Sailing La Maddalena: Italy’s Polynesia

A Paradise in the Heart of the Mediterranean

Welcome to Italy’s Polynesia, a protected natural paradise where extraordinary landscapes are concentrated within just a few miles of sea.

The La Maddalena Archipelago includes the three main islands — beautiful Spargi, historic La Maddalena and wild Caprera — as well as Santo Stefano to the south, the group of Razzoli, Budelli and Santa Maria to the north, and numerous smaller islets and rocky outcrops, including Barrettinelli, Spargiotto and the Monaci rocks.

Fine sandy beaches, emerald waters, striking granite rocks and secluded coves make the archipelago an ideal destination for lovers of the sea and nature. With countless places to anchor, you can explore a different route every day.

How to Reach La Maddalena

Companies such as Delcomar and Maddalena Lines, arriving at Cala Gavetta harbour, operate ferries from Palau to La Maddalena.

Anyway, be sure to check the schedules and book well in advance. In fact, on certain days and at specific times, passenger numbers are limited to 25 due to the freight service.

Once on the island, several local operators offer boat excursions to explore the other islands of the archipelago.

What to See in La Maddalena

The La Maddalena Archipelago National Park offers attractions for every interest, from history and traditions to beaches, nature and outdoor activities.

You can explore the main island by bicycle, but also take a walk in the old centre, where you find Piazza Garibaldi, the elegant 18th-century buildings overlooking Cala Gavetta harbour, and the Baroque church of Santa Maria Maddalena.

Caprera and Cala Coticcio

Caprera is closely associated with Giuseppe Garibaldi. Here, you can visit his final home, now an important part of the island’s historical heritage.

Don’t miss Cala Coticcio, known as the “Tahiti of Sardinia” thanks to its fine white sand and crystal-clear waters.

Spargi, Budelli and the Natural Pool of Porto Madonna

A boat trip to Spargi offers the chance to see military fortifications built along the coast during the First and Second World Wars.

Another highlight is Porto Madonna, a beautiful lagoon enclosed by Budelli, Razzoli and Santa Maria, with crystal-clear waters and an almost tropical atmosphere.

The area is ideal for snorkelling and sea watching, allowing visitors to discover the archipelago’s marine environment and take part in activities organised by the Park.

Spargi and the Roman wreck

The seabed of the archipelago also holds important archaeological treasures. In 1939, the remains of the Nymphaea  were found, revealing a Roman cargo ship that sank near the rocks of Spargi around 100 BC.

A valuable cargo of amphorae and other Roman artefacts was in the wreck. Unfortunately, when a major underwater archaeological expedition reached the site some twenty years later, looters had already stripped the wreck of its valuable contents.

The few surviving artefacts are now at the Nino Lamboglia Naval Archaeological Museum in La Maddalena.

An Archipelago to Discover by Sea

From white-sand coves and historic landmarks to crystal-clear waters and underwater treasures, La Maddalena is a journey through nature, culture and the sea.

An archipelago to explore at your own pace, following the wind and choosing a new route every day.

Cover image by Daniela Porta