Corsica is a favorite destination for boat lovers, thanks to its rugged coastlines, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic rock formations. Whether you’re after a relaxing sunset cruise, an adrenaline-pumping zodiac ride, or a deep exploration of UNESCO-listed sites, Corsica’s waters won’t disappoint. We particularly love the Visit Scandola, the creeks of Piana by boat tour for its close-up views of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Sanguinaires Islands Sunset Boat Tour for its stunning evening scenery. These experiences combine natural beauty with memorable moments, making Corsica a perfect place to explore by boat.
Quick Overview
This list covers a wide range of boat tours and cruises, from half-day explorations of Scandola Nature Reserve to sunset trips around the Sanguinaires Islands. Some tours focus on wildlife, such as birdwatching from eco-friendly vessels, while others highlight the incredible geology of the Calanche de Piana and Capo Rosso. For a detailed look at each experience, keep reading.
1. Visit Scandola, the creeks of Piana by boat
At number one, this full-day tour offers an immersive experience of the UNESCO-listed Scandola Nature Reserve. Departing from Lava Beach, Ajaccio, or Porticcio, you’ll sail close to the Gulf of Porto, passing Genoese towers and exploring caves like Capo Rosso before reaching the reserve. The highlight? A swimming break in the clear waters—perfect for cooling off after admiring dramatic cliffs and sea caves. The boat is designed for close-up views, and the guide translates everything to English, ensuring you won’t miss a detail. With 579 reviews rating it 5.0/5, it’s clear this is a popular pick. Reviewers mention the boat bumping in windy weather but praise the professionalism of guides like Thomas.
Bottom line: A full-day adventure ideal for those wanting to see the most iconic Corsican coastline, with opportunity for swimming and exploring caves. Best for active travelers ready for a long day on the water.
2. Sanguinaires Islands Sunset Boat Tour
For around $58, you can enjoy one of Corsica’s most picturesque moments with the Sanguinaires Islands Sunset Boat Tour. This 2 hour 45 minute ride is perfect for those wanting to combine scenic beauty with a relaxed atmosphere. You’ll reach the archipelago of four rocky islands in about 30 minutes, docking on the Grande Sanguinaire for an hour. There, you can walk up to the lighthouse from 1870 or simply enjoy a swim break. As the sun dips, the sky lights up with colors, making photography a must. The boat hosts live music and offers local wine, creating a romantic vibe that’s hard to beat.
Bottom line: Best suited for evening lovers and those seeking a romantic, short cruise with stunning sunset views and a touch of local culture.
3. From Porto: Scandola and Calanche de Piana Boat Tour
This 3.5-hour semi-rigid boat trip from Porto combines two of Corsica’s most breathtaking sites. Starting with a guided tour of the Scandola Nature Reserve, you’ll see endemic bird species and striking limestone formations. The boat then stops in Girolata, a tiny village accessible only by sea, providing a rare glimpse into coastal life. The Pink granite rocks of Calanche de Piana are also on the agenda, giving you a chance to marvel at their vibrant color and sculptural shapes. The reviews highlight the intimate experience and the chance to see dolphins or other cetaceans crossing your path.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those who want a detailed and varied tour, combining wildlife, geology, and charming villages, all in under four hours.
4. Ajaccio/Porticcio: Sanguinaires Sunset Cruise & Wine Tasting
Combining stunning sunset views with wine tasting and local cuisine, this 3 to 4-hour cruise offers a relaxed yet enriching experience. As you sail around the Sanguinaires Islands, a sommelier hosts a wine-tasting session featuring Corsican wines, paired with bites of local dishes. Live music provides a lively backdrop, and the sunset transforms the sky into a palette of warm colors. This trip is perfect for travelers who love good food, wine, and a bit of entertainment in a beautiful setting.
Bottom line: Ideal for foodies and those wanting to enjoy Corsican culture along with spectacular sunset views. Good value at just under $80 per person.
5. From Ota: Scandola Nature Reserve Eco-Friendly Boat Tour
This eco-conscious tour uses hybrid vessels to explore Scandola’s stunning cliffs and caves, emphasizing wildlife and sustainability. The journey includes a 30-minute stop at Girolata, the remote seaside village, and a 100-minute guided exploration of the reserve’s geological marvels. Passengers appreciate the tranquility and the onboard commentary about local flora and fauna, including sea eagles. Reviews mention the boat bumping in windy conditions but praise the professionalism and eco-friendly approach.
Bottom line: Perfect for environmentally-minded travelers and those wanting a quieter, more relaxed experience with a focus on nature.
6. Calanches de Piana cruise from Porto
This 1.5-hour cruise is one of the shortest but most scenic. Leaving from Porto, you’ll sail along the coast to admire the Calanches de Piana, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The captain will set sail for Capo Rosso, revealing caves and natural pools. Many reviews highlight how beautiful the orange-red rocks and clear waters are, with dolphins often seen crossing the path.
Bottom line: A superb short trip for those with limited time, offering stunning scenery and a chance to spot dolphins.
