Sardinia’s best color shows up at sea. I love the Piscine Naturali swim stop and Spargi’s wind-sculpted cliffs and snorkeling coves, but plan for crowds and a bit of rushing if you show up late for boarding.

This is a 7-hour boat day from Palau on Petagus Motonave, with an English/Italian guide and built-in stops that actually let you get wet, not just stare at coastline. You’ll also need to account for a cash landing tax for La Maddalena, plus food and drinks are extra onboard.

Key points before you go

• Swim-first stops that prioritize natural pools, snorkeling time, and beach access
• Spargi + Budelli nature where the geology and colors do the talking
• Short photo windows where you see the famous Pink Beach without walking on it
• Onboard snack/bar options so you’re not stuck hungry between swims
• Limited prime seating on a bigger day-boat, so early check-in really matters
• Weather can change the vibe (windy days happen here), but the captain controls the day

Why this Petagus boat day works: real time on the islands

If you’re basing yourself in Palau and want the La Maddalena Archipelago highlights without juggling ferries, this kind of group cruise is the cleanest play. You get a full loop of islands in one go, and the schedule is built around breaks long enough to swim, snorkel, and walk a bit.

The value is strongest if you’re visiting for the first time and want the “greatest hits”: Spargi’s rugged shoreline, Santa Maria’s bright beach light, and the famous natural pools near Budelli. If you’re the type who hates crowds or hates boats, this might feel like too much togetherness in peak season.

Price and what it actually includes (and doesn’t)

The ticket price is $59 per person for the boat tour itself, with a 7-hour day on the water. What’s not included is important: lunch isn’t included in the ticket price, and food and drinks are available to buy onboard (sandwiches, salads, Sardinian appetizers, coffee, wine, and other drinks).

On top of that, there’s a landing tax for La Maddalena paid in cash before boarding. So yes, you’ll spend a little extra, but you’re paying for guided stops plus the boat transportation between islands—hard to replicate for less if you don’t have your own boat.

Getting on board: check-in rules that can make or break your day

This is one of those tours where timing is not optional. You need to check in in front of the Pier1/bar and you’ll show your ticket to the crew when you board. Check-in starts at 9:00 AM, and it closes at 9:45 AM—arrive after that and you won’t be allowed on board.

Why I think this matters: it’s a bigger day-boat, and prime spots (especially on upper/outdoor areas) are limited. In hot weather, you’ll be much happier outside with sea breeze rather than stuck in the warmer interior.

Cala Corsara on Spargi: the “wild and clean” first taste

Your day starts at 10:30 from Palau, and the first meaningful stop is Cala Corsara on Spargi Island. This is one of the best places early on because you get a stretch of time when you still feel fresh: about 70 minutes of break time here.

Spargi’s reputation comes from its shape and the way the coastline looks untouched. The coast features granite cliffs shaped by wind, and the water is clear enough that snorkeling is common. This is also the kind of stop where you can choose your own tempo: snorkel and hunt fish, or just float and watch rock formations roll by.

A practical note: granite-and-splash days are great, but bring swim gear that dries quickly. You’re going to be doing multiple water moments, not one quick dip.

Lunch happens later, and you’ll buy it onboard

After Spargi, the next part of the day includes another short ferry transfer, then you’ll be back onboard long enough that lunch is part of the flow. Lunch is not included in your ticket price.

On the boat, there’s a bar where you can purchase things like sandwiches, salads, Sardinian appetizers, coffee, and wine. If you tend to get hungry between swims, plan to buy something before you feel desperate—because once you’re in the middle of island time, it’s easy to lose track of hunger.

I also like having a simple backup strategy. Even if you plan to buy onboard, having a small snack you brought can save you on days when the timing feels tight.

Santa Maria: white beaches and that hard-to-copy light

Next up is Santa Maria in the Maddalena Archipelago, with about 1 hour on this stop. The tour description is straightforward: the purity of the light and crystal-clear sea plus white beaches.

This stop is a good “reset.” After Spargi’s rugged rocks, Santa Maria feels more beachy and open—perfect for sunbathing, taking a slower walk, and snapping photos in that bright northern Sardinia light.

If you’re hoping to snorkel here too, keep an eye on water conditions. Some days you’ll have calm, clear visibility; other days the surface can be choppier, and you’ll enjoy the beach more than the fish-spotting.

Piscine di Budelli natural pools: the swim that sells the day

Then comes the main event for many people: the natural pools near Budelli, in the La Maddalena National Park area. You’ll have about 35 minutes for swimming here.

These natural pools are known and well-loved, and for a good reason: it’s the kind of setting that turns a normal beach break into a memorable water moment. Instead of just swimming in open sea, you’re stepping into a natural pool environment with rock formations and striking turquoise tones.

The time is short on purpose—so you need to be ready. I recommend lining up your priorities: quick rinse/sunscreen, then gear up and go. If you wait around too long, you’ll run out of your only dedicated swim window of this stop.

The Pink Beach area: famous, protected, and seen from the water

After the natural pools, the tour includes a panoramic look at Rosa Beach, often associated with the famous Pink Beach story. Important detail: the area is closed since 1993 to protect and preserve the ecosystem that gives the sand its distinctive color.

