ITALY Sardinia – Expedition Paddler

NORTH COAST / MADDALENA ARCHIPELAGO / NORTH EST COAST

Italy // 26.10. - 31.10.2025

In this remote corner of the Mediterranean, the wild and rugged landscape speaks in ancient tongues — where the relentless winds sculpt towering limestone cliffs and the secrets of bygone civilizations echo in every crag and cove.

This expedition has no predetermined route. Depending on weather conditions—particularly wind—we will decide our course once we are there.

There are many incredible options. We might explore the northeastern coast with its stunning islands and coastal areas on a wild camping expedition. Costa Smeralda, Europe’s most expensive area, contrasts luxury with a wild, undeveloped coastline, while at Capo Capaccio the coast turns rugged, allowing paddlers to navigate swells and rocks. Finally, the Li Nibani Islands—named after seagulls in the Gallurese dialect—offer thrilling rock-hopping challenges.

Further to the south, we can discover islands such as Isola di Mortorio—a granite island with dense scrub and beautiful beaches—and the two offshore rock formations of the Scogliie di Mortorietto. We would also paddle around Capo Ceraso, named after wild strawberry trees, which features a rugged granite coastline ideal for paddling in calm weather yet challenging in rough seas. Nearby, Molara—a private granite island—is home to wild goats and forms part of a protected marine park.

And then there’s Tavolara! This striking limestone island is linked to myth as Poseidon’s petrified ship. Stretching 5 km in length and rising 565 meters at Monte Cannone, Tavolara offers breathtaking Mediterranean views. The southeastern coast boasts towering cliffs plunging 14 meters into the sea, reminding us of nature’s vast scale.

Another option is exploring the north coast, which provides day paddles into the Maddalena Archipelago.

The Maddalena Archipelago is a captivating group of islands off the northeastern coast of Sardinia, renowned for its rich history and stunning natural beauty. Its origins reach back to prehistoric times, with layers of human influence from the Phoenicians, Romans, and various Mediterranean cultures that followed. Over the centuries, its strategic location made the islands important as naval and trading posts, serving as lookout points and temporary bases during conflicts such as the Napoleonic Wars. Today, the archipelago stands as a symbol of natural preservation, having been designated a national park to protect its historical artifacts and unique ecosystems.

The landscape of the archipelago is as diverse as its history, featuring rugged cliffs, secluded coves, and pristine white-sand beaches. One of its most famous attractions is Budelli’s pink sand beach—a natural wonder created by a rare combination of mineral and biological processes. The crystal-clear turquoise waters provide ideal conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, revealing vibrant marine life and captivating underwater scenery. Strict conservation measures help maintain this delicate environment, ensuring that both flora and fauna thrive.

What truly sets the Maddalena Archipelago apart is the seamless blend of cultural heritage and unspoiled nature. For this reason, we would either plan day paddles into the archipelago with a return to the mainland or set up a base on Maddalena Island at an official campsite.

DETAILS

SKILL LEVEL

Expedition team members need to be at a ‘Sea Kayak Proficient’ level of paddling ability equal to BCU 3*/ BC Sea Kayak Award, EPP 3, ISKGA Fundamental Skills 3, or ACA 3.
You need to be comfortable paddling in force 3-4 winds, 3-4 foot / 0,9-1,2 m waves and happy in an exposed open water environment under a skilled and qualified guide/leader. Team members have to be reasonably fit and capable of paddling between 11-16 NM / 20 -30 km per day over a five day period.

REMITS

We work within National Governing Body recommended guidelines in terms of student/client ratio, weather conditions and sea state.

For most of our expeditions we try to work on a 1 guide to 6 group member ratio, this ensures that you, the client - experience the most from the adventure and that we create a minimal impact on the environment.

EQUIPMENT

We recommend that paddlers bring the following equipment. This is not an exhaustive list, as individual needs may vary, but it can serve as a guideline for you.

