Piana is one of Corsica’s most striking coastlines, famous for its dramatic cliffs, calanques, and clear waters. What makes it especially appealing for tour lovers is the variety of ways you can experience its beauty—whether by boat, jet ski, or speedboat. We’re particularly fond of tours that combine small-group intimacy with expert guides, like the Gulf of Porto: Check out the Calanques de Piana and/or the Scandola Reserve, which offers a personalized experience and plenty of time for swimming in pristine waters. These tours are ideal for travelers wanting insider knowledge and a more relaxed pace.
For more active visitors, the Jet Ski Trip to Capo Rosso provides a thrilling ride around the cliffs and caves, with the chance to swim in natural pools—perfect if you’re comfortable on a jet ski. On the other hand, the Guided boat tours from Calvi tend to suit those who prefer larger boats with comfort and amenities like toilets and shaded areas.
Quick Overview
In this list, you’ll find a mix of half-day and full-day boat trips, small-group sailing adventures, Jet Ski excursions, and speedboat circuits around the islands. Each offers a different way to see Corsica’s rugged coastline with some tours focusing on UNESCO World Heritage sites like Scandola (more info here), others emphasizing adventure and speed. Keep reading for your ideal Piana tour.
1. Gulf of Porto: Check out the Calanques de Piana and/or the Scandola Reserve
This tour is a standout for its intimate, small-group approach, perfect for fully soaking in the natural wonders of Corsica’s coastline. Starting from Porto, you’ll hop aboard a boat that’s equipped for comfort and safety, with an emphasis on respecting nature. You can expect to visit the Calanques de Piana, a UNESCO-listed site renowned for its towering red rock formations, and the Scandola Nature Reserve, famous for its steep cliffs and rich marine life.
The tour lasts between 1.5 to 3.5 hours, making it accessible even if you’re short on time. The guides are passionate locals who share stories about the area’s geology and history, adding depth to your experience. Plus, the swim stops in clear, calm waters allow for a refreshing break from sightseeing. The small group size ensures personalized attention and fewer crowds. This tour is well-suited for travelers wanting a relaxed, quality experience with great photo opportunities.
Bottom line: If you want a personalized, nature-focused sea adventure with opportunities to swim and learn, this tour offers excellent value for the price.
2. Corsica: Piana Calanques and Caves by Boat
For those eager to explore both the calanques and caves along Piana’s coast in a full-day outing, this 12-seat boat tour hits the spot. The small group size keeps the trip cozy and allows the guide to point out even minor geological features and hidden spots.
The itinerary includes cruising through rocky formations, visiting marine caves, and swimming in the famous Capo Rosso natural pool. The boat’s semi-rigid design makes for smooth handling and close-up views of the shoreline. The guide shares insights into the UNESCO World Heritage status of the area and highlights specific formations like the Piana cliffs and hidden caves.
What makes this tour particularly special is the combination of exploration and relaxation—enjoying the fresh sea air, taking photos of the rugged coastline, and jumping into the cool waters. It’s ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day out on the water, with a bit of adventure and plenty of photo ops.
Bottom line: This tour balances scenic cruising with active swimming and cave exploration, offering a memorable day for small groups and nature lovers alike.
3. Calvi: Guided boat tour for 48 people to Scandola and Girolata
At number 3, this larger group tour caters to travelers who prefer comfort and convenience. Departing from Calvi, this guided trip takes you into the heart of the UNESCO-listed Scandola Reserve, a must-see for anyone interested in Corsica’s dramatic coastlines. The boat, equipped with toilets and shelters, ensures a comfortable journey even on windier days.
During the roughly 6-hour tour, you visit the unspoiled flora and fauna of Scandola, with on-board commentary from a local guide who shares stories about the area’s geology and wildlife. The highlight is reaching Girolata, a tiny village accessible only by boat or foot, offering a glimpse into traditional Corsican life. Many reviews note the professionalism of the crew and the scenic beauty, with one describing it as “a perfect way to see Corsica’s wild side without sacrificing comfort.”
The large boat suits groups, families, or travelers who want a hassle-free experience, with the chance to relax and enjoy the scenery. The tour strikes a good balance between natural history and leisurely travel.
Bottom line: If you prefer a longer, comfortable day on the water with guided narration and the chance to visit Girolata, this is a great choice.