You’re not meant to treat this like a normal beach stroll. Instead, you get a photo stop around 5 minutes for the Pink Beach area and then the tour moves on. That might sound too brief, but the point here is access vs protection—and you’re getting the signature look without adding pressure to the environment.

If pink sand is on your bucket list, think of this as a “see it, respect it” moment. Take your photos fast, and then put your energy into the places where you’re actually swimming.

La Maddalena’s Cala Gavetta: wind shelter and an old-town feel

After leaving the natural pools and the Pink Beach area, you sail toward La Maddalena and land at Cala Gavetta, with about 1 hour ashore.

This stop is more than a casual break. Cala Gavetta was chosen by the first inhabitants—Corsican shepherds—because it’s more sheltered from the prevailing wind called the mistral. That detail helps you understand why the harbor area feels like a different world from the exposed coastline.

You’ll be in the historic center of La Maddalena for your final island stretch. This is where I like slowing down: walk a bit, enjoy the views, and switch from swim mode to city mode before you head back toward Palau.

What to expect on the boat ride: comfort, crowds, and wind

This whole day happens on a large day-boat, and it can feel busy in high season. The good news is that the crew generally keeps things moving and communicates stop timing clearly. The less fun part is that seating can feel like a game of musical chairs, especially if you don’t arrive early for boarding.

Also, wind matters here. Some days are smooth, and some days are downright adventurous. If conditions are windy, parts of the open-water segments can feel rougher. The captain handles it, but your best bet is to keep realistic expectations: this is a sea day, not a spa cruise.

Comfort tips that actually help:

• Pick outside seating whenever you can, especially in hot weather
• Bring sunscreen and a hat; sun can hit hard even when you’re moving
• If you’re sensitive to odors, be mindful of where you sit inside
• Keep your essentials within reach so you’re not doing frantic bag-digging between stops

Lunch, drinks, and snacks onboard: budget without going hungry

Food onboard is available, and prices are described as reasonable by people who’ve bought there. Still, it’s not included, and the tour can feel pricey if you plan to eat like it’s a restaurant every stop.

The practical approach is this: treat the onboard bar as your convenience option, not your whole meal plan. You can buy sandwiches, salads, and Sardinian appetizers, then pair it with water you can manage. If you love coffee or wine, factor that into your day budget.

And don’t underestimate hydration. Even if you think you’re doing fine, a full day of sun + sea can catch up fast.

How long is the tour, and when do you get back?

The tour runs 7 hours, starting from Palau at 10:30. Your estimated return arrival is 18:00, and it’s 17:00 in October.

Between stops there are short ferry legs, so the day moves steadily. You’ll never feel like you’re stuck on the boat for hours without a break, but you also won’t get the luxury of hanging around forever at any single spot. This schedule is built for variety and motion.

Who this day trip suits best (and who should skip it)

This tour is best for you if:

• You want multiple island highlights in one day
• You care most about swimming and snorkeling
• You like a guided day with clear timing and crew organization
• You’re comfortable with a bigger boat and sharing space

It’s not a great fit if:

• You need mobility assistance or wheelchair access (not suitable for people with mobility impairments)
• You rely on strollers (baby strollers are not allowed)

If you’re planning a low-effort day and want maximum scenery per hour, this checks the box.

Should you book this La Maddalena Archipelago day tour from Palau?

Book it if you want a straightforward, guided, swim-focused day that hits Spargi, Santa Maria, the Budelli natural pools, and the La Maddalena historic area. The payoff is in the water stops and the geology—this is one of those days where you remember the colors and the feeling of jumping into natural pools more than you remember sitting still.

I’d hesitate only if you’re extremely sensitive to crowds or you know you hate wind and sea motion. In peak season, the vibe can get busy, and seating fills up fast. If you’re willing to show up early, grab your spot, and treat lunch and drinks as a budget add-on, the value tends to make sense.

If La Maddalena is your first stop in the archipelago, this is a smart way to get oriented. Just bring your patience, protect your skin, and plan your priorities around the swim windows.

FAQ

What’s the total duration of the tour?

The tour lasts 7 hours.

When does the tour start in Palau?

The journey starts from the port of Palau at 10:30.

Where do I meet for check-in and boarding?

Meet in front of the Pier1/bar and show your ticket to the crew when you board.

When does check-in close?

Check-in closes at 9:45 AM. Arriving after that means you won’t be allowed on board.

Is lunch included in the ticket price?

No. Lunch is not included, though food is available to purchase onboard.

What is the landing tax for La Maddalena?

There is a landing tax for La Maddalena that you must pay in cash before boarding.

What languages does the guide speak?

The tour includes a live guide in English and Italian.

Is the Pink Beach visited on foot?

The tour includes a photo stop related to the Pink Beach area and a panoramic view tied to the protected Rosa Beach area. The area is closed to protect the ecosystem.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users?

No. It is listed as not suitable for people with mobility impairments and wheelchair users. Baby strollers are also not allowed.