Tavolara turns magical once you’re aboard. This sail from Porto San Paolo is one of the best ways to spend a day off the Tavolara–Molara coast, with multiple swimming stops and steady good food aboard, including Vermentino and Sardinian specialties. I really like how the day moves—short hops between swim spots keep things active—and I also like that snorkeling gear is provided so you can just go. One heads-up: beach towels aren’t included, so pack one if you don’t want to improvise.

You start at 9:30am at Via Del Faro 62, and the boat returns you to the same meeting point. Expect a small group (max 14), an English-speaking crew, and an itinerary that can shift a bit when conditions require it for safe navigation.

Key Highlights to Know Before You Go

• Small group cruising (max 14 people), which usually means a calmer day and less crowding at swim stops
• Vermentino-focused tastings and a Sardinian brunch aperitif, including myrtle liqueur and typical local products
• Four major water moments: Isola Piana, Tavolara, Molara, and the protected marine area near Punta Coda Cavallo
• Snorkeling equipment included, so you don’t have to rent or bring gear
• A dolphin search sail later in the day, when conditions allow
• Stops can vary with weather, because the captain adjusts the route for safety

Sailing Day Structure: Porto San Paolo to Tavolara, Molara, and Back

This is a classic “day at sea” that doesn’t waste time. You’ll meet at Via Del Faro 62 in Porto San Paolo at 9:30am, then spend roughly 7 to 8 hours on the water before returning to the same spot. The whole point is to experience the islands from the sea—time for swims, time for food, and time to simply enjoy the motion of sailing.

The schedule is built around four stops, spaced by sailing time. That matters because you’re not stuck in one place for hours—each stop is its own chance for a swim, a quick snorkel, and a fresh view. If weather changes, the captain may adjust the route, which is usually a good sign of how seriously they take safe navigation.

You’ll be with a crew that runs things like a well-paced routine. Names you might hear around the boat include Luigi, Mateo, Alessio, Fabio, Agustino, Ricardo, Stefania, Laura, and Livia—and the vibe stays friendly and welcoming, even when people are soaking up the scenery between swim breaks.

What You Actually Get: Lunch, Wine, Myrtle, Coffee, and Snorkel Gear

This trip is priced like a full-service sailing day, not just boat transport. For the $119.77 per person (about a half-day’s worth of sightseeing, but done from the water), you get a solid package of food and activities.

Here’s what’s included:

• Sailing cruise around 7.5 hours
• Lunch
• Brunch aperitif with Vermentino wine and typical Sardinian products
• Wine tasting
• Beer plus myrtle liqueur (a Sardinian favorite)
• Bottled water
• Coffee and/or tea
• Use of snorkeling equipment
• Typical food throughout the day (not just one meal)

A few practical things to know. Myrtle liqueur is strong, and Vermentino is a lighter wine—so you’ll get a real flavor “tour” of Sardinia rather than just beer-and-fries energy. Also, snorkeling equipment being included is a big deal for value. You avoid last-minute rentals and you can focus on finding fish-and-rocks, not gear logistics.

One more real-world note: if you have food intolerances or special requests, the boat may not be able to manage them. The guidance given is to use a packet lunch, with only no-fish or vegetarian options possible. If that applies to you, plan ahead so you’re not stuck making do.

Stop 1: Isola Piana Swim Break and Early-Trip Views

The first swim stop is Isola Piana. You get about 30 minutes here, described as a chance to swim at Isola Piana and also near nearby coves a few minutes by boat from where you depart.

Why this stop works early:

• The water tends to feel easiest to enjoy while you’re still fresh after boarding.
• You’re getting an immediate payoff: clear water and that “island-from-above-and-underneath” feeling.
• It sets the tone for the rest of the day—everyone settles in fast when the first part includes real time in the sea.

The main drawback is also built in: 30 minutes is short. If you want a long snorkel session, you’ll have to treat Isola Piana as your warm-up. Bring your swim confidence, then save your deeper exploration for the later stop where snorkeling and pools get more time.

Stop 2: Tavolara Beach Aperitif, Then Lunch in Front of the Shore

Next comes Isola di Tavolara. This is your “slow down and enjoy” stop. You’ll have about 2 hours here, with an aperitif swim and time for lunch in front of the beautiful protected Tavolara beach.

This is the stop that most people remember. It’s not just a swim location—it’s also where you get a more beach-like rhythm: more time to relax, more time to swim, and more time to enjoy the view without feeling rushed between stops.

Two things to keep in mind:

• The stop includes food and drinks as part of the day’s flow, so you’ll likely eat on schedule rather than at your own pace.
• If the sea is calm, the snorkeling tends to feel better here; if it’s choppier, it becomes more of a “swim and float” kind of break.

From the way the crew runs the day, you can expect them to keep you moving gently—meaning you’re not waiting around with nothing happening. It’s a relaxed kind of organization.

Stop 3: Molara Swimming Pools and That Turquoise-Water Moment

Stop three is Isola Molara, with about 1 hour. This is described as a visit to the Molara swimming pools and a chance to swim in transparent sea with a strong turquoise color.

Molara is special because of the way the water shapes around the rock and pools. Even without getting fancy about it, you can tell the difference between open-water swimming and swimming through these shallower, clearer spots. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to look down more often than usual.

The trade-off is time: 1 hour goes quickly once people get comfortable. If you like to snorkel at length, make sure you’re ready early when you arrive. The best approach is simple—get your mask/snorkel settled fast, take a first pass, then decide if you want a second longer look.

A practical tip from experience on boats like this: bring your sun protection and be ready to reapply. Clear water can trick you into thinking you’re safe from the sun. You’re not.

Stop 4: Protected Marine Area (Tavolara–Punta Coda Cavallo) + Dolphin Search

The final stop area is the L’Area Naturale Marina Protetta Tavolara – Punta Coda Cavallo, a protected marine stretch along the coast described as extending for 76 kilometers. You get about 1 hour here for swimming, snorkeling, and lunch served during the stop.

Then there’s an extra treat: in the afternoon, the captain takes you in search of dolphins that often visit the area.

This part of the day balances two different experiences:

1) Water time in a protected zone where the scenery is part of why the sea looks so good

2) Sailing time looking outward, scanning for movement on the horizon

The dolphin search is never guaranteed in life—no one can promise what animals will do. But you’ll get the dedicated effort built into the program, and that’s a lot better than just “we’ll see if we spot anything.”

Also, protected marine areas often help keep the water feeling calmer and the experience more focused. You’re not hopping into random ports or busy beaches. It feels like you’re in the real setting of Tavolara and Molara, not just near them.

Boat Comfort, Crew Energy, and Why Max 14 People Matters

One of the quiet advantages here is the group size. With a maximum of 14 travelers, you’re more likely to get that small-boat feel: fewer people to squeeze around, less waiting for space during swim transitions, and a crew that can actually connect.

This matches what many people end up loving—crew personalities show up strongly. Names that pop up around the boat include Luigi and Mateo (and also other crew depending on the day). Across the board, the tone is friendly and attentive, not stiff. People describe it as service-focused, with staff making sure you’re fed, watered, and comfortable between stops.

The boat itself is also described as clean and well kept, and that matters more than you’d think when you spend hours moving from seat to deck to swim ladder. Comfortable seating and good upkeep help the whole day feel “smooth,” not like you’re riding through someone else’s mess.

Price and Value: Why This Costs More Than a Basic Ferry—and Why It’s Worth It

If you compare this to a simple boat ride, the price feels higher. But this isn’t just transportation. You’re buying:

• Real sailing time
• Four swim opportunities around Tavolara and Molara
• A structured food program (aperitif, lunch, coffee/tea, plus alcohol tastings)
• Snorkeling equipment
• A crew that handles the “when to swim, where to go, what to expect” part

In plain terms, you’re paying for convenience and for the quality of the day’s flow. You don’t need to arrange a rental, chase meeting points, or figure out where the best swimming spots are without a captain. You just show up, climb aboard, and follow the rhythm.

Also, the included drinks and local liqueur are part of the experience rather than an add-on. That’s the difference between a tour that feeds you “something” and one that keeps Sardinia in the middle of the day.

Practical Tips So You Don’t Waste Your Best Hours

Here are the things that make your day go smoother, based on what’s included and what isn’t.

Pack a beach towel. Beach towels aren’t provided, and it’s one of those small items that can ruin the first hour if you forget it.

Bring sun protection. You’ll be exposed on a boat, and the clear water encourages longer time in the sun. I’d rather over-prepare than spend the day thinking I should have bought sunscreen earlier.

Plan for parking reality. The meeting point is on Via Del Faro, and a few people note that parking can be tricky. One practical suggestion that comes up is to use the monaiGo app for parking help. If you don’t use apps, try to arrive early so you’re not rushing.

If food restrictions apply, decide early. The guidance is that boats can’t reliably manage special requests beyond the packet lunch plan. If you need a specific menu, don’t wait until the day of the trip.

If the sea is choppy, embrace the order of operations. This itinerary is structured so you’ll always have a transition point—swim, eat, sail, swim. If you fight the motion, you’ll feel it more. If you work with it, the day feels easy.

Who This Sail Fits Best (and Who Might Want Another Option)

This tour fits best if you want:

• Sea views with real swimming time (not just a photo stop)
• A small group and an energetic, friendly crew
• A day where you can forget logistics because snorkeling gear and lunch are handled
• A mix of culture-by-flavor (Vermentino, myrtle, Sardinian products) and water time

It’s also a strong match for couples, friends, and anyone who likes a day plan that feels full but not exhausting.

You might consider a different option if:

• You hate eating on a schedule and want total freedom on timing (this day runs as a coordinated program)
• You need very specific dietary accommodations beyond the stated packet-lunch approach

Should You Book This Porto San Paolo to Tavolara, Molara Sailing Trip?

I’d book this if you’re coming to Sardinia with a short list of “must-do” experiences and Tavolara and Molara are on it. The value is in the full day package: multiple swim stops, snorkeling gear, and a Sardinian food-and-wine program built into the sailing.

I’d also book it if you like small-group travel. Max 14 people changes how the day feels, and the crew attention seems designed for that scale.

The main thing I’d check before you go is what you’ll do about towels, sun protection, and food needs. Handle those, and you’ll end up with a memorable day on the water that’s hard to recreate any other way.

FAQ

What time does the tour start, and how long is it?

It starts at 9:30am and runs for about 7 to 8 hours.

Where do I meet the boat?

The meeting point is Via Del Faro, 62, 07020 Porto San Paolo SS, Italy.

Where does the tour end?

The activity ends back at the same meeting point.

What stops are included on the route?

You’ll stop at Isola Piana, Isola di Tavolara, Isola Molara, and the protected marine area L’Area Naturale Marina Protetta Tavolara – Punta Coda Cavallo.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch is included, along with coffee and/or tea.

What drinks are included?

The tour includes Vermentino wine, beer, and myrtle (a typical Sardinian liqueur), plus wine tasting as part of the day.

Is snorkeling gear provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included.

Are beach towels included?

No. DA beach towels are not included, so you may want to bring your own.

Can the tour handle food intolerances or special requests?

The info provided says that if you have food intolerances or special requests, the boats can’t always manage them. In that case, they recommend a packet lunch (with no-fish or vegetarian options possible).

Is the tour in English, and how many people are on board?

It’s offered in English, and the tour has a maximum of 14 travelers.

What if weather is bad?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.