Exploring the rugged beauty of Corsica’s Scandola Nature Reserve has never been easier. The eco-friendly boat tour from Ota offers a sustainable way to experience this UNESCO World Heritage Site. With prices starting at $50.37 per person, the 3 to 4.5-hour tour takes visitors along the dramatic coastline, stopping at the charming Girolata Village. Along the way, guests can enjoy live commentary, learn about the local ecology, and spot endemic wildlife. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an enriching adventure, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. But to truly learn about the reserve’s splendor, you’ll need to…
Key Points
- Eco-friendly boat tour from Ota to the UNESCO-protected Scandola Nature Reserve, lasting 3-4.5 hours and priced at $50.37 per person.
- Explore Girolata Village, observe endemic wildlife like sea eagles, and enjoy a 30-minute stop for sightseeing or swimming.
- Optional upgrade to visit the stunning Calanche de Piana rock formations.
- Guided commentary in French provided throughout the tour on the region’s ecology and conservation efforts.
- Tour not suitable for wheelchair users; electric wheelchairs not allowed.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The eco-friendly boat tour from Ota to Scandola Nature Reserve starts at $50.37 per person and lasts 3 to 4.5 hours.
Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and take advantage of the reserve now & pay later option.
During the tour, visitors will explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Scandola Nature Reserve and have the opportunity to visit the coastal village of Girolata, which is only accessible by sea.
An optional upgrade allows guests to see the Calanche de Piana rock formations.
The tour is conducted on an eco-hybrid vessel with live commentary in French.
Tour Highlights
Eco-friendly boat tour guests can explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Scandola Nature Reserve, where they’ll have the chance to observe endemic wildlife, including sea eagles and peregrine falcons. The tour also includes a visit to the coastal village of Girolata, which is only accessible by sea. Plus, guests can upgrade their tour to see the breathtaking Calanche de Piana rock formations.
| Tour Highlights | ||
|---|---|---|
| Scandola Nature Reserve | Girolata Village | Calanche de Piana |
| UNESCO World Heritage Site | Coastal village accessible only by sea | Optional upgrade |
| Endemic wildlife observation | 30-minute stop for sightseeing or swimming | Stunning rock formations |
Tour Experience
On the eco-friendly boat tour, guests sail on a hybrid vessel as a live commentary in French is provided by the guide.
During the 3-4.5 hour journey, there’s a 30-minute stop in Girolata, a coastal village only accessible by sea, allowing time for sightseeing or swimming.
Throughout the tour, guests have the opportunity to learn about the local ecology and marine life of the UNESCO World Heritage Scandola Nature Reserve.
An optional upgrade is available to see the Calanche de Piana rock formations, adding an additional 1.5 hours to the tour.
Inclusions and Restrictions
Although the tour includes a 3-hour boat ride on a hybrid vessel, guests are allowed to bring their own food and drinks.
The tour also offers an optional 1.5-hour additional tour to the Calanche de Piana rock formations.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, as electric wheelchairs aren’t permitted.
The key inclusions and restrictions of the tour are:
- 3-hour boat tour on a hybrid vessel
- Optional 1.5-hour tour to Calanche de Piana
- Guests can bring their own food and drinks
- Not suitable for wheelchair users (electric wheelchairs not permitted)
- Guided commentary in French provided during the tour
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Travelers have largely praised the Scandola Nature Reserve eco-friendly boat tour, rating it an impressive 4.5 out of 5 stars based on over 840 reviews. The tour guide received a 4.5/5 rating, while the transportation aspect was praised even more highly at 4.6/5. Though the value for money was still rated favorably at 4.3/5, some customer experiences highlighted the importance of seating location for audio clarity and comfort during the tour.
| Criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall | 4.5/5 |
| Guide | 4.5/5 |
| Transportation | 4.6/5 |
| Value for Money | 4.3/5 |
Booking and Cancellation Policy
The Scandola Nature Reserve eco-friendly boat tour offers flexible booking and cancellation options. Travelers can reserve their spot and pay later, providing convenience.
Plus, the tour allows free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind. Some key booking and cancellation details include:
- Reserve now & pay later option available
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour
- Duration: 3 – 4.5 hours
- Starting at $50.37 per person
- Not suitable for wheelchair users (electric wheelchairs not permitted)
This flexibility caters to the needs of various travelers, ensuring a seamless booking experience for the Scandola Nature Reserve eco-friendly boat tour.
