Ajaccio : Sunset seascape at the Sanguinaires

Imagine watching the sun dip behind rugged rocky islands, casting a golden glow over the Mediterranean—this cruise promises exactly that, along with a taste of Corsica’s finest wines and cheeses. While we haven’t personally boarded this experience, detailed reviews and information from SAS Cappaï Croisière paint a compelling picture of an authentic, scenic adventure that’s perfect for lovers of nature, culture, and stunning vistas.

What we love about this tour? First, the intimate atmosphere provided by boats limited to just 12 people, which means personalized service and fewer crowds. Second, the spectacular sunset views—a truly magical moment that’s hard to match. Third, the opportunity to savor Corsican products like wine, charcuterie, and cheese right on the islands, making it a taste and sight experience in one.

One possible consideration? The tour is not suitable for children under 5 or pregnant women, so it’s best for travelers in good health and with flexible plans. Also, keep in mind the cruise is in the late afternoon, so it’s ideal if you’re prepared for a relaxing, scenic outing rather than a daytime activity.

This experience is best suited for travelers who adore nature, enjoy small-group settings, and want an authentic taste of Corsica’s natural beauty and local flavors. If a peaceful sunset, wildlife, and a bit of history sound appealing, this cruise could be a memorable highlight of your Corsican trip.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy with a maximum of 12 guests for a personalized experience
• Stunning sunset views over the Sanguinaires Islands, perfect for photography
• Authentic Corsican products tasting, including wine, charcuterie, and cheese
• Historical sites like the Alphonse Daudet lighthouse and Lazaret ruins
• Wildlife spotting opportunities with bird colonies on the islands
• Convenient departure points from both Ajaccio and Porticcio, including the exclusive Port Tino Rossi

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Ajaccio’s Sunset Cruise to the Sanguinaires Islands

The Ajaccio sunset cruise is a wonderful way to round off an active day or simply unwind while soaking in some of Corsica’s most captivating scenery. This tour, run by SAS Cappaï Croisière, is designed to combine natural beauty, local culture, and a relaxed vibe, all within a couple of hours.

Seamless Departure and Comfortable Transport

Starting from Guerite sur le port Tino Rossi, the departure point is easy to find—just a short walk from Ajaccio’s bustling harbor. What immediately sets this experience apart is that it is the only company leaving from Port Tino Rossi, giving you a more exclusive feel. The boats are cozy, with a maximum of 12 guests, meaning you’ll never feel lost in a crowd. The cruise lasts roughly two hours, making it a manageable yet immersive outing.

The Journey to the Sanguinaires Islands

The cruise begins with a 30-minute trip across calm waters to reach the archipelago, giving you time to settle and enjoy the breeze. As you approach the islands, you’ll notice their dramatic darkly-colored rocks and rugged terrain, perfect for picture-taking. These islands are part of a Natura 2000 site, emphasizing their ecological importance and the chance to see local bird colonies.

Exploring La Grande Sanguinaire and Historic Sites

The main stop is at Mezzu Mare, colloquially called “La Grande Sanguinaire,” where you’ll spend around two hours exploring. The highlight here is the Alphonse Daudet lighthouse, built in 1870, standing as a sentinel over the sea. From this vantage point, the views stretch endlessly, offering sweeping panoramas of the deep blue Mediterranean.

Another significant stop is the Lazaret ruins, perched over 80 meters above sea level, offering a mix of history and spectacular scenery. As one reviewer mentioned, “The ruins overlooking the sea are a photographer’s dream,” and the views are indeed breathtaking.

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Wine and Charcuterie Tasting on the Islands

What elevates this experience is the Corsican product tasting. While anchored, the captain hosts a wine and charcuterie session, allowing you to sample local wines alongside Corsican cured meats and cheeses. This tasting is done on-site, with 360-degree sea views that make each sip and bite a moment to savor.

Guests have described this as a “true break in time”, where you can relax and appreciate Corsica’s culinary heritage while soaking in the scenery. The combination of flavors, scenery, and gentle sea breeze makes this part of the tour genuinely memorable.

Sunset Spectacle and Return Journey

As the sun begins its descent, the boat sets sail again, offering guests the iconic Corsican sunset. The sky transforms into a canvas of oranges and pinks, reflected on the rippling water. The gentle rocking of the boat as the light fades creates an almost meditative experience.

The return trip takes you back to Ajaccio or Porticcio, with plenty of time to reflect on the highlights of a day spent at one of France’s most beautiful coastlines.

What’s Included and Practical Details

All costs are included in the price, meaning there are no hidden fees. The experience covers boat transportation, the visits to the islands, the tasting, and the guiding service—all you need to bring is swimwear if you wish to take a dip, and perhaps a camera for the stunning views.

The tour offers live guides in French and Corsican, adding an authentic local touch. The size of the group, limited to 12, ensures a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. The cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for more travelers.

Timing and Reservations

The schedule is flexible, with departure times depending on availability—so checking ahead is a must. You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility especially if your travel plans are still unfolding. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours before without penalty.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

Based on reviews, travelers appreciate the professional yet friendly atmosphere provided by SAS Cappaï Croisière. Many mention the knowledge of the guides and the relaxed pacing of the tour, allowing plenty of time to explore and enjoy each stop.

Some reviews highlight the quality of the tasting—the wines and charcuterie are said to be genuine Corsican products, adding depth to the experience. Others note that the views are utterly unforgettable, especially at sunset, making it a “must-do” for lovers of scenic landscapes.

A common theme is the small group size, which translates to personalized attention and a more authentic, less commercial feel. This is not a large cruise with hundreds of passengers; rather, it’s a curated, intimate experience that emphasizes quality over quantity.

The Sum Up

This sunset cruise to the Sanguinaires Islands offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, history, local flavors, and intimate group size. It’s ideal for those who want a peaceful, scenic outing that combines wildlife, stunning vistas, and gourmet bites—all within a short, manageable trip. The focus on authenticity and small-group service makes it a great choice for travelers seeking a genuine Corsican experience without the crowds.

While it’s not suited for very young children or pregnant women, those in good health and looking for a relaxed, picturesque escape will find this cruise a highlight of their Corsican itinerary. Expect unforgettable sunset views and a taste of the island’s culinary best, all wrapped into a memorable two-hour adventure.

FAQ

Is there a minimum age for this tour?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for children under 5 years old.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear if you wish to swim, plus sunglasses and sunscreen for protection.

Are the guides multilingual?
Guides speak French and Corsican, providing an authentic local commentary.

Does the tour run rain or shine?
While not explicitly stated, outdoor boat tours typically operate in most weather conditions; check with the provider if in doubt.

What is included in the price?
Everything, including transportation, stops, tasting, and guiding, is included—no hidden costs.

Where exactly does the tour start?
From Guerite sur le port Tino Rossi, close to Ajaccio’s harbor.

How long is the cruise?
Approximately 2 hours, including the stopovers and sunset viewing.

This sunset cruise combines the best of Corsica’s natural beauty, history, and local flavors, making it a perfect choice if you’re looking for a scenic, intimate, and flavorful experience that will stay with you long after the last light fades.

You can check availability for your dates here: