Explore Sardinia by sea: best sailing routes, harbours, and anchorages. Discover the island’s natural beauty, culture, and unforgettable coastal waters.
Sardinia is one of the Mediterranean’s true sailing gems. With nearly 2,000 kilometres of coastline, it offers sailors a mix of pristine anchorages, modern marinas, historic harbours, and dazzling natural scenery. From the granite islands of the north to the rugged cliffs of the east and the lively ports of the south, sailing around Sardinia provides an unforgettable mix of adventure and relaxation.
Whether you’re planning a summer charter, a long cruising holiday, or simply a passage stop, Sardinia rewards sailors with turquoise seas, steady winds, and a coastline rich in history, culture, and Italian charm. Few destinations in the Mediterranean can rival the island’s balance of beauty and variety.
Sardinia’s position in the heart of the Mediterranean makes it ideal for exploration. The island is large enough to offer weeks of sailing without retracing your steps, yet compact enough to make shorter trips possible. Its weather patterns are generally favourable for cruising, although sailors should always remain aware of the powerful Mistral winds, which can sweep across the island, especially in the north.
From luxurious marinas catering to superyachts to secluded coves accessible only by boat, Sardinia offers something for every sailor. Add in world-class cuisine, historic towns, and the friendliness of the Sardinian people, and you have a sailing destination of rare depth and appeal.
North Coast – La Maddalena Archipelago and Costa Smeralda
This is Sardinia’s most famous sailing ground, renowned for the granite outcrops of the La Maddalena islands, translucent turquoise waters, and luxurious ports such as Porto Cervo. The area can be busy in high summer, but it is unrivalled for beauty and offers protected anchorages and well-equipped marinas.
South Coast – Cagliari and Villasimius
Quieter and less crowded, the south coast provides excellent harbours and vibrant cultural life. Cagliari, the capital, is a lively port city with full marina facilities and easy access to provisioning, dining, and exploring. Villasimius, to the east, is known for its white beaches and crystal-clear anchorages.
East Coast – Cliffs, Caves, and Natural Beauty
The east coast is wilder, with fewer marinas but striking scenery. Sailors can enjoy dramatic cliffs, hidden coves such as Cala Luna, and fishing villages like Arbatax. This coast is best for those who enjoy nature and exploration rather than urban comforts.
West Coast – Alghero and Oristano
Facing the open sea, the west coast is more exposed but full of charm. Alghero is a highlight, offering Catalan-Gothic architecture, a sheltered marina, and a cosmopolitan feel. Southwards, Oristano reveals quieter anchorages and authentic Sardinian culture away from the main tourist routes.
Sardinia has a wide range of marinas and anchorages to suit different sailing styles. Modern marinas in Cagliari, Olbia, and Alghero offer secure moorings, technical support, and good connections ashore. Smaller ports such as Carloforte on San Pietro Island provide a friendly welcome and a more relaxed pace of life.
For anchorages, highlights include the coves of the La Maddalena archipelago, the wide bay at Villasimius, and sandy-bottomed anchorages along the east coast. Regulations in marine-protected areas mean advance research and sometimes permits are required, but the reward is unspoiled waters and exceptional scenery.
Sardinia’s coastline is matched by its rich cultural heritage. Ancient Nuraghe stone towers dot the landscape, while towns like Cagliari and Alghero blend history with modern Mediterranean lifestyle. Ashore, sailors can indulge in Sardinian specialities such as fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and the island’s famous Cannonau wines.
Markets in coastal towns provide fresh produce for your galley, while restaurants and trattorias showcase authentic Sardinian hospitality. Exploring inland is also rewarding, with mountains, vineyards, and traditional villages offering a different perspective on the island.
Sailing around Sardinia is more than just a voyage—it is an immersion into a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and seafaring tradition. With its variety of routes, harbours, and anchorages, the island is perfectly suited for both short charters and extended cruising holidays.
Whether you are drawn by the glamorous north, the wild east, the historic west, or the relaxed south, Sardinia promises a sailing experience that lingers long after you’ve left its shores. For sailors seeking both challenge and reward, Sardinia is a destination that truly embodies the spirit of the Mediterranean.
