The northern neighbor to Sardinia, flanked by the warm waters of the Mediterranean, Corsica is a blissfully underrated French island that fuses astounding geographical diversity with colorful and historic cliffside fishing villages, oh-so-special special gastronomy (it is French, after all), and a unique island culture that you won’t find anywhere else.
As you explore this sun-kissed locale on land, you’ll be spoiled for choice with pretty hilltop villages to wander, secret coves to swim in, and wild mountainscapes to hike – but the real magic of Corsica is only truly revealed when you set sail and explore by boat.
From the dramatic red and orange cliffs of the Calanques de Piana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the sheltered coves and crystal-clear waters of the Scandola Nature Reserve, a protected area teeming with marine life, there is a tour for everyone. You can be visiting the secluded beaches of Bonifacio aboard a luxury catamaran one day, and embarking on a day trip to the Lavezzi Islands for world-class snorkeling and diving.
And with so many options to choose from, you can tailor your experience to exactly what you’re looking for whether it’s an action-packed adventure or a relaxing escape.
Steeped in history as the homeland of Napoleon, with its dramatic coastline stretching over 1,000 km, this mountain in the sea remains a hidden gem, relatively undiscovered by international tourists.
But as word gets out, this is changing fast. So check out 20 of the best boat trips in Corsica that will help you explore this amazing island in all its glory, from the comfort of a luxury yacht or a humble kayak (or something in between), and start planning your visit today while the mountain in the sea remains off the beaten track.
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Are you traveling to a specific part of the island? Click the link below to see the best boat tours departing from that area.
Before you start reading, browse the map to get the lay of the land. As you’ll see, South Corsica is the most popular region for boat trips, followed by the west and the north, while the eastern side of Corsica is considered less interesting because of a lack of coves.
But, with so many ports to choose from, you’re never too far away from the action regardless of where you’re staying.
Now that you know where you want to go (read: everywhere), it’s time to start planning your trip.
Boat trips in South Corsica
A stunning slice of the island, and the most popular destination for boat tours, South Corsica is home to some of the best coastline in the region, hands-down.
With hiking trails and killer views galore, the Col de Bavella is a must-see, while the Aiguilles de Bavella – or Bavella Needles – are some of the rarest (and most photographed) rock formations on the island.
Lush forests, wild mountainscapes, and sheltered coves make this part of Corsica a nature lover’s paradise, while the towns of Bonifacio and Porto-Vecchio ooze old-world charm. And don’t even get us started on the food. From fresh seafood to locally made cheese and charcuterie, you’ll be in gastronomic heaven here.
For those looking for a more active adventure, the Scandola Nature Reserve is a protected area teeming with marine life where you can go snorkeling and diving in the crystal-clear waters.
From the south, odds are you’ll set sail from either Porto Vecchio, Bonifacio, or Propriano. The former is a lovely hilltop town with great restaurants and bars; sitting on the southern tip, Bonifacio is the bustling gateway to the Lavezzi Islands; while Propriano is a small, charming port town with a relaxed vibe.
And then there’s Solenzara, further up the coast yet still classified as South Corsica – a small town straddling the Tyrrhenian Sea. Rich in authentic Corsican culture, Solenzara is the perfect place to experience a more laid-back way of life.
1 – Lavezzi Islands
Sitting about 10 km off the southern coast of Corsica (about 30 minutes by boat), the Lavezzi Islands are a postcard-worthy must-visit for anyone traveling to the region.
A part of the Scandola Nature Reserve, this granite archipelago is teeming with rocky inlets and secluded beaches that fade away into the warm waters – and as such, it’s home to some of the best snorkeling and diving in Corsica, with crystal-clear coves and an abundance of colorful and friendly marine life.
There are two main islands in the archipelago: Lavezzu and Cavallo. Lavezzu is the smaller of the two, and home to a number of sheltered coves where you can relax on one of the many secluded beaches. Cala della Chiesa, for one, boasts translucent and aquamarine waters, while Cala Lazzarina offers a large boulder that beckons thrill-seeking divers and cliff jumpers. While you’re on the island, the Santa Maria Chapel is worth checking out, likewise the historic cemeteries and lighthouse.
Cavallo, on the other hand, is the only inhabited island in the area, which means you’ll have more access to hotels and spas to complement the still impressive list of beaches, coves, and hikes.
Pristine and beautiful, a boat trip to the Lavezzi Islands should definitely be on your Corsica bucket list.
The best way to visit the Lavezzi Islands is on a boat tour from Bonifacio, which departs daily (typically hourly) during the summer months. And whether you go for a few hours or stay overnight, it’s certainly up there with the best boat tours in Corsica.
2 – Fazzio (near Bonifacio)
A little slice of paradise not too far from Bonifacio, Fazzio is one of the most sheltered coves on the island.
And as such, it’s a heavenly spot for swimming, sunbathing, and simply taking in the view from the golden sand beach.
Considered a pool-like bay – which makes this an ideal destination for families – the water here is shallow and crystal clear, with a sandy bottom that’s perfect for little ones.
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Bonifacio (and the rest of Corsica, for that matter), Fazzio is definitely the place to do it.
There are several boat tours that depart from Bonifacio that will take you to Fazzio, passing by the Phare de la Madonetta lighthouse along the way. Or, if you prefer a little more flexibility, so that you can also tick off nearby hot spots like the Plage de Paraguan (Paraguan Beach) or Cala Genovese (Genovese Cove), you can rent your own private boat for the day (with or without a skipper, depending on your budget and preferences).
Keep in mind: while the boat trip west from Bonifacio to Fazzio is worthy of a spot on the bucket list, there’s also a popular inland route for those who want to cruise one way and hike back the other. About a two and a half hour, moderately challenging trek (halve that if you’re only going one way, obviously), the Fazzio Island and Paragan Beach Loop is a coveted route for birding and trail running.
3 – Beach of Capo Bianco (south of Plage de Balistra)
Just south of the Plage de Balistra, a kitesurfing hot spot that’s about 11 km northeast of Bonifacio, is the Beach of Capo Bianco. Not to be confused with the eponymous towering mountain in the center of the island, this Plage de Capu Biancu is a small yet sublime spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Clear turquoise waters and seldom a crowd (on land or on sea) make this a great place to snorkel or scuba dive, with plenty of fish and other marine life to see just below the surface.
Accessible either by car or, a more scenic journey, by boat, the Beach of Capo Bianco is well worth the effort it takes to get there. While it’s difficult to call this seaside local a town (being as tiny as they come), there are certainly a couple of amenities worth noting: after you’ve moored the boat at the small pier, and burned a few calories swimming in the warm water, be sure to take advantage of the Restaurant U Capu Biancu-Bonifacio Corse – after all, nothing quite beats a fresh seafood lunch with a view.
Looking to make an entire day of it? If venturing around the area on a boat, whether you’ve departed from Bonaficio or Porto-Vecchio, consider stopping at any of the following for a well-rounded perspective of the nature and culture on offer: Plages de Sant’Amanza (perhaps ducking into the Restaurant Le Santa Manza for dinner), Gurgazu (a bayside town with jet ski rentals and eateries), the Plage de Maora ( a popular, long, and family-friendly beach in the Gulf of Santa Manza), or the quiet and oh-so-beautiful Plage de Vo’lpe (a romantic backdrop for a sunset picnic, if ever there was one).
4 – Plage de la Tonnara (on the southwestern shore)
Making our way over to the western side of the southern tip, we come to the Beach of the Tonnara (Plage de la Tonnara).
While most southern Corsica visitors tend to hang out over near the beaches around Porto Vecchio, anyone who takes the time to venture west will uncover a treasure trove of tranquility and some of the most beautiful coastline on the island.
The Beach of the Tonnara is no exception: this long, sandy beach is famous for its sunsets, and with good reason – they’re simply stunning. And it’s not one of those talked-about locales that headlines guidebooks, so what you get is genuine and unspoiled beauty.
While the beach is lovely any time of day, thanks to the rocks and little islets that shelter it from the sea, it’s definitely worth sticking around for sunset. On those windy days, kitesurfers can provide great entertainment, while the beach bar and quad or jet ski rental shop also beckon many a visitor for different reasons.
