Exploring the stunning Scandola Nature Reserve and Calanques de Piana has never been easier. The Cargèse Half-Day RIB Boat Tour promises an exhilarating adventure, with breathtaking views of limestone cliffs, historic sites, and abundant wildlife. Departing from the Port of Cargèse, this tour offers a chance to discover the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. But the real question is, are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey?

Contents show

Key Points

Explore the UNESCO-recognized Scandola Nature Reserve on a 4-hour RIB boat tour departing from the port of Cargèse.
Visit the 16th-century Omigna Genovese Tower and admire the stunning Calanques de Piana along the way.
Enjoy a 30-minute swimming break in the turquoise waters of Girolata.
Spot fish eagles and dolphins during the tour, led by a knowledgeable local pilot.
Benefit from a small group setting for an intimate and immersive experience of Corsica’s natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

The Cargèse Half-Day RIB Boat Tour offers an exciting adventure along the stunning coastline of Scandola, Piana, and Girolata.

Priced from $98.14 per person, the 4-hour tour is available in English and French. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book now and pay later.

Highlights include the Omigna Genovese Tower, Plage d’Arone, Capo Rosso, the UNESCO-listed Scandola Nature Reserve, and a stop in Girolata for swimming and exploration.

The small group setting provides an intimate experience with a local guide sharing historical and wildlife insights.

Suitable for most, the tour excludes hotel transfers, meals, and isn’t recommended for certain groups.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in France

Itinerary Highlights

Starting from the port of Cargèse, the Cargèse Half-Day RIB Boat Tour takes adventurers on an exhilarating journey along the stunning coastline.

Key highlights include the Omigna Genovese Tower, Plage d’Arone, and a photo stop at Capo Rosso for wildlife viewing.

Guests will explore the UNESCO-listed Scandola Nature Reserve, enjoy a 30-minute break in Girolata for swimming and exploration, and marvel at the Calanques de Piana’s dramatic cliffs and crystalline waters.

Throughout the tour, the local pilot shares insights into the region’s history and natural wonders, creating an immersive and memorable experience.

Experience and Activities

Guests embark on a small group tour for an intimate experience, led by a knowledgeable local pilot who shares insights into the region’s history and wildlife.

The tour offers opportunities for swimming and wildlife viewing, such as fish eagles and dolphins. Travelers can access caves and coves that larger boats can’t reach, allowing for a more immersive exploration of the stunning Scandola Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The tour includes a 30-minute stop in Girolata, providing time to swim and further discover the picturesque coastal landscape.

Omigna Genovese Tower

The Omigna Genovese Tower, a historic landmark along the tour’s route, stands as a testament to the region’s Genoese heritage. This fortified structure, dating back to the 16th century, served as a crucial coastal defense against pirate raids. Today, visitors can admire its robust architecture and sweeping views of the surrounding coves and inlets.

| Site | Significance |

| — | — |

| Omigna Genovese Tower | 16th-century Genoese coastal defense tower |

| Plage d’Arone | Scenic beach cove |

| Capo Rosso | Photo stop and wildlife viewing point |

The tower’s strategic location offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history and the challenges faced by its inhabitants. As the boat tour progresses, the Omigna Genovese Tower sets the stage for the captivating natural wonders that await.

More Great Tours Nearby

Plage D’arone

Along the tour’s route, the Plage d’Arone beckons visitors with its scenic beach cove.

This picturesque spot offers a chance to take in the stunning natural beauty of the region. Guests can disembark the RIB boat and spend time enjoying the tranquil waters and rocky shoreline.

The Plage d’Arone provides an opportunity to stretch one’s legs and soak in the Mediterranean atmosphere before continuing the journey.

With its clear waters and dramatic cliffs, this stop on the tour is a highlight for many travelers exploring the Corsican coastline.

Like being on the water? We've looked at these other boat experiences in France

Capo Rosso and Wildlife Viewing

As the RIB boat rounds Capo Rosso, passengers can expect thrilling wildlife viewing opportunities.

The rugged cape provides a perfect habitat for seabirds, including majestic fish eagles soaring overhead. Depending on the season, visitors may spot playful dolphins swimming alongside the boat or spy schools of colorful fish darting through the clear waters.

Whether it’s the dramatic coastal landscapes or the abundance of marine life, this stop at Capo Rosso is sure to leave a lasting impression. Guests are encouraged to keep their cameras ready to capture the natural beauty and wildlife encounters.

Scandola Nature Reserve and Girolata

After rounding Capo Rosso, the RIB boat makes its way to the stunning Scandola Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Guests have the chance to admire the dramatic red cliffs and coves carved by the sea. The boat will pause for a 30-minute stop in the village of Girolata, nestled in a remote cove.

Dramatic red cliffs and coves carved by the sea await, with a 30-minute stop in the remote village of Girolata.

Here, travelers can swim, explore the small harbor, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

The tour then continues along the Calanques de Piana, offering more opportunities for swimming and taking in the breathtaking coastal scenery before returning to Cargèse.

Calanques De Piana and Swimming Opportunities

The RIB boat continues along the Calanques de Piana, a series of awe-inspiring limestone cliffs carved by the sea. As the vessel glides through the turquoise waters, passengers are treated to stunning panoramic views of the rugged coastline. The tour offers ample opportunities for swimming in hidden coves and caves that larger boats cannot access. This is a chance to cool off and take in the natural beauty of the region.

| Calanques de Piana | Swimming Opportunities | Wildlife Viewing |

|——————-|———————–|——————|

| Limestone cliffs | Hidden coves and caves | Fish eagles |

| Rugged coastline | Turquoise waters | Dolphins |

| Panoramic views | Refreshing dips | Seabirds |

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour is a small group setting, though the maximum group size is not explicitly stated. The tour emphasizes an intimate experience, allowing for more personalized attention from the local guide.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?

No, the tour itinerary is not customizable. It’s a pre-set half-day excursion with fixed stops at key sites like Scandola Nature Reserve and Calanques de Piana. The tour operator doesn’t offer options to alter the planned route or activities.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the boat. However, the tour provider doesn’t provide any meals or beverages, so guests should plan accordingly. Bringing a packed lunch and water is recommended to enjoy during the tour.

Do We Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Activities?

The tour recommends guests bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and water. It’s also a good idea to pack a light jacket in case of wind or cooler weather during the boat ride.

Is There an Age Limit or Restrictions for This Tour?

There’s an age limit – the tour isn’t suitable for children under 4. Pregnant women, wheelchair users, and those with pre-existing medical conditions are also not allowed on the tour.

The Sum Up

The Cargèse Half-Day RIB Boat Tour offers an exhilarating exploration of Scandola Nature Reserve and the Calanques de Piana. Guests will enjoy breathtaking views, wildlife sightings, and a refreshing swim in Girolata, making this tour a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. With an action-packed itinerary, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an unforgettable adventure on the Corsican coast.