Maddalena Archipelago: Best Anchorages and Sailing Tips

The Maddalena Archipelago lies at the northeast tip of Sardinia. As a protected national park, a permit is required to sail in the area.

You can obtain the permit online at the National Parks Authority website.

Only two islands are inhabited and popular destinations for day tourists. Anchoring, fishing, diving, and other activities are restricted. Several areas must be visited. The local Tourist Office has maps and charts of the restricted areas.

Winds vary greatly around these islands—the heights of the land cause wind funnels and wind shadows. Many of the most attractive places are crowded with tourist boats, especially during the daytime.

The 5 Bays You Don’t Want to Miss

Cala G. Marino

Coordinates: 41°17.490’N, 09°21.320’E

Sheltered anchorage between the islands: Rizzoli, Budelli, and Santa Maria. There are some buoys—red ones for the restaurant, yellow for the park.

Isola Razzoli – Cala Lunga

Coordinates: 41° 17.93′ N, 9° 20.60′ E

Care is needed, as there are outcropping and submerged rocks. This bay is open to western winds. Up to 10 knots is tolerated. Several buoys can be attached to it. There is a path that leads to an old lighthouse—about a 30-minute walk. It is highly recommended to walk quietly, as you may encounter animals. You can also walk in flip-flops.

Spargi – Cala Corsara

Coordinates: 41° 13.80′ N, 9° 20.60′ E

Cruise ships fill the beach with bathers. Take care to avoid tying up with the yellow buoys or near them, as they are private (tourist boats). The place can be noisy and dangerous for swimming but don’t give it up in good weather, early in the morning, or at night.

Isola Giardinelli – Giardinelli

Coordinates: 41° 13.80′ N, 9° 26.78′ E

In Isola Giardinelli, there is a beautiful lagoon. Arrive during the daytime—preferably before noon to find a sandy spot. This sizeable, 5m deep sandy area is perfect for swimming and paddling. You can anchor in 5-7m. During the season, many boats are visited during the daytime.

La Maddalena – Cala Spalmatore

Coordinates: 41° 15.02′ N, 9° 25.90′ E

It is a beautiful spot to moor, but there are no facilities. VHF Ch 74. Max draft 8m. Max length 170m. 30 berths available. Please feel free to book in advance. No anchorage is allowed here; only paid mooring buoys are available. A RIB will show you to your buoy. There are two lovely beaches with restaurants nearby.