This stretch of sand is also great for swimming, boogie boarding, or just relaxing in the sun with a good book (or people watching – you’re bound to see some interesting characters here).
Pro tip: Head over around mid-afternoon, bring a bottle of wine and some cheese from one of Bonifacio’s many markets, find a cozy spot on the sand, and enjoy the show as the sun dips below the horizon in all its glory. Since different areas of the beach are a little rocky, beach shoes come highly recommended – likewise a hat and suncream since there isn’t too much natural shade (you can rent chairs and umbrellas from the beach bar though).
5 – Plage de Carataggio (AKA Tahiti Beach)
Since the postcard-worthy Plage de Carataggio sits around the corner from Porto-Vecchio, about 5 kilometers as the crow flies, you’d think it would be a popular spot. But, in fact, it’s quite the opposite: due to its location at least 15 minutes hike from any roads, and lack of public transport options, this beach is typically only accessible by boat.
So while it does see a fair number of visitors and boasts an impressive reputation (after all, it has been nicknamed Tahiti Beach for its turquoise waters and small, crescent-shaped slice of white sand), you won’t find too many people here at any one time – making it ideal if you’re looking for a quiet place to relax.
The water is crystal clear and perfect for swimming or snorkeling, with plenty of fish to see just below the surface. And since the beach is sheltered by rocks on either side, it’s usually calm even when the wind is up – another plus if you’re looking to take a dip.
Whether you head there with a guide or make your own journey with a rental boat, the combination of convenient location, secluded beauty, and the added bonus of the beachfront Bar Carrataghj makes this celebrated as one of the best boat trips in Corsica.
While you’re in the area and once you’ve soaked in the Carataggio beauty, consider cruising up north for a few minutes to La Chiappa. With watersports companies, beach bars (simply named BarPlage de la Chiappa), and a dive center, it’s a popular adventure spot.
6 – Plage de Palombaggia (near Porto-Vecchio)
Continue a few minutes south of Plage de Carataggio but staying well and truly in the Porto-Vecchio vicinity, the Plage de Palombaggia is a beach that sure as hell lives up to the hype. Flanked by mountain scenery, it’s an Insta-worth spot where lush green trees dot the shoreline, juxtaposing white sand and a water hue that fades gradient-like from clear aqua to royal blue.
With its gentle slopes and clear, shallow waters, it’s a great spot for families with small children as well as anyone who wants to spend lazy days swimming, sunbathing, and paddle-boarding in between reading sessions and naps in the shade of a parasol.
The fine sand and turquoise waters are nothing short of idyllic – no wonder this place is one of Corsica’s most photographed beaches. And while it can get busy during peak season (July and August), there’s still plenty of space to spread out and find your own little piece of paradise here.
There are several restaurants along the beach if you get peckish, as well as a few ice cream stands and a beach bar serving up cocktails to enjoy as you watch the sun dip below the horizon.
If you’re staying in Porto-Vecchio, this is one beach you won’t want to miss. And even if you’re not, it’s worth making the journey for a day of relaxation and beauty that will stay with you long after you leave.
7 – Plage de Santa Giulia (near Porto-Vecchio)
If you’re looking for a few snaps that are sure to light up any social media feed, look no further than Plage de Santa Giulia. With its gentle slopes, clear azure waters, and picturesque surroundings, this beach has it all.
Sitting about 7 kilometers south of Porto-Vecchio at the foot of a mountain, this idyllic spot is not just a pretty face – Santa Giulia is also great for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling, with plenty of fish to see in the crystal-clear Mediterranean water. Plus, with water sports aplenty (flyboarding and waterskiing to name a couple), you can scratch that itch for adreniline. And if you get hungry, several restaurants are serving up delicious Corsican cuisine right on the beach.
Whether you’re looking to relax in the shaded areas under the trees, hire a paddleboard for an hour or two, or explore the forest-like backdrop on foot, Plage de Santa Giulia is definitely worth a visit – and make sure you bring your camera!
While you’re in the area, if you want to back up your visit with something even more secluded, Plage de Porto-Novo is the next beach south and only accessible by hiking trail or boat!
8 – Plage du Petit Sperone (on the island’s southern tip)
Rated one of the best boat trips in Corsica thanks to its dramatic setting and dramatic cliffs, the Plage du Petit Sperone (Little Sperone Beach) is an absolute must-see.
Nestled between a pair of rock walls, this beach is about as south on the island as you can get, pipped out by its bigger neighbor around the corner, Plage du Grand Sperone (Big Sperone Beach).
Seeing as it’s tough to reach this picturesque strip of sand by foot, requiring a 20-minute stroll from the parking lot, it welcomes far fewer visitors compared to its neighbor, while remaining just as (if not more) beautiful.
The shallow-to-deep blue water and serene surroundings make for a tranquil atmosphere, even though this spot is popular with both locals and tourists alike. And while there are no restaurants or bars on the beach itself, there is a scattered selection of options close by if you need to refuel after your swim (like L’effet Mer or the Restaurant du Golf de Sperone), not to mention a golf course and campsite (Camping des Iles).
And while there’s not a lot of information about it at the site itself, the Villa Romaine de Piantarella ruins sit on the hillside nearby, offering a unique appeal that separates this area from most seaside destinations.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience and some incredible photos to boot, put Plage du Petit Sperone high on the list.
9 – Plage de Roccapina (between Bonifacio and Propriano)
Venturing over to a new part of the island now, about a 45-minute drive northwest of Bonifacio (or 45 minutes south of Propriano), the next stop on our list of the best boat tours in Corsica is the Plage de Roccapina.
Roccapina beach is one of those places that are just as beautiful as it is unique, with its distinct red and black sand that’s a result of years of erosion from nearby cliffs.
The water here is clean and clear, making for perfect swimming and wakeboarding conditions, but if you’re not feeling too adventurous, there is no shortage of soft white-grey sand to lounge about (or build sandcastles).
Despite being accessible by car, the last few kilometers are notoriously twisted and bumpy. And if you leave the car at the side of the main paved road, avoiding the potholed section, you’re still dealing with a roughly 30-minute walk to the beach. You know what that means? Avoid the headaches by taking a boat instead!
After you’ve moored the boat and soaked up the sun, the walk to the Genovese Tower takes about 20 minutes — a manageable stroll well worth doing for the wonderful high-up views that follow.
You won’t find any amenities here – no bars, no restaurants, no toilets. And while that only adds to the peace and quiet, make sure you come prepared with everything you need for the day (and then some), including food and drink, sunscreen, swimwear, and towels.
10 – Plage d’argent (on the southwestern coast)
Take note: this untouched oasis is not to be confused with “La Plage d’argent”, a lively restaurant over an hour north. That said, while you wouldn’t want to rock up at the wrong place, there are far worse accidents to happen than ending up at a picturesque beachfront eatery.
Now, back to the task at hand.
This particular Plage d’argent is only accessible by boat (or a very long and difficult hike, or some off-road trails), making it one of the most secluded beaches on the south side of the island.
It’s wilder than many of Corsica’s other beaches, with a handful of hills and no shortage of green canopies that provide plenty of dramatic scenery, as well as some excellent opportunities for sunset photography and trekking.
As there are no amenities here (which simply adds to the allure for any serenity-seeking traveler), you’ll need to come prepared with everything you need for the day, including food and drink, sunscreen, swimwear, and towels. But if you’re looking for a truly unique experience away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, this is definitely one place to consider when putting your list together for the best boat tours in Corsica.
Boat trips in West Corsica
Overflowing with diverse attractions, from prehistoric sites and ancient castles to bustling port cities, unique volcanic landscapes, and pristine beaches, the western portion of Corsica is an endlessly captivating destination – and while there’s a bounty of things to do on land (which you should definitely leave time for), to truly epitomize that vacation vibe, it’s one that’s best explored by boat.
Here in the west of the island, you’ll find some of the most popular (and easily accessible) attractions, including Ajaccio, the island’s capital city; the Scandola Nature Reserve in the Gulf of Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1975; and the Calanches de Piana, a series of red rocks that have been eroded over time into surreal shapes.
But while these are all must-sees when you’re in the area, they’re just the tip of the iceberg – and to help you make the most of your time (and budget), we’ve put together a list of some of the best boat tours in Corsica specific to the island’s west, and the most renowned (and underrated seaside destinations) that well worth squeezing into the itinerary.
The majority of the west Corsica boat adventures will depart from Ajaccio, a bustling city with a rich history, an impressive natural harbor, and no shortage of things to see and do.
11 – Les Iles Sanguinaires (near Ajaccio)
A picture-perfect collection of four small islands just off the main coast near Ajaccio (about 12 kilometers from the city, to be precise), Les Iles Sanguinaires (or “The Blood Islands”) are one of Corsica’s most iconic landmarks.
Formed millions of years ago by volcanic activity, the islets – which consist of one large island (Mezu Mare) and three smaller ones (Des Cormorants, Cala d’Alga et Porri, and the bare rock, U Sbiru) – are best known for their unique red rocks, which take on an even more striking hue at sunset.
While you can certainly enjoy the views from land (there are a few different lookout points located around Ajaccio), to really make the most of your experience, we recommend booking a boat tour that will take you right up close to the islets themselves.
On Mezu Mare you’ll find a handful of excellent hiking routes if you want to dock and stretch the legs. Keep an eye out for wild goats and small Corsican horses roaming around, and be sure to bring the camera to snap memories of the 150 endemic species of flora that dot the archipelago.
Many of the boat companies in Ajaccio offer tours out to Les Iles Sanguinaires (often combined with a stop at one or two of the other attractions on this list). While you’re floating down the coastline, be sure to check out the Iles Sanguinaires’ lighthouse, and don’t forget to ask your skipper or guide about the islands’ rich and mysterious past: fabled stories of life of these islands date back to the 16th century.
12 – Plage de Portigliolo (north of Propriano)
Tucked away about halfway between Propriano and Ajaccio on the west coast in the Gulf of Valinco, despite being one of the largest beaches in the area, Plage de Portigliolo remains one of Corsica’s best-kept secrets.
Stretching close to 4 kilometers in length, and easily accessible from both the road and the water, this long and sandy beach is the perfect place to spend a lazy day swimming, sunbathing, and simply taking in the incredible views.
Unspoiled and seldom crowded thanks to its size (just walk past the boat hire and playing families if you want to sit back and relax), this spot is ideal for those who want to enjoy a more authentic Corsican beach experience with lots of shops nearby for food, activities, and souvenirs.
For those looking for a little more adventure, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy in and around the water, including windsurfing, kayaking, sailing, SUPing, and even scuba diving – and with so much coastline to explore (not to mention all of the hidden coves and caves that can be found along the way if making the journey down the coast by boat from Ajaccio), you could easily spend a whole day here and not get bored.
Up for a stroll? From the beach to the Tour Génoise de la Castagna – an ancient tower overlooking the bay – it’s about a 90-minute round-trip trek.
13 – Anse de Cacalu (between Ajaccio and Propriano)
Serenity at its finest, Anse de Cacalu is a small, secluded beach about halfway between Ajaccio and Propriano on the island’s midwestern coast.
Framed by rocky cliffs and lush vegetation, this spot is well known for its dramatic scenery and crystal-clear water – not to mention its excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of some of Corsica’s more popular beaches (and want a bit of a hike at the same time), then this is the place for the to-do list.
Once you arrive at Anse de Cacalu, you’ll find a few small coves to relax in, as well as a few rocky outcroppings that are perfect for exploring. The main event here, however, if you’re venturing around the area on a boat, is simply to anchor down in the bay and soak in the beauty of the tree-lined cliffs as they tumble into the water below. While many beaches on the island are great for sightseeing, this is one that delivers exactly what you imagine when you think of “vacation”.
Want to stretch the legs? Bring the walking shoes and follow the small path that leads up to the top of one of the nearby cliffs, where you’ll discover an ancient lookout tower: the Torra di Capu di Muru (or Tour Génoise de Capo di Muru, in French). While you can’t access it directly from the Anse de Cacalu, there are a few nearby places to moor.
14 – Plage de Cala d’Orzo (between Ajaccio and Propriano)
Selling itself as one of the best boat trips in Corsica thanks to its dramatic coastline (think: red rocks and white sandy beaches), Plage de Cala d’Orzo is a must-see for anyone venturing around the island by boat – access by car is very difficult (but possible).
