Sail Through the Islands and Anchorages of La Maddalena

Located in the northeastern part of the Italian island of Sardinia, off the Costa Smeralda, the La Maddalena archipelago is the ideal destination for an Italian cruise with Click&Boat! It consists of approximately 60 islands and islets, the main ones being Caprera, Spargi, Santo Stefano, Budelli, Santa Maria, Razzoli and La Maddalena. This area is a national park due to its natural beauty, characterised by rugged granite rocks, beautiful beaches with turquoise waters, and abundant wildlife. You’ll find plenty to admire in this stunning location!

“The transparency of the sea is the kingdom of the West. The wind blows constantly, creating currents that sweep and clean the area constantly. There are also all kinds of beaches, from white to darker, with fine or coarse sand. It’s a kingdom of diversity!” – Giovanni, a local boater from the Navily community.

In collaboration with our partner Navily, we offer you the opportunity to explore the beautiful anchorages of La Maddalena! Navily, with its extensive community of over 350,000 registered yachtsmen and a collection of more than 100,000 photos and comments from various destinations, is a valuable resource for sailors. We’ve catalogued 57 anchorages within this archipelago, allowing us to offer you a captivating selection.

Discover the perfect itinerary for the “seven sisters” of this archipelago!

An Itinerary of the Most Beautiful Anchorages in La Maddalena

With 180 kilometres of coastline to cruise along, La Maddalena is a paradise for sailors! However, you must have strong sailing experience to get to the archipelago. The high concentration of boats and the strong winds during the high season can pose challenges to amateur captains. Therefore, renting a skipper is a suitable alternative if you lack experience.

Razzoli Island

Razzoli Island covers an area of 1.5 square kilometres and is located near Bonifacio, Corsica. As you approach this idyllic islet (watch out for the rocks!), head to Cala Lunga. It is an otherworldly anchorage, perfect for dropping anchor and enjoying the serenity. This remote sanctuary is the ideal place to watch the sunset. The light of the setting sun illuminates the granite rocks in deep red! However, note that the east side of the anchorage is a protected area and not accessible to travellers.

Santa Maria Island

More lively than Razzoli, the island of Santa Maria is separated from its neighbour by the Passo degli Asinelli. It’s an ideal stopover where you can bask on sandy shores and swim in turquoise waters. If you are at the helm, beware of the shallow depths and bustling island traffic, particularly during peak seasons.

Don’t forget to explore the Cala de Santa Maria, boasting one of the island’s most expansive white sand beaches. This cove provides shelter from the westerly winds. Another gem to visit is Porto della Madonna, a wide navigation with a beautiful beach. Though quite busy during the day, you can enjoy the sunset in peace in the evening.

Budelli Island

Continuing south, you will cross the Chiesa di Morto channel (beware of the shallow waters!) and reach the beautiful island of Budelli. Often hailed as one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful islands, it is renowned for its “pink sand” beach. It only has one inhabitant, its devoted caretaker since 1989!

To explore the island, all you have to do is drop anchor in the magnificent anchorage of Spiaggia del Cavaliere. It is an unforgettable natural saltwater pool, although it is often overcrowded in the high season. Therefore, to avoid the crowds, you should arrive early in the morning or after 6 p.m.

Spargi Island

Spargi Island has the most beautiful beaches in the archipelago and is graced by famous pink granite rocks. It is a treasure trove of natural beauty. For moments of relaxation amidst rocky coves and white sands, journey to the idyllic east coast of the island. The west coast of Spargi is also uniquely beautiful with its untamed landscapes. However, it is subject to unpredictable winds and is much wilder.

To embark on your Spargi adventure, anchor in Cala Conneri, protected by westerly winds. Here, you’ll find a small sandy beach nestled among rocks and shrubbery. This anchorage is very crowded in the summer. However, it is an essential stop on a La Maddalena sailing holiday. You can also sail down to Cala Corsara, a splendid bay of pale rocks which boasts spectacular sunsets.

