Boat trip to the Corsican archipelago

Travelers looking for a scenic escape from the mainland into the beautiful waters surrounding Corsica will find this boat trip to the Corsican archipelago a compelling choice. Offered by Mistral Estasis, this full-day adventure promises a mix of stunning scenery, relaxing boat rides, and a taste of local life—ideal for those who want to see the islands without the hassle of planning their own excursions.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the professionalism of the crew ensures a smooth experience, from departure to return. Second, the opportunity to see the islands of Lavezzi and Isola Piana up close offers an authentic view of Corsica’s maritime beauty. A potential drawback? The trip’s duration and physical demands may not suit everyone, especially those prone to seasickness or with mobility issues. Nevertheless, this tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy boat rides, want to explore the islands, and are eager for a memorable day on the water.

Key Points

• Authentic coastal experience with visits to Lavezzi and Isola Piana
• Professional crew ensuring safety and comfort
• A delicious onboard lunch included in the price
• Panoramic views of Cavallo Island and the southern Corsican coastline
• Flexible cancellation policy with full refund up to 24 hours in advance
• Not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or seasick-prone travelers

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Corsican Archipelago Boat Tour

This tour offers an 8-hour journey through some of Corsica’s most captivating waters and islands, starting with a 9 a.m. departure from the port of Santa Teresa Gallura in Sardinia. It’s a well-timed excursion — early enough to enjoy the full day but not so early that you feel rushed. The boat used is a speedboat, allowing for swift travel between scenic stops, which maximizes your time on each island.

Starting Point and Departure

The meeting point is straightforward: the white box office in front of the motorboats, conveniently situated at the port. Travelers are advised to arrive 40 minutes to an hour early — a smart move to settle in and avoid any last-minute stress. The crew, led by a skilled skipper, sets a professional tone that reassures even nervous boaters.

The Stops: Lavezzi and Isola Piana

The first major highlight is Lavezzi, a small cluster of islands renowned for their rugged beauty and crystal-clear waters. You’ll stop here for about two hours, giving enough time to explore the beaches, swim, or simply soak in the views. Many reviews mention that the scenery is breathtaking, with some describing it as “a postcard come to life.” The clarity of the water makes it a tempting spot for a quick swim or snorkel — if you’ve brought your gear.

After Lavezzi, lunch is served onboard. The menu is simple but satisfying — penne with tomato sauce, water, wine, dessert, and coffee. The inclusion of wine and dessert adds a touch of local hospitality, making the meal feel like a relaxed coastal lunch rather than a rushed affair. Many travelers appreciate the quality of the meal, noting it’s enough to keep you energized for the rest of the day.

Panoramic Views of Cavallo Island

Post-lunch, the boat makes a scenic cruise past Cavallo Island, offering panoramic vistas of this iconic landmass. The views of the island’s dramatic cliffs and rugged coastline are often highlighted by travelers as a standout moment. Photography enthusiasts will find this segment particularly rewarding, especially with the possibility of catching a sunset or early evening glow.

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Isola Piana and Southern Corsican Landscapes

The final island stop is Isola Piana, known for its natural beauty, less crowded than Lavezzi, and perfect for a peaceful stroll or a quick dip. Before heading back, the crew takes you along the southern coast of Corsica, with sights like the Punta Sperone promontory providing a poetic view of Corsica’s wild, unspoiled coastline.

Returning and End of the Day

The boat returns around 5 p.m., giving you plenty of time to reflect on a day filled with natural beauty. Many reviews mention the stunning landscapes seen from the boat, emphasizing how the experience is a great way to see Corsica’s southern coast without the hassle of land-based travel or multiple transfers.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s all-inclusive price covers the skipper, fuel, and a hearty onboard lunch. This makes it a good value for a full-day trip, especially considering the convenience of having everything taken care of. Travelers should note that personal belongings for the beach — like towels, swimsuits, or sun protection — are not included, so packing these separately is a wise idea.

Practical Considerations

• Reservation and cancellation: Booking can be flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later, and full refunds available if canceled 24 hours ahead.
• Language: The crew speaks Italian and French, so some knowledge of these languages will enhance your experience.
• Suitability: The tour is not recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those prone to seasickness or high blood pressure. Baby strollers are also not allowed, mainly due to space and safety concerns.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

From the reviews, it’s clear that many find this trip to be a memorable highlight of their Corsican visit. One customer noted, “Seeing the islands from the water gave me a completely different perspective—absolutely stunning scenery.” Others appreciate the professionalism of the crew, describing them as friendly, informative, and attentive.

The included lunch gets positive remarks, with travelers saying it’s “simple but tasty” and perfect for a day on the water. The panoramic views are often described as “breathtaking,” especially around Cavallo Island and the southern coast of Corsica. However, some reviews mention the speedboat ride as being a bit bumpy, which is typical for the type of vessel used. Seasickness could be a concern if you’re particularly sensitive.

Why Choose This Tour?

This boat trip is a solid choice for travelers who want to experience Corsica’s islands without the hassle of independent arrangements. It’s ideal for those who enjoy being on the water, appreciate scenic vistas, and are comfortable with boat travel. The balanced itinerary offers enough time on each island to explore without feeling rushed, and the included meal adds a nice touch of local hospitality.

If you’re seeking a straightforward, well-organized day trip with beautiful scenery and a chance to see less accessible spots, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s also a good option for families or couples who prefer a group experience over solo exploration.

Final Thoughts

This boat trip to the Corsican archipelago offers a practical way to enjoy some of the most photogenic and peaceful spots in the region. The professionalism of the crew, combined with the scenic itinerary, ensures a day filled with memorable moments. The inclusion of lunch and the flexible booking policy make it a convenient choice, though those sensitive to seasickness or with specific mobility needs should weigh those factors carefully.

Overall, it’s a fantastic way to see Corsica’s waters and islands up close, especially if you want a hassle-free, guided experience. It’s best suited for travelers who love the sea, enjoy sightseeing from the water, and want to add a touch of adventure to their holiday.

FAQ

How long is the boat trip?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9 a.m. and returning around 5 p.m.

What islands are visited during the tour?
You’ll visit Lavezzi and Isola Piana, with a panoramic view of Cavallo Island along the way.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes a simple but tasty onboard lunch — penne with tomato sauce, water, wine, dessert, and coffee.

What should I bring?
Bring personal belongings for the beach such as towels, swimsuits, sunscreen, and perhaps a camera. Note that baby strollers are not allowed.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Not quite — it’s not recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those prone to seasickness or with high blood pressure.

What languages are spoken?
The crew speaks Italian and French, so some language knowledge will enhance your experience.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change.

How many people typically join this tour?
While not explicitly stated, group sizes tend to be manageable on speedboats, usually small to medium groups, ensuring personalized attention.

This tour offers a manageable, scenic, and authentic taste of Corsica’s islands — perfect for those who want to see some of the best spots with minimal fuss. Whether you’re a photography buff, nature lover, or simply want a relaxing day on the water, it’s an excursion worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: