Porto Vecchio : Relaxing Boat Day Trip with Onboard Lunch

Imagine a day spent gliding over crystal-clear waters, exploring secret coves, and enjoying delicious regional food—all while soaking up the natural beauty of Corsica. That’s exactly what this Porto Vecchio boat trip promises, and from the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary, it’s clear this experience delivers a lot of bang for your buck.

What makes this cruise particularly appealing are the intimate atmosphere, the chance to snorkel in protected marine reserves, and the inclusion of paddle and sea scooters for added fun. Plus, the onboard lunch and Corsican aperitif turn the journey into a true taste of local hospitality.

A potential consideration is that this tour involves a full day out on the water, which may not suit travelers prone to seasickness or those looking for a more relaxed, less physically active outing. It’s also a small-group experience, perfect for those who prefer a more personal touch over crowded boat tours.

Designed for adventure lovers and those seeking a scenic, authentic Corsican experience, this trip suits travelers who want a mix of relaxation, activity, and cultural flavor all in one day. Whether you’re a solo explorer, couple, or small group, you’ll find plenty to love here.

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Key Points

Intimate cruise experience with small group limits for a more personal journey.
Snorkeling and swimming in pristine, protected sites like the Lavezzi Islands and Cavallo.
Active sea fun with paddleboards, sea scooters, and options to relax and sunbathe.
Authentic onboard meal featuring regional charcuterie, cheese, and seasonal salads.
Beautiful scenery including famous beaches like Santa Giulia and iconic islands like Cavallo.
Weather flexibility with guides capable of adjusting plans to avoid rain, as noted by past guests.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting from Porto Vecchio: What to Expect on the Tour

Once you arrive at the meeting point in the port of Porto Vecchio, you’ll be greeted by the friendly crew of Corsica Sud Croisières, ready to whisk you away for a full day on the water. The vessels, either the Santa Maria or Sperenza, are well-equipped for comfort and fun, with ample space for lounging and enjoying the scenery.

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The Journey Begins: Cerbicales Islands

Your adventure kicks off in the Cerbicales Islands, a protected marine reserve teeming with marine life. Here, the highlight is snorkeling—you’re provided with masks and snorkels to get up close and personal with the fish and underwater scenery. Past guests like Sébastien mention how the natural beauty here helps forget daily worries, thanks to the calm waters and unspoiled surroundings.

The crew offers a welcome coffee and traditional canistrelli biscuits, adding a local touch to the start. This small gesture sets a relaxed tone, perfect for soaking in Corsica’s peaceful vibe.

Lavezzi Islands: the Star of the Day

Next, the cruise heads toward the Lavezzi Archipelago, often referred to as a “paradise” for nature lovers and snorkelers. One of the tour’s special stops is Cavallo Island, dubbed the “billionaires’ island,” which is accessible by boat and known for its exclusive reputation.

Here, you’ll take a swim in the famously clear waters, where the visibility is excellent, making it easy to spot colorful fish and underwater formations. According to one review, you’ll swim among “thousands of fish” in the heart of the reserve at Lavezzu Island, a spot that really captures the essence of unspoiled nature.

Cavallo Island offers a different kind of scenery—more luxurious and private—making it a memorable highlight. While the island’s exclusivity is a bonus, it’s worth noting that access is by boat, so physical mobility or comfort with boat transfers is something to consider.

Lunch and Relaxation on Board

Midday, you’ll settle into a relaxed, intimate atmosphere for the onboard Corsican meal. The menu usually features regional charcuterie, seasonal salads, and Corsican cheese, crafted from local ingredients. Past guests like Frisse praise the meal, mentioning how the pleasant aperitif and delicious food elevated the experience, even amidst changing weather conditions.

The seating arrangement and calm ambiance foster conversation and local hospitality, making the meal feel like a convivial gathering rather than a formal dining affair.

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Active and Leisure Time

After lunch, it’s time to enjoy some optional activities. You’ll have access to paddleboards and sea scooters, providing a lively way to explore the bays. One traveler noted how the “sea scooter” added an element of fun, making it easier to cover more water and see fish and coral without tiring out.

Alternatively, many guests opt for a peaceful rest in the shade, soaking in the scenery or taking a siesta—an ideal way to recharge before the next stop.

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Final Stops: Rondinara and Porto Novo

The day winds down with a final dip in the Rondinara Bay, famous for its sandy beach and turquoise waters. It’s a perfect spot for a last swim before cruising along the coast to admire the stunning beaches of Santa Giulia, Palombaggia, and Carrataghju. These picturesque beaches are often highlighted as some of Corsica’s best, with reviewers noting their “beautiful” and “iconic” qualities.

Practical Details

Duration: Around 9 hours, providing ample time to explore without feeling rushed.
Group Size: Limited to 12 participants, ensuring a cozy, personalized experience.
Inclusions: All meals, drinks, masks, snorkels, paddleboards, and sea scooters are included—great value considering the full day of activities.
Exclusions: No hotel transfers, so plan your own transportation to the meeting point in Porto Vecchio.
Language: Tour operates in French, so some understanding or a guide app might enhance your experience.

What Sets This Tour Apart

What we love about this experience is how it balances adventure with relaxation. The small-group setting means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the crew’s flexibility—adapting to weather conditions—is a big plus. The onboard lunch offers a genuine taste of Corsican flavors, and the snorkeling spots are genuinely scenic, with clear waters and abundant marine life.

Guests like Sébastien and Frisse emphasize the friendly guides and how the local hospitality makes the journey memorable. Even when weather threatened to spoil part of the trip, the crew managed to keep everyone engaged and comfortable.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

The price reflects a full day of activities, including meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and sea scooters—all essentials for a fun and memorable day. Compared to other excursions that might charge extra for activities or meals, this package offers a seamless experience with no hidden costs.

Who Will Love This Trip?

This cruise is perfect for adventurers and nature lovers who enjoy snorkeling and active sea activities. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate small-group tours with a personal touch, and anyone seeking to experience Corsica beyond its beaches—exploring its hidden coves and marine reserves.

While not suitable for young children under 3, pregnant women, or people with mobility issues, most active or curious travelers will find this tour both enjoyable and rewarding.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
No, you’ll need to meet at the port of Porto Vecchio, so plan transportation accordingly.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a towel, and beachwear. It’s also good to have a hat or cap for sun protection.

Is there a limit to the group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to 12 participants, making it more personalized.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 3 years or those with mobility impairments.

What is the tour duration?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, with flexible timing depending on availability.

Are meals and drinks included?
Yes, onboard meals, aperitifs, and drinks are all included in the price.

Can I participate in activities like paddleboarding or sea scooters?
Yes, all equipment, including masks, snorkels, paddleboards, and sea scooters, are provided.

What if the weather looks bad?
The guide can adjust plans to avoid rain, and cancellations are possible if weather conditions are unsafe.

Is the tour operated in English?
It operates in French, but the small group size and friendly guides create an inclusive atmosphere.

Can I book the tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning.

Final Thoughts

This Porto Vecchio boat trip offers a well-rounded day of exploring Corsica’s stunning waters, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and active fun. The onboard lunch and intimate setting make it feel like a personalized adventure, perfect for travelers wanting a mix of relaxation and excitement.

If you’re after a scenic and authentic way to experience Corsica’s coastlines, this tour is a great choice. It’s especially suited for those who value small groups, local flavor, and a variety of activities in one seamless day on the water.

For anyone eager to see the island’s marine life, enjoy pristine beaches, and taste regional specialties, this cruise ticks all the boxes—offering both memorable sights and true Corsican hospitality.