La Maddalena

As you continue your eastward voyage, you will arrive at the outskirts of La Maddalena island. The main island in the archipelago is adorned with splendid landscapes, white granite coasts, and idyllic beaches. Refuel and replenish your supplies at the Port of Cala de Mangiavolpe, where all the necessary amenities are at your disposal. We recommend you take a break at the Spiaggia de Bassa Trinita. Explore the secluded bay’s coves and nature trails, and enjoy a panoramic sunset in the evening.

Caprera Island

Notable as the final home of Giuseppe Garibaldi during his exile, Caprera Island is the second-largest island in the La Maddalena archipelago. Almost uninhabited, it is covered in pine forests that meet the island’s rugged granite coasts, showcasing a flourishing biodiversity. Caprera’s allure doesn’t stop there. Explore its picturesque sandy coves and awe-inspiring coastlines. Be sure to dock in the charming anchorage of Cala Garibaldi, perfect for overnight stays and swims in the deep-blue water. Then sail to Cala Coticcio, with its timeless vistas and convenient mooring buoys.

When to go?

The best time for a sailing trip in the Maddalena archipelago is between the months of May and September. During this time, the weather is pleasant, the sea is warm and calm, and there are plenty of summer events and festivities. If you want to avoid the crowds and escape the heat, May, June, and September are the best months to sail. You will avoid the influx of boat rentals that are rampant during July and August, and boat rentals tend to be cheaper in the shoulder season. 

Now that you know all there is to know, it’s time to embark on your adventure and set sail along the enchanting Costa Smeralda!

Map of Itinerary

FAQ

Where is the La Maddalena archipelago located?

The La Maddalena archipelago is located in northeastern Sardinia, Italy, just off the Costa Smeralda, between Sardinia and Corsica. It is part of a protected national park.

Do I need sailing experience to cruise in La Maddalena?

Yes, good sailing experience is recommended. Strong winds, shallow areas, rocks, and heavy boat traffic in high season can make navigation challenging. If you’re not confident, renting a boat with a skipper is strongly advised.

Is anchoring allowed everywhere in La Maddalena National Park?

No. Anchoring is regulated to protect seabeds and marine life. Some areas are strictly forbidden, while others require the use of authorised mooring buoys. Always check local regulations before dropping anchor.

What are the most beautiful anchorages in La Maddalena?

Some of the most popular anchorages include Cala Lunga (Razzoli), Cala Santa Maria, Spiaggia del Cavaliere (Budelli), Cala Conneri and Cala Corsara (Spargi), and Cala Coticcio (Caprera).

Can you visit the Pink Sand Beach on Budelli Island?

You can admire Budelli’s famous pink sand beach from the water, but access to the beach itself is forbidden to protect this fragile ecosystem. Anchoring nearby at Spiaggia del Cavaliere is allowed.

What is the best time of year to sail in La Maddalena?

The best period is from May to September. May, June, and September are ideal for fewer crowds, milder temperatures, and better availability of boats. July and August are busier and windier.

Are there ports and supplies available in the archipelago?

Yes. The main island of La Maddalena has marinas, fuel stations, shops, and restaurants. Cala de Mangiavolpe is a convenient stop to refuel and restock during your cruise.

Can you sail to Corsica from La Maddalena?

Yes, Corsica (especially the Bonifacio area) is very close, but crossing requires experience due to strong currents and winds. Always check weather conditions before attempting the crossing.

Is La Maddalena suitable for a family sailing trip?

Yes, but preferably with a skipper. Many anchorages are sheltered and ideal for swimming, but navigation requires caution, especially with children on board.

Why is La Maddalena a protected area?

The archipelago is a national park due to its exceptional marine biodiversity, crystal-clear waters, granite landscapes, and rare ecosystems. Visitors are expected to follow strict environmental rules to preserve it.