Boat trip to the Corsican archipelago

This experience made our article of 4 Best Boat Tours & Cruises In France (With Prices).

Boat trip to the Corsican archipelago

If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear waters and dramatic island landscapes without breaking the bank, the boat trip to the Corsican archipelago from Sardinia might catch your eye. Priced at $129 per person and lasting about 8 hours, this day excursion promises a quick escape to some of the most picturesque islands just off the coast—Lavezzi and Isola Piana. The departure from Santa Teresa Gallura kicks off at 9 a.m., with the boat cutting through the Mediterranean’s inviting blue.

What we love about this tour are the stunning vistas you’ll see along the way—rock formations, turquoise waters—and the chance to spend quality time on two different islands. Also, the inclusion of a lunch on board, featuring penne with tomato sauce, water, and wine, adds a nice touch of convenience. However, some travelers have noted that the boat’s condition and service quality may fall short of expectations.

One key consideration is the size and comfort of the boat, which might not be ideal for everyone—especially those prone to seasickness or looking for a more luxurious experience. This tour suits those who prioritize authentic scenery and a straightforward itinerary over polished amenities. If you’re seeking a relaxed day with beautiful views and a bit of adventure, this outing could be a good fit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Visit Lavezzi and Isola Piana, known for their dramatic landscapes and clear waters.
• Inclusive lunch: Enjoy a simple meal of penne with tomato sauce, wine, and water on board—convenient but basic.
• Limited stops: Only two islands, which might feel rushed for some travelers.
• Group size concerns: Reports of overcrowding (up to 17 people) on boats designed for fewer, affecting comfort.
• Variable boat quality: The boat is reportedly old and not ideal for long day trips, impacting overall experience.
• Professional guides?: The crew is described as unprepared to explain the scenery, which may leave you wanting more context.

A detailed look at the experience

Departure and early expectations

We start our day at the white box office in front of the motorboats in Santa Teresa Gallura, a straightforward meeting point. Be sure to arrive at least 40 minutes to an hour early—some reviews mention this helps beat the crowds and ensures smooth boarding. The departure is at 9 a.m., and as you board, you’ll notice the boat’s age and condition aren’t the newest—but it gets the job done.

The speedboat whips through the water, giving you a taste of the sea’s power and the thrill of a high-speed ride. If you’re prone to seasickness, this might be a concern, as one reviewer pointed out: “If you have sea sickness, don’t even think about it, it’s 50 min full of ups and downs at high speed.” The ride can be bumpy, so prepare accordingly.

The islands’ highlights

First stop: Lavezzi Island, famous for its breathtaking beaches and rock formations. You’ll get about two hours here to relax, swim, or explore. It’s the kind of place where stunning photos are easy to take, especially with the sunlight bouncing off the rocks. But some travelers found the overall experience somewhat rushed—“Only two stops and too long” was a common complaint.

Next, the boat heads to Isola Piana for another two-hour stop. This island is less developed but still offers great scenery and a chance to stretch your legs before heading back. The trip culminates with a scenic view of southern Corsica, including Punta Sperone, which you can admire during the afternoon cruise back.

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The food experience

The lunch onboard is described as simple: pennette with tomato sauce, served with water and wine. Several reviews highlight it as underwhelming, with one saying, “The awful lunch: tomato pasta that you wouldn’t even eat in a hospital.” There’s no bread or coffee, and some felt the meal didn’t match the price or the expectations of a full-day tour.

The crew and onboard service

One major theme in reviews is the crew’s professionalism. Many found the staff unprepared to explain the scenery or answer questions. “They didn’t explain anything!!” noted one traveler, and another mentioned the captain was unfriendly and argumentative. The lack of engagement can leave you feeling like just another passenger rather than someone truly experiencing the islands.

The boat’s condition and comfort

Multiple reviews describe the boat as old and unsuitable for a leisurely day trip. It’s a fishing boat adapted for passenger use, which means less comfort and amenities. Overcrowding has also been an issue—17 people onboard instead of 12—making the space tight and less relaxing.

Who should consider this tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who value scenery over luxury, are comfortable with short, high-speed boat rides, and don’t mind a somewhat rustic setup. It’s ideal if your focus is on seeing the islands’ natural beauty, rather than expecting top-tier service or comfort. It also works for those on a budget and looking to explore Corsica’s coast without spending a fortune.

If you’re someone who appreciates professional guides, detailed explanations, and a comfortable boat experience, you might find this tour lacking. But if you’re happy with a rawer, more adventure-style outing, you’ll enjoy the scenery and the sense of being out on the sea.

Final thoughts

This boat trip offers a quick, scenic escape to the Corsican islands, with the highlights being the stunning views and the few hours on each island. Despite some criticisms about the boat’s age and the lack of onboard amenities, the natural beauty of Lavezzi and Isola Piana can compensate for these shortcomings. The inclusion of lunch and the scenic cruise make this a decent value for those wanting a straightforward day trip.

However, the crowding, poor onboard service, and basic facilities mean this experience may not satisfy travelers looking for a more polished or luxurious outing. It’s a good option for adventurers and sea lovers who prioritize authentic scenery and adrenaline over comfort.

If you’re prepared for an energetic day on the water, don’t mind the rustic boat, and want to witness some of the region’s most photogenic spots, this trip could be just what you need. For those seeking a more relaxed or educational experience, exploring other options or private tours might be worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price?
The price covers the skipper, fuel, and a lunch consisting of penne with tomato sauce, water, and wine.

Is there a guide explaining the islands?
Reviews suggest that the crew does not provide detailed explanations about the scenery. They are primarily sailors, not tour guides.

How long is the boat trip?
The total duration is 8 hours, with about two hours at each island and cruising time in between.

What times does the tour start?
The departure is at 9 a.m., but check availability for exact start times, which can vary.

Are there any restrictions for passengers?
Yes, baby strollers, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, those prone to seasickness, or people with high blood pressure.

Is it a small or large group?
The boat can carry more than the 12-17 people reported, potentially leading to crowded conditions.

Do I need to bring my own beach gear?
Yes, personal belongings for the beach are not included, so bring your towel, swimsuit, and sun protection.

What about the boat’s condition?
Many reviews mention the boat as old and poorly maintained, which can impact comfort.

Will I see Corsica from the boat?
Yes, during the cruise back, you’ll enjoy views of southern Corsica, including notable landmarks like Punta Sperone.

Is there flexibility to cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a low-risk option.

Final summary

This boat trip to the Corsican archipelago offers a solid option for travelers eager to see the islands’ natural beauty without fuss. It’s perfect for adventurous spirits willing to accept rustic conditions and limited onboard explanations. The scenery and authenticity are its strongest selling points, providing memorable views and a taste of genuine Mediterranean adventure.

However, if you’re looking for comfort, detailed guidance, or a more polished experience, this tour might fall short. The boat’s limitations, combined with inconsistent service, mean it’s best suited for those prioritizing scenic beauty and the thrill of the sea over luxury. For a relaxed, more informative journey, exploring other options—perhaps private or smaller group tours—could be worth your while.

In short, this trip is about catching the highlights of the islands’ rugged coastline and enjoying a day on the water. If that sounds appealing, and you’re prepared for a no-frills adventure, this could be a memorable part of your Sardinian or Corsican holiday.

You can check availability for your dates here: