Renting a Gulet in Sardinia in 2027: A Complete Guide for Your Next Trip

Every summer, more travelers discover that the best way to experience Sardinia isn't by road, but by sailing along its coastline aboard a gulet. If you're thinking about planning your nautical vacation for 2027, this article covers everything you need to know before booking: seasonal trends, how to choose the right boat, which areas are gaining popularity, and the most common mistakes to avoid.

What's changing in gulet rentals for 2027

The Mediterranean charter industry has been expanding for several years, and Sardinia has established itself as one of the preferred destinations compared to more saturated areas like the French Riviera or the Balearic Islands in peak August. For the 2027 season, demand for early bookings is expected to rise, especially in June and September — months many sailors already consider the best alternative to the crowds of July and August.

Interest is also growing in gulets with hybrid propulsion or more efficient engines, a trend driven both by environmental awareness and by increasingly strict navigation restrictions within the La Maddalena National Park, where the number of boats allowed to anchor simultaneously in certain protected coves is limited.

Choosing a gulet in Sardinia or a catamaran: which is better?

One of the common dilemmas when planning a charter in Sardinia is deciding between a classic gulet and a catamaran. The gulet offers a more traditional experience, with wooden lines, deeper draft, and a more authentic feel on the water — ideal for those looking for something different from a modern motor yacht. The catamaran, on the other hand, offers more stability and deck space, but loses some of the character and craftsmanship that defines a gulet.

For family groups or friends who value design, interior comfort, and a sailing experience with more personality, the gulet remains the preferred choice in Sardinia.

Lesser-known areas of Sardinia worth discovering by gulet

Beyond Costa Smeralda and La Maddalena — the most requested routes — there are corners of Sardinia that are starting to gain attention in 2027 among those who have already sailed the island before:

Gulf of Orosei, on the east coast, with limestone cliffs and remote coves such as Cala Luna or Cala Goloritzé, accessible almost exclusively by sea.
Asinara, a former prison island now converted into a national park, with lightly traveled waters and very well-preserved seabeds.
Costa Verde, to the west, less frequented by traditional nautical tourism and home to spectacular dune beaches such as Piscinas.

Including one of these areas in the itinerary allows you to combine the must-see classics with quieter experiences away from the usual routes.

Practical tips for booking your gulet in Sardinia in advance

- Book with plenty of lead time: the best-rated boats with availability for July and August dates tend to sell out 4 to 6 months in advance.
- Review the charter contract: confirm exactly what's included in the price (fuel, port fees, catering) and what remains the client's responsibility.
- Ask about flexible itineraries: many companies allow you to adjust the route day by day based on weather conditions, which is especially useful along the island's northeast coast.
- Factor in National Park fees: if your route includes La Maddalena, some coves require access or anchoring permits that are best arranged in advance.
- Consider mid-season: May, June, and September offer good weather, less boat traffic, and generally better conditions for negotiating price.

There's more boat availability, a wider variety of itineraries away from the most crowded routes, and a clear trend toward more sustainable experiences on board. Booking early, carefully comparing what each charter includes, and exploring lesser-known areas of the island are the keys to enjoying a memorable experience in the Mediterranean.