Cagliari’s coast looks unreal from the water. I love the small-group vibe on Alma Sailing Charter and the way hosts like Alma and Captain Patrick turn the ride into an easy mix of sailing, stories, and real swimming breaks. The big draw for me is how you get multiple chances to hop in for snorkeling and swimming at classic spots in the Gulf of Angels.

One possible drawback: the sea can get choppy, and the tour is not recommended if you’re prone to seasickness. If you know you’re sensitive, plan for it (or choose a different day’s activity).

Key things that make this sail-and-snorkel tour work

• Devil’s Saddle photo stop plus a long swim window so you get time, not just a quick dip
• Provided snorkeling gear, floats, and a fresh-water shower after you cool down in the water
• Hosts with local stories as you sail the coast, including legends and history tied to the area
• Onboard comfort and safety with a WC, first-aid-trained crew, and a defibrillator on board
• Multiple anchoring coves (not one crowded beach stop) with short sail segments between them
• Small groups in the 7–9 person range based on recent trips, which makes the vibe feel relaxed

From Alma Sailing Charter to Devil’s Saddle: the ride you’re actually signing up for

This is a 3-hour sailing tour out of Cagliari built around one goal: letting you see the coast from the sea, then giving you real time in the water. You start at Alma Sailing Charter, sail toward the Devil’s Saddle area, and spend the afternoon in a rhythm of sailing, anchoring, and swimming/snorkeling.

I like this format because it avoids the all-day boat trap. In just a few hours you’ll get bright-water views, coastal stories from the crew, and several separate chances to get in the sea at different coves. It also helps that the boat has onboard bathrooms (WC), plus a fresh-water shower for after your swim.

One practical note: the description of what you’ll see can shift depending on marine conditions. The captain can change stops for safety and wind direction, and sails are only opened when it’s allowed. So think of this as a plan built for the sea you’re given that day, not a rigid checklist.

The itinerary, explained stop-by-stop (and what you should care about)

Here’s how the trip typically flows, with the key thing being that the “yacht” segments are the sailing time between anchor points, while the named locations are where you’ll get photos and water time.

Alma Sailing Charter: your starting line and the crew handoff

You’ll meet at Alma Sailing Charter (use Google Maps to find it). Once aboard, the crew sets expectations for what to do during swimming breaks. That matters, because you’ll be entering the water directly from the boat with floats and snorkeling equipment, and you want to feel clear on ladder use and where to gather.

Tip: show up ready for sun and seawater. Bring beachwear and a towel, and keep your biodegradable sunscreen handy. Getting organized before the first swim is the easiest way to enjoy the trip instead of scrambling for gear.

Cala Bernat: short, sweet, and focused on views

Cala Bernat is your early stop. Expect a brief break time, a photo moment, and a short guided highlight (around two minutes). This stop is less about long swimming and more about getting your bearings: you’re looking at the kind of cliffs-and-color that make Cagliari’s coast famous.

I like a quick first stop like this. It gives you confidence early—seeing how easy it is to get back on board—so later swims feel calmer.

Cala Mosca: your first real swim and snorkeling window

At Cala Mosca, you get a longer break (about ten minutes) with time for swimming and snorkeling. This is one of the stops that suits both confident swimmers and people who just want to float and look around. You’ll be provided with snorkeling equipment and floats, which helps you spend less time wrestling gear and more time enjoying fish and seabed views.

One reality check: the water mood matters. If the sea is a bit rough, expect waves during boat-to-water transitions. That’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s useful information for anyone who gets nervous on boats.

Cala Fighera: more water time for the people who want it

Cala Fighera is where you often get a longer chance to swim and snorkel (about fifteen minutes). In practice, this is a strong stop if you’re the type who likes to linger in one spot and really watch what’s going on underwater.

If you’re snorkeling, keep your expectations practical. Provided gear can make this easy, but one traveler noted the snorkel setup wasn’t exactly what they wanted and suggested bringing a personal snorkel if that’s your style. If you’re picky about your snorkel mouthpiece, bring your own—then you’ll never wonder.

Sella del diavolo: the main photo stop and the big swim moment

This is the stop that gives the tour its name. You’ll do a photo stop at Sella del diavolo, then get about thirty minutes for swimming and snorkeling. This is where you’re most likely to feel like you’re in the middle of Sardinia’s coastal drama: cliffs, open water, and the kind of visibility that makes snorkeling worth the effort.

I also like that the schedule gives you enough time here. Longer water breaks mean you can rinse off a bit, regroup, and still get a solid swim without rushing.

The return sailing: when the trip feels slower and prettier

After the final swim, there’s sailing time back to the pier. A nice moment noted on recent trips: sometimes the captain switches off the engine so you can drift quietly for a stretch. Even if you don’t get that exact moment, the return sailing is often when people settle in, take photos, and just enjoy the light as Cagliari shifts toward evening.

What onboard comfort actually includes (and what it changes for you)

A lot of boat tours advertise comfort. This one includes some practical basics that you feel immediately.

• WC on board: not every small boat trip has this, and it matters when you’re out for a few hours with multiple water stops.
• Fresh-water shower: you’ll want it after saltwater and sunscreen. It helps you stay comfortable and less sticky on the way back.
• Floats + snorkeling equipment: it lowers the barrier for casual swimmers and improves safety during the swim breaks.
• First-aid-trained crew and a defibrillator on board: it’s reassuring to know safety gear is actually present, not just promised.

