TRIP OVERVIEW

7 days
Classic
Up to 5km/day
Moderate

Trip Dates

2026
06 Jun - 12 Jun
Available
13 Jun - 19 Jun
Available
05 Sep - 11 Sep
Available
12 Sep - 18 Sep
Available
19 Sep - 25 Sep
Available
26 Sep - 02 Oct
Available

Tour Highlights

  • Roam Sardinia’s southern coastline, enjoying a mix of coastal swims and crossings – like an epic adventure from San Pietro to Isola dei Ratti – as we seek out the region’s best white sand beaches, coves, caves and bays

  • Swim alongside the dramatic cliffs of Sant'Antioco Tonnara and round the westernmost tip of Italy, overlooked by a 19th century lighthouse

  • Explore the surrounding Mediterranean Sea, populated by an array of exciting marine species, including gentle basking sharks, Risso’s dolphins, bluefin tuna and Loggerhead turtles

  • Visit the nearby birder’s paradise of Spiaggia di Cala Fico – home to protected Eleonora's falcons that nest in the cliffs

  • Relax after your swims in a quintessential Italian fishing town, Carloforte, with strong Catalan and African cultural influences

Tucked away in the Sulcis Archipelago, just off the southern tip of Sardinia, lies the volcanic island of San Pietro – a destination that combines natural beauty, rich traditions, and an unmistakably authentic Italian charm. Based in the historic fishing town of Carloforte, you’ll discover a hidden Italian gem where African and Catalan influences blend seamlessly with Sardinian culture, creating a unique atmosphere rarely found elsewhere in the Mediterranean.

Our swims explore the island’s spectacular coastline, where dramatic cliffs and caves dominate the western and northern shores, while the east reveals sandy beaches and sheltered coves. Crystal-clear waters frame every stroke, whether you’re gliding past rocky outcrops or pausing to take in the serene beauty of secluded bays. The local Mediterranean waters are populated all kinds of exciting marine species, including basking sharks, Risso’s dolphins, bluefin tuna and Loggerhead turtles.

Life on San Pietro moves at a slower pace, with evenings offering the chance to enjoy the town’s vibrant piazzas and delicious cuisine. Carloforte is famed for its tuna fishing heritage, and its culinary traditions are celebrated throughout Italy. Despite its many treasures, the island remains relatively undiscovered by international tourism, preserving its sense of tranquillity and authenticity.

This trip is ideal for swimmers seeking an immersive coastal experience in a destination that still feels off the beaten path. From scenic swims along untouched shores to relaxing evenings immersed in local culture, San Pietro promises a blend of adventure, authenticity, and Mediterranean beauty that is hard to match.

If you would like to explore more of Sardinia, we also offer our Emerald Coast - Sardinia trip along the island's northern coast.


Who is this trip for?

This trip is ideal for swimmers who enjoy coastal swimming with a variety of landscapes and conditions.

Swimmers should have a basic understanding of open water swimming and be capable of completing the average swim distance and average daily swim distance (over the course of two swims) prior to the start of the trip.

The average swim distance is around 2.5km. The average overall daily swim distance is around 5km.

We have given this trip a ‘Moderate’ grading. Most swimmers comfortable in the open water will be able to take part and enjoy one of these trips.


What's included?

  • Fully guided swimming holiday (swimmers only)
  • Professional swim guides and full safety escort on all swims (swimmers only)
  • Six nights' accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • All lunches (swimmers only)
  • ABTOT Protection, in accordance with our terms and conditions.

What's not included?

  • Travel to and from the start of the trip
  • Evening meals
  • Drinks and additional activities

Group of 5 or more?

If you're travelling with a group of friends, family or swim buddies, speak to our Group Travel team to get tailored advice, special pricing and discounts, and early access to new trips and departures.

GROUP TRAVEL SERVICE>


Sample Trip Itinerary

Please note that the below daily itineraries are an example of the swims that may take place during your trip, however, actual swim locations and distances will vary according to local weather and swim conditions. Your SwimTrek guides and local boat pilots will determine the most suitable swim locations each day and will communicate the plan with all guests as soon as possible.

Trip Schedule

Start Point: Hotel Riviera Carloforte

Start Time: 17:00 on Day 1

Finish Point: Hotel Riviera Carloforte

Finish Time: 10:30 on Day 7

Day 1

After your arrival, you will have a chance to relax before a welcome meeting and pre-trip safety briefing at the hotel, followed by a drink and dinner at a local restaurant. At the meeting, the week’s plan will be discussed in detail.

Day 2

In the morning we'll meet for an acclimatisation swim and technique and drills session in Spiaggia del Lucchese. Afterwards, we'll enjoy lunch onboard our boat, followed by an afternoon of swimming Spiaggia Guidi.

The afternoon swim takes us along the island's southeast coast - expect white sandy beaches, pristine waters, and gorgeous views of a coastline peppered with classic Mediterranean scrub.

Hotel Riviera-Carloforte-1600x900.jpg

Day 3

This morning, we enjoy a coastal swim along Sant Antioco Tonnara, enjoying clear waters and sandy beaches and clear water.

After a satisfying lunch onboard our boat, we'll head off for a walk through the “saline” (where salt is locally produced), followed by an afternoon swimming alongside the dramatic cliffs of Sant'Antioco Tonnara.

Day 4

Today we complete two Capo Sandalo coastal swims. Capo Sandalo is the westernmost tip of Italy and the local 19th century lighthouse is an imposing feature, which dominates a steep promontory with cliffs and small rocky coves.

We'll have lunch onboard, followed by a visit to the nearby Cala Fico - an area managed by LIPU (Italian Bird Protection League) for the protection of Eleonora's falcons, which nests in the cliffs. The cove is an oasis of wild nature with a pebble beach, crystal clear sea and rocky seabed.

Day 5

This morning brings one of the highlights of this trip - a crossing from San Pietro to Isola dei Ratti. You'll land on the beach and then circumnavigate the island and swim back to San Pietro.

We'll again have lunch on board our boat and then spend the afternoon swimming Spiaggia di Tacca Rossa.

This day's swims are all on the east coast, which offers more protected, shallow waters, with white sand beaches and crystal-clear water

Day 6

We will explore Sardinia's southern shoreline today with two coastal swims taking us past a mixture of beautiful beaches and rocky outcrops.

Enjoy another day of swims in clear waters, with spectacular views of high cliffs that plunge into the sea, as well as opportunities to explore sea caves - some submerged and others at sea level.

You'll have a chance to relax between the two swims with lunch on board our boat.

Day 7

We will enjoy a final farewell swim together, before heading back to the hotel for breakfast and goodbyes.

Accommodation

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Hotel Riviera Carloforte

Hotel Riviera in the heart of Carloforte, is just steps from the ferry dock and the town’s charming promenade. Framed by panoramic views of the port and seafront, the hotel features a rooftop terrace—perfect for sunrise breakfasts or evening aperitifs overlooking the sea. Its central location makes it an ideal base to relax after full days of sea and swim excursions or to explore the island’s natural beauty.

Location Summary

San Pietro

San Pietro is a rugged volcanic island known for its dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and clear waters. The main town, Carloforte, has a unique Ligurian heritage, reflected in its language, food, and colourful fishing traditions.

Carloforte

The only town on San Pietro, Carloforte is lively yet laid-back, with pastel houses, narrow streets, and a bustling harbour. It’s particularly renowned for tuna fishing and excellent seafood.

Sant’Antioco

Connected to Sardinia by a causeway, Sant’Antioco is the largest island of the Sulcis archipelago. It blends sandy beaches and archaeological sites, with a town that retains both Punic and Roman influences.

Trip Grading

We have given this trip a ‘Moderate’ grading. Most swimmers comfortable in the open water will be able to take part and enjoy one of these trips.

Swimming Distances

Swim Distance Swim Distance
Spiaggia del Lucchese technique session 1½km Spiaggia Guidi 3½ km
Sant’Antioco Tonnara swim 3km Sant’Antioco coastal 2½ km
Capo Sandalo coastal 3km Capo Sandalo coastal 2 2½ km
Isola de Ratti circumnavigation 2½ km Spiaggia di Tacca Rossa 2½ km
Cala Mezzaluna to Cala Dei Busselli 2km Cala Dei Busselli to Guidi beach 3km

*Please note that these swims are an example of what may take place during your trip and should be used as a guide only. Actual swim locations and distances will vary according to local weather and swim conditions.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in the open water is a fantastic experience, however you should be aware that certain marine life such as jellyfish, plankton, sea lice, sea urchins and coral could be present during the swims and may cause some discomfort. In all cases we will work on reducing your contact with these creatures and that any interactions are managed safely. If you suffer from anaphylaxis, please consult the office prior to booking.

Walking Conditions

While there aren’t any significant planned walks, any walks that we do undertake will take place on recognised paths and tracks, however there may be cases where we walk along trails or other unsealed surfaces and care should be taken in these areas.

Temperatures

Month Water Temperature* Air Temperature*
June 19-25°C / 68-75°F 19-24°C / 66-75°F
September 21-26°C / 72-77°F 21-26°C / 70-79°F
October 19-24°C / 68-73°F 19-24°C / 66-75°F

*Please note that these temperatures are indicative and should be used as a guide only.

Weather Caveat

For safety reasons, we rely on decent weather conditions when carrying out our swims. As a consequence, open water swimming holidays require a certain degree of on-trip flexibility which can result in changes to the planned itinerary. These changes often add a touch of uniqueness to your trip and will be communicated to you by your SwimTrek guides as quickly as possible.

