Set out by private or small-group boat to the protected marine reserve of Tavolara — a towering limestone island rising 565 metres from an impossibly blue sea. Snorkel with grouper and sea bass in gin-clear water, and step ashore on one of Italy's most cinematic beaches.
What to expect
The boat departs Golfo Aranci harbour and crosses the strait in roughly 30 minutes, giving views of Tavolara's sheer north face — one of the Mediterranean's great natural spectacles. The captain anchors inside the marine reserve where visibility often exceeds 20 metres; snorkel gear is provided. A second swimming stop at Spalmatore di Terra, Tavolara's only sandy beach, offers time ashore near the island's famed tiny 'kingdom' cemetery. On the return leg, Molara island's sea caves are explored by dinghy, and the guide points out nesting Yelkouan shearwaters on the cliff ledges.
Good to know
Half-day tours (4 hours) depart around 09:00 or 14:00 — the morning departure is recommended for calmer sea conditions and best light for snorkelling. Boats leave from Golfo Aranci port, so no transfer is needed. Bring reef-safe sunscreen; standard sunscreen is prohibited in the marine reserve.