Porto Vecchio : Relaxing Boat Day Trip with Onboard Lunch

Imagine spending a sunny day exploring Corsica’s most beautiful islands and coves, all from the deck of a comfortable boat. For about nine hours, you’ll cruise through the Cerbicales reserve and the Lavezzi Islands, with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and enjoy local food in a relaxed, intimate setting. Priced at $187 per person and limited to just 12 guests, this tour offers a nice balance of guided discovery and free time — perfect for travelers seeking a taste of Corsican coastal magic without the crowds.

Two aspects we especially appreciate are the personalized attention offered by the small group size and the delicious onboard meal featuring regional charcuterie and cheese. These details create a genuine, relaxed atmosphere that feels more like a day spent with friends than a typical tour bus. The inclusion of paddleboards and sea scooters adds a playful, active element, making the day suitable for those who love a bit of sea adventure.

A potential consideration is the weather dependency—since the activity involves a full day on the water, rough seas or strong winds could impact the experience. Also, note that the tour does not include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to make your way to the port in Porto Vecchio.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy small-group experiences, authentic local flavors, and outdoor activities, especially those eager to explore Corsica’s marine environments with knowledgeable guides and a flexible, friendly atmosphere.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Limited to 12 guests for a more personal, relaxed environment.
• Authentic Flavors: Enjoy regional Corsican charcuterie, cheese, and local aperitifs onboard.
• Active Water Fun: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and sea scooters make the day lively and memorable.
• Breathtaking Scenery: Swim in crystal-clear coves and visit famous islands like Cavallo, known as the “billionaire’s island.”
• Flexible Itinerary: Multiple swimming stops, with options to relax or explore at each location.
• Weather Considerations: Water-based tours are weather-dependent; check conditions beforehand.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: Starting in Porto Vecchio

From the moment you meet at the Corsica Sud Croisière ticket office, you’ll notice the friendly, professional atmosphere. The boats, Santa Maria or Sperenza, are comfortable and well-equipped, designed to make your day on the water both enjoyable and safe. The group size maxes out at 12, which means you’ll get a more personalized experience—your guide, whether Thomas, Cedric, or Alexis, will have time for your questions and special requests.

The day begins with a gentle cruise toward the Cerbicales Islands, a protected nature reserve known for its pristine waters and abundant marine life. You’ll appreciate the relaxed vibe as you settle into the journey, enjoying a welcome coffee and traditional canistrelli biscuits. This small touch makes you feel like a guest rather than a tourist, setting the tone for the rest of the day.

Navigating the Cerbicales Reserve

The first highlight is a snorkeling stop in the Cerbicales Islands, where clear waters teem with fish and marine plants. Many reviews mention how much they enjoyed this break—“We discovered the local marine life; the fish were plentiful,” as one reviewer put it. The masks and snorkels are provided, making it easy to jump in and explore without bringing your own gear.

We loved the way the guides explained the best spots for swimming and how they encouraged us to relax and enjoy the underwater scenery. This part of the trip is perfect for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike. The calm, protected waters ensure safety and comfort, especially for those new to snorkeling or looking for a peaceful swim amidst beautiful surroundings.

The Lavezzi Islands and Cavallo

Next, the boat heads toward the Lavezzi Archipelago, a stunning cluster of islands offering dramatic scenery and a sense of untouched wilderness. Here, you get to visit Cavallo, the island famous as “the billionaire’s island,” which is a fun mix of exclusivity and natural beauty. The boat anchors near Cavallo for a swim, where the water is remarkably clear and inviting.

From the reviews, many travelers appreciated the ability to swim in secret coves and nature reserves with crystal-clear water, which truly feels like discovering a private paradise. One guest said, “The swim in Cavallo was fantastic, and the scenery was breathtaking,” highlighting how this stop remains memorable.

Lavezzu Island, the heart of the reserve, offers another opportunity to swim among thousands of fish, creating an almost surreal experience. The water quality consistently receives praise, with many reviews mentioning the “beautiful, transparent water,” ideal for snorkeling and relaxing.

Onboard Lunch and Relaxation

After several dips into the sea, your guides serve a Corsican meal on board in a cozy, laid-back setting. The menu typically includes regional charcuterie, seasonal salads, and Corsican cheeses—simple, hearty, and flavorful. While the exact menu can vary depending on the season, the reviews consistently praise the quality of the food.

One reviewer mentions, “The meal was excellent, with a charcuterie platter and a lovely aperitif,” emphasizing how the local flavors add authenticity and pleasure to the day. The onboard atmosphere, with just a small group, makes dining feel like sharing a meal with friends rather than a large tour.

Following lunch, you’re free to try paddleboarding, use the sea scooters, or simply recline in the shade. Many guests mention how much they enjoyed this downtime—“A peaceful siesta in the shade, with the sound of the sea all around,” as one review describes. These activities also add a playful edge, perfect for families or active travelers.

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Wrapping Up: Final Dips and Scenic Cruise

As the day winds down, the boat visits pristine bays like Rondinara and Porto Novo, where you can enjoy a last swim in inviting waters. Then, the cruise along Corsica’s coast showcases highlights like Santa Giulia, Palombaggia, and Carrataghju beaches, which are some of the island’s most iconic sights.

Guests love the variety of stops, each offering a chance to connect with nature and enjoy the sea at your own pace. The panoramic views of the coastline, combined with the relaxed boat ride, make for a satisfying end to this full-day adventure.

The Experience – What Travelers Say

Reviews paint a generally very positive picture. Many appreciate the attentiveness and friendliness of the guides, especially Alexis, Thomas, and Cedric, who are praised for their explanations, care, and spontaneous humor. One guest commented, “Cedric was fantastic, very attentive, and made the trip memorable,” emphasizing the importance of a knowledgeable and considerate guide.

Food is another highlight—several mention the regional charcuterie, salads, and cheeses, with one reviewer saying, “The meal was delicious, and the aperitif was a lovely touch.” Such touches make the experience feel genuine and local.

However, not all reviews are glowing. One critic called the experience a “tourist trap,” citing issues like poor organization, limited water scooters, and less-than-stellar food. This highlights the importance of choosing a reputable operator and perhaps tempering expectations about the meal or amenities.

This trip is ideal for those who value intimacy and personalized service over large group crowds. It suits travelers who enjoy water activities, scenic cruising, and sampling regional foods in a relaxed setting. If you’re curious about Corsica’s marine environment, you’ll find the snorkeling and swimming stops particularly rewarding. It’s also perfect for families, couples, or small groups who want a balanced mix of adventure and leisure.

It may not be suitable if you prefer a more structured, guided experience with fixed points of interest or if weather conditions are unfavorable, as the entire day revolves around outdoor activities. Also, keep in mind there’s no hotel pickup, so plan to arrive at the port in Porto Vecchio on your own.

This boat trip offers a beautifully paced, intimate way to explore Corsica’s coast — with plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and local flavors along the way. The small group size ensures personal attention, making it more than just a sightseeing cruise but a memorable, authentic experience.

If you love being on the water, enjoy regional cuisine, and want a day away from crowds, this tour delivers on all fronts. The friendly guides, the scenic stops, and the active elements make it a balanced adventure for curious travelers who want to see Corsica from a different perspective — all in a relaxed, friendly environment.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup. You’ll need to meet at the Corsica Sud Croisière ticket office in Porto Vecchio.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, a towel, and beachwear are recommended. These items will make your day on the boat more comfortable and enjoyable.

Are meals included?
Yes, onboard meals, drinks, and a Corsican aperitif are included in the price. The meal typically features regional charcuterie, seasonal salads, and cheese.

What water activities are available?
Snorkeling, paddleboarding, and sea scooters are included, giving you options to play or relax in the water.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 9 hours, providing ample time to explore, swim, eat, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

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

Is this experience suitable for children?
It’s best suited for children over 3 years old. The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or wheelchair users.

What language is used during the tour?
The guide speaks French, so some familiarity with the language might enhance the experience, though the scenery and activities are universal.

In all, this boat trip from Porto Vecchio combines the best of Corsica’s natural beauty, local flavors, and active leisure, offering a well-rounded day that’s both relaxing and fun. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or an engaging adventure, it promises a memorable slice of Corsican coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: