Half-day: relaxing afternoon on the Lavezzi and Cavallo islands

Thinking about a half-day escape on the water while in Corsica? This boat tour aboard the quadrimaran Carrataghju offers a laid-back way to soak up some of the island’s most beautiful spots. With a small group of just 12 people, it promises an intimate experience that balances sightseeing, swimming, and chill time—all set against the backdrop of Corsica’s striking coastline.

What I really appreciate about this trip are two things: first, the small group size means you’re not just another face in a crowd, ensuring a more personal vibe and better chances to chat with the captain. Second, the inclusion of snorkeling gear, drinks, and snacks makes it feel well-rounded and thoughtful. However, a consideration is that the tour’s weather-dependent nature means you might not always get to visit all the islands, as some reviews note.

This experience suits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic outing without too much fuss. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or simply seeking a peaceful way to enjoy the coast, this trip could be a great fit—just keep in mind that it’s more about relaxing and less about intense sightseeing.

Key Points

• Small group setting ensures a more personal, relaxed experience.
• Snorkeling equipment and snacks are included, adding value and comfort.
• Flexible itinerary with swimming, photo stops, and local snacks.
• Departure from Santa Giulia makes it easy to access for visitors staying nearby.
• Weather-dependent: your plans might shift if the weather isn’t cooperating.
• Ideal for those wanting a laid-back day on the water, with plenty of swimming and relaxing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

If you’re considering this half-day tour, here’s what it’s really like from what we can piece together. Starting from the beach of Santa Giulia, you’ll hop aboard the Carrataghju, a sleek quadrimaran that promises a smooth ride. The trip is designed to be leisurely—lasting about four hours in total—which is just enough time to unwind without feeling rushed.

The Journey Begins: Setting Sail from Santa Giulia

The meeting point is straightforward—park your car in the free lot next to the Moby Dick Hotel, walk under the wooden footbridge, and you’ll see the pontoon waiting for you. Once aboard, your captain Stéphane will probably greet you with a smile, ready to share his knowledge of the coast. We love the fact that live guides speak both French and English, making it accessible for most travelers.

Cruising to the Islands: A Gentle Speedboat Ride

The first leg of the trip is a quick 30-minute cruise—it’s a nice way to get comfortable on the water and enjoy the views of the Corsican coast. The boat’s speed is just enough to feel like you’re traveling efficiently but still comfortably.

Exploring the Lavezzi Archipelago

The star of the trip is the Lavezzi Islands, famous for their striking rocky formations and crystal-clear waters. The tour usually includes a photo stop and free time for swimming and snorkeling. You’ll get masks and fins to explore the underwater world, which most travelers seem to appreciate. As one reviewer mentioned, the water’s clarity makes for excellent fish sightings—something to look forward to if you’re into snorkeling.

The island stop allows for some relaxed exploration or just lounging on the rocks, soaking in the Mediterranean sun. Some reviews note that weather conditions can impact plans—if it’s too windy or rough, the boat might not reach the islands, which can be disappointing, as in one review where weather prevented access.

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Heading to Cavallo and Porto Novo

Next, you’ll cruise for another 30 minutes to Cavallo, another highlight with interesting sights, photo opportunities, and a chance to visit or explore on your own. Here, you’ll also get another hour of free time, swimming, or just relaxing. The captain might suggest some quick local anecdotes, adding a touch of local flavor to your journey.

Then, the boat moves toward Porto Novo, where snacks are served. This is a lovely opportunity to sit back and enjoy some local bites, which are included in the tour price. Afterward, there’s a final swim or snorkeling session if you’re keen to squeeze in one last dip before heading back.

The Return Leg

The trip wraps up with a 15-minute cruise back to Santa Giulia at a cruising speed, offering scenic views along the coast. It’s a perfect time to relax, chat with fellow travelers, or just enjoy the scenery.

What the Tour Includes and Why It Matters

The tour’s inclusions—snorkeling gear, drinks, and snacks—are thoughtful touches that make the experience more enjoyable. You won’t find yourself reaching for your wallet for extras, which adds to the relaxed vibe.

The small group size (max 12) really does make a difference. It encourages a cozy, friendly atmosphere, and the captain can respond better to individual interests and questions. This isn’t a large, noisy cruise—more of a laid-back day on the water with a friendly guide.

Pacing and Value

The 4-hour duration is just right—long enough to explore several spots but not so long that it becomes tiring. Given the price point, most travelers seem to feel it offers good value, especially considering the included gear, snacks, and the personalized experience.

Weather and Rescheduling

One common theme from reviews is that weather can affect the trip. If marine conditions aren’t suitable, the visit to the islands might be canceled or shortened. It’s worth being flexible and checking the forecast before booking.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is especially suited for travelers looking for a relaxed day on the water with minimal fuss. It’s perfect if you enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and scenic views without the need for lengthy tours or intense activities. Families or small groups who appreciate a cozy, personalized vibe will find this appealing.

It might not be ideal if you’re after a comprehensive sightseeing tour of Corsica’s coast or if you prefer a more active, adventure-packed day. Also, keep in mind that weather can influence your plans, so it’s best suited for sunny days with calm seas.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically advertised as family-focused, children who are comfortable swimming and enjoy boat trips will likely have a good time. Just note that some stops might be weather-dependent, and the boat ride might be a bit bumpy if seas are rough.

What language is the tour guide?
Guides speak both French and English, which makes it accessible for most travelers. Some content may be shown in its original language, but the guide will be helpful in explaining everything clearly.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which is pretty flexible given the nature of these trips.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, a towel, sun protection, and perhaps a camera. The snorkeling gear is provided, but you might want to bring your own if you prefer.

How long are the stops?
Each major stop—Lavezzi Islands, Cavallo, and Porto Novo—allows about an hour of free time, with some variation depending on weather and conditions.

Is there a lot of walking involved?
No, the tour is mainly about relaxing and swimming. If you want to explore on land, the stops are brief, and most of the focus is on enjoying the scenery and the water.

Will I see marine life?
Many travelers mention seeing fish and enjoying snorkeling, thanks to the clear waters. It’s a good chance to observe underwater life without needing to leave the boat.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a tranquil, scenic outing with a small group of like-minded travelers, this half-day tour fits the bill. It balances sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing without feeling hurried. The inclusion of snacks and snorkeling gear, combined with the chance to chat with a friendly captain, makes it a comfortable and enjoyable way to experience Corsica’s coast.

While weather can be a wildcard, most travelers walk away feeling they’ve seen some of the best spots in a calm, intimate setting. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a gentle, picturesque day on the water—perfect for unwinding and snapping a few memorable photos.

For travelers craving a personal touch and a chance to admire Corsica’s coastal beauty from the sea, this tour is a solid choice. Just be sure to check the weather forecast and come prepared to relax and enjoy the crystal clear waters.

Remember, the best trips are the ones where you’re relaxed enough to truly enjoy your surroundings. And this tour offers a good dose of that calm, scenic enjoyment—an easy addition to your Corsican adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: