Ajaccio offers one of the most engaging ways to experience Corsica’s rugged beauty and scenic coastlines—by boat. The calm waters of the Gulf of Ajaccio are perfect for exploring islands, caves, and wildlife, all while enjoying the fresh sea air. Whether you want a romantic sunset cruise, a full-day adventure, or a chance to discover secluded coves, Ajaccio’s boat tours have something to offer. We especially liked the From Ajaccio: Sanguinaires Islands Boat Trip With Aperitif for its stunning sunset views and Corsican delicacies, and the Ajaccio: Guided Scandola Nature Reserve Boat Tour for its natural wonder and expert guide.
Ajaccio’s boat tours vary from short, intimate trips to full-day explorations of Corsica’s most iconic sites. You can relax in a small-group sunset sail, explore UNESCO-listed reserves, or hop on a speedboat to discover caves and hidden beaches. Each option offers a different way to connect with Corsica’s natural beauty, making it easy to tailor your experience.
Below, you’ll find a detailed rundown of the top 13 boat tours and cruises, with insights into what makes each special. Whether you’re after a quick trip or a full-day adventure, this list helps you choose the right maritime experience for your trip.
1. From Ajaccio: Sanguinaires Islands Boat Trip With Aperitif
At number 1, this 2.5-hour sunset cruise is perfect for those seeking a romantic escape. The tour takes you to the Sanguinaires Islands, where you can watch the sun set over the Mediterranean. The highlight is visiting Mezzu Mare, the largest island in the archipelago, accessible only by boat. As you cruise, enjoy a Corsican aperitif, which includes rosé wine and local specialties. The guide shares stories about the islands’ history while you relax in a small group, far from crowds.
This trip is ideal for couples or anyone who loves scenic sunsets and good food. The reviews, averaging 4.7/5 from over 760 travelers, praise the peaceful atmosphere and stunning views. It’s a short, memorable experience that combines nature, local flavors, and a touch of romance.
Bottom Line: A lovely, easy way to enjoy Corsica’s sunset with local flavors — perfect for a relaxed evening.
2. From Ajaccio/Porticcio: Ajaccio & Sanguinaires Gulf Boat Tour
Next on our list, this 2.5 to 3-hour tour offers a broader exploration of the Gulf of Ajaccio. It features a sightseeing cruise along the north shore of Ajaccio, passing landmarks like the Tino Rossi house and the Citadel. The boat then ventures into the Sanguinaires archipelago, a designated Natura 2000 site known for its rich birdlife and rugged scenery. A highlight is the stopover on Mezumare Island, where you can swim or walk ashore, making this a versatile trip for nature lovers.
Rated 4.3/5 from nearly 1,900 reviews, this trip balances sightseeing with relaxation. The stop at Mezumare allows for swimming or a walk, adding a personal touch. The boat’s windows and open deck give excellent views, and the guide shares anecdotes along the way.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded cruise suited for travelers wanting to see both coast and islands with plenty of time for swimming.
3. From Ajaccio or Porticcio: Day Trip to Bonifacio by Boat
For around $82, this full-day boat tour takes you to Bonifacio on Corsica’s southern tip. The 9.5-hour trip features coastal views of sea caves, stacks, and the lion-shaped rock at Roccapina. You get four hours in Bonifacio, enough time to explore on foot, enjoy local cuisine, or relax by the harbor. The boat cruise itself provides spectacular views of the cliffs and caves along the south coast.
Reviews averaging 4.4/5 praise the scenic beauty and leisurely pace. The boat departs from Ajaccio, making it a practical way to combine sightseeing and cultural exploration in one day. Expect to see natural rock formations and enjoy a relaxed lunch in Bonifacio’s charming town.
Bottom Line: A great choice for travelers wanting a full day of sightseeing with time to wander Bonifacio’s streets.
4. Ajaccio: Guided Scandola Nature Reserve Boat Tour
At number 4, this 8.5-hour tour explores Corsica’s spectacular Scandola Nature Reserve with a local guide. Using semi-rigid speedboats, the tour visits sea caves, natural pools, and the village of Girolata, accessible only by sea. The guide’s insights about the geology and history make each stop more meaningful. The highlight is swimming in crystal-clear waters and exploring Gargalo island and the cathedral rift.
Rated 4.6/5 from 81 reviews, this trip is praised for its expert guide and the chance to see Corsica’s most dramatic coastline up close. The tour is suitable for those comfortable on speedboats and looking for an immersive experience in nature’s raw beauty.
Bottom Line: An exhilarating, informative trip perfect for adventurous travelers eager to see Corsica’s rugged coast.
5. From Ajaccio: Day Trip Boat Tour to Bonifacio
This full-day tour offers a relaxing cruise to Bonifacio with plenty of time to explore the town. Starting early, the 9.5-hour trip includes swimming in pristine waters, sampling local rosé, and enjoying scenic views of the coastline. The experience combines natural beauty with culture, allowing you to stroll the medieval streets or relax at a waterfront café.
With a 4.4/5 rating from 45 reviews, travelers appreciate the leisurely pace and quality time in Bonifacio. The boat is comfortable, and the trip provides a comprehensive view of Corsica’s southern coast.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a full-day adventure with plenty of time in the historic town of Bonifacio.
6. Ajaccio/Porticcio: Lavezzi Islands/Bonifacio Caves Boat Tour
Rated 4.6/5, this full-day guided trip takes you to the Lavezzi Islands and Bonifacio caves. The tour covers lagoons, coral reefs, and dramatic cliffs, with a focus on scenic sailing and storytelling by a local guide. The bright coral waters and limestone caves are highlights, along with options to hike or swim.
This tour is perfect for travelers seeking both sightseeing and a bit of adventure, with a flexible schedule for relaxing or exploring. The trip’s long duration (9.5 hours) allows you to soak in the diverse landscapes.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive day trip suited for those wanting to combine island exploration with cultural sights.
7. Near Ajaccio: Sanguinaires Islands Boat Trip Sunset Drinks
Rated 4.8/5 from only 8 reviews, this intimate 3-hour experience offers a small-group sunset cruise with commentary from a passionate local guide. After visiting the islands, you’ll enjoy swimming and an aperitif with Corsican charcuterie and drinks in a quiet cove.
This trip is ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed, more personal experience and stunning sunset views. The small group size enhances the ambiance, making it perfect for couples or small groups.
Bottom Line: A peaceful, personal way to end your day with beautiful views and local snacks.
8. Ajaccio: Excursion, Sailing Scandola Nature Reserve
Rated 5/5 from just 3 reviews, this tour emphasizes conviviality and shared emotion onboard human-sized RIBs. It’s all-inclusive and promises a day of dreams with a focus on relaxed sailing while exploring the stunning Scandola Reserve.
This trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy small-group, laid-back experiences with a focus on connection and natural beauty. The shorter duration (8 hours) makes it manageable for a day trip.
Bottom Line: An intimate, fun-filled day perfect for those seeking a casual yet immersive experience.
9. From Porticcio: Guided Scandola Nature Reserve Boat Tour
This 7-hour group tour from Porticcio focuses on Capo Rosso, Gargalo Island, and the Sea Caves. It includes swimming breaks and a tasting of cold meats and rosé, combining sightseeing with local flavors. The guide provides insights into Corsica’s geology and history.
Rated 5/5 from 2 reviews, it offers a quality, smaller-group experience ideal for travelers wanting detailed stories and time for swimming in beautiful waters.
Bottom Line: A good choice for those wanting a guided, relaxed exploration of Corsica’s coast.
10. Ajaccio: Full-Day Corsica West Coast Guided Boat Tour
Rated 4.3/5 from 12 reviews, this full-day trip covers Calanques de Piana, Scandola, and Gargalo Island. It offers a mix of stunning scenery, swimming, and local food as you watch the sunset.
Ideal for travelers who want to see multiple UNESCO sites in one day, this tour balances sightseeing with relaxation. The chance to enjoy local wine and charcuterie adds to the experience.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive day for those eager to explore Corsica’s most famous coastal sites with good food and wine.
11. Corsica: Calanques de Piana-capo rosso boat trip/snorkeling
Rated 4.2/5 from 6 reviews, this 4.5-hour trip is perfect for snorkeling lovers. It takes you through the Calanques de Piana, exploring red rocks, caves, and crystal waters. You’ll enjoy guided exploration and swim stops, with highlights being the Porphyry rocks and Piana caves.
This tour appeals to active travelers who want a shorter but immersive experience with plenty of time to swim and explore underwater.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for snorkeling fans wanting a quick, scenic adventure.
12. Ajaccio: Catamaran Cruise to the Sanguinaires Islands
Rated 4.2/5, this day-long catamaran cruise provides a relaxed journey around the Sanguinaires Islands. The spacious vessel and attentive crew make it perfect for families or friends wanting comfort and scenic cruising. It includes time for swimming in wild coves and enjoying the views of Ajaccio’s golf course.
Traveler reviews mention the hospitable staff and the beautiful scenery as highlights, making this a solid all-day option.
Bottom Line: A comfortable, scenic cruise ideal for those wanting a leisurely day with good onboard service.
13. Sunset at the Sanguinaires Islands: Festive Christmas Cruise
This 2.5-hour festive cruise captures the holiday spirit with music, Christmas beer, canistrelli, and clementine juice. It departs at 3:30 p.m., taking you to the islands for a spectacular sunset. The cruise includes a guided tour, and the lively atmosphere makes it perfect for celebrating the season.
While reviews are limited, the experience promises a magical sunset combined with holiday treats, making it a unique seasonal option.
Bottom Line: A festive, fun way to experience the Sanguinaires Islands with a holiday twist.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Ajaccio
When deciding which tour suits you best, consider your interests, budget, and the amount of time you want to spend on the water. For a relaxing evening with spectacular sunset views, From Ajaccio: Sanguinaires Islands Boat Trip With Aperitif is hard to beat. If you crave a full day of exploration, the Full-Day Corsica West Coast Guided Boat Tour or the Day Trip to Bonifacio are excellent choices.
Budget travelers will find the Ajaccio/Porticcio: Ajaccio & Sanguinaires Gulf Boat Tour offers great value. For those seeking more adventure, tours like the Lavezzi Islands/Bonifacio Caves Boat Tour or the Calanques de Piana snorkeling trip provide active options.
Always check the duration, whether food or drinks are included, and the type of boat. Book early, especially for popular sunset cruises or full-day trips, to ensure availability.
Final Thought
Ajaccio’s boat tours offer a fantastic way to see Corsica from the water, with options suited for romantic evenings, full-day adventures, or quick scenic escapes. If you’re after a peaceful sunset, the Sunset at the Sanguinaires Islands is unbeatable. For a deeper dive into Corsica’s rugged coasts, the Guided Scandola Nature Reserve Tour combines natural beauty with local storytelling.
Whatever your style or schedule, booking your chosen cruise ahead of time will ensure you don’t miss out—Corsica’s waters are waiting.
