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Sailing Itinerary
Sardinia 7-night sailing itinerary: Costa Smeralda, La Maddalena & Bonifacio
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Complete Itinerary
Detailed day-by-day guide with insider tips, ratings, and everything you need to know.
Easy first hop to a long white-sand bay
Short shake-down sail to anchor off Spiaggia di Marinella for a swim, a beach walk and sunset views across the Costa Smeralda.
Mooring Information
Anchor in 4–8 m on sand off Spiaggia di Marinella; avoid posidonia patches (darker areas) and keep clear of swim buoys.
Maintain at least 300 m off the beach; use marked tender corridors for shore access during bathing season.
Best in settled weather; the bay can be rolly with easterly swell and afternoon sea breezes.
Nearby sheltered alternatives include Golfo di Cugnana or berths in Porto Rotondo if conditions freshen.
Monitor VHF 16 for local notices; expect patrols enforcing swim zones and speed limits in high season.
Top Restaurants
Casual beach cafés at Marinella for salads, panini and pasta at lunch.
Harborfront trattorie in Golfo di Marinella for grilled local fish.
Waterfront venues in Porto Rotondo (short taxi) for Sardinian classics like fregola with clams.
Gelaterie around the marina promenades for a post-swim treat.
Seek menus highlighting bottarga, pecorino and Vermentino from Gallura.
Activities
Swim and snorkel over sandy patches and rocky edges at either end of the bay.
Launch SUPs or kayaks for a gentle coastal paddle along the curved shoreline.
Go ashore for a beach walk and a first Sardinian aperitivo at sunset.
Do a quick systems check at anchor and organize gear for the week ahead.
If seas are calm, make a short late-afternoon hop to nearby coves for a quieter overnight.
Water Sports
Snorkeling along the rocky headlands for small fish and clear water.
Stand-up paddleboarding in the morning before the sea breeze fills in.
Casual coastal kayaking; keep outside swimmer-only zones marked by yellow buoys.
Beginner-friendly swimming in the shallow, sandy sections of the bay.
Practice tender handling to the beach landing corridors in light conditions.
Drone Spots
Curved sweep of Spiaggia di Marinella with the emerald shallows at first light.
Oblique shots toward Soffi and Mortorio islands over crystalline water.
Top-down frames of sand-and-seagrass patterns for striking textures.
Low, lateral passes from offshore to avoid flying above beachgoers.
Check Italian UAS rules; avoid crowds and stay within permitted altitude and distance limits.
Must See
The 800 m arc of Marinella’s pale sand with views toward Soffi and Mortorio islands.
Shallow, turquoise water at the eastern end of the beach for relaxed wading and family swims.
Panoramic golden-hour views of the Gallura hills from your anchorage.
Beach strolls along the dune-backed shoreline with juniper and pine.
Waterfront promenade at Golfo di Marinella for an evening gelato.
Services
Provisions, ATMs and pharmacies in Golfo di Marinella and Porto Rotondo.
Fuel and water available at nearby marinas such as Porto Rotondo and Portisco.
Waste disposal and recycling at marina facilities—pack out from the beach.
Mobile coverage is strong across the bay; weather apps update reliably.
Taxi and rideshare services connect the anchorage landing points with nearby towns.
Hazards
Dense swimmer zones and small craft traffic close to the beach in summer.
Afternoon sea-breeze chop and easterly swell can make the anchorage rolly.
Shallow patches extend off the beach—approach slowly with good light.
Unlit marker buoys and swim lines—avoid night approaches.
Respect speed limits near shore (generally 5–7 knots within coastal buffer zones).
Tips
Arrive before midday in peak months to secure space with room to swing.
Set a generous scope in sand and back down firmly to confirm holding.
Use chafe protection on the rode if swell develops from the east.
Keep decks rinsed—fine windblown sand is common onshore breezes.
Carry cash for small beach cafés and local taxis if heading into town.
Iconic Costa Smeralda coves and curved sands
Hop between Capriccioli’s granite-framed bays and the sweeping arc of Grande Pevero for classic Costa Smeralda scenery and clear, shallow water.