Paddling Equipment: Kayak, PFD/buoyancy aid, pogies/paddling gloves, spray skirt, two paddles, pump, dry suit or cag & salopettes, two sets of base layers (preferably wool), fleece top (if you tend to get cold), helmet (optional), throw-tow or contact tow (if you have one), sunglasses, woolly/sun hat, buff, lip balm/sun protection, storm cag (if you have one).

Camp Clothes: Walking shoes/boots, trousers, puffer jacket, base layers (including one additional wool shirt), gloves, woolly hat, socks, underwear, rain jacket and trousers (depending on paddling clothes).

Camping Kit: Tent, sleeping mat, sleeping bag, tarp (optional), camp stove & cooking/eating kit, fuel (can be purchased in Tromsø), water bags (2 x 6 liters), water bottle/thermos, torch/headlamp.

Personal First Aid Kit: An "ouch pouch," including any personal medications and allergy considerations.

Wash Kit & Towel: You may wish to include scissors or nail clippers, as well as face and hand creams.

Our outfitter has various equipment available for hire if required, such as tents, sleeping pads, camp stoves, and dry suits.

FOOD

Food is required for six days of sea kayaking, and meals can be a combination of rehydrated food packs and fresh ingredients. Be sure to bring enough snacks (such as energy bars, fruit, and nuts) for refuelling on the go.

You can bring your own food from home or purchase it in Sardina.

ACCOMMODATION

Whilst on the sea kayaking expedition, you will be either wild camping or staying in official campsites, depending on our chosen route.

Accommodation before and after the expedition is your responsibility. You can find local hotels, bed and breakfasts, or arrange a shared Airbnb if preferred.

TRAVEL LOGISTICS

Sardinia's busiest airport is in Olbia in the north-east of Sardinia. If you are travelling by plane, it would be advisable to share a hire car with other participants in order to remain flexible regarding the starting point of the trip.

Travelling by car to the north of Sardinia can be done via Livorno with Moby or Grimaldi Lines, or from Cintavecchia (near Rome) with Tirrenia, or Grimaldi Lines.

INSURANCES

We recommend that you insure your travel arrangements, as flight delays and cancellations can often occur. If possible, you should also obtain coverage for your experience, including unforeseen events beyond your or our control (such as Force Majeure Events), for which Expedition Paddler Ltd cannot be held responsible.

Additionally, accident insurance, travel health insurance, and rescue and recovery insurance are the responsibility of participants. We strongly advise securing coverage for personal accident and liability, as well as for loss or damage to personal belongings. Please note that we cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage to personal items while on one of our trips.

Expedition Paddler Ltd holds public liability insurance, activity insurance and professional indemnity insurance, details of which can be provided upon request.

WHAT IS INCLUDED

Expedition Paddler's service is limited to the organization and implementation of the advertised program, including our role as highly trained guides and coaches.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED

Expedition Paddler's service is limited to the organization and implementation of the advertised program, including our role as highly trained guides and coaches. No additional services—such as assistance with arrival and departure, accommodation, meals, or local transport—are provided unless explicitly stated in the "Included Services" section. Where required, we will supply and maintain the ordered equipment in proper condition. Any extra services or modifications requested by participants fall outside our standard scope and must be arranged separately. Furthermore, Expedition Paddler is not liable for any expenses or disruptions resulting from services not covered under the program.

Please note that the price does not include the journey to and from Sardina, accommodation in Sardinia, any equipment other than that specified in the "Included Services" section, or food for the Sea Kayaking Expedition.

In the event that remote pickup is required on the Sea Kayaking Expedition, any associated costs will be incurred and divided among the group members.

EXTRAS

If you require additional equipment, such as a kayak, paddles, PFD, spraydeck, please contact us in advance.

During this course, you can obtain the British Canoeing Sea Kayak Award. Please let us know in advance if you are interested. Registration and administrative costs for the certification have to be paid to Paddle UK.

During the expedition we shall cover the ISKGA Expedition Skills module including the following subjects: Camp selection, tarpology and shelter building, rescues & evacuation, water sourcing, treatment and toiletry requirements, fire skills, for cooking, signalling and warmth, foraging and equipment.

PRICE £ 650

A minimum of four participants is required to confirm this booking.