La Maddalena Archipelago by Sailboat: Guide to the Islands Not to Be Missed (Spargi, Budelli, Santa Maria)
Discover the pearls of the National Park on board an authentic vintage sailing ship
Welcome aboard! If you are planning a visit to Sardinia, you have probably heard of the La Maddalena Archipelago. And if there is a way to really experience it, it is to sail its emerald waters aboard a sailing ship.
Forget crowded motorboats or noisy dinghies. Imagine sailing slowly, lulled by the wind, on board a boat that looks like something out of a painting. The Leonidas, our 15-metre lateen sailboat, is waiting to take you to discover the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean.
In this guide we tell you about the must-see stages of our La Maddalena Archipelago sailing tour. Spoiler: it will be a day you will not forget.
Why choose a sailing ship to visit La Maddalena?
Before we dive into the islands, one question: why exactly a vintage sailing ship? The answer is simple: slowness, authenticity and respect for nature.
Sailing means travelling in silence, listening only to the sound of the wind and waves. It means approaching the coasts without disturbing them, admiring the colours that change with the sunlight. Our Leonidas is not just a means of transport: it is your floating refuge for 7 hours, with space for up to 12 guests, a bathroom on board and a family atmosphere.
Ready to set sail? Here are the islands waiting for you.
Island of Spargi: the wild jewel of the Archipelago
Because it is famous: For its candid white beaches and aquarium-like water.
Spargi is perhaps the most popular island for visitors. Uninhabited and wild, it is part of the National Park and offers some of the most photographed views of Sardinia.
Cala Corsara: the postcard beach
As soon as you set foot (or rather, as soon as you drop anchor) in Cala Corsara, you immediately understand why we are here. Pink granite moulded by the wind embraces a beach of fine sand, lapped by a sea that fades from turquoise to ultramarine blue. From the sailboat, the view is spectacular: it is like being inside a painting.
Cala Granara and Cala Soraya
Besides the famous Corsara, Spargi offers other small creeks. Cala Granara is more intimate and sheltered, perfect for those seeking a piece of paradise all to themselves (or almost!). The shallow, crystal-clear waters make it ideal for snorkelling and swimming while observing the colourful fish.
Curiosity: Spargi is an uninhabited island, but it harbours traces of the past such as the now abandoned World War II military fortifications that are partly visible from the boat.
Island of Budelli: the keeper of Spiaggia Rosa
Because it is famous: It hosts the legendary Spiaggia Rosa, one of the most iconic and protected places in the Mediterranean.
Reaching Budelli in sailing ship is a unique thrill. The island is a veritable open-air museum, world-famous for its colourful beach... you guessed it, pink!
The Spiaggia Rosa: can it be visited?
Let's start with the question everyone asks: can you set foot on the Spiaggia Rosa? The answer is no, and for good reason. The pink colour is given by microorganisms (the Miniacina miniacea) that have been deposited on the sand for millennia. To preserve this unique heritage, access has been forbidden for years.
But don't worry: the beauty of a hike in sailboat is that you can admire it from the sea in all its beauty! From our vintage sailing ship, you will enjoy an incredible spectacle: the contrast between the soft pink of the beach, the green of the Mediterranean maquis and the blue of the sea is pure magic.
Cala di Roto and the Knight
Budelli is not just Spiaggia Rosa. Roto Cove, on the opposite side, is another marvel, with clear sand and transparent waters. And then there is the mythical Knight of Budelli, a granite boulder that looks like a knight guarding the island. A perfect subject for your photos!
Did you know? Budelli was at the centre of a famous legal battle a few years ago, when an entrepreneur claimed ownership. Today it is finally back under the management of the National Park, for the protection of all.
Island of Santa Maria: the oldest and most welcoming
Because it is famous: It is the only island in the archipelago (along with La Maddalena and Caprera) to be inhabited, and it has a charm all of its own.
After the wilderness of Spargi and Budelli, Santa Maria welcomes you with a different atmosphere. Gentler, almost “tamed”, but no less fascinating.
Cala Santa Maria and the small village
Here you will find the only real “landing place” with some buildings: a few houses, a small restaurant and a kiosk. The beach at Santa Maria is beautiful, with clear sand and a gently sloping seabed, perfect for families. You can go ashore, take a walk and maybe treat yourself to an ice cream.
Snorkelling among the stacks
But the real treasure of Santa Maria, for those who love the sea, is hidden beneath the surface. Around the island there are rich seabeds, populated by damselfish, bream and, with a bit of luck, a few starfish. Put on your mask and snorkel and allow yourself to be amazed.
Santa Maria, Razzoli and Budelli: the perfect trio
Santa Maria lies very close to its “sisters” Budelli and Razzoli. As you sail with the sailboat, you will cross the stretch of sea that separates them, being able to admire all three islands at the same time. A breathtaking view, especially during the sunset hours.
Beyond the three sisters: other stops in the Archipelago
Weather and conditions permitting, our sailing tours may also include other wonders:
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Island of Razzoli: the northernmost, wild and windy island, with its sheer cliffs and the striking strait separating it from Budelli, where the famous “natural pools” are formed.
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Island of Caprera: the second largest island, linked to the figure of Giuseppe Garibaldi, who lived his last years here. From the boat you can see his Compass and beautiful coves such as Coticcio Cove (nicknamed “Tahiti”).
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Natural pools of Budelli: an area between Budelli, Razzoli and Santa Maria where the water is very shallow and incredibly warm and transparent. It feels like swimming in a natural open-air pool!
Frequently asked questions about visiting the islands by sailboat
How long is an excursion to visit these islands?
Our one-day tour lasts approximately 7 hours. It is the perfect time to visit 3-4 islands, make several bathroom stops, have lunch on board and enjoy unhurried sailing.
Can you go ashore on all islands?
It depends. At Spargi and Santa Maria usually go ashore to visit the beaches (especially at Santa Maria). At Budelli Access ashore is restricted to protect the Spiaggia Rosa, but you still stop on board to admire it and swim in the crystal-clear waters around the island.
What do you eat during the hike?
Usually lunch is packed: everyone brings their own, and we provide water and cold drinks. Some tours (such as exclusive tours) may organise a different lunch on board. We advise you to ask when booking!
Book your Maddalena Archipelago adventure
We hope this guide has made you want to set sail with us! Visit the’Archipelago of La Maddalena on a sailing boat (indeed, in sailing ship!) is an experience that combines nature, relaxation and a touch of history.
Our Leonidas is waiting for you in the port of Palau (or at La Maddalena, if you book the exclusive tour). With her 15 metres of charm and her Latin sail, she will be the perfect companion for your day at sea.
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