7. From Porto: Scandola & Girolata Tour by Boat
This flexible 3-hour tour features a hybrid boat exploring Scandola’s volcanic coast and stopping at Girolata. The silence of the hybrid vessel makes wildlife spotting easier. Guests rave about the friendly guides and the chance to see the rock formations of Calanche de Piana. It’s a good choice for travelers wanting a mix of wildlife, geology, and village visits, with the option to customize the itinerary.
Bottom line: An eco-friendly, family-friendly option that offers a balanced view of Corsica’s coastlines in a short trip.
8. Half Day Boat Trip to Scandola Calanche de Piana
This 3-hour adventure from Porto explores UNESCO-listed sites aboard a semi-rigid boat. The trip includes comments from the captain about the Scandola reserve and the Calanches de Piana, with a short swim stop depending on weather. Many travelers appreciate the personal touch and the chance to see dolphins or other sea life.
Bottom line: A great option for travelers with limited time who want to see the highlights and enjoy a swim.
9. Ajaccio/Porticcio: Scandola Nature Reserve Guided Boat Tour
This full-day exploration provides a comprehensive look at Scandola, with a 2-hour stop in Girolata for lunch. The trip includes rock formations of the Calanche de Piana and the historic Capo Rosso Tower. Many reviews note the excellent value for a full day on the water, with some mentioning the size of the group and the quality of the commentary.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers wanting an in-depth, full-day experience with the flexibility of a guided tour.
10. Calvi to Scandola: 4-Hour Boat Tour
This small-group tour offers unparalleled intimacy on a gorgeous boat exploring Scandola and caves along the coast. The 4-hour duration allows time for swimming and relaxing while soaking up Corsica’s volcanic scenery. Price includes a Corsican aperitif, a nice touch that enhances the experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a personalized, small-group adventure with some leisure time and local treats.
11. Sunset boat cruise with Aperitif at the Sanguinary Islands
This 3-hour evening cruise combines spectacular sunset views with a meal tray of local products and local wine. The Sanguinaires Islands glow at sunset, creating picture-perfect moments. Many reviews mention the delicious canapés and the chance to see dolphins or seabirds crossing your path.
Bottom line: Ideal for sunset lovers, foodies, and those looking for an atmospheric end-of-day cruise.
12. From Porto: Calanche de Piana Boat Tour
This budget-friendly tour offers a 1.5 to 3-hour exploration of the Calanches de Piana and surrounding coastlines. Using a hybrid boat, you’ll enjoy scenic views, caves, and some chance of dolphin sightings. Reviews emphasize the professional guide and the beauty of the site.
Bottom line: A cost-effective, scenic option for travelers short on time but wanting to see Corsica’s iconic rocks.
13. From Calvi: 2-Hour Sunset Cruise to Revellata Peninsula
This short sunset cruise focuses on the Revellata Peninsula, with a swim stop at Alga Beach. During the trip, a live guide shares local history, making it both scenic and educational. The sky lights up as the sun sets, creating perfect photo moments.
Bottom line: A great choice for a quick, scenic evening cruise with swimming and storytelling.
14. Calvi: Scandola and Girolata 6-Hour Boat Tour
A longer, more comprehensive option, this 6-hour tour explores Scandola, Girolata, and includes a lunch break. The small-capacity boat offers intimate access to the reserve and village, with reviews highlighting the beautiful scenery and the delicious lunch in Girolata.
Bottom line: Suited for travelers wanting a full-day, all-in-one experience with enough time for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxed exploration.
15. Cruise in a small group in Scandola Girolata Calanques de Piana
Our final pick is a small family-run tour with 35 years of experience, focusing on intimate encounters and personalized service. The semi-rigid boat allows you to see Capo Rosso, Arone beach, and the Baie des Veaux Marins up close. Guided commentary makes each stop informative, and reviews rave about the professional skipper and the beautiful scenery.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who value personalized service and want to explore Corsica’s coastlines without crowds.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Corsica
Picking the best cruise depends on your interests, budget, and time. For a full-day adventure with swimming and wildlife, the Visit Scandola, the creeks of Piana by boat is hard to beat. If you prefer a romantic sunset with local wine, the Sanguinaires Islands Sunset Boat Tour delivers stunning evening scenery. Budget travelers might opt for the Calanche de Piana Boat Tour, which offers a quick but beautiful experience.
Consider your fitness level and interests—some tours involve swimming or walking, while others focus on wildlife or geology. Booking early is wise, especially for popular sunset cruises and full-day excursions, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Corsica’s waters are as diverse as the island itself. Whether you want a luxury sunset cruise, an eco-friendly exploration of Scandola, or an adventure-packed half-day, there’s a boat experience for every traveler. Two standout choices are the Visit Scandola, the creeks of Piana by boat for a comprehensive day trip, and the Sanguinaires Islands Sunset Boat Tour for a romantic evening.
To get the most out of your trip, plan ahead, consider your interests, and book early—Corsica’s sea adventures fill up quickly. With so many options, you’re sure to find a tour that makes your Corsican holiday unforgettable.