Exploring the picturesque town of Bonifacio and its stunning surrounding islands is a must for any traveler visiting Corsica. The Isola Piana and Lavezzi archipelago offer a breathtaking blend of rugged cliffs, turquoise waters, and diverse marine life. Setting out on a speedboat tour provides the perfect opportunity to take in this natural wonder, with ample time to swim, snorkel, and discover the hidden gems that make this region so captivating. What secrets await those who venture beyond the white cliffs?
Key Points
- This 7-hour speedboat excursion departs from Santa Teresa Gallura, offering the opportunity to explore the islands of Isola Piana and Lavezzi.
- The 2.25-hour speedboat ride to Bonifacio includes a panoramic navigation of southern Corsica and the chance to see the town’s iconic white cliffs.
- At Isola Piana, travelers can swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters, observing the rich marine life and vibrant corals.
- The 75-minute exploration of the Lavezzi Archipelago, a protected marine reserve, allows for hiking, relaxation, and further snorkeling opportunities.
- The tour is guided in Italian and includes a 2.25-hour visit to the seaside town of Bonifacio, known for its rugged beauty and historic charm.
Tour Overview
The Bonifacio Tour of Isola Piana and Lavezzi is a 7-hour activity that takes travelers on a speedboat ride along the southern coast of Corsica.
A 7-hour speedboat excursion along Corsica’s southern coast, exploring Isola Piana and the Lavezzi Archipelago.
Priced from $98.14 per person, the tour departs at 9:00 am from Via la Marina and returns at 4:45 pm.
Guided in Italian, the experience includes a 2.25-hour exploration of Bonifacio, a panoramic navigation of southern Corsica, and swimming/snorkeling at Isola Piana and the Lavezzi Archipelago.
The tour provides a skipper, fuel, insurance, life jackets, food, drinks, and a tour guide.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.
Looking for more options in Santa Teresa Gallura? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Speedboat Ride to Bonifacio
Departing from Santa Teresa Gallura, the speedboat ride to Bonifacio takes approximately 2.25 hours, allowing travelers to explore the charming coastal town.
The panoramic navigation of southern Corsica takes an additional 20 minutes, offering stunning views of the rugged cliffs and turquoise waters.
Upon arrival in Bonifacio, guests have the opportunity to wander the town’s white cliffs and Punta dello Sperone, part of the Nature Reserve of Lavezzi.
This initial segment of the tour provides a scenic introduction to the natural beauty and historic landmarks that await during the remainder of the excursion.
Exploring Bonifacio’s White Cliffs
Upon arrival in Bonifacio, visitors can explore the town’s iconic white cliffs that rise dramatically from the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. These dramatic limestone formations offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the surrounding islands. Visitors can wander along the cliffside paths, taking in the rugged beauty of the landscape and the charming seaside town below. A visit to the Punta dello Sperone, the southern tip of the cliffs, is a must-see, providing sweeping vistas and a sense of the region’s natural splendor.
| Stunning Views | Rugged Terrain | Picturesque Town | Panoramic Vistas | Serene Seascapes |
|—————-|—————-|—————–|—————–|——————–|
| ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
After exploring the captivating white cliffs of Bonifacio, the tour continues with a panoramic navigation of southern Corsica.
The speedboat takes visitors on a 20-minute journey along the rugged southern coastline. Stunning sea caves, rocky promontories, and hidden beaches come into view as the boat glides across the turquoise waters.
This scenic leg of the tour provides a unique perspective of Corsica’s untamed natural beauty. Passengers can admire the island’s dramatic landscapes, from towering cliffs to verdant hills rolling down to the sea.
This picturesque navigation sets the stage for the next stop – the tranquil islands of Isola Piana and Lavezzi.
More Great Tours NearbySwimming and Snorkeling at Isola Piana
The speedboat glides to the picturesque Isola Piana, where guests have 45 minutes to enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.
Pristine bays and hidden coves offer ample opportunity to discover the rich marine life, including colorful fish and vibrant corals.
Snorkelers can enjoy the underwater world, while swimmers can simply relish the refreshing Mediterranean sea.
The guide provides instructions on water safety and points out the best snorkeling spots.
The guide ensures guests’ safety and highlights the optimal snorkeling areas for discovering the vibrant marine life.
Participants return to the boat invigorated, having experienced the natural beauty of this secluded island paradise.
Discovering the Lavezzi Archipelago
Next, the speedboat navigates to the stunning Lavezzi Archipelago, where guests spend 75 minutes exploring the natural wonders of this protected marine reserve.
These remote islands are known for their crystal-clear waters, rugged granite cliffs, and abundant marine life. Guests can don their snorkel gear and enjoy the underwater world, spotting colorful fish and coral formations.
The islands also offer opportunities to hike scenic trails and bask on secluded beaches. This is a chance to disconnect from the outside world and fully take in the natural beauty of southern Corsica.
Inclusions and Important Information
The tour includes a skilled skipper, fuel, insurance, and life jackets, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. Food, drinks, and a knowledgeable tour guide are also provided. However, there are some important restrictions and limitations to be aware of:
| Allowed | Not Allowed |
| — | — |
| Towel | Luggage or large bags |
| Comfortable shoes | Pregnant women |
| Sunscreen | People over 70 |
| Passport or ID | Children under 2 |
| Beachwear | Individuals with mobility impairments |
The tour may change due to weather conditions, and no refunds are given for early returns. Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are fully refundable.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
Customers have generally praised the Bonifacio tour, awarding it an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 43 reviews.
Reviewers especially enjoyed the breathtaking views of Bonifacio’s white cliffs and the snorkeling experience at the Lavezzi Archipelago.
However, some wished the tour guide spoke more English, as the guide only provided information in Italian.
While the comfort on the speedboat was noted as limited, most found the experience enjoyable overall.
The tour’s transportation and value for money were rated highly at 4.7/5 and 4.5/5, respectively, making it a recommended activity for those visiting Bonifacio.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring a Change of Clothes for After the Tour?
Yes, you can bring a change of clothes for after the tour. The tour information indicates that there are no restrictions on bringing small personal items like an extra set of clothes.
Is There a Bathroom Available on the Speedboat?
The speedboat does not have a bathroom on board. However, bathroom breaks are provided at the various stops during the tour, such as Bonifacio and the Lavezzi Archipelago. Passengers should plan accordingly for the 7-hour duration of the excursion.
Do We Have Time to Explore Bonifacio on Our Own?
No, the tour doesn’t provide time for self-exploration in Bonifacio. The itinerary specifies 2.25 hours to explore Bonifacio before heading to the islands of Isola Piana and Lavezzi for the swimming and snorkeling portion of the tour.
Can I Purchase Additional Food and Drinks During the Tour?
Yes, the tour includes food and drinks, but you can also purchase additional items during the tour. The tour guide will likely point out opportunities to buy extra snacks or beverages along the way.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Lavezzi Archipelago?
The best time to visit the Lavezzi Archipelago is during the summer months from June to September when the weather is warm and the sea is calm, allowing for optimal swimming and snorkeling conditions.
The Sum Up
Set out on a captivating speedboat excursion to Bonifacio, where you’ll discover the stunning Isola Piana and Lavezzi archipelago. Spend hours exploring the iconic white cliffs, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and enjoying the vibrant marine life. This comprehensive tour offers the perfect escape into nature, providing ample time to relax on secluded beaches and soak in the breathtaking views of Corsica’s southern coastline.
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