino to toast a quiet cove, and the strict park rules that keep beaches like Budelli’s Spiaggia Rosa off-limits to foot traffic.
Practically, expect repeated swim and snorkel stops — Cala Corsara, Cala Soraya, Cala Granara, the natural pools near Budelli, Santa Maria and the western coves of Caprera — with shore landings where permitted. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a mask and fins, and a light windproof layer for the crossing. The operator provides snorkel gear, water and a glass of local wine; there’s free parking at the end of Via degli Oleandri in Palau and the dock is roughly 100 meters away. Seas can be calm or chop quickly; if you’re prone to motion sickness, medicate before boarding. With good timing and basic swimming skills, this day trip delivers turquoise water, dramatic granite coasts and confident local guidance.
moderate.
6 hours.
Comfortable with repeated short swims and boarding small inflatable boats; basic stamina and mobility required.
The tour includes boat transport, snorkelling equipment use, park ticket, drinking water, fuel and a glass of local wine as listed by the operator.
Meet at the operator’s dock in Palau — end of Via degli Oleandri — where there is free parking; the dock is approximately 100 meters from the gate shown as BlueIslandSardinia.
No; Spiaggia Rosa is protected and visitors may only photograph it from the boat. The itinerary stops at nearby natural pools and allowed beaches instead.
The operator notes this trip is unsuitable for people with serious heart or spinal conditions and not recommended for pregnancy; basic swimming ability is required.
The Maddalena archipelago has a naval and conservation history; Caprera is known for Giuseppe Garibaldi’s residence and the park was established in the 1990s to protect marine habitats.
The marine park enforces strict landing and anchoring rules to protect Posidonia meadows and nesting birds — follow skipper instructions, avoid littering and use reef‑safe products.
BlueIslandSardinia operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




You push off from a small Palau dock, the engine of a fast inflatable humming as the granules of Sardinian sun sparkle off the sea. In minutes the mainland shrinks and the archipelago opens: low granite islands rimmed with white sand and water so clear it dares you to dive in.
You push off from a small Palau dock, the engine of a fast inflatable humming as the granules of Sardinian sun sparkle off the sea. In minutes the mainland shrinks and the archipelago opens: low granite islands rimmed with white sand and water so clear it dares you to dive in.
This six-hour circuit threads through protected marine reserves and islands shaped by granite and wind. The Maddalena National Park, created in the 1990s, protects Posidonia seagrass meadows and a coastline where Garibaldi once lived on nearby Caprera. Geologically the islands are ancient Variscan granites, smoothed by waves into rounded headlands and sheltered coves.
Cultural touches arrive in small things: a skipper born in Sardinia who knows where the fish gather, a glass of local Vermentino to toast a quiet cove, and the strict park rules that keep beaches like Budelli’s Spiaggia Rosa off-limits to foot traffic.
Practically, expect repeated swim and snorkel stops — Cala Corsara, Cala Soraya, Cala Granara, the natural pools near Budelli, Santa Maria and the western coves of Caprera — with shore landings where permitted. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a mask and fins, and a light windproof layer for the crossing. The operator provides snorkel gear, water and a glass of local wine; there’s free parking at the end of Via degli Oleandri in Palau and the dock is roughly 100 meters away. Seas can be calm or chop quickly; if you’re prone to motion sickness, medicate before boarding. With good timing and basic swimming skills, this day trip delivers turquoise water, dramatic granite coasts and confident local guidance.