4. Calvi: guided boat tour for 48 people to Scandola
For a shorter, more focused experience, this 4-hour tour from Calvi to the Scandola Nature Reserve offers a quick but comprehensive look at one of Corsica’s most impressive sights. Like the previous tour, it’s on a well-equipped 48-seat boat with toilets and shade, ensuring comfort throughout.
The main draw is visiting the UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its steep cliffs, rich birdlife, and unspoiled beauty. The guided tour provides insights into the geology and wildlife of the area, making it particularly appealing to those who want a bit of education combined with scenic cruising. The moderate duration makes it suitable for travelers with limited time or those wanting a taste of Corsica’s coast.
Reviewers mention the professionalism of the crew and the ease of access for families and seniors. If you’re looking for a quality, shorter trip without sacrificing the scenic or educational value, this tour ranks highly.
Bottom line: This shorter, guided boat trip is perfect for visitors with limited time who want to see the highlights of Scandola comfortably.
5. Jet Ski Trip to Capo Rosso
For a real adrenaline rush, the Jet Ski Trip to Capo Rosso offers an exhilarating way to explore Corsica’s coast. Accompanied by a qualified instructor, you’ll zip across the water, passing caves and spotting the fabulous natural swimming pools.
This 3.5-hour adventure is ideal for travelers who enjoy active experiences and want a different perspective—on a jet ski, you can approach the cliffs and caves more closely than on a boat. The route includes Porto and its Genoese tower, with plenty of opportunities to stop for swimming and photos. The tour is suitable for those comfortable on watercraft, and the instructor’s expertise adds confidence to the ride.
While pricier at $374 per person, the thrill of controlling your own jet ski and exploring inaccessible spots adds immense value. It’s perfect for adventure seekers who want a high-energy experience and memorable photos of Corsica’s wild coastline.
Bottom line: If you’re seeking an adrenaline-fueled, hands-on way to see the coast and love water sports, this jet ski trip will deliver.
$374 per person
6. Santa Teresa: Speedboat tour around Lavezzi and Piana Island
This full-day speedboat tour offers a fun, fast-paced way to see several islands around southern Corsica. With an 8-hour itinerary, it’s suited for travelers who want to cover lots of ground in one day. You’ll enjoy a delicious onboard lunch as you cruise past the Lavezzi Islands, well known for their shallow, sandy seabeds, and Piana Island.
The highlight is the speedboat ride itself, which provides a sense of excitement and allows you to see remote spots inaccessible by land. You’ll also get plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and taking photos of the rugged coastlines and crystal-clear waters. This tour is recommended for those who want a mix of sightseeing, adventure, and relaxation, all in one day.
While the price is higher, the experience offers excellent value by combining multiple island visits and a full-day of activity. It’s a great choice for active travelers or families who want a memorable, fast-paced day in Corsica.
Bottom line: For a lively, all-encompassing day exploring islands by speedboat with lots of swimming and scenery, this tour is hard to beat.
$153 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing between these options depends on your priorities—budget, time available, and interests. If you prefer a more intimate, eco-friendly experience, the Gulf of Porto tour offers personalized service and opportunities to swim. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the shorter boat trips from Calvi, which provide a thorough look at the reserve without breaking the bank. Adventure seekers should consider the Jet Ski Trip to Capo Rosso, while those wanting a comprehensive day of island-hopping will find the Santa Teresa speedboat tour appealing.
When planning, consider the season—summer months are busy, so booking early is wise. Also, check your comfort level with water activities; some tours are more active and suited for adventurous types, while others emphasize comfort and scenery. Think about your fitness level, interests, and how much time you want to spend on the water.
Final Thoughts
Piana’s coastline offers a wealth of options for travelers eager to see Corsica’s rugged beauty from the water. Whether you choose a small-group cruise, a full-day adventure, or an adrenaline-pumping jet ski ride, each tour delivers a unique view of the area’s stunning cliffs, caves, and marine life. For a relaxed, personalized experience, the Gulf of Porto tour is hard to beat. If you’re pressed for time but want a taste of the wild, the shorter Scandola tours are excellent choices. Adventure lovers should not miss the Jet Ski trip, which combines speed with spectacular scenery.
Booking early will help ensure you get the tour that perfectly matches your interests and schedule. Whatever your choice, exploring Piana from the water promises some of Corsica’s most memorable moments.