Sella del Diavolo looks different from water. This 3-hour Cagliari sailing tour pairs snorkeling coves with Alma and Patrick’s storytelling as you slide across the Gulf of Angels. You also get the practical perks that make sea time easy, including an on-board WC and a crew that keeps things calm and clear.

One key consideration: if you get seasick, this may not be the best match. The sailing conditions can get a bit choppy, and the trip is also specifically not recommended for people who suffer from motion sickness.

Key highlights at a glance

• Devil’s Saddle swim stop: a longer, main photo-and-water moment at Sella del Diavolo
• Snorkeling kit included: goggles and gear (plus floats for extra comfort)
• A small-group feel: you’ll spend time together onboard without the chaos of big boats
• Comfort and safety onboard: WC, fresh-water shower, first-aid trained crew, and a defibrillator
• Crew-led legends and history: short, fun explanations as you sail past coastline landmarks
• Prosecco and drinks available: you can enjoy a glass while you relax on the return

Why this Cagliari sailing tour hits so hard

This is one of those Cagliari experiences where the “wow” comes from the combo of movement and scenery. You’re not parked on a beach with crowds. You’re sailing out of the marina area, then anchoring at coves you can only really reach by boat, where the water turns from clear to stunning.

I like that it’s paced like a real afternoon on the sea, not a checklist. You get multiple chances to jump in, with guide time for context and then freedom to float, swim, and watch fish.

The other big plus is how the crew handles the vibe. Alma (and often Patrick with him) keep the mood friendly and informed. Other crew members like Paolo and Laura show up too, and the common thread is the same: you feel looked after, but you’re still free to enjoy the trip your way.

Your boat time: comfort, safety, and what to expect onboard

This tour runs on a sailing boat, and the comfort level is a big part of why the trip scores so high. You have onboard bathroom access (WC), plus a fresh-water shower so you’re not stuck smelling like salt for the rest of the day.

Safety is handled seriously, with a crew trained in first aid and a defibrillator on board. You’ll also get guidance during the swimming stops, including how to use the floats and where to go.

No-shoes rule (and why it matters)

You should know up front that shoes aren’t allowed. Boats can get slippery, and this also helps keep deck areas safer when people are moving around for snorkeling and swimming.

If you’re thinking about it: pack water-friendly footwear for walking to the boat, but plan to go barefoot or in socks once you’re onboard. That’s the kind of detail that saves hassle later.

The route and stops: from Cala Bernat to Sella del Diavolo

The tour is about 3 hours total, starting and ending at Alma Sailing Charter. The timing is built around sailing between anchor points, with short breaks and swimming windows at several coves.

Here’s how the day flows, and what each stop is likely to feel like.

Stop 1: Alma Sailing Charter (your meeting point)

You start at Alma Sailing Charter at the port area. It’s close enough to the city center that you don’t burn your whole day on transport.

Once you’re onboard, you’ll head out toward the famous Devil’s Saddle (Sella del Diavolo) area, using the sailing time to learn a bit about what you’re seeing along the coast.

Stop 2: Cala Bernat (photo stop + quick guided moment)

Cala Bernat is first, with a break and a photo stop, plus a short guided explanation. This tends to be a good warm-up: you get a sense of the water color and the cliff shapes before you start the longer swim moments later.

The water here can look calm from the surface, but conditions can still shift. Bring a towel and keep your phone secured early if you’re planning photos.

Stop 3: Yacht time (a short sailing segment)

After Cala Bernat, there’s a sailing stretch where you’re not in the water. This matters because it breaks up the rhythm. It also gives you time to settle in, listen to stories, and just enjoy the sail.

Stop 4: Cala Mosca (swim + snorkeling window)

Cala Mosca is one of the main water stops, with swimming and snorkeling time (about 10 minutes in the itinerary). This is the first chance for many people to actually get face-down and see fish close by.

The included snorkeling setup and floats mean you don’t have to show up with your own gear. You’ll just need to be willing to get in the water and deal with the temperature shock that comes with open sea snorkeling.

Stop 5: Cala Fighera (another swim-and-snorkel break)

Next up is Cala Fighera, with swimming and snorkeling time (about 15 minutes). This is often where you get more comfortable with the cadence: jump in, breathe, check the water, then re-board before you overthink it.

If you’re the type who wants a bit of time to really look, Cala Fighera gives you more breathing room than the shortest stop.

Stop 6: Yacht time (another transfer)

This is the in-between portion, where the boat moves and you’re again just enjoying sea time. Many people like this segment because the boat isn’t rushed, and you can switch from “swim mode” to “watch the coast mode.”

Stop 7: Sella del Diavolo (the big photo stop + longer water session)

This is the star. The tour includes a photo stop at the Devil’s Saddle and then a longer swim and snorkeling window (about 30 minutes).

Even if you’re not a hardcore snorkeler, this stop is worth it. The cliffs and the angle of the water from the boat are exactly what make this part of Sardinia feel special. You’ll also often see fish at close range, especially when you’re swimming slowly rather than powering through.

Stop 8: Yacht time (the return sail)

On the way back toward the harbor area, you’ll have about 40 minutes onboard. This is the perfect moment for a calmer end to the trip, when you can relax and enjoy the light and the coastline from the deck.

And yes, this is also when you may want to grab that drink and settle in. Some people even mention the engine being switched off at points, which turns the return into a more peaceful drift.

Arrive back at Alma Sailing Charter

You finish where you started, near the center. That’s a big deal for value, because you don’t need a whole evening plan afterward just to get home.

Snorkeling reality check: what you’re actually paying for

The snorkeling here is built around a simple goal: put you in the water where fish and clear visibility overlap with easy access from the boat.

You get snorkeling equipment and floats included. In practice, that means you can choose how hands-on you want to be:

• If you’re a beginner, floats help you hang in place while you learn the rhythm.
• If you want to look around, use your goggles and keep your movements smooth so you don’t scare everything away.

One more practical note: the ladder and re-boarding can feel narrow depending on sea conditions. If you’re traveling with someone less steady on their feet, you’ll want to go slowly and hold onto whatever grab points the crew points out.

Weather and water conditions can change the feel

The operator may adjust stops depending on marine conditions. You might still get the same overall experience, but don’t expect every anchoring point to match the plan exactly if the sea is rougher than expected.

Also, the boat sails with the sails open only when wind and safety allow it. So your experience can include more motoring than you might imagine if conditions aren’t perfect.

Prosecco and the onboard vibe

The tour’s name includes Prosecco, and the spirit of the trip fits: you’re on a sailing boat, you’re anchored in clear water, and you’re expected to slow down. Drinks are part of that.

Some onboard items are available for purchase, including soft drinks and snacks. People have also mentioned ordering Prosecco on board, so plan to treat it as a treat rather than something you’ll need to manage like a full meal.

The onboard atmosphere tends to be relaxed and social. Because it’s a small group, it’s easier to chat, trade swim tips, and laugh when the sea does its own thing (like sudden waves).

Who should book this (and who should skip it)

This tour is a great fit if you want:

• multiple swimming moments in a short window
• a small-group sailing experience instead of a crowded boat day
• snorkeling without the hassle of bringing your own gear
• a crew that shares stories while keeping things easy

It may not be ideal if you:

• suffer from seasickness or know you get sick in choppy conditions
• need totally flat water to feel comfortable
• prefer long, shore-based time. This trip is about the sea and the coves, not lounging on land.

Best match types

• Couples and friends who want a shared “sea day” memory
• People who like snorkeling but don’t want to plan gear and logistics
• Visitors who want to see Cagliari from the water with minimal effort

What to bring (so your swim time stays fun)

The essentials are all practical and easy to pack:

• Biodegradable sunscreen
• Beachwear
• Towel
• Personal medication if you need it
• Weather-appropriate clothing for the boat ride

You should also consider bringing a basic seasickness plan if you’re even slightly sensitive. Seasickness tablets are not included, and the tour is not recommended for people who suffer from motion sickness.

And don’t forget ID (passport or ID card).

Price and value: why this feels like a steal

At about $61.49 per person for roughly 3 hours, this is strong value for a sailing experience with real water time. You’re not paying for a sightseeing cruise that mostly stays on deck. You’re paying for the access: multiple anchor stops, swimming, snorkeling gear, and an onboard WC with shower access.

The defibrillator, first-aid trained crew, and safety-first operation also matter here. In other words, you’re paying for comfort plus competence, not just scenic minutes.

You’re also getting the benefit of small-group energy, which makes the whole trip feel more personal. Even if you’re not the type to mingle, a smaller group usually means less waiting around during re-boarding and smoother transitions between stops.

Should you book the Cagliari sailing tour to the Devil’s Saddle?

Yes, if you want a simple, high-reward Cagliari sea day with snorkeling breaks and an easy social vibe. The combination of multiple swim stops, the included gear, and the friendly crew (often Alma and Patrick) makes it a smart choice for a short visit.

I’d think twice only if you’re prone to seasickness or if you know you don’t handle choppy water well. If that’s you, choose a calmer activity instead.

If you go, pick this one with confidence. It’s the kind of trip where the memories come from the water itself, not from a schedule.

FAQ

What’s the duration of the Cagliari sailing tour?

The tour lasts 3 hours. Starting times vary, so you’ll want to check availability for the departure options.

Where does the tour start and end?

You meet at Alma Sailing Charter (you can find it on Google Maps) and the tour ends back at the same location.

What snorkeling gear is included?

Snorkeling equipment is included, along with floats. Fresh water shower and WC are also on board.

Is Prosecco included?

The experience is described as a sailing tour with Prosecco, and drinks are available on board. Soft drinks and snacks are available for purchase.

Is the tour suitable for people who get seasick?

It is not recommended for people who suffer from seasickness. If you’re prone to motion sickness, you should take medication about half an hour before departure.

What happens if the weather is unsafe?

If marine weather conditions are not safe, the tour will be canceled. If conditions change, the captain can also adjust the stops.

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