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A week exploring Sardinia: The best 7-day yacht charter itinerary

By Richard Watkins   Last Updated: 11 February 2022

The Italian island of Sardinia is one of the most inviting and rewarding destinations in the Mediterranean for superyachts. Discover how to make the most out of a Sardinia yacht charter with our 7-day itinerary. 

From chic 5-star resorts to wild and remote coastlines dotted with secluded beaches, Sardinia offers a beguiling variety of landscapes and ports of call.

With so much to fit in, take a look at this 7-day Sardinia yacht charter itinerary, which combines everything there is to love about this beautiful island. 

Day 1 - Explore the elegant resort of Porto Rotondo

Although not as well known as its Costa Smeralda neighbor, Porto Cervo, the resort of Porto Rotondo is an attractive destination with a well-equipped marina. Set on a crescent-shaped bay, it offers a more peaceful and laid-back introduction to Sardinia.

Port of Porto Rotondo in Sardinia, with houses by the water and charter yachts in the bay

If you simply want to relax before you begin your luxury Sardinia yacht charter vacation, there are a number of fine beaches nearby. One such beach is Punta Volpe, a curve of soft golden sand which is a particularly good spot for snorkeling. Another good option is Rudargia, a smaller white sandy beach backed by wild Mediterranean vegetation.

If you want to stay on shore for dinner, try Ristorante Deste, which serves a menu of Italian seafood and an excellent selection of wines with fine sea views.

Day 2 - Relax on the idyllic beaches of the Gulf or Orosei

Cruising southwards along the east coast of Sardinia, you will reach the spectacular Gulf of Orosei, speckled with hidden coves and isolated beaches. The best of these is Cala Luna, known locally as Spiaggia di Cala Luna, an inviting crescent of powdery white sand backed by high sea cliffs and fringed with wild pink oleanders.

Remote and difficult to reach from land, Cala Luna is best approached by sea, making it an ideal stopover for those exploring the coast on a private yacht charter. The beach is warm and sheltered by the surrounding cliffs, and this is also a great place for snorkeling.

If you want to spend more time in the area, the Bue Marino Caves, with their remarkable stalactites and stalagmites, are just 3km away to the north, while Cala Mariolu, named one of Italy's most beautiful beaches, lies to the south. The sea, which changes in hue from pale blue to deep emerald green, is particularly clear here, making Cala Mariolu a perfect location for scuba diving.

Day 3 - Discover the historic city of Cagliari

Rounding the southern coast of Sardinia, it's time to visit the island's capital, Cagliari. An ancient settlement dating back thousands of years, Cagliari was occupied by a succession of empires, from Carthage and Rome to Aragon and Savoy, who all left their mark.

Wander through the historic Castello - the Old Town - and discover the 14th-century Torre dell'Elefante (Tower of the Elephant), the striking cathedral and the grand neoclassical Bastione di Saint Remy which offers wonderful views over the city.

If you're staying ashore for dinner, try Niu, a friendly and informal restaurant housed in a former monastery, which offers a menu of classic Sardinian specialties.

Day 4 - Experience the wild beauty of southwest Sardinia

Following the coast westwards today, you will cruise past the island of Sant'Antioco, which has many attractive beaches, such as the sand and pebble beach at Maladroxia, popular with scuba divers. Just inland, the Nuragic site of S'Ega de Marteddu is worth a look for those interested in archaeology.

Heading north you'll reach the wild Costa Verde, a paradise for surfers, with long, secluded sandy beaches and high waves, while inland there are fascinating ancient monuments to explore such as the Roman Temple of Antas at Fluminimaggiore. Those with more time can discover the UNESCO-listed remains of Su Nuraxi, an impressive megalithic settlement dating back to the 17th century BC.

Day 5 - Enjoy a wander through Alghero

Seascape of Alghero, with old battlements by the sea

Continuing north along the western coast of Sardinia, you will reach Alghero, a city with a distinct Catalan character. Take time to explore the Old Town, with its cobbled lanes, squares and medieval churches, and stop for lunch at Al Tuguri to sample the city's famous Catalan-inspired cuisine.

One sight not to miss while you are here is the breathtaking Grotta di Nettuno - Neptune's Grotto - in the nearby rocky headland of Capo Caccia. One of the largest marine caves in Italy, it is renowned for its remarkably beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. It is an easy day excursion from Alghero and a highlight of any Sardinia yacht charter vacation.

Day 6 - Cruise through the spectacular La Maddalena islands

Lying off the northern tip of Sardinia, La Maddalena is the main island in a beautiful and unspoiled archipelago, said to be one of the best-kept secrets in the Mediterranean and home to some of Italy's best beaches and clearest waters.

Explore the islands on your yacht and you will find plenty of secluded beaches where you can come ashore to relax, have a picnic and enjoy the natural beauty of these special islands.

Try Cala Corsara, a series of four sandy beaches on the tiny island of Spargi, separated by rocky outcrops and surrounded by typical Mediterranean vegetation. This area is a protected national park, with clear water and rich marine life, making it an excellent place for diving.

Day 7 - Enjoy a party in Porto Cervo

On your final day, cruise into Porto Cervo, the 'capital' of Costa Smeralda and one of the most popular destinations for Mediterranean yacht charters. A favorite of the international Jet Set, Porto Cervo is a sophisticated and exciting resort with so much going on.

While you're here, pay a visit to the legendary Hotel Cala di Volpe for cocktails on the terrace overlooking the sea, and then head to dinner at one of the property's highly regarded restaurants. Anchor your yacht nearby and take a tender into Cala di Volpe's private moorings.

For the very best seafood with glorious views of the bay, head to Quattro Passi al Pescatore, the oldest, and still one of the best restaurants in Porto Cervo. Afterward, celebrate the conclusion of your Sardinia yacht charter vacation in style and party with the A-Listers at Billionaire Club.

Before leaving this beautiful island behind, be sure to head to Petra Segreta, a tranquil 5-star resort in the hills south of Porto Cervo, and enjoy a relaxing massage in the Balinese-style spa.

Looking for more information and inspiration? Take a look at our guide to Sardinia yacht charters for more itineraries, tips, and insider secrets about the best places to visit around the island.

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