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.
Adventure brief
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.
Ottiolu, a lively fishing village on Sardinia’s northeast coast, serves as the starting point for Babitours’ captivating boat excursions. This full-day adventure takes visitors across crystal-clear waters to the protected Tavolara Marine Area, renowned for its vibrant marine life and dramatic limestone formations. The day begins with a smooth cruise past rugged cliffs, where the towering Tavolara Island—an ancient, uninhabited summit—rises sharply from the sea, offering a striking contrast against the azure sky. Travelers can marvel at the Molara Pools, where turquoise waters lap against white sand beaches, perfect for a swim or lounging in the sun. Babitours’ boat glides past the scenic shoreline, providing ample opportunities to capture photographs of the island’s diverse flora, with native succulents and coastal shrubs adding color and texture. The journey emphasizes Sardinia’s rich marine biodiversity and pristine landscapes, making it a must-do for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. As you step ashore on Tavolara’s untouched beaches, you’ll understand why this area has captivated visitors and locals for generations. The full-day excursion also features free time to relax, snorkel, or explore at your own pace. Babitours has earned its reputation as a top local outfit for its expert guides, friendly atmosphere, and dedication to preserving Sardinia’s natural beauty. Their trips stand out because of the seamless combination of scenic diversity, cultural significance, and family-friendly comfort, making this an ideal way to experience Sardinia’s coast authentically.
Route Schematic
Route & Stops
A typical sequence of sights and stops you can expect along the minicrociera.
Porto Ottiolu — Embarkation
Departure from Porto Ottiolu where participants board for the full-day cruise into the Tavolara marine area.
Piscine di Molara — Swim and snorkel
A scheduled swim stop at the famous Molara Pools to admire the colours and transparencies of the water in front of the islet.
Tavolara Island — Landing and free time
Approach and landing on Tavolara for free time to visit beaches, walk scented maquis trails or see the small royal cemetery.
Costa Dorata — Coastal navigation and views
A slow navigation along the Costa Dorata to admire beaches and rocky coves with exceptionally clear seabeds before the return leg.
The programme is indicative and may be altered at the commander’s discretion according to weather and sea conditions; expect the operator to change the route or timing for safety.
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.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-08T19:50:29.911Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.