Sailing ship from Porto San Paolo (S.Teodoro-Olbia) to Tavolara, Molara

If you’re looking for a simple, good-value way to see Sardinia’s most famous little offshore islands, this sailing day makes it easy. The route is built around short, scenic stops in the clear water between Tavolara and Molara, so you spend less time watching and more time actually in the sea.

I really like two things here: the small group size (up to 14) and how the day is structured for repeated swimming. You get onboard comfort, then jump in, then eat, then jump in again, without the frantic pace you get on some bigger tours.

One consideration: if you have food intolerances or special dietary requests, don’t assume you can customize everything. The team says special requests can’t be managed on the boat beyond no-fish or vegetarian options, and they recommend a packet lunch in that case.

Key things I’d plan around before you go

• Up to 14 people on board means you’re not fighting for space at the rail or in the shade.
• Four swim-focused stops keep the day fun and keep the itinerary from feeling like one long transfer.
• Tavolara and Molara marine waters are the point, with snorkeling gear included and plenty of time to use it.
• Food and wine are part of the experience, not a rushed add-on, including Vermentino and Sardinian liqueurs.
• Crew energy comes up again and again, with captains like Luigi (often with his son Mateo) and hosts such as Alessio and Fabio.
• Dolphin-search sail time is built into the afternoon, when conditions allow.

Porto San Paolo to Tavolara: the day starts with the right kind of calm

Your tour begins at Via Del Faro, 62, Porto San Paolo, with an 9:30 am departure and a return to the same meeting point. This part matters because it keeps the day uncomplicated. You don’t need to coordinate transport between multiple attractions, just get yourself to the dock.

Once you’re on board, the vibe is “day at sea,” not “tour lecture.” Even when the crew shares stories and points out what you’re seeing, it stays relaxed. And because the itinerary is timed around swim windows, the sailing itself feels like the connective tissue rather than the main event.

How the day flows: four swim stops plus a dolphin-search sail

This is a 7.5 hour sailing cruise (listed as about 7 to 8 hours), so it’s long enough to feel like a real outing, not a quick taster. The master may adjust the exact route based on wind and safety, which is normal in this part of the Mediterranean.

The stop pattern is the big attraction: swim early, swim again, eat while you’re in the action, then get back in the water later. That’s why the day works for all kinds of travelers, from couples to friend groups.

Here’s the simple rhythm you’ll experience:

• First water break at Isola Piana
• Tavolara time with aperitif-style snacks and lunch
• Molara “swimming pools” stop for top visibility
• Marine reserve area time plus an afternoon sail looking for dolphins

Stop 1: Isola Piana for a first swim that feels like instant vacation

The first stop is Isola Piana, plus nearby views in the same early island area just minutes from where you depart. You’ll get about 30 minutes for that first swim, and it’s a smart way to start.

Why it works: you’re warm from getting onboard, then you go straight into the water while you still feel fresh. It also helps you set the tone for the rest of the day. If you’re the kind of traveler who wants “at least one perfect swim” before lunch, this delivers that early.

Also, admission at this stop is listed as free, which keeps the day straightforward. You’re not budgeting for entry fees or extra tickets when the whole point is time on the water.

Stop 2: Isola di Tavolara for aperitif, swim, and lunch by the protected beach

Next up is Isola di Tavolara, with about 2 hours there. This is the main comfort stop of the itinerary: you’ll have an aperitif-style swim, then lunch served in front of one of Tavolara’s protected beach areas.

This stop is valuable because it’s where sailing turns into a proper meal moment. You’re not eating in a random parking-lot setting, you’re eating with the islands and sea right there. It’s also one reason the crew’s food service style gets praised so much in feedback, because the setting makes the breaks feel special.

One practical note: if you want to snorkel, keep an eye on the timing. This stop is long enough that you can do both, but you’ll want to sync it with when the crew is setting the boat for swimming.

Stop 3: Isola Molara and the “swimming pools” in turquoise water

Then you head to Isola Molara for about 1 hour. This is the stop people talk about for the water clarity and the famous rock-and-water zones locals use like natural pools.

Expect “get in, look around, float, and repeat” energy. The itinerary specifically calls out stopping at the Molara swimming pools and swimming in sea water known for an incredible turquoise color. If your favorite kind of snorkeling is seeing fish and rock edges in clear water, this is the segment you’ll remember.

Also, snorkeling equipment is included, so you don’t have to rent or manage gear. Just grab it when the boat is ready and keep it simple.

Stop 4: Tavolara-Punta Coda Cavallo marine reserve and the dolphin hunt

The last main activity block is L’Area Naturale Marina Protetta Tavolara – Punta Coda Cavallo. This protected marine area stretches 76 kilometers along the coast, and that scale is exactly why the sea here tends to feel special. You’re not just seeing one corner of “pretty water,” you’re operating inside a wider protected coastal environment.

You’ll have about 1 hour in this area for swimming and snorkeling time, and lunch is served here as well (yes, lunch is part of more than one segment of the day). Then, in the afternoon, there’s a sail in search of dolphins that often come into this region.

Real talk: dolphins are never guaranteed in the way a photo might promise. But the tour is built to spend time in the right waters when they’re likely to show up, and the sailing style keeps you scanning without feeling rushed.

Food and wine on board: what’s included and what that adds to your day

This is not a “snacks only” cruise. Included meals and drinks are a major part of the value.

You’ll get:

• Lunch
• Coffee and/or tea
• Brunch aperitif with Vermentino wine and typical Sardinian products
• Alcoholic beverages including Vermentino white wine, beer, myrtle, and myrtle-based liqueur
• Bottled water
• Wine tasting (listed separately)

What I like about this setup is that it matches how you actually spend the day. You’re active in the water, so hunger hits naturally. Instead of forcing yourself to eat before you swim or after you’ve cooled down, the schedule builds breaks around the sea time.

Also, there’s a theme in the feedback: people repeatedly call out that the food and beverages are not just adequate, they’re enjoyable. Even one detailed comment described an extensive Sardinian aperitif spread with items like pecorino varieties, Sardinian sausage with myrtle, pane carasau, and sweet finishes, then coffee and mirto later in the day. That kind of meal flow makes the cruise feel like a full experience, not a compromise.

If you have dietary needs

The operator is clear that food intolerances and special requests can’t be managed in a flexible way on board. They say only no-fish or vegetarian options are possible, and they recommend a packet lunch if you need something outside that.

If you’re traveling with someone who has a strict diet, this is the biggest planning point. Don’t wait until the last minute.

Crew and atmosphere: why the boat feels fun without being chaotic

This tour runs with a small-team approach, and it shows. Names that come up include Captain Luigi (often paired with his son Mateo), and hosts such as Alessio and Fabio. Multiple crew pairings are mentioned, which usually means the operation keeps a steady service standard even with different staffing.

The consistent praise is about warmth and energy. People describe a lively group vibe, with crew members who chat with everyone and help you feel at ease. You’ll see the practical side too, like competent sailing and careful spotting of good swimming conditions.

One more thing you’ll notice: the boat cleanliness and comfort. When a day involves repeated swims, a well-kept vessel makes a big difference. You don’t want to think about gear or surfaces while you’re trying to relax.

Price and value: is $119.77 worth it?

At $119.77 per person, this is priced like a proper full-day excursion, and the inclusions are what help justify it.

For your money, you’re getting:

• 7.5 hours of sailing
• Multiple swim stops
• Snorkeling equipment
• Lunch
• Wine tasting plus wine and other drinks
• Bottled water, coffee or tea, and an aperitif/brunch setup

The value angle is simple: this isn’t just transport to a view. You’re paying for time in protected waters, plus gear and a meal plan that follows you around the day. If you’ve ever paid for a “boat trip” where you eat a dry sandwich and bring your own snorkel gear, you’ll feel the difference here.

Also, the up to 14 travelers part likely helps with service and how much “space per person” you get. That’s often where the best value sits in small-coast sailing trips.

What to bring, and the small logistics that can save your mood

Because DA beach towels are not included, bring a towel or plan to use one you already have. This matters because you’ll go from sun to salt water to drying off several times.

I’d also bring:

• Sunscreen (people specifically call this out)
• A hat and sunglasses you’re happy to keep salty
• A simple dry bag for phone and valuables
• Swimwear you can rinse quickly
• Reef-safe sunscreen if you have it, since you’ll be snorkeling in a protected area

Parking can be tricky around ports in peak season. One practical note from feedback: it can help to arrive with time to park, and one person mentioned using the MonaiGo app for parking planning, plus a paid parking option near the port (they cited 5 euro).

The tour itself uses a mobile ticket, and it runs in English, so you don’t need complicated language prep.

Who this sailing trip suits best (and who should think twice)

This is a great match if you want:

• Island hopping without the hassle
• A day that’s mostly swimming and snorkeling, not sitting in transit
• Good food and wine as part of the experience
• A smaller group vibe with a friendly crew

It might be less ideal if:

• You need highly specific dietary accommodations beyond no-fish or vegetarian
• You dislike boats or rougher sea conditions, since the captain may change the exact route for safety (weather matters)

If you’re traveling as a couple, this is also a nice choice because the pacing gives you both swim time and conversation time. If you’re with friends, the group size keeps it social without turning into a party cruise.

Should you book this sailing trip?

If you want a Sardinia day where the schedule is built around real sea time, I’d book it. The combination of multiple swimming stops, snorkeling gear, and a meal-and-wine plan that doesn’t feel like an afterthought makes this one of the more complete “islands by boat” choices from Porto San Paolo.

My main reason to hesitate would be dietary needs that fall outside the stated limits. If you can handle no-fish or vegetarian, or you’re comfortable bringing a packet lunch for anything stricter, then you’re set up for a very smooth day.

FAQ

How long is the sailing cruise?

It’s listed as about 7 to 8 hours total, with 7.5 hours noted for the cruise time.

Where does the tour start and end?

The meeting point is Via Del Faro, 62, 07020 Porto San Paolo SS, Italy. The tour ends back at the same meeting point.

What stops are included?

The itinerary includes Isola Piana, Isola di Tavolara, Isola Molara, and time in the protected marine area of Tavolara – Punta Coda Cavallo, plus an afternoon sail looking for dolphins.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. Use of snorkeling equipment is included.

What food and drinks are included?

You’ll get lunch, coffee and/or tea, bottled water, a brunch aperitif with Vermentino, and included alcoholic beverages including Vermentino white wine, beer, and myrtle liqueur products.

Are beach towels included?

No. Beach towels are not included.

Does the tour offer dietary options?

The operator says that food intolerances or special requests cannot be managed on the boats. Only no-fish or vegetarian options are possible, and they recommend a packet lunch if you have needs beyond that.