Trip Information

Group Size

This trip has a maximum group size of 15. The group will be split into a maximum of three groups, based on speed, with each group being accompanied by their own safety vessel/escort. 

Boat Support

Boat support on this trip includes three support vessels, piloted by local fisherman and your SwimTrek guides. Please note that this boat support is subject to change without notice and cannot be guaranteed.

Equipment Checklist

For your basic, essential packing list, please visit our Packing List page on the website.

Food and Drink

All breakfasts and lunches during your swim days are included in your trip price however, evening meals are at your own expense. This gives you a fantastic opportunity to explore the menus and experience the local restaurants of your choice over the course of your trip. For more information, please visit our food and drink page on the website.

Getting There

As SwimTrekkers come from all over the world, and join our swimming holidays in numerous destinations, we don't currently offer flights as part of our SwimTrek packages. We do however want to do as much as we can to ensure that our guests get the best deals when travelling to one of our trips so check out SwimTrek's tips to help you get the best deals for your flights page on the website.

The easiest way to get to the start of your trip is to fly into Cagliari Elmas Airport (CAG), followed by a transfer to the mainland port and a short ferry crossing to San Pietro Island.

Transport from Cagliari Airport to Carloforte

From Cagliari Airport, the two nearest ferry ports are:

  • Portovesme (approx. 1.5–2 hours by car or taxi)
  • Calasetta (approx. 2–2.5 hours by car or taxi)

We recommend pre-booking a transfer or taxi for this leg of the journey. Public bus services are available but may be limited and time-consuming. Public buses - https://www.arst.sardegna.it

Ferry to Carloforte

Regular ferries operate from both Portovesme and Calasetta to Carloforte Port on San Pietro Island. The ferry journey takes approximately 30–40 minutes, and foot passengers are welcome. We recommend checking the latest ferry schedules in advance and allowing ample time for connections. During peak season, ferries can be busy, so we advise booking tickets in advance where possible.

Ferry schedules - https://delcomar.it/

From Carloforte Port to Your Accommodation

The Hotel Riviera Carloforte is conveniently located just a few minutes’ walk from Carloforte Port. After disembarking the ferry, turn left along the seafront promenade around 200m to Hotel Riviera.

Travel Advice

For more information on any of the following sections please visit the Travel Advice page of our website.

Money, Extra Expenses and Tipping

You should bring extra money with you to cover such items as transfers, entertainment, excursion day lunch and dinners, souvenirs, etc. The local currency is the Euro (€). Please note, you may also be required to pay tourist tax locally at the hotel.

In some countries tipping (gratuities) is not part of the culture - in others it has become an expected norm. We believe that tipping is entirely at your discretion. If you have been provided with excellent service, it may be something you wish to do. Your SwimTrek Guides can advise on local norms for service providers like boat crew, waiters, or taxis. Nothing is expected for your SwimTrek Guides, but many groups like to present something to the Guides at the end of the trip.

Responsible Travel

SwimTrek is conscious of the importance of protecting the world’s natural wonders. We are acutely aware of our responsibility to not only take care of the natural environments which we are lucky enough to explore, but also to educate our guests about the importance of conservation efforts and responsible tourism. It’s for this reason that we have worked so closely with our partners to ensure that our trips are conducted in the most responsible and sustainable way possible, working tirelessly to minimise the impact of our presence on local marine life and the natural habitat.

For more information, please visit our Responsible Travel page on the website.

Passports and Visas

Italy is part of the European Union. Non-residents of Italy require a full passport to enter the country, which should be valid for six months beyond the expected length of stay. Citizens of all EU member states, the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand do not require a visa to enter Italy.

Please note that visa regulations are subject to change and it is important that you check your own visa requirements prior to travel.

Travel Insurance

We consider comprehensive travel insurance to be essential, and we strongly recommend that you purchase insurance which includes, but is not limited to, cover for illness, accident, emergency repatriation, ambulance, air ambulance, helicopter rescue services, cancellation, lost luggage and delays. Your travel insurance should also cover you for open water swimming and any other activity listed in your trip itinerary (including races and competitions, where applicable). Please read your policy details carefully and remember to take them with you on your trip for your own reference.

For further information, please visit our Travel Insurance page on the website.

Here at SwimTrek, we pride ourselves on our focus on safety and the well-being of all our guests. As we operate in some beautiful and remote locations medical facilities are not always easily accessible. SwimTrek Guides, and many staff working for our local partners, are first aid trained. However, we ask that you read our Travel Health page to ensure that you are informed about general Travel and Swim Health precautions.

Travel Plugs & Electricity

For a useful source of information on the different electrical outlets, electrical plugs, and electric sockets, please visit www.worldstandards.eu.

Flexible Booking

Plans change but you can book with confidence. SwimTrek's flexible booking options include:

  • 14-day Refunds

  • Free Trip Changes

  • Refund Guarantee

Flexible Booking Terms and Conditions


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