FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT OUR EXCURSIONS IN THE ARCHIPELAGO OF LA MADDALENA
To quickly answer the most frequently asked questions about our daily tours to the islands of the La Maddalena National Park, you can easily consult the list below. If you do not find the answer you are looking for, feel free to contact us on our Whatsapp or via email.
What kind of excursions do you offer?
Our main excursions are the Short Tour (3.5 hours) and the Full Tour (5 hours).
During the tour we navigate along the coast and between the smaller islands of the La Maddalena Archipelago National Park, including Spargi, Budelli, Razzoli, and Santa Maria, and sometimes Caprera as well.
We stop in some of the most sheltered coves where you can snorkel, swim, dive into the crystal-clear water, or simply relax and enjoy the sun.
What kind of boat do you have?
Our boats are MaxiRIBs, specially designed for these waters. They are often known for their “unsinkable” reputation and are sometimes referred to as the “4×4 of the sea.” They are fast, comfortable, and thanks to their shallow draft they allow us to navigate and anchor very close to shore.
The boats are equipped with:
- A retractable sun awning
- Fridge
- Freshwater shower
- Stereo system
- On-board computer with depth gauge and navigation maps
- Boarding ladder for easy access in and out of the water
- Large storage compartments
What time are departure and return?
We have a morning and an afternoon departure. We usually meet at our office in Palau at 8:30 AM or 2:30 PM for a short briefing before departure. At the office you will have access to the restroom and a small area where you can change if needed.
From there, we walk to the boat (about 2 minutes on foot), as it is moored approximately 100 meters from the office. We return at the end of the scheduled excursion time.
Are the departures only from Palau?
Yes, departures take place from the port of Palau. This is because it helps you to save on fuel (Palau being the closest point to the archipelago) and to actually concentrate all the time available to visit the islands.
Do you also organize transfers?
Yes, we organize transfers with a partner company and we will pick you up directly from your hotel. We provide quotes based on the distance to go.
I am pregnant. Can I participate?
Even on calm sea days, it is possible to encounter waves caused by boat traffic. These usually do not cause discomfort, but if you are pregnant we recommend consulting your doctor before booking the excursion.
Can children participate?
Children are welcome but must behave correctly, respecting the common spaces and following the rules of the captain and their parents (who are responsible for their behavior).
Can dogs participate?
As much as we are dog lovers, unfortunately we cannot have them on board since not everyone feels comfortable with our four-legged friends, and since it is a boat anyway, it is inevitable that all guests come into contact with the dog.
Is there a bathroom on the boat?
No, it is a large and spacious boat, but not a cabin cruiser. If you have to pee, you can safely go into the water, it is perfectly biocompatible. If the need is more serious, then it is better to use the office bathroom before leaving.
Is there shade on the boat?
Yes, there is shade thanks to a large retractable awning.
Is lunch included?
Lunch is included on our Private Tours and Sunset Tours. We serve what we call a “Charcuterie Board,” a selection of typical Sardinian products including sausage, local cheeses, carasau bread, vegetables, and Vermentino wine from the region.
It is not a full meal, as we do not have a kitchen on board, but it is a wonderful way to taste some of our local specialties. This is offered only on Full Private Tours and Sunset Tours.
What should I bring with me?
You will need to bring water, a hat, a light jacket (for mid-season) and a towel. That’s all!
Is snorkeling equipment included?
Yes, we provide masks and snorkels for everyone.
Is there food available for vegetarians, celiacs, or lactose-intolerant guests?
Yes. Guests who are vegetarian, celiac, or lactose intolerant can inform us in advance and we will arrange a separate charcuterie board prepared specifically for their dietary needs.
Do you organize half/short tours?
Yes, but only with a “private tour” formula.
Do i need to book in advance?
If you are going to confirm your booking, yes. We ask for a deposit of 20% to 30% of the total.
Can I bring food on board?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food. However, please let us know in advance what you plan to bring.
Some items, such as canned foods, oily dishes, or glass containers, are not recommended. If glass breaks or oil spills on board, it can become dangerous since everyone is barefoot on the boat.
Do you have life jackets on board?
Yes, it is absolutely mandatory to have a life jacket on board for each person on board.
We are in our seventies. Is the excursion suitable for us?
Absolutely. However, please keep in mind that you should feel comfortable moving around the boat and climbing the boarding ladder after swimming.
In which language is the tour done?
As the tours are multicultural, we have a tendency to speak in English so that everyone can understand. Should the need arise, we repeat the explanations also in Italian.
Do you arrive to the beach by boat?
All the beaches are protected by buoys that limit the bathing area, making it safe for swimmers, so it is not possible to disembark directly on the sand. Usually we anchor about twenty meters from the shore.