Clear water, four chances to jump in. This Devil’s Saddle boat trip from Cagliari is a fast, fun way to see Sardinia’s coast up close, with multiple short swim-and-snorkel breaks and a glass of Prosecco waiting at the end. I really like how the skipper sets you up for snorkeling-ready stops so you spend your time in the water (not trapped on a slow ride).

One thing to plan for: there’s no toilet on the boat or in the port, so you’ll want to time things before you board.

Key highlights to know before you go

• Four-plus swim/snorkel windows: Several stops, each giving you a chance to get in and out quickly.
• Gasole pools at Sella del Diavolo: This area is a big part of why the trip is so popular.
• Grotta dei Colombi by sea: You pass the sea-only access viewpoint instead of doing any hiking.
• Skipper energy matters: Many departures are run with upbeat, photo-taking help from the captain (Giovanni, Alessandro, Pietro, Matteo, and others are all referenced in past trips).
• Prosecco at the end: A simple touch that makes the trip feel like a real outing.
• Small-group feel (max 32): You’re not packed in like a cattle car.

Why Devil’s Saddle boat tours are such an easy win in Cagliari

Cagliari has a lot going on on land, but the coast is where it really clicks. This tour is built for people who want a classic “Sardinia day at sea” without committing to an all-day excursion. You’re out for about three hours, and instead of spending most of that time staring at the horizon, you get repeated breaks for swimming and snorkeling.

The best part for me is the rhythm. Short stops keep the trip moving, and they give you multiple tries in different water spots. If one spot’s snorkeling isn’t your thing, you still have more chances ahead. That matters, because sea life and visibility can vary a lot from one hour to the next.

Also, the vibe tends to be relaxed and social. The skipper/guide is English-speaking (and often Italian too), and the energy on board often reflects the captain’s style—some guides go beyond the basics with photo help, music, and constant check-ins.

Getting to NautiSardinia at Molo Dogana (and what you should do right away)

You’ll meet at NautiSardinia Boat Trips at Molo Dogana, 09125 Cagliari. The tour ends back at the same place, so you’re not hunting down a bus or second meeting point later.

A few practical notes that make the day smoother:

• Arrive 20 minutes early. The departure can’t be delayed for any reason.
• Bring a photo ID (a photo is enough).
• If you’re driving, the nearest parking listed is Parcheggio Porto | Apcoa, about a 10-minute walk.
• It’s near public transportation, so it’s workable even if you don’t rent a car.

Right when you arrive, settle in and take care of the basic stuff: put on sunscreen, bring your swim gear (you can wear it under your clothes), and keep your towel accessible. Once you’re out on the water, you’ll want a hands-free moment before the first jump.

Stop 1: Cala Bernat swim and snorkeling jump-off

Cala Bernat is one of the first opportunities to get in. The whole point here is simple: swim, snorkel, and if conditions allow, try a swim to the nearby beach. Each stop is short—about 20 minutes—so treat it like a timed workout: get in, look around, then decide whether you want a longer swim.

What I like about Cala Bernat as a starting point is that it sets the tone. The water around Cagliari can be crystal clear, and starting early often means you’re fresh and ready to enjoy the best visibility of the day.

Potential consideration: the tour notes that swim-to-beach options can change based on weather. If the sea is choppy, you’ll still be able to swim and snorkel, but don’t count on long beach swims every time.

Stop 2: Calamosca beach time for quick snorkeling

Next comes Calamosca Beach, another repeat of the same format: swim and snorkeling, with the chance to swim toward the coast if conditions cooperate. Since you’re getting another 20-minute window, you can compare the feel of each water spot side-by-side.

This is a good stop for people who want flexibility. If you’re an experienced snorkeler, you can use this as a second deeper look. If you’re new, it’s a chance to get comfortable on the surface and see fish without committing to a long swim.

From a practical standpoint, I’d treat Calamosca as a “gear test” stop. If you find your mask fit isn’t great, it’s early enough to adjust your technique before later stops.

Stop 3: Spiaggia di Cala Fighera with another 20-minute water window

Then you hit Spiaggia di Cala Fighera. Same deal: swim, snorkel, and possibly make it toward the beach. At this stage of the trip, you’ve already figured out the routine, so you can spend your time on what matters most—floating, looking, and deciding how far you want to go.

One balanced note from real experience: snorkeling results can be inconsistent. Some people see lots of fish; others don’t notice much variety during that specific session. Clear water helps, but sea life doesn’t show up on a schedule.

So I’d go in with the right expectations: focus on the water clarity and the fun of getting in, not on a guarantee of a specific number of fish.

Grotta dei Colombi: the sea-only viewpoint you don’t need to hike to

Between swim stops, you pass in front of Grotta dei Colombi. The key detail here is that it’s reachable only by sea, which is exactly why a boat tour matters. Instead of planning a hike or a separate access route, you get the view as part of the day’s cruising.

This section is less about snorkeling and more about seeing the coast from the waterline. Even if you’re not staring at the cave the whole time, it adds texture to the trip—you’re not just collecting swim stops.

Stop 4: Sella del Diavolo and the Gasole swimming pools

If you want the “this is why I booked this” stop, it’s the Sella del Diavolo area and the Gasole swimming pools. This is where the tour leans into its Devil’s Saddle identity.

You get another 20 minutes to swim and snorkel. What makes this stop special is the setting: swimming pools here are a coastal feature, and they tend to feel like a destination, not just a random jump spot. It’s also a great moment to slow down a bit. If you’re going to take photos, this is usually a better choice than the first chaotic moments.

If you’re the type who likes landmarks, Sella del Diavolo is the one to watch for. It’s the tour’s anchor, and it’s often the part people remember most after the cruise ends.

Stop 5: Marina Piccola bay for snorkeling close to shore

Marina Piccola bay is next, with swim and snorkeling time plus the possibility of swimming to the coast. This stop is ideal if you prefer calmer, more “nearby” water rather than feeling like you’re swimming out into open sea.

You can treat it like an option menu:

• Quick snorkel and back to the boat
• Longer float and watch the water
• A short swim toward the shoreline if it’s safe and comfortable

Because the tour gives you short windows, it rewards good time management. A common mistake is overthinking it while the others are already in. At this point, you’ll know the routine—go first, look second, decide last.

Stop 6: Poetto for a final swim before you head back

Poetto comes in as the last swim stop. It’s a good closer because it lets you squeeze in one more water session without the stress of it being the only chance.

This final stop is also where people often relax into the day. The first jumps can feel like a sprint; by Poetto, you’re cruising in your groove.

Practical thought: bring your tolerance for salt and sun. By the end, you’ll likely feel it more than you expect, so don’t forget water and sunscreen reapplication if you need it.

The Prosecco moment, plus the skipper’s style onboard

The tour includes bottled water and a glass of Prosecco. It’s not a party cruise—think of it as a nice, small reward that matches the vibe of a coastal swim day.

From past departures, I noticed a few recurring things about how the captains run the trip:

• Skippers like Giovanni and Alessandro are described as fun, attentive, and big on keeping everyone safe.
• Some guides help with photos and videos, so you don’t have to rely entirely on your own camera timing.
• Music can be part of the experience, with at least one mention of song requests.

You may also be lucky with wildlife. Dolphins have been reported on some outings, and starfish show up for some snorkelers. I’d frame it as a bonus, not an expectation.

Price and value: what $60.49 really buys you

At $60.49 per person for about three hours, this tour is priced like a “do it once and enjoy it” experience. What makes it feel fair is that your essentials are included:

• Snorkeling equipment
• Bottled water
• Fuel surcharge
• A glass of Prosecco
• English/Italian speaking guide/skipper
• Life jacket if necessary

Food isn’t included, but the good news is you can bring your own. That’s perfect if you like having control over snacks, especially with kids or with picky eaters.

Value-wise, the real comparison isn’t just to another boat ride—it’s to the cost of getting snorkeling gear and paying for multiple distinct swim locations. Here, the logistics are handled for you.

What to bring (and what to leave at home)

Because this is a water-focused tour, pack like you’re going for repeated short swims.

Bring:

• Your own swimsuit and towel
• Sunscreen and a hat (sun in Sardinia can be no joke)
• A light layer if you get chilly later in the day
• Your own food if you want it (food isn’t included)

Leave:

• Any alcohol or drugs. It’s strictly forbidden to bring it on board.
• Extra stress about bathroom planning. Since there’s no toilet on the boat or in the port, come prepared.

If you’re worried about snorkeling comfort, pay attention to your mask and breathing rhythm early. You’ll be glad you did.

Who this tour is best for (and who should think twice)

This tour suits most people in reasonably good health. It’s designed for multiple swim/snorkel stops with short durations, and the skipper runs safety-first operations.

It may not suit you if:

• You suffer from seasickness (it’s not recommended)
• You’re pregnant (you should contact before booking)
• You weigh over 135 kg (not recommended for safety reasons)

Also consider your group preference. The tour holds up to 32 passengers. Some past outings included families, so if you’re hoping for a quieter adults-only atmosphere, you might want to weigh that.

On the upside, it’s a great pick if you want a highlight of Cagliari’s coastline without needing long planning. It’s also a nice option for kids who enjoy jumping in—there are reports of children loving the crystal-clear water and repeated chances to swim.

Should you book this Devil’s Saddle boat tour?

Book it if you want a straightforward, high-reward sea day: multiple swim and snorkeling chances, a serious “jump in and enjoy” schedule, and a Prosecco finish. The stops are varied enough to keep it interesting, and the small-group size helps the experience feel personal rather than chaotic.

Skip it (or at least rethink) if bathroom access is a must for you, if you’re sensitive to waves, or if you’re looking for deep, long snorkel sessions. This is timed water fun—not a full-day expedition.

If your goal is Cagliari coastal swimming with minimal hassle, this is one of the most practical ways to do it.

FAQ

How long is the boat tour?

The duration is about 3 hours.

How much does the tour cost?

The price is $60.49 per person.

Where does the tour start, and does it return there?

It starts at NautiSardinia Boat Trips at Molo Dogana, 09125 Cagliari, Italy, and it ends back at the same meeting point.

What language is the tour offered in?

It’s offered in English, and the skipper/guide also speaks Italian.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included, and you’ll also receive life jackets if necessary.

Is Prosecco included?

Yes. The tour includes a glass of Prosecco, plus bottled water.

Is food included?

No. Food is not included, but you can bring your own.

Is there a toilet on the boat or in the port?

No. There is no toilet on the boat or in the port.

Who should contact the provider before booking?

Pregnant women should contact the provider before proceeding. The tour is also not recommended for people who suffer from seasickness.

Is there free cancellation?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The experience requires good weather and may be rescheduled or refunded if canceled due to poor weather.