BOAT-COMPARATOR Guide

Cagliari and southern Sardinia by boat

The Gulf of Angels, Poetto beach, the coves of Chia: southern Sardinia, less crowded than the Costa Smeralda, seen from a boat.

While the Costa Smeralda draws most of the attention in northern Sardinia, the south of the island, around Cagliari, offers equally turquoise water with noticeably less crowded anchorages, even at the height of summer.

Cagliari and the Gulf of Angels

The Sardinian capital lends its name to the Gulf of Angels (Golfo degli Angeli), a wide bay opening just south of the city — an excellent starting point for a day at sea without a long approach.

Poetto beach, right by the city

Steps from the harbour, the long beach of Poetto stretches out at the foot of the Sella del Diavolo hill — an easy anchorage for a swim stop at the very start or end of a trip, before heading back out to sea.

Heading south toward Chia

Further along the south coast, the Chia area lines up dunes, lagoons and remarkably clear blue water, in a setting far less built-up than the Costa Smeralda — a good half-day's sail from Cagliari depending on your starting point.

Nora, the ancient city facing the sea

Between Cagliari and Chia, near Pula, the archaeological site of Nora occupies a small peninsula mixing Phoenician, Punic and Roman remains — part of the ruins runs straight into the water, visible from a boat following the coast.

Planning your trip

Prices stay within the Italian average: €200-600/day for a RIB or motorboat. Southern Sardinia is generally easier to book in peak season than the Olbia fleets, heavily in demand between late July and late August on the Costa Smeralda.

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