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Discover the Untouched Beauty of Eastern Sardinia by Boat

When you think of Sardinia, the glamorous Costa Smeralda often comes to mind — but the island’s east coast holds so much more for sailors willing to venture a little further.
Beyond the glittering resorts, Eastern Sardinia reveals a wild, authentic side: towering limestone cliffs plunging into the sea, hidden coves with turquoise waters, ancient villages, and beaches so pristine they seem untouched by time.

Starting from Olbia, this coastline invites you to sail into a world of dramatic landscapes and natural wonders. The majestic Tavolara Island rises like a stone fortress from the sea, while further south, the Baunei coast unfolds in a sequence of secret beaches, caves, and sapphire pools accessible only by boat. Towns like Arbatax offer a taste of Sardinia’s rustic charm, surrounded by striking red rock formations.

Sailing here is an invitation to slow down, dive into crystal-clear waters, explore remote corners, and experience the true spirit of Sardinia, where nature, tradition, and adventure blend seamlessly into one unforgettable journey.

Best boat choice - Boat Rental Sardinia with Sailogy:

• Recommended boat: Sailing yacht 42-45 ft (e.g., Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 440 or Beneteau Oceanis 46.1) for an agile yet comfortable ride.

Sailboat Rental Olbia  |  Sailboat Rental Portisco

• Alternative: If you prefer more space and stability (especially for swimming and coastal exploration), a catamaran 38-42 ft (e.g., Lagoon 40 or Bali 4.2) is perfect.

Catamaran Rental Olbia  |  Catamaran Rental Portisco

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Day 1: Olbia → Tavolara Island (approx. 10 NM)

• Morning: Check-in at Olbia Marina (e.g., Marina di Olbia or Marina di Portisco).

• Afternoon: Set sail towards Tavolara Island, a dramatic limestone massif rising vertically from the sea.

• Not to miss:

  • Swim in the crystal-clear waters around Spiaggia Spalmatore di Terra.

  • Tender ashore and explore the tiny "kingdom" of Tavolara.

  • Sunset aperitivo at Da Tonino, the island's iconic restaurant.

Anchor: South side of Tavolara (good shelter from Mistral winds).

Tavolara Island

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Day 2: Tavolara → Cala Brandinchi → Cala Gonone (approx. 35 NM total)

• Morning: Early swim at Cala Brandinchi, also called Little Tahiti for its Caribbean-like waters. Perfect sandy bottom for anchoring.

• Afternoon: Arrive at Cala Gonone, a charming coastal town framed by rugged cliffs.

• Activities:

  • Visit Grotta del Bue Marino, a famous sea cave once home to monk seals.

  • Explore the waterfront and dine at a local trattoria.

Dock: Small marina available at Cala Gonone or moor offshore if weather allows.

Cala Brandinchi

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Day 3: Cala Gonone → Cala Luna → Cala Sisine → Baunei Coast (approx. 12 NM total)

• Morning: Short sail to Cala Luna, one of Sardinia’s most iconic beaches with limestone caves opening onto the shore.

• Late Morning: Continue to Cala Sisine, another breathtaking cove surrounded by steep cliffs.

• Afternoon: Sail along the Baunei Coast, an untouched stretch of jagged cliffs, hidden beaches, and turquoise waters.

• Activities:

  • Swim and snorkel at Piscine di Venere, natural pools formed by rocks.

  • Explore by dinghy along the coast’s dramatic caves and rock arches.

Anchor: Find a sheltered spot along the Baunei coast, depending on the wind (between Cala Biriala and Cala Goloritzé).

Cala Gonone

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Day 4: Baunei Coast → Cala Mariolu → Arbatax (approx. 15 NM total)

• Morning: Visit Cala Mariolu, famous for its tiny white pebbles and transparent water — ideal for snorkelling.

• Afternoon: Head south to Arbatax, a small harbour town known for its red porphyry rocks.

• Activities:

  • Stroll to the Rocce Rosse (Red Rocks) at sunset.

  • Optional: an inland excursion to explore parts of the Gennargentu mountains.

Dock: Marina di Arbatax.

Cala Mariolu

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Day 5: Arbatax → Cala Goloritzé → Capo Comino (approx. 30 NM)

• Morning: Start the journey back north.

• First stop: Cala Goloritzé — UNESCO-listed beach, reachable only by boat or hike. Admire the famous stone arch and the towering spire above the cove. Swimming here is pure magic.

• Afternoon: Continue sailing to Capo Comino, a wild cape with long white dunes and shallow waters.

• Activities:

  • Swim and relax on the wild beaches.

  • Snorkelling over shallow sandbanks and rocky reefs.

Anchor: Off Capo Comino beach or sheltered behind the dunes, depending on conditions.

Cala Goloritzé from the boat

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Day 6: Capo Comino → San Teodoro (La Cinta beach) → Olbia (approx. 30 NM total)

• Morning: Stop for a final swim at La Cinta Beach near San Teodoro, another Caribbean-like stretch of sand and shallow waters.

• Afternoon: Smooth sailing back to Olbia Marina, arriving by late afternoon.

Dock: Marina di Olbia or original base.

La Cinta Beach, San Teodoro

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Day 7: Olbia Marina – Check-out

The final day is usually dedicated to the check-out procedures. After a final breakfast with a view, the base management will take you through the disembarkation and check-out process. 

Summary of Highlights:

• Wild nature: Tavolara’s rocky cliffs, Baunei’s hidden coves, Goloritzé’s spire.

• Top swimming spots: Cala Brandinchi, Piscine di Venere, Cala Mariolu.

• Charming towns: Cala Gonone, Arbatax.

• Unique sites: Grotta del Bue Marino, Rocce Rosse, Tavolara micro-kingdom.