The La Maddalena archipelago has no bridge to mainland Sardinia — the only way in is the ferry from Palau, the same town most boat tours also depart from. Here's how to plan the crossing.
The crossing
The Palau–La Maddalena ferry crossing is short, generally around 15-20 minutes, with frequent departures in summer and a reduced schedule in low season. Ferries carry both foot passengers and vehicles. Always check the current timetable and frequency on the ferry operator's website on the day, especially in high season.
Do you need your car?
If your day is built around a boat tour, you generally don't need to bring a car onto the island: you can leave it in one of the paid or attended car parks near the Palau ferry terminal and board as a foot passenger — saving both time and the vehicle fare.
How early to arrive
In peak season, the Palau terminal can get busy quickly. Arriving 20-30 minutes before your ferry (and well before your tour's departure time) avoids a last-minute rush.
From the port to your tour's meeting point
The centre of La Maddalena, where ferries dock, is a short walk from the marina most sailing tours depart from — usually no extra transfer needed.
⛵ Already picked your tour? Check the meeting time. Check available dates.
Read also: Barca a vela con skipper a La Maddalena: come funziona · Things to Do in La Maddalena in August
Good to know before you go
Tickets for the Palau–La Maddalena ferry can usually be bought at the kiosk right at the pier or online in advance, which is worth doing in July and August when queues build up fast. If you're travelling with young children or heavy luggage, the crossing is short enough to spend the whole way on the open deck, with clear views of the archipelago as you approach. Most boat tour operators are used to guests arriving straight off the ferry, so don't worry if you're cutting it close — just message them your ferry time.
