Set out on a captivating journey through the stunning Asinara Island off the coast of Stintino. This vintage sailing boat tour promises a day filled with exploration, history, and natural beauty. From ancient Roman shipwrecks to a delectable lunch and refreshing swims, the itinerary offers a well-rounded experience that showcases the island’s rich heritage. Led by knowledgeable guides, this 8-hour adventure allows visitors to enjoy the island’s serene landscapes and uncover its fascinating past. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an unforgettable day at sea, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.
This experience made our list of the 2 Best Lunch Experiences In Stintino.
Key Points
- An 8-hour sailing tour from Stintino to Asinara Island, priced from $127.81 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Includes an expert guide, full lunch with drinks, swimming stops, and entry to the Crama Sea Turtle Center.
- Highlights include visiting the historical site of Cala Reale, enjoying a multi-course lunch at Cala Barche, and exploring the former penal colony buildings at Cala D’Oliva.
- The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, seasick individuals, or those over 80 years old.
- Offers the opportunity to explore the island’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and local cuisine through a vintage sailing boat experience.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Asinara Vintage Sailing Boat Tour whisks visitors away from Stintino to explore the stunning natural landscapes and historical sites of the Asinara Island.
Lasting 8 hours, the tour costs from $127.81 per person and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can also opt for the reserve now and pay later option.
The tour includes an expert guide, a full lunch with drinks, swimming stops, entry to the Crama Sea Turtle Center, and snorkeling rental for an additional fee.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, seasick individuals, or those over 80 years old.
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Itinerary and Stopovers
Departing from Piazzale Guardia Costiera in Stintino at 9:30 AM, the tour first stops at Cala Reale for 1.5 hours. This former quarantine station and penal colony holds Roman vessel wrecks dating back to the 4th century AD. Guests can optionally visit the nearby Sea Turtle Recovery Centre for €2.50. Next, the boat arrives at Cala Barche at noon, where a full lunch is served including a first course with prawns, wine, water, coffee, digestif, and Sardinian liqueurs. The tour then stops at Cala d’Oliva for an hour to explore the stunning beaches and former penal colony buildings. The final swimming stop is at Cala del Bianco before returning to Stintino between 5:30-6:00 PM.
| Stop | Duration | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Cala Reale | 1.5 hours | Former quarantine station, Roman vessel wrecks, optional Sea Turtle Recovery Centre |
| Cala Barche | Arrival at 12:00 PM | Full lunch with local cuisine, wine, and liqueurs |
| Cala d’Oliva | 1 hour | Stunning beaches, former penal colony buildings |
| Cala del Bianco | Swimming stop | Clear waters for final swim |
Departure and Stops
Guests embark on their Asinara Vintage Sailing Boat Tour from Piazzale Guardia Costiera in Stintino at 9:30 AM.
The first stop is Cala Reale, a former quarantine station and penal colony. Here, they can explore the historical significance of the site and optionally visit the Sea Turtle Recovery Centre.
The boat then sails to Cala Barche, where guests enjoy a delightful lunch featuring local Sardinian specialties.
Afterward, they stop at Cala d’Oliva, a picturesque former penal colony now housing the Park Authority.
The final swimming stop is at Cala del Bianco before the boat returns to Stintino between 5:30 PM and 6:00 PM.
Cala Reale
After departing from Piazzale Guardia Costiera, the first stop on the Asinara Vintage Sailing Boat Tour is Cala Reale.
This historical site was once a quarantine station and penal colony. Visitors can explore the area for around 1.5 hours and learn about the Roman vessel wreck dating back to the 4th century AD found nearby.
An optional visit to the Sea Turtle Recovery Centre is available for €2.50.
The stunning natural setting and remnants of the island’s past make Cala Reale a fascinating stop on the tour.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCala Barche
Arrival at Cala Barche occurs around 12:00 PM, offering visitors a welcomed opportunity for swimming in the clear waters.
