Porto Rotondo: Top Boat Experiences in Sardinia

Located in the heart of the Emerald Coast, Porto Rotondo is one of Sardinia’s best gateways for exploring the island’s northeast coast. With a full-service marina, access to iconic routes, and boats suited to every experience level, it’s an ideal starting point for both short outings and full-day adventures.

Why Start from Porto Rotondo?

The Marina di Porto Rotondo occupies a unique setting in a small natural bay nestled between Punta Nuraghe and Punta Volpe, creating the perfect sheltered environment for modern boats. This strategic location in the heart of Sardinia’s Gallura region provides immediate access to some of the Mediterranean’s most sought-after destinations.

The marina boasts approximately 652 berths equipped with comprehensive amenities that ensure every guest enjoys a luxurious and comfortable experience. Essential services include reliable electricity and water connections, fuel stations, modern shower facilities, high-speed Wi-Fi, and professional marine services. Additional conveniences encompass crane operations, secure winter storage options, on-site restaurants, and nearby provision stores to help visitors prepare for their maritime adventures.

Suggested Itineraries

Emerald Coast & Tavolara Archipelago

• Distance: ~10–15 NM from Porto Rotondo
  
• Duration: half-day to full-day trips

This route follows the Costa Smeralda toward Tavolara Island. Its limestone cliffs make it one of the most recognizable sights in Sardinia. The waters around Tavolara are part of a marine protected area, ideal for snorkeling and wildlife spotting — dolphins are often seen here in early mornings.

Further north, the Maddalena Archipelago offers multiple anchorage options.

• Caprera: linked to Garibaldi and popular for hiking and cultural interest.
  
• Budelli: home to the famous pink beach (protected, no landing permitted).
  
• Santa Maria and Spargi: quieter anchorages, great for swimming.

Porto Cervo & Capriccioli Beaches by RIB

• Distance: ~6–10 NM from Porto Rotondo
  
• Duration: half-day tour, 4–5 stops
  

We recommend hiring a RIB here as it offers fast access to several iconic beaches in one outing.

• Capriccioli: known for shallow turquoise waters, safe for families.
  
• Spiaggia del Principe: a smaller cove, often less crowded outside peak season.
  
• Elephant Beach: a famous rock formation resembling an elephant.
  

Modern RIBs typically accommodate 12–13 passengers and include features such as shade, a ladder, a fridge, and seating. Expect €400–€600/day.

Gulf of Orosei – Remote Anchorages and Hidden Beaches

• Distance: ~ 45 nautical miles from Porto Rotondo — best suited to a full day on a fast motorboat or RIB.
  
• Highlights: Cala Goloritzé, Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu, Piscine di Venere, and the Bue Marino caves.
  
• Best suited for: Experienced boaters or rentals with a skipper, due to longer distances and protected areas.
  

The Gulf of Orosei, located on Sardinia’s east coast, is one of the island’s most striking landscapes. Many of its beaches and coves are accessible only by sea, making it a perfect destination for private boat hire.

Cala Goloritzé, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its limestone pinnacle and natural arch. Nearby, Cala Mariolu and Cala Luna are known for their clear water and pebble beaches. The Piscine di Venere offers natural “pools” in shallow turquoise water, while the Bue Marino caves showcase underground chambers and stalactites visible from the sea.

This itinerary is best planned outside the busiest summer weekends, as anchorages are limited. For comfort and safety, we recommend a powerful motorboat or RIB from €400–€800/day, depending on size, with the option of adding a captain (€150–€250/day) for local expertise.

Practical Tips & Seasonal Advice

• When to go:
  
  • July–August: warm waters, busy marinas — book at least 1–2 months ahead.
    
  • June & September: warm – with some cloud cover, but fewer crowds.
    
  • May & October: cooler but quieter, with lower rental rates.
    
• Budget:
  
  • Larger RIB/motorboat: €300–€600/day
    
  • Sailboats: €250–€500/day (bareboat)
    
  • Catamarans: €800–€1,200/day
    
  • Captain on board: €150–€250/day extra
    
• Wildlife: Dolphins are most often seen around Golfo Aranci and Tavolara. Birdlife is abundant in marine protected areas.
  

FAQs

Can I rent a boat without a license in Porto Rotondo?
Yes. No-license RIBs for up to 6 people are available from €100–€150/day.

What facilities does the marina offer?
652 berths, fuel, water, electricity, Wi-Fi, showers, restaurants, shops, and professional marine services.

When is the best time to book?
Book 2–3 months in advance for July and August. In June or September, availability is better and pricing is slightly lower.