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Explore Sardinia’s La Maddalena Archipelago by Sail

Updated: Oct 24

Sailing Sardinia and Corsica

Embarking on a seven-day sailing journey in the La Maddalena Archipelago, starting from the picturesque northeast of Sardinia, offers an unforgettable blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, delectable cuisine, and diverse sailing conditions. This guide will take you through the highlights of such an adventure, focusing on must-visit spots, local culinary delights, cultural insights, and what to expect in terms of sailing conditions.

Sailing Sardinia and Corsica - the View from Maddalena City

Day 1: Departure from Cala di Sardi Marina

Your journey begins at Cala di Sardi Marina, located on the northeastern coast of Sardinia. This modern marina provides excellent facilities for sailors, including well-maintained docks, provisioning services, and repair facilities. Before setting sail, take a moment to explore the marina and enjoy a hearty breakfast at one of the nearby cafés.


Day 2: Exploring La Maddalena Town

Set sail towards La Maddalena Island, the largest in the archipelago. The town of La Maddalena is a charming mix of narrow streets, pastel-colored houses, and bustling markets. Dock at the main harbor and spend the day wandering through the historic center. Visit the Naval Archaeological Museum to learn about the area's maritime history and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local trattoria. Fresh seafood, particularly the octopus and clams, are highly recommended.

Sailing Sardinia, Spiaggia Rosa pink beach

Day 3: Spiaggia Rosa – The Pink Beach

One of the most iconic destinations in the archipelago is Spiaggia Rosa, located on the island of Budelli. Known for its unique pink sand, which gets its color from microscopic fragments of coral and shells, Spiaggia Rosa is a protected area. While anchoring and swimming directly at the beach are prohibited to preserve its beauty, you can enjoy the view from your boat or nearby beaches. The surreal beauty of the pink-hued sand against the turquoise waters is a sight to behold.

Day 4: Caprera Island and Garibaldi’s House

Sail to Caprera Island, a place of historical significance and natural beauty. This island is home to the Garibaldi Compendium, the house where Italian national hero Giuseppe Garibaldi lived. The museum provides an insightful look into his life and Italy's unification process. After a dose of history, hike the trails of Caprera to discover hidden coves and pristine beaches. Cala Coticcio, often referred to as "Tahiti," is a must-visit with its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life.

Day 5: Porto Cervo – The Glamorous Retreat

Porto Cervo, on the Costa Smeralda, is a short sail from the archipelago and worth a visit. Known for its luxury yachts, high-end boutiques, and vibrant nightlife, Porto Cervo offers a stark contrast to the tranquil islands of La Maddalena. Spend the day exploring the town, indulging in fine dining, and perhaps even spotting a celebrity or two. The nightlife here is vibrant, with numerous bars and clubs where you can dance the night away.

Sailing Sardinia - Catch of the Day - freshly caught fishes

Day 6: Return to La Maddalena – Beach and Culture

Sail back towards La Maddalena and anchor near one of the lesser-known beaches like Spiaggia del Relitto on Caprera Island, where you can enjoy a peaceful day of swimming and snorkeling. In the evening, head back to La Maddalena town to experience local culture. Enjoy a traditional Sardinian dinner featuring dishes like porceddu (roast suckling pig), culurgiones (stuffed pasta), and seadas (honey and cheese pastries).

Day 7: Final Day at Cala di Sardi Marina

Conclude your journey by sailing back to Cala di Sardi Marina. Spend your final day relaxing at the marina or take a short trip inland to visit the charming village of San Pantaleo. This village, nestled among granite peaks, is known for its vibrant art scene and weekly markets where you can pick up unique souvenirs. Reflect on your adventure over a final meal at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Sardinia one last time.

Sailing Conditions and Tips

Sailing Sardinia, and the La Maddalena Archipelago in particular, offers relatively calm sailing conditions, especially during the summer months. The winds are generally moderate, making it an ideal destination for both experienced sailors and novices. However, the area is known for its numerous rocky outcrops and shallow waters, so careful navigation is essential. Mooring buoys are available in most anchorages to protect the delicate marine ecosystem.

Weather conditions are typically sunny and warm, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) during the day. Ensure you have adequate sun protection and stay hydrated. The best time to sail is from May to September when the weather is most favorable.


Ready to book your next charter in Sardinia and get more tips and information?

 

Sailing Sardinia - the beaches

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