The tour group will enjoy a delightful first course lunch featuring prawns, along with wine, water, coffee, digestif, and typical Sardinian liqueurs. This stop also includes fresh seasonal fruits, providing a refreshing and authentic dining experience.
The highlights of Cala Barche include:
- Swimming in the crystal-clear coves
- Savoring the locally-sourced, multi-course lunch
- Indulging in traditional Sardinian digestifs and liqueurs
After the relaxing lunch and swim, the tour continues to the next stunning destination on the Asinara Island.
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Cala D’oliva
The stunning Cala d’Oliva awaits visitors, offering a peaceful respite from the day’s exploration.
This 1-hour stop features the former penal colony buildings that now house the Park Authority. Guests can wander the picturesque grounds, taking in the serene atmosphere and beautiful beaches.
Cala d’Oliva provides a glimpse into the island’s fascinating history, as travelers learn about its past as a quarantine station and penal colony.
With its tranquil setting and well-preserved architecture, this stop offers a chance to truly take in Asinara’s captivating legacy.
The tour then continues to the final swimming destination, Cala del Bianco, before the return journey to Stintino.
Cala Del Bianco
Following the tranquil interlude at Cala d’Oliva, the tour heads to the final swimming stop of the day – Cala del Bianco.
This picturesque cove boasts crystal-clear waters, ideal for one last refreshing dip. Guests can:
- Enjoy the serene atmosphere and take in the stunning natural beauty of the area.
- Swim and snorkel in the inviting waters, which are typically calmer than other spots on the island.
- Relax on the boat and soak up the final moments of this unforgettable sailing adventure before the return to Stintino.
With the tour winding down, Cala del Bianco provides a fitting conclusion to a day filled with historical discoveries, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking scenery.
Included Features
The Asinara Vintage Sailing Boat Tour includes an array of features that enhance the overall experience for guests. Travelers will enjoy the expertise of a knowledgeable guide, a full lunch with drinks, and the opportunity to swim from the boat at various stops. Rental snorkeling gear is also available on board for an additional fee. To further enrich the experience, the tour includes entry to the Crama Sea Turtle Center, allowing guests to learn about the conservation efforts in the region.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Expert Guide | Provides in-depth information about the tour sites and history |
| Full Lunch & Drinks | Includes a first course with prawns, wine, water, coffee, digestif, and fruits |
| Swimming Stops | Allows guests to cool off and enjoy the clear waters around the island |
| Snorkeling Rentals | Available on board for an additional €4 fee |
| Crama Sea Turtle Center | Provides an opportunity to learn about local wildlife conservation efforts |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Type of Sailing Boat Will Be Used for the Tour?
The tour will use a vintage sailing boat for the excursion. The boat is described as a classic vessel that will provide an authentic sailing experience for guests during the 8-hour tour of the Asinara Island.
Is There an Option to Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
No, passengers cannot bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a full lunch with first course, wine, water, coffee, digestif, and fruits. Snorkeling equipment is available for rent at an additional cost.
Can I Request Dietary Accommodations for the Included Lunch?
Yes, customers can request dietary accommodations for the included lunch. The tour operator is happy to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, or other dietary needs if notified in advance. Additional fees may apply for special meal requests.
Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a specified minimum or maximum group size. It’s an open-participation activity, so the group size can vary. Travelers should check with the tour operator for the most up-to-date group details prior to booking.
Are Audio Guides or Multilingual Guides Available During the Tour?
The tour offers multilingual guides, but audio guides are not provided. The guides are knowledgeable and offer commentary in multiple languages to ensure all guests can fully enjoy the experience.
Recap
The Asinara Vintage Sailing Boat Tour from Stintino offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty and historic sites of Asinara Island. Visitors can enjoy the island’s rich history, savor a delicious lunch, and enjoy refreshing swims – all while sailing on a vintage boat and guided by an expert. This 8-hour adventure is a must-do for anyone seeking an unforgettable experience in this magnificent region.
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