Porticcio: Guiding Kayaking Tour

If you’re looking to combine adventure, scenery, and a touch of history, the Porticcio: Guiding Kayaking Tour offers a compelling way to experience Corsica’s southern coast. For $51 per person, you get three hours of paddling along rocky cliffs, past Genovese towers, and taking a refreshing dip in the ocean. The tour is based from the peninsula of Isolella, just a short drive from Porticcio and Ajaccio, making it a convenient escape into nature.

What we love about this experience are the stunning coastal views that you can only truly appreciate from the water, and the knowledgeable guides who make the journey both enjoyable and educational. Plus, the opportunity to swim in the ocean is always a bonus, especially on a warm Corsican day. On the flip side, the tour’s limited duration might leave those craving more time feeling a bit shortchanged. It’s best suited for active travelers who appreciate scenic outdoor activities and are comfortable with water-based adventures.

If you’re considering this tour, know that it’s not suitable for children under 8, so it’s geared more toward families with older kids or adults who enjoy a bit of physical activity. This kayaking trip is a balanced mix of nature, history, and fun, making it a great choice for those wanting a memorable, hands-on experience of Corsica’s rugged coast.

Key Points

• Scenic Coastal Views: Experience Corsica’s rocky cliffs and clear waters from an entirely different perspective.
• Historical Highlights: Pass by a Genovese tower and learn a bit about the island’s maritime past.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their explanations and multilingual ability, adding depth to the experience.
• Swimming Breaks: Plenty of opportunities to cool off and enjoy the ocean.
• All Equipment Provided: Kayaks, paddles, and life jackets make it hassle-free.
• Flexible Cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, ideal for flexible travel plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at the only kayak stand on the beach, next to Parking d’Isollela. This easy-to-find meeting point makes logistics straightforward, especially if you’re staying nearby in Porticcio or Ajaccio. You’ll meet your guide, who will give a brief safety and operation introduction—no prior kayaking experience needed. The guides speak both English and French, which helps create a relaxed atmosphere for international travelers.

The cost of $51 is quite reasonable considering the three-hour duration, the equipment, and the guide’s expertise. Keep in mind, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan to arrive at the meeting point on your own. The tour offers flexible starting times—check availability when booking.

What to Expect During the Tour

Once you’re ready, you’ll hop into your two-seater sea kayak. The guides emphasize safety and comfort, so expect to start with some basic paddling practice. This helps ensure everyone feels confident before heading out into the water.

The first part of the trip involves paddling along the rocky coastline of Sette e Nave, an area famed for its dramatic cliffs and rugged scenery. We loved the way the guide explained the geological features and shared stories about the coastline’s history. It’s not just about paddling; it’s about appreciating the landscape’s unique character.

A standout feature of the trip is passing by a historic Genovese tower, which adds a historical dimension to the experience. From the water, you get an unobstructed view of this ancient fortification—a perspective that’s hard to beat compared to land-based sightseeing.

Swimming and Breaks

The boat trip includes designated stops for diving and swimming, which are some of the most appreciated moments. Reviewers like Veneau praised the relaxing breaks to bathe and enjoy the surroundings, describing the circuit as “really great.” The water is typically warm and inviting, perfect for a quick cool-down or some playful splashing.

Guide and Group Dynamics

Guides are highlighted as knowledgeable and friendly, with one reviewer saying, “Top guide who explains the circuit very well, very good teacher.” Their ability to communicate fluently in both French and English helps create a welcoming environment for a diverse group of travelers. The group size tends to be manageable, fostering a personal experience without feeling crowded.

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Considerations and Tips

The main consideration is the duration—three hours may seem short for those wanting a full day by the water. Also, since the tour doesn’t include transportation, you’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point.

What to bring? We recommend sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and sports shoes for walking on the rocky shoreline. Participants under 8 years old are not suitable, so families with younger children should look for other options.

This kayaking tour excels for those who want to combine active outdoor fun with scenic sightseeing. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy learning about local history and prefer exploring from the water rather than on land. The stunning coastline and the chance to swim in the ocean make it a perfect fit for adventurous, nature-loving travelers.

The reviews consistently praise the expert guides who make the experience informative and enjoyable. If you’re someone who values authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences and wants to see Corsica from a different angle, this trip offers genuine value.

However, if you prefer longer excursions or are traveling with very young children, you might find this tour’s 3-hour framework a bit limiting. Also, consider your comfort level with water activities—while the guides prioritize safety, it’s best suited for those comfortable with paddling and swimming.

If you’re an active traveler eager to see Corsica’s spectacular coastlines, enjoy learning about local history, and don’t mind a bit of physical activity, this kayaking experience hits the mark. The balance of scenic views, historical sights, and swimming breaks makes it a well-rounded adventure for a good value.

This tour is particularly well-suited for those who appreciate expert guidance and want a personalized experience rather than large-group sightseeing. It’s a great way to get out on the water and see the island from a refreshing new perspective.

While it’s not a full-day activity, the three hours fly by, leaving you with enough time to explore other parts of Corsica or relax after your outing. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this kayaking tour provides authentic moments and beautiful views that will stay with you long after you leave Corsica.

Is prior kayaking experience needed?
No, the tour begins with an introduction on how to use the kayaks, making it suitable for beginners.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the guide, life jackets, kayaks, and paddles, so all you need to bring is personal gear and enthusiasm.

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

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 8 years old are not recommended, so check if your kids are old enough to handle the activity safely.

Where do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is at the only kayak stand on the beach next to Parking d’Isollela, which is easy to find.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak both English and French, ensuring clear communication for diverse groups.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 3 hours, including paddling, sightseeing, and swimming breaks.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and sports shoes for walking on rocky sections.

Whether you’re after scenic coastal views, a chance to learn some Corsican history, or simply want to enjoy a refreshing swim, this kayaking tour offers a well-balanced, authentic experience. It’s perfect for active travelers seeking a memorable, hands-on way to explore the island’s rugged and beautiful shoreline.

You can check availability for your dates here: