BOAT-COMPARATOR Guide
Sardinia: the Costa Smeralda and Maddalena archipelago by boat
Olbia, Porto Cervo, the Maddalena archipelago: northern Sardinia by boat — emerald anchorages, national park rules, budget and season.
Between Corsica and Sardinia, the Maddalena archipelago scatters some sixty granite islands over emerald water — Italy's finest cruising grounds, one motoring hour from Olbia.
The classic programme
From Olbia, Porto Rotondo or Cannigione: head for Spargi (Cala Corsara), Budelli and its pink beach (landing is banned, but the neighbouring 'natural pool' anchorage between Budelli, Razzoli and Santa Maria is open), then Caprera, Garibaldi's island. On the way back, the Costa Smeralda: Porto Cervo, the Romazzino coves and the Pevero gulf — the world's most expensive nautical mile in anchored yachts.
National park: the rules
The Maddalena is a national park: a daily access permit is required for boats (the operator provides it or adds it to the contract — check the line), some zones ban anchoring, and posidonia is protected as in the Balearics. The Corsica-Sardinia strait (Bonifacio) is windy: check the forecast before crossing to the Lavezzi.
When, and how much
June and September are ideal: water already (or still) at 23-25 °C, breathable anchorages, prices 25-35% below August. Expect €300-600 for a day RIB or motorboat out of Olbia, more from Porto Cervo itself. By the week, Cagliari and the south (Villasimius, Chia) offer a quieter alternative.
The smart move
Olbia's fleets are deep but heavily booked from 20 July to 25 August: reserve early, and compare platforms — on this tourist market the same boat routinely shows a 15-20% spread depending on the sales channel.