Porto Rotondo is a residential marina and sailing village built into the hills south of Porto Cervo along the Costa Smeralda coastline. Its well-sheltered harbour and quieter atmosphere distinguish it from its more famous neighbour, while the range of cruising grounds remains identical: the La Maddalena Archipelago to the north, the Tavolara Marine Reserve to the south, and the full stretch of granite coves between. Motor yachts for charter in Porto Rotondo span from 25-metre planing vessels with twin cabins to larger 55-metre displacement hulls with beach clubs and helicopter decks. The fleet tends to include both Italian-built yard yachts and Northern European expedition-style vessels, reflecting the diverse client base that calls at Porto Rotondo each season. Crews of four to ten are typical, and provisioning options in Olbia, 20 minutes by road, are excellent. Weekly charter rates for motor yachts in Porto Rotondo match those across the Costa Smeralda, running from 60,000 to over 1,000,000 euros before the advance provisioning allowance of 30 percent. Porto Rotondo berth fees are lower than Porto Cervo, which can reduce the APA meaningfully on a longer stay. The season runs from May to October, with July and August at peak demand. From Porto Rotondo the cruising itinerary splits north and south. Heading north along the Costa Smeralda brings Capriccioli, Liscia Ruja and eventually the La Maddalena Archipelago within a half-day. South toward Olbia, the Tavolara Marine Reserve provides a dramatic backdrop of limestone cliffs rising from flat turquoise water, with the anchor at Cala Finanza sheltered and clean. The island of Tavolara itself restricts landing to a small beach but the diving around its base is among the best in Sardinia.
