Setting Sail from Santa Maria Navarrese

The sun was just beginning to rise over the horizon as I found myself in the charming coastal town of Santa Maria Navarrese, ready to embark on a dinghy cruise that promised to reveal the hidden gems of Sardinia’s coastline. As a seasoned surfer, I’ve spent countless hours riding the waves of Central America, but this time, I was trading my surfboard for a dinghy, eager to explore the serene waters and secluded coves of Baunei.

Our guide, Luca, greeted us with a warm smile and a promise of an unforgettable day. With a small group of fellow adventurers, we set off on our journey, the gentle hum of the dinghy’s engine blending with the sound of the waves lapping against the hull. The air was filled with the scent of the Mediterranean scrub, a fragrant reminder of the natural beauty that awaited us.

Discovering the Calas

Our first stop was Cala Goloritze, a place that seemed to have leapt straight out of a postcard. The turquoise waters were so clear that I could see the seabed, a surreal transparency that made me feel as though I was floating in a dream. The marble rocks, shaped by time, rose majestically from the sea, and the famous pyramid-shaped spire of Monte Caroddi loomed overhead, a symbol of the island’s rugged beauty.

As we continued our journey, we arrived at Cala Mariolu, where the sea seemed to be painted in shades of blue, emerald, and azure. The round, white, and pink pebbles mixed with the sand created a beach that looked like it was dusted with snowflakes. It was here that I took a moment to dive into the refreshing waters, the cool embrace of the sea a welcome respite from the sun’s warm rays.

A Toast to Adventure

Our final destination was the Grotta del Fico, a cave that held secrets of the past within its limestone walls. The guided tour took us through various rooms and galleries, each more fascinating than the last. The temperature inside was a cool contrast to the summer heat outside, and I was grateful for the jacket I had brought along.

As we emerged from the cave, Luca surprised us with a little glass of prosecco, a perfect way to toast to the day’s adventures. The sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the water, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a breathtaking part of the world.

This dinghy cruise was more than just a day on the water; it was a journey into the heart of Sardinia’s natural beauty, a reminder of the wonders that await when we take the time to explore the world around us. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time adventurer, I highly recommend setting sail on this unforgettable experience. Dinghy Cruise