A hidden gem for both locals and tourists alike, this beach pleasantly surprises with its aquamarine to ultramarine water gradients, and its secluded – meaning rarely too busy – location. And, of course, like much of the island, with dramatic green-covered cliffs that make for an excellent backdrop to a day spent lounging on the sand.
Cala d’Orzo is also a great place to explore if you’re interested in Corsica’s history and culture, as there are several archaeological sites nearby that date back to the Roman Empire. Namely, the two towers that stand on the two capes at Capo di Muro and Capo Nero.
One of the best things about this beach, however, is that it’s still relatively unknown compared to some of the other beaches on the list, which means that you can often have the place to yourself if you arrive early enough in the morning.
15 – Scandola Nature Reserve (northwestern coast)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site for decades (1975), the Scandola Nature Reserve is one of Corsica’s most popular tourist destinations – and, with spectacular mountain formations, vibrant sea life, and rocky colors unseen anywhere on the island, for very good reason.
Located on Corsica’s western coast, this 1,900-hectare reserve (900 on land, and 1,000 in the sea) is home to some of the most unique and dramatic landscapes in all of Europe, with red cliffs that jut out into the Mediterranean and crystal-clear water that beckon sun-seeking travelers for a quick swim or snorkel.
As a designated wildlife refuge, the area is also home to many rare and endangered species of birds, plants, and animals – making it a perfect destination for those who love nature and want to learn more about Corsica’s ecology… on land and beneath the ocean surface.
Among the highlights are the Calanques de Piana, Girolata (a small medieval fishing village), the natural basalt organs, and the tafoni (loosely translated to hollow water sculptures), as well as the diverse animal life – keep your eyes peeled for both the peregrine falcon and the infamous osprey.
One of the best ways to explore the Scandola Nature Reserve is by boat, and lucky for us, there is no shortage of companies that offer tours of the area (both with and without guides). Whether you’re looking for a leisurely cruise around the reserve or an action-packed day of hiking and swimming and even scuba diving, there’s sure to be a tour that quenches whatever your thirst might be. And, with so much to see and do in the reserve, you might just want to take more than one!
16 – Calanche de Piana (near the Scandola Nature Reserve)
Also known as the Calanques de Piana, which you’ll find within the Scandola Nature Reserve (scroll up), these forebodingly beautiful red cliffs have become one of Corsica’s most iconic images – featured on postcards, in magazines, and on social media feeds all around the world.
The red rocks are a result of years of erosion from both wind and water, which has created unique formations that look more like something you’d find in a fairytale than on an actual island in the Mediterranean. And, while the cliffs might look impossibly high and dangerous, there is a selection of hiking trails that wind their way around – and even through – the rocks, giving visitors an up-close-and-personal look at this natural wonder.
Just be sure to wear proper footwear (hiking boots or shoes with good traction) as some of the trails can be quite slippery when wet. And, if you’re visiting in summer, make sure to bring plenty of water as it can get very hot!
If you’re looking to hit up this area by boat (why else would you be reading this, right?) then, if you’re not renting your own vessel, your best bet will be a tour that departs from one of the nearby towns, like Porto or Ajaccio. These tours will typically take you on a leisurely cruise around the reserve, with plenty of time to stop and explore, and in the warmer months, plenty of time to jump in for a refreshing swim too!
Boat trips in North Corsica
Moving our attention from the popular southern and western shores over to the northern coast of the island now, let’s take a look at some of the best boat tours in Corsica that depart from the roads less traveled.
To give the lay of the land, the two main tourist areas along the island’s northern shores are Calvi and Bastia (and while this one is on the south, Solenzara is a common departure point for tours of the north).
Kickstarting things with Calvi, this is a great base for those who want to explore the nearby Scandola Nature Reserve (which we talked about earlier). But, Calvi is also home to a truckload of other attractions and activities that are well worth your time. Case in point: the Baroque St-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral, which dates all the way back to the 13th century, and the Notre-Dame de la Serra, a beautiful church that’s perched atop a hill dishing up sublime views.
