Private Boat Tour from Palau or Olbia: When Does It Pay Off?

The short answer. A private boat usually makes sense for a group that would otherwise buy several premium tickets, or for travellers who value control over pace more than the lowest price per person. It rarely pays for a couple seeking a standard sightseeing day. Departure matters just as much: Palau is the practical gateway to La Maddalena, while Olbia is better for Tavolara and the Gulf of Olbia.

Compare the total, not the headline price

Private trips are commonly priced for the boat, while shared trips are sold per person. Multiply the current shared fare by everyone travelling, then compare like with like: duration, fuel, skipper, park ticket, food and transfers. Do not assume any of those are included; inclusions vary by operator and must be checked on the booking page.

The calculation becomes more favourable as the group grows, but capacity is not a comfort guarantee. A boat that may legally carry a certain number can still feel crowded once bags, shade and space to move are considered. Ask for the actual boat model and maximum guest count.

Palau or Olbia changes the day

Choose Palau when the aim is Spargi, Budelli, Santa Maria and the channels of the La Maddalena archipelago. Starting closer leaves more of the booked time for islands and swim stops. The trade-off is reaching Palau from Olbia before departure.

Choose Olbia for Tavolara, Molara, Capo Ceraso or a shorter outing in the gulf. An Olbia departure sold as a La Maddalena day may spend a meaningful part of the trip simply reaching the archipelago. Read the route, not just the title.

What privacy genuinely buys

The useful advantage is flexibility. A skipper may adapt the order of stops to wind, traffic and the group’s pace, and a private group does not wait for dozens of passengers to reboard. It can work well for several generations travelling together, confident swimmers who want longer water time, or a celebration where the boat itself is part of the occasion.

It does not buy control over nature or regulations. Wind can change the route, and protected areas determine where boats may navigate, moor or anchor. The La Maddalena National Park requires an entry permit for navigation within 300 metres of the coast during the summer season. Confirm that the operator handles the required authorisation and whether its cost is included.

When a shared trip is better

A shared boat is the sensible choice for one or two people, first-time visitors happy with the classic route, and anyone who prefers a larger vessel with more deck space. A private RIB can be fast and intimate, but it may offer less shade, a more exposed ride and no toilet. These are boat-specific facts, so ask rather than infer them from the word “luxury”.

Our recommendation

For most couples, book a shared trip and spend the difference elsewhere. For a family or group, request the final private price and divide it by the number actually travelling. If the gap per person is modest, the quieter boarding and adjustable pace can justify it.

The exclusive La Maddalena tour by luxury RIB is a relevant option from the Palau side. It is listed at €110 per person for 7.5 hours, and the listing does not say the boat is yours alone, so confirm that before comparing it with a shared fare. Check the exact meeting point, cancellation terms, park permit, shade, toilet and included refreshments before paying.