Silversea Expedition Cruises A CAGLIARI (Sardinia)

Indulge your senses with the flavours and traditions of Sardinia during this immersive, half-day pasta-making excursion.

Cagliari, Countryside, Maracalagonis

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 40-minute drive to Casa Atzeri. En route, pass through the countryside to Maracalagonis, an agricultural centre located approximately 15.5 miles (about 25 kilometres) from Cagliari, at the foot of the Sette Fratelli Mountains, home to herds of wild boar and other Sardinian deer. The short distance from Cagliari enables people living here to keep their traditions, yet not to suffer the inconvenience of excessive isolation.

Sa Festa, Casa Atzeri, Traditional House, Shaded Courtyard, Lush, Green Myrtle Trees

Next, continue on to Sa Festa. In 1958, owner and landlord Vincenzo created the traditions of Kalagonis, with the will and desire to bring the sights, sounds and flavours of his beautiful land, Sardinia, to national and international prominence. Since then, Sa Festa has entranced and captivated many visitors. The rich, historical atmosphere, tradition and aromas, a beautiful, shaded courtyard surrounded by lush, green, centuries-old myrtle trees, and their famous Sardinian hospitality and cuisine make every moment spent at Sa Festa unforgettable.

Interactive Pasta-Making Lesson, Preparing Traditional Potato Ravioli, Gnocchi & Sweets, Tastings

Upon arrival, you are welcomed in the patio by the owners and staff clad in traditional Sardinian dress, then introduced to the wheat supply chain to fully understand the process of making traditional pasta during an interactive pasta-making demonstration. With your hands in the flour, enjoy a unique opportunity to learn the art of closing 'a spiga' of culurgiones (typical potato ravioli), and preparing malloreddus, a particular local kind of gnocchi, and some traditional sweets. After your pasta-making lesson, proceed to the courtyard for a tasting of different types of pasta accompanied by a glass of wine, and take home a packet of the pasta you have prepared with your own hands as a souvenir of your visit. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 40-minute drive back to the pier.

Cagliari has its origins in Sardinian prehistory which includes the birth of civilizations capable of creating organized and free societies, characterized by intense trades and cultural exchanges among the Mediterranean people. Explore the ancient beauty and history of Cagliari during this scenic, half-day excursion through the city on the way to the archaeological site of Nora.

Cagliari, Bonaria Basilica and Monte Urpinu

Depart the pier for the scenic drive through Cagliari on your way to the Bonaria Basilica, stop here to learn about this historic church with a photo stop. Afterward, continue your excursion and drive to Monte Urpinu. Upon arrival, take in picturesque vistas that include the Gulf of the Angels, or 'Golfo degli Angeli', and the Santa Gilla and Molentargius lagoons, home to flamingos, cormorants, ducks and herons.

Nora

Continue to the ancient Roman and pre-Roman town of Nora situated on a peninsula near Pula and Cagliari in Sardinia. Nora was an important trading town in its time, with two protected harbours, one on each side of the peninsula. According to legend, Nora was founded by a group of Iberians from Tartessus led by Norax, a mythological hero (the son of Eriteide and the god Hermes). It is believed to be the first town founded in Sardinia and to have been settled by the ancient Sherden or the Nuraghi people, and later colonized by Phoenicians.

The Nora Stone, a Phoenician inscription found at Nora in 1773, has been dated by palaeographic methods to between the late 9th century and early 8th century BC, and has been interpreted as referring to a Phoenician military victory and conquest of the area. After a period of domination by Carthage the town came under Roman control after the conquest of Sardinia in 238 BC. It went into decline from the 4th century AD and appears to have been abandoned during the 8th century.

Several different building styles can be seen in the excavated buildings. Visit a promontory in the foreground of a 16th-century tower. From here, view the remains of Carthaginians warehouses, Roman buildings from the time of the Republic, a Carthaginian-Roman temple, large baths with splendid mosaics, a nearly-intact theatre dating from the time of the Empire, and a unique the water supply and drainage system.

Following your visit, re-board your coach for the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Relax and unwind with a leisurely sail along the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Cagliari during this private, half-day catamaran excursion.

