Archipelago Tour · Departing from Palau
La Maddalena boat tours from Palau
The 7 islands of La Maddalena Archipelago National Park: Pink Beach, Caprera, Spargi, Budelli. Daily tours by motor vessel, speedboat or sailing yacht from Palau port — 5 minutes' walk from Vento Mare.
The La Maddalena Archipelago
The La Maddalena Archipelago is a National Park between north-eastern Sardinia and the Bouches de Bonifacio: 60 granite islands and islets, white-sand beaches and a sea that turns from turquoise to emerald green on sunny days. A boat tour is the best way to discover it.
Daily departures leave from Palau port, May to October. In just a few hours of sailing you reach the most famous coves: Budelli's Pink Beach, the natural pools of Porto della Madonna, Cala Coticcio on Caprera and Cala Corsara on Spargi.
The 7 islands of the archipelago
La Maddalena
The main island, connected to Palau by ferries every 15 minutes. Lively old town, restaurants and stunning coves like Bassa Trinita and Spalmatore.
Caprera
Linked to La Maddalena by a bridge. Home of Garibaldi's residence and famous beaches like Cala Coticcio, nicknamed 'Tahiti' for its white sand.
Budelli
Home to the famous Pink Beach, now protected and visible only from the sea. On the other side of the island you can swim at the spectacular Cala di Roto.
Spargi
Wild and uninhabited, home to Cala Corsara and Cala Granara, two of the most photographed beaches in the archipelago.
Santa Maria
Crystal-clear water and white-sand beaches. A classic stop on boat tours, with the famous Porto della Madonna channel between Budelli, Razzoli and Santa Maria.
Razzoli
The northernmost island, granitic and wild. Famous for its lighthouse and great snorkeling among wind-sculpted rocks.
Santo Stefano
The smallest island, right in front of Palau. Home to the Pesce beach, just a few minutes by speedboat.
Types of tour
Day cruise (motor vessel)
8 hours, 3–4 swimming stops, optional lunch on board. Ideal for families and for seeing as many islands as possible in one day. From €40–60 per person.
Speedboat in small groups
Maximum 10–12 people, reaches coves inaccessible to bigger vessels. More dynamic, perfect for couples and friends. From €80–120 per person.
Sailing yacht or catamaran
A more relaxed experience, often with sunset aperitif. For travellers who want to enjoy the archipelago at the sea's own pace. From €90–150 per person.
Book your tour
Selected La Maddalena Archipelago tours departing from Palau, bookable online.
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Stay 5 minutes from the port
Vento Mare is a collection of 5 apartments in the historic centre of Palau, just a few steps from the pier where boat tours to La Maddalena depart. In the morning you walk to the boat without worrying about parking; in the evening you come back to an apartment with kitchen and a private terrace or patio.
Frequently asked questions
Where do La Maddalena boat tours depart from?
From Palau port, in north-eastern Sardinia. Vento Mare is about 5 minutes' walk from the pier: you reach the boat without using your car.
How long does a tour last?
Day cruises on motor vessels last about 8 hours (9:30am–5:30pm) with 3 or 4 swimming stops. Speedboats and sailing yachts usually 5–7 hours. There are also half-day tours of about 3 hours.
How many islands are in the La Maddalena Archipelago?
Seven main islands: La Maddalena, Caprera, Santo Stefano, Spargi, Santa Maria, Budelli and Razzoli, plus dozens of smaller islets. All part of La Maddalena Archipelago National Park.
Can you visit Budelli's Pink Beach?
Landing on the Pink Beach is forbidden to protect the unique colour of the sand. All tours pass by to let you admire it. On the other side of the island, at Cala di Roto, swimming is allowed.
When is the best time to visit La Maddalena?
From May to October. June and September offer the best balance: warm sea, long days and far fewer crowds than the July–August peak.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially in high season. The most popular tours (speedboat and sailing) often sell out days in advance. Booking online from home guarantees both place and best price.