From Porticcio: Guided Scandola Nature Reserve Boat Tour

Thinking about a boat trip that combines breathtaking scenery with unique wildlife and charming villages? This 7-hour guided boat tour from Porticcio to the Scandola Nature Reserve might just be what you’re looking for. Though I haven’t personally experienced it, the reviews and details paint a compelling picture of an adventure packed with natural beauty, delicious local food, and a touch of Corsican charm.

What really catches our eye about this tour is how it manages to blend the awe-inspiring scenery of the reserve with interactive moments like swimming breaks and local tastings. Plus, the fact that it’s a small group experience means you’ll get a more personalized feel, away from the hustle and bustle. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the restriction on children under 6 and pregnant women, so it’s more suited for those able to handle the boat’s physicality and safety requirements.

All in all, this tour seems perfect for travelers who love nature, want to see off-the-beaten-path spots accessible only by sea, and enjoy a relaxed pace with opportunities to unwind in crystal-clear waters. If you’re looking for a mix of adventure, scenery, and local flavor in Corsica, this boat trip could be a memorable highlight of your trip.

Key Points:

• Small group size (max 12 people) offers a more intimate experience with personalized attention.
• Exploration of UNESCO-listed Scandola Reserve provides stunning land and sea views, animal sightings, and unique geological features.
• Multiple stops, including Gargalo Island, Cathedral Rift, and Girolata, showcase Corsica’s rugged beauty and seafaring villages.
• Swimming breaks in turquoise waters offer refreshing respites from the boat, perfect for cooling off.
• Local food and drink tasting—charcuterie and rosé—add a delightful regional touch.
• Safety restrictions mean it’s not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with certain health issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect on This Tour

Starting from Porticcio, the journey begins with a speed boat ride that whips you along the Corsican coast, giving you your first glimpses of the spectacular sea caves and natural pools that make this area famous. The trip lasts about 7 hours, making it a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing.

Exploring the Scandola Nature Reserve

The real star of the tour is the Scandola Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and diverse wildlife. We love the way the boat glides through the creeks and caves, offering a close-up view of the rugged landscape that’s almost impossible to see from land. The fauna and flora are notable, and you’ll get a chance to spot some of the local marine life.

Visiting Gargalo Island and the Cathedral Rift

Next up, the boat heads to Gargalo Island, a quiet spot that’s only accessible by sea. The island’s rugged terrain and sparse vegetation make it feel like discovering a secret world. The Cathedral Rift, with its impressive rock formations and natural arches, is another highlight. It’s a fantastic spot for photos and simply soaking in the raw beauty of the coast.

The Charm of Girolata

One of the biggest hits among travelers is the visit to Girolata—a tiny fishing village built around an 18th-century fort. Accessible solely by boat or foot, the village feels wonderfully untouched by mass tourism. You might even get to relax on the beach with some local charcuterie and rosé, which are laid out by the crew, or bring your own picnic. The wild cows roaming freely add a quirky touch to this peaceful spot.

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Swimming and Relaxation

Throughout the day, you’ll get opportunities to dive into crystal-clear waters, often at Anse de Muretta or other secluded spots. The calm, turquoise waters make for calming swims that are both invigorating and scenic. Our sources mention that the crew will prepare a “nustral” aperitif—think charcuterie and rosé—serving as a perfect way to unwind after a swim.

The Final Stretch and Return

After a full day of exploring, swimming, and tasting regional specialties, you’ll head back to Porticcio around midday, with plenty of vivid memories. The route continues along the coast, offering more scenic views and possibly spotting some wildlife while the live guide keeps you informed and entertained.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

From the glowing reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides make a huge difference. We loved how the guides shared insights into the landscape and wildlife, making each stop more meaningful. The stunning views and varied stops keep the day exciting, with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxation.

Travelers also appreciated the well-organized logistics, from the pickup to the timing of stops. The inclusion of an authentic regional snack and rosé is a nice touch that adds flavor to the experience, especially after a swim.

However, not everything is perfect. The boat size (limited to 12 passengers) means it can fill up quickly, so booking in advance is wise. Also, the tour’s restrictions on young children and pregnant women mean it’s not suitable for everyone, which could be a downside for families or travelers with certain health considerations.

Another point to consider is the duration. While seven hours sounds long, most travelers say the time flies because the scenery is so captivating. But, if you’re prone to seasickness or dislike bumpy boat rides, it’s worth noting the trip involves some speed and open water.

Why This Tour Works

This tour is ideal for those who want more than just a quick visit to Corsica’s coast. It offers an immersive experience of the island’s natural wonders, combined with a taste of local life in Girolata. The small group size ensures a more personal touch, and the expert guides help you make the most of each stop.

If you’re eager to see the UNESCO-listed Scandola Reserve, love sea swimming, or simply want a relaxing day on the water with gorgeous views, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate nature, wildlife, and regional cuisine—a true taste of Corsican coastal life.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

For adventure lovers and those craving spectacular scenery, this boat tour offers a fantastic way to explore Corsica’s coast from a different perspective. The stops at hidden beaches, charming villages, and geological marvels make it a memorable day out. If you’re comfortable on boats and eager to learn from knowledgeable guides, you’ll find this experience rewarding.

Travelers seeking relaxation will enjoy swimming breaks and leisurely moments with local refreshments, while those interested in Cultural and natural heritage will appreciate the UNESCO designation of the reserve.

Keep in mind the restrictions if you’re traveling with very young children, pregnant, or have specific health issues—they might want a different kind of excursion. But for most active, curious travelers, this tour strikes a great balance between sightseeing and unwinding.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 6 are not permitted on the boats for safety reasons, and travelers with certain health issues or disabilities should inform the company beforehand.

Can I bring my own picnic?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own picnic to enjoy in Girolata or at designated stops. The crew also provides regional charcuterie and rosé, but bringing extra snacks is fine.

How long are the swimming breaks?
The tour includes swimming stops at spots like Anse de Muretta, where you can enjoy the turquoise waters. The exact length varies, but they’re enough to cool off and relax.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, like all boat trips, it’s weather-sensitive. The company reserves the right to reschedule or cancel if conditions are unsafe.

What should I bring?
Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses for sun protection. Good shoes or sandals for the stops are also recommended.

How many people are on each boat?
The maximum group size is 12 people, ensuring a close-up experience with less crowding.

Is there a guide on board?
Yes, the tour includes a live French-speaking guide who shares insights throughout the trip.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible option if your plans change.

In the end, this boat tour from Porticcio to Scandola offers an authentic slice of Corsica’s stunning coastline. It’s perfect for travelers who want to combine scenic beauty with a relaxed pace, some local flavor, and the chance to see rare geological and biological sights. If you’re up for a day on the water, with plenty of opportunities to unwind and admire nature’s artistry, you’ll likely come away with a smile—and plenty of photos to prove it.

You can check availability for your dates here: