PORTO OTTIOLU BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
A Day Between Tavolara’s Sheer Walls and Molara’s Glassy Pools
A full-day minicrociera from Porto Ottiolu that takes you into the Tavolara Marine Protected Area to swim the Molara Pools, explore Tavolara Island and relax on pristine beaches.
A Day Between Tavolara’s Sheer Walls and Molara’s Glassy Pools.
From Porto Ottiolu a single-day boat runs into the Tavolara and Capo Coda Cavallo Marine Protected Area, threading cliffs, crystalline coves and the famous “Piscine di Molara.” The minicrociera combines swims at natural pools, a landing on Tavolara with free time ashore, and a slow coastal run past the Costa Dorata—the sort of shoreline that explains Sardinia’s reputation for extraordinary water and light.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Tavolara’s towering profile and sheer sea cliffs
The route reveals the imposing Tavolara “mountain” rising to 560 metres with abrupt cliffs dropping to the sea, a dramatic backdrop for the cruise through the Marine Protected Area.
Piscine di Molara — colours and transparency
The tour includes a stop at the Molara Pools: shallow, crystalline natural basins in front of the islet where the sea’s colours and transparencies are a defining feature of the itinerary.
Landing on Tavolara and time ashore
The minicrociera makes an approach to Tavolara for a free stop ashore—enough time to swim, stroll scented maquis paths, or visit the small royal cemetery—before returning along the Costa Dorata.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
You embark mid-morning from Porto Ottiolu and spend the day at sea inside the Tavolara and Capo Coda Cavallo Marine Protected Area. The rhythm is relaxed: navigation to the protected zone, a swim at Molara’s natural pools, an extended stop ashore on Tavolara for independent exploration and beach time, then a slow coastal run to admire the Costa Dorata beaches and inlets before returning late afternoon.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this minicrociera works best for.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Full-day excursion lasting approximately 9:00–16:30 (around 7.5 hours).
Light clothing, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, snorkel equipment, and a cotton shirt or light sweater for ventilation while underway.
Boarding is at Porto Ottiolu for departure toward the Tavolara and Capo Coda Cavallo Marine Protected Area.
The price includes the minicrociera, lunch and beverages (water and wine). Snack/bar service and drinks in general are listed as excluded.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the minicrociera?
The excursion is a full-day outing, approximately 9:00–16:30 (about 7.5 hours).
Where do we board the boat?
Departure and embarkation are from Porto Ottiolu.
What is included in the price?
Included are the minicrociera, lunch and beverages (water and wine).
What is not included?
The tour excludes snack/bar service aboard and drinks in general beyond the included water and wine.
Can the itinerary change?
Yes. The programme is indicative and may vary at the commander’s discretion according to weather and sea conditions.
Is snorkeling equipment needed or recommended?
Snorkel equipment is recommended and listed among the suggested items to bring.