Mooring Information
At Capriccioli, anchor in 4–7 m on sand outside swim buoys; avoid seagrass and give room for day boat traffic.
Grande Pevero offers sand patches in 5–8 m; expect light afternoon chop with sea breeze.
Both bays are best in NW–W winds and more exposed to easterly swell.
Use tender corridors for shore access; no-anchoring zones may be marked seasonally.
Monitor VHF 16; be prepared to relocate if the breeze shifts onshore.
Top Restaurants
Beach cafés near Capriccioli for light lunches and espresso.
Waterfront venues around Porto Cervo for seafood and Sardinian specialties.
Casual spots above Pevero for sunset drinks with a view.
Seek dishes featuring local bottarga, artichokes and Vermentino pairings.
Reserve ahead for dinner in peak season around Porto Cervo.
Activities
Beach-hop by tender among the small inlets around Capriccioli.
Snorkel along the granite boulders for calm, clear conditions.
Walk the coastal path above Pevero for gentle exercise and vistas.
Set up a shaded beach base for families during the midday heat.
Enjoy a relaxed aperitivo aboard while the day-boat crowd thins.
Water Sports
Beginner-friendly SUP sessions in the morning glass-off.
Short coastal kayak paddles between adjacent coves.
Gentle swimming over sandy patches with excellent visibility.
Practice snorkeling entry/exit from the tender in calm water.
Avoid towing sports and fast craft inside bathing zones.
Drone Spots
Top-down shots of Capriccioli’s granite, sand and seagrass mosaics.
Panoramas of Grande Pevero’s crescent beach framed by headlands.
Low-altitude orbits offshore to keep clear of beachgoers.
Golden-hour passes for warm tones on rock and water.
Respect local UAS rules; avoid flights over protected dunes and crowds.
Must See
Capriccioli’s twin coves divided by sculpted granite and backed by pines and juniper.
Views across to the islets of Soffi and Mortorio from Capriccioli.
Grande Pevero’s 300 m curve of pale sand with emerald shallows.
Short coastal paths to nearby viewpoints above Pevero Bay.
Late-afternoon colors on the granite outcrops for photography.
Services
Full-service berths, fuel and water are available a short sail away in Porto Cervo.
Seasonal beach services include umbrellas, loungers and basic snacks.
Mobile coverage is strong; weather updates are reliable.
Waste must be returned to marina facilities—no disposal at beaches.
Pharmacies and ATMs can be found in the Porto Cervo area.
Hazards
Heavy tender and swim traffic close to shore—keep a lookout at all times.
Onshore easterly winds create chop and poor holding later in the day.
Posidonia meadows fringe the bays—avoid anchoring on seagrass.
Summer thunderstorms can bring sudden gusts; secure dinghy and awnings.
Unmarked rocks near headlands—approach slowly with good light.
Tips
Arrive early; these coves fill quickly in July–August.
Lay extra scope—holding is good in sand but shifting breezes can weathervane boats.
Use sunshades and stay hydrated; onshore facilities can be limited.
Stick to marked paths to protect dune vegetation.
If swell builds, relocate to a more protected bay before evening.
‘Tahiti’ hues at Caprera and a serene park anchorage
Sail to Cala Coticcio’s famed turquoise cove on Caprera for a swim stop, then continue into La Maddalena National Park to anchor off Santa Maria for a quiet night under the stars.
Mooring Information
Cala Coticcio has strict protection; anchor only where permitted outside swim buoys and well clear of seagrass.
At Santa Maria, anchor in 4–7 m on sand off Cala Santa Maria with good holding; expect crowding by midday.
Shelter at Santa Maria is good in settled weather; it can be exposed to northerly mistral.
Use shore lines only where explicitly allowed; do not tie to vegetation or park signage.
A park permit and daily fee may apply—check official guidance before entry.
Top Restaurants
Plan to dine aboard—there are no facilities at Cala Coticcio or Santa Maria.
For a future stop, the town of La Maddalena offers many waterfront trattorie.
Stock charcuterie, pane carasau and fresh produce before entering the park.
Enjoy a slow lunch on deck between swims.