Preparing for the Tour
Preparing for the Scandola Nature Reserve eco-friendly boat tour requires a few considerations. Guests can bring their own food and drinks to enjoy during the journey.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, as electric wheelchairs aren’t permitted. Proper attire is essential, including comfortable shoes and layers of clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable on the water.
Guests should also be aware that the audio clarity and comfort may depend on their seating location, as noted in customer reviews.
With these preparations in mind, travelers can look forward to an immersive and eco-friendly exploration of the UNESCO-protected Scandola Nature Reserve.
Exploring the Scandola Nature Reserve
The eco-hybrid boat gently glides along the rugged coastline, offering guests a captivating glimpse into the UNESCO-protected Scandola Nature Reserve.
As the boat approaches the ancient volcanic landscape, travelers are treated to a dramatic display of towering red cliffs, hidden sea caves, and lush Mediterranean vegetation.
The guide provides live commentary in French, highlighting the reserve’s rich biodiversity, including:
- Sightings of rare sea eagles and peregrine falcons
- Opportunities to observe the unique marine life in the crystal-clear waters
- A 30-minute stop in the remote coastal village of Girolata for sightseeing or swimming
- An optional upgrade to see the stunning Calanche de Piana rock formations
- Insights into the region’s ecology and conservation efforts.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
- Sanguinaires Islands Sunset Boat Tour
- Sunset Boat Cruise With Aperitif at the Sanguinary Islands
- Cruise in Corsica, Scandola, Girolata, and Calanques De Piana in a Semi-Rigid Boat
- Calanches De Piana and Scandola Reserve Cruise With Swimming Stop
- Explore Bonifacio
- Afternoon in Scandola and Creeks of Piana With Stop in Girolata
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Tour?
No special equipment is required for the tour. Guests can bring their own food and drinks, but the tour doesn’t provide any specialized gear. The boat is accessible, though not suitable for wheelchair users.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. Children of all ages are welcome, though the tour may not be suitable for very young children due to the boat ride and time commitment.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Boat Tour?
Pets are not permitted on the eco-friendly boat tour. The tour operator doesn’t allow animals on the vessel for safety and environmental reasons. Guests should leave their pets at home or make other arrangements during the tour.
How Often Do the Boats Depart for the Tour?
The boats for the Scandola Nature Reserve eco-friendly boat tour depart at regular intervals throughout the day. Exact departure times may vary, so it’s best to check with the tour provider for the latest schedule.
Is There an Option to Join a Guided Group Tour?
Yes, the tour offers a guided group experience. Guests can join a scheduled departure time with a live French-speaking guide who provides commentary throughout the eco-friendly boat tour of the Scandola Nature Reserve.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- From Porto: Calanche De Piana Boat Tour
- From Calvi: 2-Hour Sunset Cruise to Revellata Peninsula
- E-Bike Self-Guided Tour Loop Ajaccio Along Turquoise Waters
- Ajaccio/Porticcio: Sanguinaires Sunset Cruise & Wine Tasting
- From Porto: Scandola and Calanche De Piana Boat Tour
- From Porto: Scandola & Girolata Tour by Boat
- Corsica: Guided Sea Trip From Porto-Ota
- From Ajaccio or Porticcio: Day Trip to Bonifacio by Boat
- Ajaccio/Porticcio: Scandola Nature Reserve Guided Boat Tour
- Old Villages Authenticity Corsica
- Ajaccio: Beginners Scuba Dive With Experienced Instructor
- From Porto: Piana Creeks and Scandola Semi-Rigid Boat Tour
- Calvi to Scandola: 4-Hour Boat Tour
- From Porto-Vecchio: Lavezzi Archipelago Sightseeing Cruise
- From Bastia: Off-Road Agriates Desert and Beach Excursion
Sum Up
The Eco-Friendly Boat Tour to the Scandola Nature Reserve offers an immersive and sustainable way to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site. Priced affordably, the tour showcases the region’s dramatic coastlines, local wildlife, and picturesque villages, providing an enriching experience for nature enthusiasts. With live commentary, a stop for sightseeing or swimming, and positive customer feedback, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an eco-friendly adventure.