Cagliari City and Gulf, Sant'Elia Promontory

Depart the pier for the short walk to the marina, and your awaiting catamaran. Upon arrival, embark the vessel and set sail on a guided catamaran journey along the panoramic Cagliari Gulf. Also known as Golfo degli Angeli (Gulf of the Angels), the Gulf of Cagliari is a large bay in southern Sardinia, Italy, that faces the Tyrrhenian Sea. It is enclosed between Cape Carbonara to the east and the Isola dei Cavoli and Capo Spartivento to the west. Its coasts are partly-sandy and partly-rocky, with only a few harbours. In the middle of the gulf is the Sant'Elia Promontory, part of the territory of Cagliari, Sardinia's capital, which also houses the most important port.

Marina, Old City, Devil's Saddle, Poetto Beach, Swimming, Refreshments, Traditional Snack

Leaving the marina, admire the Old City that stands proud and luminous on its hills. Sail in front the Devil's Saddle, the promontory that rises in the southern area of Cagliari and separates the city from Poetto Beach, with its approximately five miles (about eight kilometres) of white sands and crystal-clear waters. The name of the beach is thought to be derived from an Aragonese tower called 'del Poeta'. Weather permitting, your catamaran stops for refreshments served with a traditional snack, and an optional swim in the inviting waters of the Cagliari Gulf. At the conclusion of your tour, ride back to the marina. Upon arrival, disembark your catamaran and commence the short walk back to the pier.

Cagliari, the capital of the province and the region, is located at the heart of the beautiful Bay of the Angels (Golfo degli Angeli); like Rome, it was built on seven hills, which identify the historic neighbourhoods of the city. Spend a half-day discovering the exquisite beauty and historic sights of Cagliari during a walking tour through the Old Town.

Cagliari, Bonaria Basilica and Monte Urpinu

Depart the pier for the scenic drive through Cagliari, and an exterior stop at the Bonaria Basilica to learn about this historic church. From here, your panoramic drive continues along Poetto Beach en route to Monte Urpinu. Upon arrival, take in picturesque views over ponds, saltpans, the Gulf of the Angels, the port and historic centre. This area represents a real oasis to immerse in nature that is still not too far from the city.

Old Town Walking Tour

After a photo stop at Monte Urpinu, re-board your coach for the drive to the Old Town of Cagliari. Upon arrival at the parking area, leave your coach and commence your guided walking tour. Pass the castle ramparts, the 13th-century Elephant Tower and the San Pancrazio Tower. Your walking tour continues to the early 14th-century Santa Cecilia Cathedral and its 7th-century bell tower.

Cathedral and Archaeological Museum

During your guided visit of the Cathedral, see its three naves with side chapels and fine Baroque furnishings, a 17th-century marble balustrade and a sanctuary with three chapels. Your tour concludes with a visit to the National Archaeological Museum, which houses an impressive display of Punic, Greek and Roman artefacts, as well as a large collection of Sardinian antiquities.

Following your visit, re-board your coach for the brief drive back to the pier.

Experience the pristine natural beauty of Monte Arcosu in a unique and exciting way during this excursion via Jeep and on-foot. Become one with nature when you discover pink flamingos, deer, boar and other animals travelling from Cagliari to the W.W.F. nature reserve.

Cagliari

Depart the pier via 4x4 vehicles for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive to Monte Arcosu. Drive by the Santa Gilla ponds, home to pink flamingo and one of the protected wetland areas that surround Cagliari. Enjoy a photo stop to admire the flamingos and many other species of birds.

Monte Arcosu

A natural reserve in the extreme northwest corner of Uta, Monte Arcosu belongs to the World Wildlife Fund (W.W.F.), who purchased it to preserve the splendid Holm-oak forests in this territory.

Upon arrival, begin your guided walking tour along paths lined with beautiful and fragrant Mediterranean maquis. The reserve's valleys and rocky ridges are home to the Sardinian deer, a species protected from extinction. Other animal and bird species found here include the fallow deer, boar, hare, wildcat, partridge, and golden eagle.

After your nature trek, a snack is served before commencing the approximately 45-minute drive back to the pier.

Soak up nature's beauty at one of the most exquisite beaches in all of Sardinia. Nestled in a southwestern cove amid lush rolling hills between Capo Malfatano and Capo Spartivento, near Chia, Tuerredda Beach astonishes its visitors with brilliant white sand and shallow turquoise waters.

Drive one scenic hour to Tuerredda Beach and discover an excellent place to explore. Discover the diverse life underwater with snorkel gear, or just swim, sunbathe, or relax in the sand, dipping your toes in the clear water.

After a relaxing approximately three-hour visit make your return journey to the ship.

Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking from the parking area to the beach club (approximately 500 yards). This tour is not suitable for guests confined to a wheelchair due to the few steps for boarding the bus, and the beach is not accessible to wheelchairs. Guests are recommended to wear comfortable attire, swimsuits, and beach shoes. Guests should expect significant sun exposure and are recommended to bring towels, hats, sunglasses, sun protection, and water shoes.

Sail for about four hours on a tour created especially for the lovers of the sea. Departing from the city marina, this sailing voyage gives you a chance to see the splendor of the busy Cagliari waterfront before heading out for a relaxing sail upon crystal clear waters.

See the storied Devil's Saddle promontory, comprised of sedimentary rocks from the Miocene Epoch. Evidence of humans who lived in caves surrounding this area date to the sixth millennium BCE. As legend would have it, the Gulf of Cagliari was so enticing, that devils determined to seize the area. Allegedly, God sent his favored angles, including Archangel Michael, to banish Lucifer and his followers. There are several iterations of the story and why the promontory is so named, but it does undeniably resemble a saddle and it would certainly cause a devil of a pain if one fell from its heights!

From the distance of the sailing deck, guests can safely enjoy that which tempted the devils and was protected and won by angels. Reflect upon the angelic whiteness of the white limestone cliffs and dive into the dreamlike crystal-clear waters while you swim and snorkel and relax in a seascape that is nothing short of paradise.

Make the one-hour sail back to port and arrive at the pier relaxed and rejuvenated by the waters of the Gulf of Cagliari.

Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of activity. Guests must be able to balance and step aboard a sailing vessel that moves with varying degree, according to the weather. There is one step to board the vessel and a few more to go below for the marine toilet. This tour is not recommended for individuals with mobility concerns, back pain, or advanced stages of pregnancy. The vessel is not adapted to accommodate wheelchairs. Guests who experience sea sickness and those with a fear of water should not participate in this tour. Minimum age to participate is 6 years old and parents are reminded to pay close attention to their children's safety while aboard. Guests with a fear of water should not participate on this tour. Guests are recommended to comfortable clothes and shoes with grip soles. It is suggested to bring a swimsuit, towel, and a hat. Guests should expect significant sun exposure. Space on this tour is limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment. The tour is subject to weather conditions.

Explore one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the world during this panoramic, half-day sailing and snorkelling excursion.

Cagliari, Molo Dogana, Sailing Boat, Borgo Sant'Elia, Calamosca, Devil's Saddle

Depart from the pier with your guide for the short walk to the embarkation point, Molo Dogana. Upon arrival, embark your sailing boat for a picturesque sail along Borgo Sant'Elia and Calamosca Beach. Soak up the Mediterranean sun whilst marvelling at the characteristic stretch of limestone coast and Mediterranean scrub reaching up to the iconic symbols of Cagliari, the Sella del Diavolo (Devil's Saddle) and Poetto Beach.

Marina Piccola, Poetto Promenade & Beach, Swimming, Snorkelling, Refreshments, Specialities

A swimming and snorkelling stop is made at Poetto, in front of the port of Marina Piccola, the intimate marina that leads to the Poetto Promenade and offers a spectacular panoramic view of the beautiful Golfo degli Angeli. Here, enjoy swimming and/or snorkelling (weather/temperature permitting) in the crystal-clear waters, followed by prosecco and soft drinks accompanied by Sardinian specialities back on board the boat.

Cala Fighera, Additional Swimming and Snorkelling

Next, continue sailing towards Cala Fighera, where a second, approximately one-hour stop is made for additional sunbathing, and swimming and/or snorkelling. At the conclusion of your visit, embark the sailing boat and commence the approximately one-hour sail back to the embarkation point. Upon arrival, disembark the boat and commence the short walk back to the pier.

Discover the hidden secrets of culinary Sardinia on this memorable five-hour excursion to a winery. Tour a beautiful vienyard, witness fresh pasta being made and learn how to make it yourself, and of course, enjoy a delicious tasting of the island's wines, appreciated by wine enthusiasts around the world.

