Sardinia by boat: must-see places that will take your breath away

One of the largest islands in the Mediterranean, Sardinia is a land of breathtaking landscapes, ancient history, and rich culture. But your sailing adventure doesn’t have to end at its shores — Sardinia is surrounded by dozens of stunning islands, each with its own unique charm. So, which destinations will truly take your breath away?

In general, we would recommend sailing around Sardinia to more experienced skippers., as strong Mistral or Tramontane winds can occur, even in summer. However, for experienced sailors and their crew, this region offers not only exhilarating sailing but also a fantastic holiday at sea — complete with breathtaking scenery, incredible food, and countless opportunities for adventure.

Italian cuisine is always a treat, and Sardinian food is no exception. In our opinion, you simply can’t leave without trying these local specialities:

• Pecorino cheese – A must-try, rich and flavourful.
• Pane Carasau – Thin, crispy bread, perfect with cheese or wine.
• Zuppa Gallurese – A rustic dish of broth, cheese, and bread.
• Spezzatino con Piselli – A hearty stew of meat and peas.
• Fresh seafood – Found everywhere, and always delicious.
• Almond biscuits and amarettes – Perfect for a sweet treat.

Which spots should you absolutely not miss if you want to experience the best of Sardinia?

Marina di Portisco is well worth a stop. Surrounded by lush Mediterranean greenery, it offers breathtaking views of the sea and nearby islands. The marina has a lively atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities for diving, snorkelling, and fishing excursions. We recommend arriving early and spending an extra day here to soak it all in. Plus, there's a beautifully clean beach just a short walk away.

One of the most luxurious marinas in Europe, Porto Cervo is the perfect place to soak up the glamorous side of Sardinia. Whether you’re looking to party in stylish bars or simply admire the impressive mega yachts, this marina won’t disappoint. It’s well-sheltered from almost all wind directions, making it a great option if strong winds are in the forecast. Just keep in mind that mooring here comes with a higher price tag!

A unique, eco-friendly floating marina, Cala dei Sardi is as innovative as it is beautiful. Despite its floating design, it provides all the essential services you need, including electricity, water, and WiFi — making it a comfortable and sustainable stop on your journey.

Porto Conte Bay is framed by two striking capes, Punta Giglio and Capo Caccia, home to some of the largest stalactite caves in Europe. The most famous, Neptune’s Cave, is a must-visit — legend has it that the sea god himself once resided here. Other spectacular caves include Grotta di Nereo, named after the father of the sea nymphs, Grotta dei Ricami, with intricate white stone formations that resemble lace, and the Grotta Verde, known for its stunning green hues.

A major hub for tourism and transport, Olbia is home to an international airport, making it a convenient starting point for your sailing adventure. The city boasts beautiful beaches and a well-equipped marina, where we offer a wide selection of boats. While in Olbia, don’t miss the chance to explore its rich history, including the Basilica of San Simplicio, the Church of St. Paul, and the remains of a Roman aqueduct.

Located near Villasimius, Porto Giunco is famous for its crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. The nearby Notteri lagoon, where you’ll find elegant pink flamingos, adds to the area’s unique charm. There’s plenty of space to anchor here, though during the high season, expect to share the bay with many other yachts.

Beyond its stunning mainland, Sardinia is surrounded by breathtaking islands, each offering a unique landscape just a short sail away.

The island of La Maddalena may be just 20 km², but it packs a punch with Caribbean-like beaches, opportunities for water sports, hiking, and shopping — everything you could want on a sailing holiday. For swimming and sunbathing, we recommend Madonetta, Carlotto, Cala Lunga, or Bassa Trinità beach. And if you’ve seen those famous pink rocks on social media, you’ll find them at Testa di Polpo beach.

Famous as the home of Giuseppe Garibaldi, Caprera is a historic island with stunning bays and unspoiled nature. We recommend Porto Palma on the island’s southern coast, home to the renowned Centro Velico Caprera sailing school. Here, you can moor at one of the buoys or drop anchor and enjoy the island’s peaceful atmosphere.

Visible from miles away due to its long and towering shape, Tavolara is steeped in history. The island's inhabitants, descendants of the ancient Bartoleoni family, still consider it their ancestral mini kingdom, a status they declared in the 19th century. For a perfect stopover, we recommend anchoring in the bay of Spalmatore.

If you're sailing to northern Sardinia, the Corsican port of Bonifacio is an enticing destination. Approaching this stunning town is an experience in itself, but due to its narrow entrance and the potential for strong winds, we recommend it for advanced skippers. To stay informed on conditions, you can contact the Capo Pertusato lighthouse before arrival.

Sardinia offers much more than just sailing — you can turn your trip into a truly active holiday:

• Rock climbing at the Punta Giradili cliffs and Cala Gonone.
• Kitesurfing at Punta Trettu, La Cinta Beach, Poetto Beach (winter), Petrol Beach (summer), and Porto Pollo near Cagliari.
• Surfing on the Sinis Peninsula, one of the island’s top surf spots.
• Agritourism — many visitors opt to stay on traditional Sardinian farms and experience local life.

Sardinia has something for everyone, whether you're seeking adventure on the water, on land, or in the heart of its rural landscapes.