There are also plenty of beaches in and around Calvi for those who want to soak up some sun, like Plage de l’Ile Rousse, Cala di Sant’Ambrogio, or Plage d’Algajola . And, for those who want to explore beyond the town limits, there is a good chunk of boat tours that depart from Calvi’s harbor – ranging from day-long excursions to longer multi-day trips.
Bastia, on the other hand, is Corsica’s second-largest city (after Ajaccio) and is known for its well-preserved old town – which is full of medieval streets and buildings – as well as its lively port area. There are also a number of museums and art galleries in Bastia if you’re looking to do some indoor exploring, like the Bastia Museum or the small Military Museum (free entry from Tuesday to Thursday).
Or, if you’d rather spend your time outdoors, then you can check out one of the city’s many parks, like Jardin Romieu. And, of course, there are plenty of beaches to relax on too, like Plage de l’Arinella or Plage de Miomo, with its impressive medieval watchtower.
Boat tours departing from Bastia will typically take you along the island’s northeastern coast – past places like Cap Corse and over to the nearby islands like Elba Island or Capraia Island. These trips can range from day-long excursions to longer multi-day adventures, so there’s something for everyone!
17 – Plage de Sainte Restitude (one of many near Calvi)
A short boat ride from the Calvi harbor on the island’s northwestern coast (or a quick 15-minute drive, if you’re on wheels), Plage de Sainte Restitude is a great spot for those who want to relax on a quiet beach without having to travel too far from town.
Walking distance to the Matahari restaurant as well as the Pain de Sucre eatery, despite being a supervised beach it still boasts an air of solitude, with natural seawater pools, usually calm waters, and brilliant sunset viewing making up a collectively beautiful panorama of the Bay of Calvi.
Sainte Restitude isn’t the only beach in the area though – there’s also Plage de Revellata (a remote spot with a lighthouse to boot), Plage de l’Arinella (a red pebble beach that stands out from the rest – not wonderful for tanning, but certainly for some beautiful scenery and photos), and Plage de l’Alga (a scenic beach that’s popular for boaters looking to jump in for a quick and refreshing swim).
So, if you’re looking for a day that’s the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, find yourself a boat tour (or rent your own) and hop around the peaceful beaches of greater Calvi!
18 – Plage de Saleccia (near Saint Florent)
Looking like something stolen out of the Caribbean and widely considered one of the most aesthetic beaches not just on Corsica but in Europe – it was, after all, chosen as the backdrop for the 1962 flick “The Longest Day” – this idyllic combination of white sand, aquamarine waters, and lush vegetation is about as close to paradise as you can get.
If you don’t have your own vessel, you’ll need to hop on one of the boat taxis — but the ride from St. Florent is a picturesque one at that.
And, if you happen to visit during the summer months, you might even spot some cows wading in the shallow waters or grazing on the grassy dunes – just another quirky addition to an already unique beach!
So, if you’re looking for a beach that has it all – breathtaking scenery, delicious food, and plenty of things to do – then look no further than Plage de Saleccia!
Hot tip #1: while you should definitely come prepared with snacks and water, contrary to popular belief for such a secluded spot, there is actually a restaurant about 200m from the north end of the beach in the pine forest, with a decent menu of food and cold drinks, plus toilets and shower facilities.
Hot tip #2: nearby sits the less famous Lotu Beach (see #19). Combine both of the beaches into one day for a complete experience!
19 – Plage de Lotu (near Saint Florent)
Accessible only by boat or hot and heavy coastal trek, this off-the-beaten-track landscape makes for the perfect pairing with Saleccia (see #18) — water taxis from Saint Florent can pick you up and drop you off at either of these beaches, while pre-organized tours will often make a stop at both… and, of course, if you rent your own boat, you can do as you please.
About a 45-minute walk from the more popular Plage de Saleccia With its clear waters and soft sand, Lotu Beach is the perfect spot for a relaxing day spent swimming, sunbathing, and simply taking in the incredible views.
At 400 meters long, even on the busier summer days when myriad yachts and speedboats come out to play, you’ll still easily find some peace and quiet here.
With a lovely little cafe for a spot of lunch or well-deserved ice cream (you’re on vacation, after all), this beach has everything you need for a perfect day spent enjoying the sun, the sand, and the sea.
And, like its more famous counterpart, you’re likely to spot a couple of cows lazing about on the shoreline – but that’s just part of the charm, right?
Whether you visit Lotu solo or as a double-whammy with Saleccia, you’ll quickly understand why it’s considered one of the best boat trips in Corsica – or the best destinations, at least.
20 – Cap Corse (the island’s northernmost cape)
Jutting out from the northernmost tip of the island like a giant arm reaching out to sea, Cap Corse is one of Corsica’s most unique and beautiful landscapes.
A haven for nature lovers, this 40km-long peninsula is home to some of the most stunning scenery on the island, with its rocky coastline, sheltered coves, and secluded beaches all combining to deliver an authentic atmosphere of serenity – exactly what you expect of an island getaway.
But that’s not all – Cap Corse is also home to myriad quaint villages and towns, each with its lovely unique character and charm.
From the fishing village of Nonza with its black pebble beach to the medieval town of Centuri with its fortified walls and towers, there’s something for everyone here.
And, if you’re looking for a little more adventure on land after docking, hiking trails are a dime a dozen (for a very easy half-day hike, look no further than the Centuri track from the Mattei Windmill to the Port), while the bounty of little inlets and coves make for snorkeling and diving galore.
In short, Cap Corse is the perfect destination for those who want to enjoy a little of everything that the island has to offer – and it’s most definitely one of the best boat tours in Corsica if you want to escape the crowds (even though, compared to mainland France, Corsica is rarely crowded anyway).
Multi-day boat trips in Corsica
With so many options for pre-organized tours – on yachts, sailboats, speedboats, and everything in between – it can be tough to decide which one is right for you.
But, whether you’re looking for a relaxing day spent exploring secluded coves and swimming in crystal-clear waters or you’re after something a little more adventurous with plenty of stops along the way, there’s a tour out there that’s perfect for you.
And who says you have to limit yourself to just a day on the water? You’ll find several multi-day tours that will take you to all the best spots, both on land and at sea. Some will stay around Corsica, while others will combine the French island getaway with Sardinia or La Maddalena, for example. Then there’s Elba, and, of course, both the Italian and French Rivieras — but if you’re looking to hop around those, you’re looking at far more comprehensive multi-day trips (still, can and should be considered!).
Corsica is an absolutely incredible island with so much to offer – and there’s no better way to experience it than from the deck of a boat. So, if you’re looking for the ultimate way to experience everything that Corsica has to offer, a multi-day boat tour is undoubtedly the way to go.
Bonus: La Maddalena Archipelago
Just below Corsica is the Italian island of Sardinia, a coveted destination in its own right but also home to the gorgeous La Maddalena Archipelago.
Comprising over 60 islands, islets, and rocks, this little slice of paradise is a must-visit for anyone spending time in Sardinia – or Corsica, for that matter.
And, while you could easily spend weeks exploring all the nooks and crannies of this stunning archipelago, most of the best La Maddalena boat trips will focus on just a handful of the highlights.
These usually include Spargi (with its dramatic cliffs and secluded coves), Budelli (famous for its pink beach), Santa Maria, and Caprera (both home to plenty of history and culture), as well as Razzoli and Santa Stefano (two of the most popular spots for snorkeling and diving).
But, no matter which islands you end up visiting, one thing is for sure – you’re in for a treat. The La Maddalena Archipelago is truly one of the most beautiful places on earth and a must-visit for anyone lucky enough to find themselves in Sardinia or Corsica!
Final thoughts
So, there you have it – our pick of the 20 best boat tours in Corsica. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day spent exploring secluded coves or you’re after something a little more adventurous with plenty of stops along the way and a chance to explore the vast and diverse inland towns and nature retreats, there’s a tour out there that’s got your name written all over it.
For the ones that wish to visit the inland, make sure to check out our list of fun things to do in Corsica.
And, if you’re looking to combine your French island getaway with a visit to Sardinia or the La Maddalena Archipelago, there are plenty of options for multi-day boat trips as well.
And, if you’re planning a trip to Sardinia, be sure to check out some of the best things to do in Sardinia for some inspiration.
Do you have any other recommendations for the best boat trips in Corsica? Let us know in the comments below!
Bon voyage!