Pair local Vermentino with seafood purchased earlier in the week.
Activities
Morning swim and snorkel at Cala Coticcio before day-trip boats arrive.
Drift snorkel over sandy flats and rocky spurs at Santa Maria.
Go ashore (where permitted) for an easy walk to the lighthouse.
Relax with a long lunch onboard and a swim ladder session for kids.
Stargaze after dark—minimal light pollution in fair weather.
Water Sports
SUP along the shoreline at Santa Maria in the calmer morning hours.
Snorkel the rocky points for schools of bream and wrasse.
Casual kayaking between anchored boats—keep clear of swim areas.
Practice freediving over sand for safe depth perception training.
No towing sports; respect low-speed zones inside the park.
Drone Spots
Aerials of Santa Maria’s sand-and-turquoise palette from offshore.
Oblique views of Punta Filetto lighthouse and surrounding reefs.
Avoid overflying protected beaches and wildlife; authorization may be required within the National Park.
Golden-hour passes to emphasize granite textures and shallow sandbars.
Keep line-of-sight and respect park-specific UAS restrictions.
Must See
Cala Coticcio’s crystal-clear water and smooth pink granite (‘Tahiti’).
Shallow, sandy lagoon feel at Cala Santa Maria.
Punta Filetto lighthouse walk on Santa Maria for open-sea views.
Birdlife around the islets—bring binoculars for terns and shearwaters.
Sunset over the granite silhouettes of Razzoli and Budelli.
Services
No fuel, water or shops on Caprera’s NE coves or Santa Maria—self-sufficient cruising required.
Rangers may patrol and collect fees—keep documents and payment ready.
Mobile coverage varies but is generally workable for forecasts.
Waste must be retained onboard until a mainland marina.
Nearest comprehensive services are in La Maddalena town or Palau.
Hazards
Gusts funnel between islands—recheck your swing room after wind shifts.
Unmarked rocks and shoals—navigate in good light with a bow lookout.
Dense day-boat traffic around Cala Coticcio at midday.
Anchoring on posidonia is prohibited—use sand patches only.
Sudden chop with mistral; avoid overnighting in exposed pockets.
Tips
Check park maps for anchoring zones; fines apply for anchoring on posidonia.
Swim lines are enforced—approach slowly and keep dinghies outside marked areas.
Arrive early to secure sand patches; set a trip line if kelp or grass is nearby.
Carry plenty of drinking water—no services on the islets.
Reassess anchorage if the mistral is forecast; move to a lee cove before evening.
Rugged granite, lighthouses and glassy ‘natural pools’
Explore the wild granite of Razzoli and continue to the shallow, turquoise ‘pools’ around Isola Piana near the Corsican reserve—perfect for a calm-weather swim day.
Mooring Information
At Razzoli’s Cala Lunga, anchor in 4–7 m on sand with ample room to swing; it’s exposed in mistral.
Approaches around Razzoli have scattered rocks—enter with good overhead sun.
At Isola Piana, only stop in settled weather; depths shelve quickly with coral-white sand and reefs.
Avoid tying to rocks or vegetation; use a stern line only if explicitly allowed and safe.
The entire area straddles protected zones—observe local regulations on anchoring and speeds.
Top Restaurants
Plan to dine aboard—there are no restaurants on Razzoli or Isola Piana.
Stock up for two meals to keep flexibility if weather delays the hop.
Set up a Mediterranean mezze-style lunch with local cheeses and olives.
Chill a bottle of Vermentino for sunset on deck.
Prepare a simple pasta with clams purchased earlier in the week.
Activities
Swim and snorkel over white-sand patches with standout visibility.
Short coastal walks on Razzoli for photo ops of the lighthouse.
Long, lazy lunch onboard between swim sessions.
Freedive practice on sandy bottoms with an attentive buddy.
Afternoon siesta before a golden-hour dip in sheltered corners.
Water Sports
SUP across the glassy shallows at Isola Piana in light winds.
Gentle kayaking along Razzoli’s indented shoreline.
Snorkel the reefy edges for octopus dens and small schools of fish.
Avoid high-speed craft; keep wake low near sensitive shorelines.
No spearfishing or collecting—protected waters.
Drone Spots
Top-down shots of the ‘natural pools’ light up in mid-morning sun.
Coastal passes around Razzoli’s lighthouse in calm conditions.
Keep well offshore and avoid wildlife disturbance; reserves often restrict UAS flights.
Golden-hour silhouettes of Razzoli’s granite against open sea.
Always verify current UAS rules for both Sardinian and Corsican protected areas.
Must See
Razzoli’s lighthouse and panoramic viewpoints over the Bocche di Bonifacio.
Granite sculptures and wind-carved formations around Cala Lunga.
The luminous ‘piscine naturali’ near Isola Piana and Cavallo.
Wild, uninhabited coastline with clear water and white sand pockets.
Seabirds gliding along rocky ridges—bring binoculars.
Services
No fuel, water or provisioning—self-sufficiency required.
Ranger patrols may check permits in and around protected zones.
Cell reception is intermittent; download weather in the morning.
Waste retention is mandatory; plan disposal in Bonifacio or back in Sardinia.
Emergency contact remains VHF 16; mobile 112/118 where reachable.
Hazards
Unmarked rocks and shallow bars between islets—transit only with good light.
Strong currents and gusts can develop in the Bocche di Bonifacio.
Anchoring on seagrass is prohibited—use bare sand only.
Sudden traffic from tour boats midday—maintain a vigilant watch.
Limited shelter—avoid overnighting at Isola Piana in any swell.
Tips
Time shallow-water entries with the sun high for best visibility on hazards.
Post a bow lookout when weaving between reefs near Isola Piana.
If the mistral is forecast, move early to a more protected anchorage.
Have reef-safe sunscreen and hats—shade is scarce on these islets.
Carry extra water; there are no services until Bonifacio.
Granite gardens and Corsica’s dramatic cliff-top citadel
Drift and snorkel the Lavezzi Reserve’s clear coves, then enter Bonifacio’s fjord-like harbor to explore medieval lanes and panoramic ramparts.
Mooring Information
At Lavezzi, day-anchor only in permitted sandy patches; overnighting is discouraged and may be restricted.
Respect reserve rules—no fishing and no anchoring on seagrass; rangers patrol.
Time your Bonifacio entry with daylight; strong crosswinds are common in the narrow inlet.
Call Bonifacio Capitainerie on VHF 9 and monitor VHF 16 for traffic advisories.
Expect stern-to or alongside berthing with lazy lines in the inner marina.
Top Restaurants
Harborfront bistros in Bonifacio for grilled fish and Corsican specialties.
Clifftop dining rooms for panoramic views over the strait—book at sunset.
Try local charcuterie, brocciu cheese dishes and fig-based desserts.
Sample Corsican wines (Vermentinu, Sciaccarellu) with seafood.
Seek bakeries in the lower town for breakfast croissants and canistrelli.
Activities
Morning snorkel at Lavezzi before winds and boats pick up.
Shore walk among granite formations on marked reserve paths.
Historic stroll through Bonifacio’s upper town and ramparts.
Evening passeggiata along the marina with a waterfront drink.
Photograph sunset light catching the cliffside houses.
Water Sports
Snorkel over sandy bowls and rock gardens teeming with small fish.
Short SUP sessions in sheltered lee coves at Lavezzi.
Swimming only in designated zones; keep clear of reserve bird areas.
No towing sports or spearfishing—strictly protected.
In Bonifacio harbor, limit water activities due to traffic and wash.
Drone Spots
Sweeping reveal shots of Bonifacio’s cliffs from offshore (respect no-fly zones).
Top-down Lavezzi granite and sand mosaics in mid-morning sun.
Avoid flying over the reserve and the citadel without authorization.
Use long-lens photography from shore if UAS restrictions are in place.
Always follow French drone rules within the Bonifacio area.
Must See
Granite boulders and white-sand coves of Lavezzi’s protected reserve.
Memorial cemeteries commemorating the 1855 Sémillante shipwreck on Lavezzu.
Bonifacio’s limestone cliffs soaring above a natural harbor.
Old-town ramparts, cobblestones and sweeping sea views from the citadel.
The famed cliffside stairway (weather permitting) and coastal viewpoints.
Services
Bonifacio marina offers fuel, water, electricity and shore power.
Provisioning, bakeries and pharmacies are a short walk from the quay.
Laundry and chandlery services available near the harbor.
Waste and recycling points within the marina complex.
Tourist office in the lower town for maps and cultural highlights.
Hazards
Strait of Bonifacio can accelerate winds and create choppy seas.
Rocks and shoals around Lavezzi—navigate only with good light and care.
Harbor crosswinds in Bonifacio complicate docking—use adequate fenders.
Ferry wakes and tight turns inside the inlet—keep to starboard and mind signals.
Reserve restrictions are enforced—fines for non-compliance.
Tips
Arrive early at Lavezzi; space is limited and patrols enforce rules.
Enter Bonifacio with fenders rigged and lines ready—gusts funnel down the inlet.
Reserve a berth in high season and confirm ETA with the Capitainerie.
Carry shoes with grip for exploring the old town’s steep lanes.
Check forecast for the Strait of Bonifacio—delay crossing if mistral strengthens.
National-park coves and a lively Costa Smeralda anchorage
Cross back to La Maddalena for a swim stop at Spargi’s shell-white beaches, then continue to Baja Sardinia for a relaxed anchorage with dining ashore.
Mooring Information
At Spargi (e.g., Cala Corsara), anchor in 4–8 m on sand; arrive early to find space.
Observe La Maddalena park rules—no anchoring on seagrass, respect swim lines.
At Baja Sardinia, anchor off the main beach in 5–10 m on sand; open to easterly swell.
If wind shifts onshore, consider relocating to a more protected bay before dusk.
Monitor VHF 16; expect heavy leisure traffic around both locations in summer.
Top Restaurants
Seafront eateries in Baja Sardinia for grilled fish, pasta and pizza.
Cocktail bars along the promenade for a post-sail sundowner.
Look for menus featuring local carasau bread and pecorino.
Gelato shops near the square for dessert on the go.
Book earlier seatings with larger groups during July–August.
Activities
Snorkel the rocky points and sandy bowls at Spargi.
Beach time and SUP in the lee of granite headlands.
Afternoon sail to Baja Sardinia for a shore stroll and dinner.
Enjoy a sunset swim from the stern platform in settled seas.
Optional tender exploration of nearby coves before dark.
Water Sports
Beginner-friendly SUP along Spargi’s sheltered shoreline.
Snorkeling in clear water with easy access from the swim ladder.
Short coastal kayak excursions; keep clear of bathers.
No towing sports in park waters; observe speed limits near beaches.
Check fins and masks onboard to streamline in-and-out swim stops.
Drone Spots
Spargi’s white sands and granite stacks from an offshore launch.
Long reveals of Baja Sardinia’s bay at golden hour.
Avoid flying over crowded beaches; keep distance from people and vessels.
Mind park-related UAS restrictions around Spargi.
Use ND filters to balance midday glare on bright sand and water.
Must See
Spargi’s pale sand and clear water framed by smooth granite.
Shallow, tropical hues at Cala Corsara for a quintessential swim stop.
Views across the La Maddalena archipelago toward Caprera.
Sunset light over the serrated coastline of the Costa Smeralda.
Evening ambiance along Baja Sardinia’s waterfront promenade.
Services
Groceries, ATMs and pharmacies in Baja Sardinia.
Fuel and technical services are available by short sail at Cannigione or Porto Cervo.
Public docks for short tender tie-ups—observe posted time limits.
Waste and recycling facilities in nearby marinas; none on Spargi.
Good mobile reception for weather checks and dinner bookings.
Hazards
Numerous shoals between Spargi, Budelli and Santa Maria—navigate with care.
Heavy traffic from tour boats at Spargi midday.
Onshore breeze at Baja Sardinia creates evening chop and swell.
Keep clear of swimmer zones and kite/board activity near beaches.
Night approaches to open bays are discouraged—arrive in daylight.
Tips
Reach Spargi before 10:00 to secure sand patches with space to swing.
Post a stern lookout when reversing near swim buoys and tenders.
If the forecast hints at an easterly, plan a different overnight anchorage.
Reserve dinner ashore in high season; venues can fill quickly.
Dry and stow gear before the evening breeze builds.
Caprera’s ‘Due Mari’ and a polished marina town
Swim at Cala Portese (Due Mari) on Caprera, then head to Porto Rotondo for a final evening of waterfront dining and a sheltered berth or anchorage.
Mooring Information
At Cala Portese, anchor in 4–7 m on sand outside swim buoys; it’s popular and fills early.
Good protection in light winds; exposed to strong northerlies funneling through the channels.
In Porto Rotondo, reserve berths in advance during peak season; expect stern-to with lazy lines.
If anchoring outside Porto Rotondo, ensure adequate scope and room among local moorings.
Monitor VHF 16 and the marina working channel as advised on approach.
Top Restaurants
Waterfront trattorie in Porto Rotondo for fresh pasta and seafood.
Wine bars around the piazzetta for local Vermentino tastings.
Casual pizzerie near the promenade for family-friendly dining.
Gelato and pastry shops for a sweet finish to the evening.
Look for seadas (honey-drizzled cheese pastry) on dessert menus.
Activities
Morning swim and SUP at Cala Portese before crowds arrive.
Easy shoreline walk and shelling on the sandy isthmus.
Afternoon sail to Porto Rotondo for a stroll and shopping.
Celebrate the penultimate night with a relaxed dinner ashore.
Top up water and prep for next morning’s short return leg.
Water Sports
SUP and casual kayaking in the lee of Caprera’s shores.
Snorkel the rocky edges for small fish and clear visibility.
Practice gentle beach launches and landings with the tender.
No high-speed towing near bathing areas—observe posted limits.
Rinse gear at the marina to stow dry for handover day.
Drone Spots
Oblique angles of the ‘two seas’ at Cala Portese from offshore.
Porto Rotondo’s circular harbor geometry at golden hour.
Avoid crowds and keep clear of marina operations and masts.
Be mindful of residential privacy and local UAS rules.
Capture coastal textures with low, lateral passes over water.
Must See
Cala Portese’s narrow isthmus separating two turquoise bays (‘Due Mari’).
Pine-scented shores and shallow sand ideal for long swims.
Porto Rotondo’s elegant piazzette and sculpture-studded promenades.
Nearby Spiaggia Ira for a late-afternoon dip if time allows.
Evening ambiance along the marina with a choice of terraces and bars.
Services
Porto Rotondo offers fuel, water, electricity and comprehensive marina services.
Multiple mini-markets and a larger grocery within walking distance.
Pharmacy, ATMs and boutique shopping around the harbor.
Waste, recycling and oil disposal at designated marina points.
Taxi and transfer services for shore excursions or airport runs.
Hazards
High vessel density near Cala Portese—keep safe distances from swim lines.
Gusts through the island channels can veer boats on the hook.
Wake and crosswinds when maneuvering inside Porto Rotondo.
Night approaches to anchorages near moorings are not advised.
Mind charted rocks off nearby headlands; approach in good light.
Tips
Arrive early to Cala Portese; use sand patches only—no anchoring on seagrass.
Confirm berth details with Porto Rotondo before arrival; lines and fenders ready both sides.
Refuel this afternoon if the forecast is breezy for the morning.
Pre-book dinner in high season; popular terraces fill quickly.
Walk the docks at dusk for a cooling sea breeze and views.
Short return and smooth handover
A brief hop back across the gulf for fueling (if needed), checkout and a final swim stop time-permitting.
Mooring Information
Depart Porto Rotondo with fenders and lines stowed; keep to marked channels.
Plan a quick fuel stop at a nearby marina if not completed the prior day.
Approach Marina Cala dei Sardi at low speed and follow staff directions.
Have lines and fenders ready both sides for flexible berthing.
Confirm checkout time and procedures with the base in advance.
Top Restaurants
Plan a relaxed brunch or coffee near the marina after checkout.
Pick up local cheeses, cured meats and bread for the journey home.
If overnighting ashore, seek seaside trattorie along the gulf.
Toast the week with a final glass of Vermentino.
Opt for an early lunch to beat crowds on changeover days.
Activities
Early swim and deck rinse before entering the marina.
Organize gear, rinse salty lines and pack luggage.
Complete fuel, water and waste formalities smoothly.
Final stroll along the pontoons and farewell photos.
Share highlights and plan your next Sardinian cruise.
Water Sports
Short pre-marina paddleboard session in safe, open water.
Quick snorkel stop over sand if conditions are calm and time permits.
Secure and dry all water-toys before docking.
No water activities inside marina breakwaters.
Double-check lockers for fins, masks and life jackets.
Drone Spots
Aerials of Golfo di Cugnana at sunrise from an offshore launch point.
Harbor approach shots—only if permitted and away from people and masts.
Be mindful of airspace around Olbia’s control zone—check NOTAMs.
Avoid marina areas during busy check-in/out periods.
Land with ample battery reserve and maintain visual line of sight.
Must See
A final swim stop at Spiaggia di Marinella if time and weather allow.
Open-water views across Golfo di Cugnana toward the hills of Gallura.
Memories of La Maddalena’s islets silhouetted to the north.
Calm morning light for last photos of the Costa Smeralda coast.
Spot seabirds riding thermals over the headlands.
Services
Fuel dock, water and shore power available at nearby marinas.
Waste, recycling and used-oil disposal at designated points—ask staff.
Taxi and transfer services to Olbia airport and nearby towns.
Chandlery and minor maintenance support within the gulf area.
Good mobile coverage for final weather and travel updates.
Hazards
Busy weekend traffic and charter turnovers—keep clear of maneuvering vessels.
Shallow areas outside marked channels—follow buoys precisely.
Wind gusts can catch high topsides when berthing—rig extra fenders.
Prop wash near fuel docks—hold position with situational awareness.
Stay alert for swimmers and paddlecraft outside breakwaters.
Tips
Schedule refueling early to avoid queues on turnover days.
Settle any marina or park fees the day before when possible.
Photograph meter readings and fuel receipts for your records.
Verify no items are left drying on deck before docking.
Keep a short safety briefing for crew about lines, fingers and fenders on arrival.
Sardinia 7-night sailing itinerary: Costa Smeralda, La Maddalena & Bonifacio
Cruise the best of northern Sardinia and southern Corsica on a well-paced, 7-night Sardinia sailing itinerary that balances iconic beaches, protected anchorages and a touch of Old World history. Start and finish at Marina Cala dei Sardi, meander along the Costa Smeralda to Capriccioli and Grande Pevero, slip into La Maddalena’s marine-park jewels—Cala Coticcio, Santa Maria, Razzoli and Spargi—then hop across the Strait of Bonifacio to the sculpted granite of Lavezzi and the dramatic ramparts of Bonifacio. With mostly short passages and many swim stops, this route suits families and mixed-experience crews who want time to snorkel, paddleboard and explore ashore.
Why you’ll love it:
– Capriccioli, Grande Pevero and Baja Sardinia: postcard beaches with clear, shallow water for easy swimming and SUP.
– La Maddalena National Park: sandy anchorages, protected seagrass meadows and outstanding snorkeling at Santa Maria, Spargi and nearby coves.
– Bonifacio and Lavezzi: cliff-top citadel views, granite boulders, nature reserve trails and translucent “natural pools.”
– Seamless logistics: plentiful provisioning and marina services at Porto Rotondo and Bonifacio, plus short legs to maximize beach time.
Good to know:
– Total distance is approximately 90 NM with daily hops typically under two hours. Expect stronger winds during mistral events, especially in the Strait of Bonifacio.
– Observe La Maddalena National Park and Corsican reserve regulations: no anchoring on seagrass (posidonia), respect swim zones and designated moorings, and pack out all waste.
– Peak season is May–September; arrive early at popular bays and book marinas in advance. Always follow the captain’s guidance and adapt plans to weather and safety.
