Sardinia Sailing Itinerary

Costa Smeralda, La Maddalena & the Untamed Elegance of the Mediterranean

Introduction

Sardinia’s northeast coast offers one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful sailing routes — a journey through the turquoise waters of Costa Smeralda, the granite islands of La Maddalena, and the refined harbour life of Porto Cervo. Sailing from Olbia, this itinerary blends secluded bays, natural splendour, Sardinian culture and a quiet touch of Mediterranean glamour.

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Sardinia Sailing Itinerary

Total distance 71 nautical miles · average 2–3 hours sailing daily

A sailboat floating in a turquoise bay with a large rocky mountain in the background and seagulls flying overhead.

Day 1 — Olbia

A bustling gateway to Sardinia, Olbia greets you with lively piazzas, Roman relics, and cafés spilling onto the waterfront. Stroll Corso Umberto for boutiques and gelato, or simply relax on the seafront promenade before setting sail along the turquoise waters of the Emerald Coast.

Aerial view of a coastal marina with sailboats and yachts, surrounded by residential buildings and green hills, with distant mountains and clear blue sky in the background.

Day 2 - Porto Rotondo

Circular in layout and elegant in design, Porto Rotondo is a chic resort known for its exclusive marina, pastel villas, and designer boutiques. Enjoy the lively piazzetta, sample Sardinian wines in stylish cafés, or head to white sandy beaches framed by rocky coves and clear seas.

A scenic view of a marina with boats docked on a calm blue body of water, surrounded by lush green trees and palm trees, under a clear blue sky.

Day 3 - Cannigione

Nestled on the Gulf of Arzachena, Cannigione was once a fishing village and now thrives as a charming seaside town. Its marina is lively yet unpretentious, with evening strolls along the promenade and seafood restaurants serving the day’s catch in relaxed island style.

A boat floating on clear turquoise water near rocky shoreline and lush green hills under a bright blue sky.

Day 4 - La Maddalena

The crown jewel of Sardinia’s north, La Maddalena is an island of unspoiled coves and translucent waters. Navigate granite cliffs and hidden beaches in the national park, then wander the old town’s colourful streets before dining al fresco with a view of the harbour.

Aerial view of a harbor with boats, yachts, and ships, surrounded by a colorful town with houses and buildings along the coastline, and mountains in the distance across the blue water.

Day 5 - Palau

Gateway to La Maddalena, Palau is framed by striking rock formations such as the famous Bear Rock. Its laid-back harbour town atmosphere blends with vibrant markets and cafés. A short hike or a boat ride reveals sweeping views of the archipelago and glittering coastline.

Marina with boats docked, a wooden pier, and a hillside with houses at dusk, illuminated by streetlights and reflections on the water.

Day 6 - Porto Cervo

Synonymous with the Costa Smeralda’s jet-set lifestyle, Porto Cervo boasts luxury yachts, high-end boutiques, and glamorous nightlife. Yet beyond the marina lies a charming village square, elegant churches, and sweeping bays — a place where Sardinian glamour meets coastal beauty.

Outdoor cafe filled with people dining, surrounded by potted plants, on a busy city street during daytime.

Day 7 - Olbia (Return)

Sail back to Olbia and enjoy a final taste of Sardinia’s blend of history, style, and natural charm. Whether reflecting on hidden coves, vibrant piazzas, or glittering marinas, the Emerald Coast leaves lasting memories of beauty and balance between nature and glamour.

Optional Onshore Experiences

Enhance your voyage with hand-picked experiences ashore, blending the region’s rich culture with its celebrated cuisine.

A large, weathered rock formation with numerous holes and crevices, set against a colorful sunset sky with clouds in shades of orange, pink, and purple. There are trees and a body of water in the distance.

Cultural Moments

  • Olbia Relics: Explore Roman remains and San Simplicio Basilica, a granite church from the 11th century that reflects Sardinia’s layered history.

  • Archaeology of the Coast: Visit the Museo Archeologico in Olbia, showcasing treasures and shipwrecks from the Costa Smeralda.

  • Bear Rock, Palau: Hike to Roccia dell’Orso, a striking granite formation overlooking sweeping views of La Maddalena and the glittering archipelago.

A seaside restaurant with a wooden deck, outdoor seating, hanging wicker lamps, and a view of a beach and hillside houses.

Cuisine Journeys

  • Vermentino Wines: Visit a vineyard to taste Sardinia’s renowned Vermentino, crisp and aromatic, paired with traditional island produce.

  • Cannigione Seafood: Sample the day’s catch in seaside trattorias, where relaxed harbour charm meets fresh Sardinian flavours.

  • Porto Cervo Dining: Indulge in fine dining at the marina, where luxury yachts and elegant piazzas set the stage for coastal glamour.

  • View the Elysian Experience

This Sardinia sailing itinerary is designed for guests who want to experience the island’s northeast coast at an unhurried pace — from Olbia and Porto Rotondo to La Maddalena, Palau and Porto Cervo. Short daily passages allow time for swimming, exploring ashore, relaxed dining and discovering the quieter side of Costa Smeralda.

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Explore the yachts selected for this Sardinia itinerary, or view the sailing route in more detail.

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