NORTH SARDINIA

Freediving cruise | La Maddalena, Sardinia, Italy

About your cruise

Escape the crowds and discover the hidden gem of North Sardinia. With its stunning natural landscapes, turquoise waters, and secluded beaches, this region offers a serene and authentic sailing experience. Sardinia’s tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking scenery make it the perfect destination for a relaxing and rejuvenating holiday.

Embark on a luxurious sailboat and set sail on an unforgettable journey through the sublime Costa Smeralda. Explore the paradisiacal Maddalena archipelago and anchor at the most beautiful beaches in the region. Marvel at the majestic rock formations and immerse yourself in the turquoise blue waters. With a dedicated crew ensuring your comfort, this cruise promises an exceptional holiday experience mixing freediving, sailing and relaxation. Unwind and create lasting memories as you sail through the pristine waters of North Sardinia.

About the sailing yacht

Our modern sailing yachts have every luxury you need to enjoy wonderful times on the water and are suitable for both coastal and offshore sailing. They are also perfect for a week-long cruise as well as for learning freediving, helping in sailing, practicing yoga and other workshops or just enjoy the trip and go for a swim. The boats we operate can accommodate up to 10 guests, yet our cruises welcome up to 6 participants for more comfort onboard. Whether you travel as a group, a family with children or alone, you can choose to either charter a cabin or a boat with us, we will then organize everything for you

With its classic, single hulled template, the monohull is the original sailboat. Designed with performance in mind, monohulls are the best choice whether the conditions are flat and calm or rough and wild. Each of the four spacious cabins includes a private head, plenty of storage and adequate head room. The contemporarily-styled sailboat comfortably sleeps up to 8 guests including crew. On deck, the sloping wraparound side decks allow for safe and seamless movement between the cockpit, foredeck and living spaces.

Nicolas will be your skipper onboard. He is the founder of Freediving Cruises and has been running sailing and freediving cruises in Croatia, Egypt, Türkiye, Greece and Italy since 2021.

Nicolas started freediving in 2018 on the island of Koh Tao, Thailand and shortly after, signed up for a freediving educational program in one of the most prestigious freediving schools in the world, becoming a freediving instructor. Having grown up by the ocean in his native Brittany, he is passionate about the sea and any aquatic activities. Having in mind the project of founding Freediving Cruises for many years, he eventually became a professional skipper in 2020 to make his dream come true.

Realizing how much Mediterranean countries had to offer in terms of ocean beauties, either islands, pristine waters or marine life, he decided to offer his services and share his knowledge, skills and experience with other sea lovers. 

What's to be planned

• Foods onboard
• Flight tickets & transfers to/from harbor
• Land excursions and visit entrance fees
• Insurance and visa related fees
• Other diving rental equipment
• Staff / crew gratuities

North Sardinia route overview

Departure / Return : Olbia or Cannigione, Sardinia, Italy

Detailed route

• Meeting point : Olbia or Cannigione – Sardinia, Italy
  

This route is given for information purposes. During freediving cruises, you are free to express route suggestions. Ask your skipper for suggestions.

Day 1 : Olbia – Tavolara

Boarding, general and safety briefing with the crew at the marina. We will then sail out towards the island of Tavolara, a monumental limestone massif rising above the sea. Away from the bustling mainland, we will immediately bring a taste of freedom and adventure to our holidays. We will anchor in a picturesque and quiet bay for the night, offering a tranquil spot to get to know each other and explore the surroundings.

Day 2 : Tavolara – Porto Ottiolu

After a relaxed morning including stretching and breathing exercises, we will have our first freediving session, In the afternoon, we will put the sails out and make our way Cala Brandinchi, where the turquoise waters and fine sand create a paradise-like setting. Lectures and dry training on the way. Anchoring at night in a quiet and sheltered bay, near Porto Ottiolu, a charming village nestled around a beautiful port.

Day 3 : Porto Ottiolu – Caprera

Freediving session in the morning, right after enjoying the sunrise above calm waters. On our way to the the Maddalena archipelago, we’ll explore the enchanting Cala di Volpe. Our day will be a mix of sailing and freediving. As the sun sets, we’ll anchor at Caprera, the easternmost island of the nature reserve. A truly magical experience. Dry workshops and lectures in the evening.

Day 4 : Caprera – La Maddalena

Wake up to the breathtaking turquoise hues of the water surrounding Caprera. After some exhilarating dives or leisurely swims, possibility to head towards the mainland and visit the house of Giuseppe Garibaldi, a historical figure who once lived on the island. Lectures and workshops in the afternoon, with the possibility to perform a shallow water freediving session in a secluded bay. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing sunset in La Maddalena.

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Day 5 : La Maddalena – Santa Teresa di Gallura

On our possible only rest day of the week, enjoy a quiet morning with some meditation, stretching and yoga. Heading West and practicing sailing on the way, as we pass by the captivating islands of Budelli, Razzoli and Santa Maria, showcasing their natural beauty and inviting you to explore their hidden treasures. Evening spent around Santa Teresa di Gallura, where you’ll be greeted by a mesmerizing and vibrant landscape stretching out before you.

Day 6 : Santa Teresa di Gallura – Budelli

Slowly making our way back while sailing between the different islands of the natural reserve of La Maddalena and the northern coast of Sardinia. Freediving sessions are planned both in the morning and the afternoon, while we will spend one last night in the park to enjoy the beauties this part of Sardinia has to offer. Dry training and lectures in the evening.

Day 7 : Budelli – Olbia

Morning relaxation and freediving session in order to obtain freediving certifications. Lectures and workshops before heading back to Olbia in late afternoon. Enjoy this last night and celebrate the end of a week full of memories, the beginning of new friendships and the start of your freediving journey.

Useful information

How to get to the marina of Olbia ?

• Closest airport : Olbia Costa Smeralda international airport, Italy
• From Olbia airport to Cannigione marina : 30 km (40 minutes)

Departure and return times

• Departure on Saturday at 5pm
• Return on Friday at 6pm

Provisioning

We can arrange for provisions for you before departure. A hostess can also be hired and join us on board to make your trip a real holiday. Please let us know in your quote request.

Can the route be modified ?

Please be aware that your itinerary needs to remain flexible for safety matters, as it is influenced by external factors such as weather, wind and sea conditions, technical issues and how busy it is. We have found that predetermined itineraries simply don’t work, and that you should trust your skipper for local and up to date advice based on your preferences.

Please refer to our Terms and Conditions for more information.

Visas requirements

• European citizens can enter Italy with a valid ID or passport

Please refer to our Frequently Asked Questions section for more general information.