Sardinian wines are rich and complex, reflecting the island's rugged landscape and ancient, prehistoric settlements that date well before 1500 BC. The island's most famous native grape varieties are the rich yet refreshing Vermentino (white wine) and the classic red, Cannonau.

Departing the pier, drive 30 minutes to a local vineyard for a chance to discover this winery run by a local family and located in a stunning and unique, undulating landscape of Sardinia's gentle hills. After a tour of the winery grounds, watch a pasta-making demonstration and taste the iconic Cannonau and Vermentino wines. Your wine tasting is accompanied by Sardinian products such as pecorino cheese, cold cuts and famous "carasau bread."

After this memorable visit that is a gourmand's dream, make the return trip to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking (800 m), over some unpaved terrain and 10 stairs to enter and exit the wine cellar. The tour is not suitable for guest with mobility concerns that are unable to board and disembark the coach on their own, walk in the wineyard or for guests who utilize a wheelchairs. Minimum recommended age to participate is 18 years old. Guests are recommended to wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Savour the exquisite beauty and flavours of Cagliari during this picturesque, half-day Sardinian sightseeing excursion.

Cagliari City, Sightseeing Drive, Basilica of Bonaria, Poetto Beach, Monte Urpino

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour sightseeing drive through Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia. Along the way, pass by the main attractions of the city, including the Basilica of Bonaria, Poetto Beach and Monte Urpinu, with a photo stop at a panoramic viewpoint. Afterward, re-board your coach and continue on to the Audarya Winery.

Audarya Winery, Tour and Wine Tasting with Local Specialities, Vineyard Views

Upon arrival at this family-run winery, located in a unique setting over Sardinia's gentle hills, take a guided walking tour of the winery and wine cellars. Along the way, learn about the story of this old, family-owned winery, its wine production and very young descendants who oversee the entire operation. Following your tour, proceed to a lovely setting offering breath-taking views over the vineyards. Here, enjoy a tasting of four famous wines, including Cannonau and Vermentino, accompanied by Sardinian specialities. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 40-minute drive back to the pier.

Explore Cagliari at your leisure during your full-day (8-hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Cagliari at your leisure during your half-day (4-hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Cagliari at your leisure during your full-day (8-hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Cagliari at your leisure during your half-day (4-hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

The charms and ancient traditions of the island of Sardinia await you on this lovely and relaxing half-day excursion. Drive 30 minutes on a comfortable coach, traveling to the north of Cagliari to arrive at Dolianova, a town with roots extending to 1089, when the Catholic bishop Virgilio approved the creation of two monasteries.

Olive Mill and Museum

Walk through the small, picturesque town of Dolianova through its market and piazza, a local centre for olive oil and wine production. Make a visit to an olive mill to see the process of oil production for which Dilianova is named. Explore the exhibits at the Olive Museum, dedicated to the regional olive oil tradition that demonstrates the full cycle of olive oil production; learn about the entire process, from cultivation, milling, pressing and extraction, all the way to the traditional storage of the precious oil.

Dolianova Cathedral

Explore the nearby Dolianova Cathedral, built in the 12^th to 13^th century and dedicated to Saint Pantaleo, the all-compassionate and one of the 14 venerated Holy Helpers and one of the Holy Unmercenary Healers. This impressive Romanesque cathedral is connected to a site of worship dating back to the 6^th century.

Tasting of Local Specialties in Argiolas

Travel just 15 minutes for your last stop at Argiolas, the most prominent wine estate on the island of Sardinia. Tour this most popular winery's cellars and settle in for a tasting of local meats, cheeses, olives and of course wine, all accompanied by "pane carasau," a crispy, twice-baked Sardinian flatbread distinctive to the island.

After your delightful tasting make the 30-minute drive back to the ship.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking (approximately 0.6 miles). Guests should evaluate their personal level of ability to maneuver over cobbled surfaces. The tour is not recommended for individuals with mobility concerns and is not suitable for individuals confined to wheelchairs. Minimum age to participate is 2 years old and children must be accompanied by a guardian. Guests are recommended to wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Guests should expect significant sun exposure. Space on this tour is limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.