One small caution from real life: the ladder back onto the boat can feel narrow, and in choppy conditions it’s easy to lose balance if you rush. Take your time, hold on firmly, and avoid doing anything last-second (like grabbing loose items while someone else is stepping on).

The crew’s stories: legends, history, and why it’s not just scenic

You’re not left alone with your phone and your camera. The crew shares local legends and ancient history as you sail, and you’ll get context for what you’re seeing along the coast.

If you’re there for Devil’s Saddle specifically, pay attention during the “story” portions. The area has a reputation tied to local legend, and the crew tends to connect the cliffs, caves, and coastline features to those tales. It turns the water time from passive sightseeing into something you can explain later.

Also, the vibe is often relaxed and human. Names you might meet on board include Alma, Patrick, Paolo, and Laura (the team can vary by day). In any case, you’ll find people who are used to showing visitors how the day runs.

Snorkeling and swimming: how to get the most out of the coves

This tour is built for getting in the water multiple times, not just one quick stop. Each swim window is short, so the best strategy is to be ready as soon as you anchor.

Practical tips:

• Wear a swimsuit under your clothes so you don’t waste time changing when you’re excited and warm.
• Bring a towel and consider keeping your phone in a waterproof way if you’re the type to take photos.
• Use the provided floats if you’re not strong in open water. They help you relax and focus on fish and underwater shapes.
• If you’re sensitive to motion, take the suggested approach: consider seasickness medication about half an hour before departure.

And yes, dolphins are possible. One of the pleasant “bonus” thoughts with this kind of route is that you might spot them while sailing or heading back. It’s not guaranteed, but it’s part of the charm.

Price and value: what $61.49 gets you in real terms

At $61.49 per person for about 3 hours, this is priced like a mid-range activity—but it earns value through what’s included.

You’re paying for:

• A real sailing experience on the way to Devil’s Saddle
• Multiple anchoring coves with swimming/snorkeling time
• Snorkeling equipment, floats, and a shower
• Onboard WC plus safety basics like first aid training and a defibrillator

Add in the small-group feel (some trips have been described as around 7 people, with others around 9), and you get a more personal experience than the big-boat version. If you want a quick but memorable way to see the best Cagliari-water without renting your own boat, this hits the sweet spot.

Drinks onboard: Prosecco energy without the price shock

Soft drinks and snacks are for purchase onboard. And you can also find people enjoying wine and Prosecco during the trip. If you’re celebrating a birthday or just want a chill reward after swimming, this is the sort of boat stop where it fits naturally.

My advice: decide in advance how much you want to spend. Once you’re out on the water, it’s easy to order “just one more” if you’re having a good time.

Who this sailing tour fits best (and who should skip it)

This is a great match if you:

• Want multiple swim moments in a short time
• Like sailing plus guided storytelling, not just sitting on a bus to a view
• Enjoy small-group tours where you don’t feel lost in a crowd
• Can handle quick transitions (ladder back on, swim breaks, then back to the boat)

Consider skipping or choosing a different day if you:

• Suffer from seasickness (it’s specifically not recommended, and waves can get noticeable)
• Have trouble getting back aboard quickly in choppy conditions (the ladder can be awkward)
• Need a very long snorkeling session (this tour is time-efficient, not all-day)

If you’re going with kids, you’ll want to pay attention to swim comfort and life-jacket guidance. The tour includes safety gear like floats, but water confidence still matters.

Should you book this Devil’s Saddle sail tour?

If you want a 3-hour outing that feels like Sardinia—not just a postcard—you should seriously consider booking. The combination of multiple coves, a proper Devil’s Saddle stop, and a crew that explains the coastline is the winning formula. Add onboard comfort (WC and shower) and safety measures (first aid training and a defibrillator), and it’s one of the more practical ways to do “boat + swim” in Cagliari.

I’d only hesitate if you’re sensitive to motion or you expect snorkeling to be a long, uninterrupted session. This tour is at its best when you’re flexible, ready to hop in, and happy to enjoy the ride as part of the experience.

FAQ

FAQ

How long is the sailing tour?

The tour lasts about 3 hours.

Where do I meet the group?

You meet at Alma Sailing Charter. You can find the meeting point using Google Maps.

What’s included on board?

Included features are a bilingual guide, a crew trained in first aid with a defibrillator on board, a WC, snorkeling equipment, floats, fuel, and a fresh water shower.

Do I get snorkeling gear?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment and floats are included. Some participants have reported that their snorkel setup was limited, so if you’re picky about your own gear, bring your preferred snorkel.

Where do you stop during the tour?

The itinerary includes Cala Bernat, Cala Mosca, Cala Fighera, and Sella del diavolo, plus sailing time between stops. Stops can change based on marine conditions.

Is there a bathroom on the boat?

Yes. There is a WC on board.

What should I bring?

Bring your passport or ID card, biodegradable sunscreen, beachwear, and a towel. Also bring any personal medication and clothing suited to the weather.

Are drinks and snacks included?

Soft drinks and snacks are not included, but they are available to purchase onboard. People also mention Prosecco and other drinks being available for purchase.

Is this tour good if I get seasick?

It’s not recommended if you suffer from seasickness. If you do get motion sickness, the guidance is to take medication about half an hour before departure.

What happens if the weather is unsafe?

If marine weather conditions are not safe, the tour will be canceled.

What’s the cancellation window?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.