Ajaccio: Catamaran Cruise to the Sanguinaires Islands

Ajaccio: Catamaran Cruise to the Sanguinaires Islands — A Relaxing Day on the Water

If you’re eyeing a day out on the water in Corsica, this catamaran cruise to the Sanguinaires Islands could be just what you need. Offered by CATABEACH, this experience promises to blend natural beauty with moments of leisure, making it a nice escape from the busy streets of Ajaccio. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, it’s clear that many travelers find it a worthwhile way to soak up the island’s stunning coastlines.

What draws us to this experience? First, the opportunity to enjoy the scenery of Ajaccio’s golf course and Gulf from a unique vantage point—on the water. Second, the swimming breaks in wild coves are perfect for those who want a splash of adventure amidst relaxing sea views. That said, the cruise is around four hours long, so if your travel style leans more towards a quick peek, this might feel a bit slow-paced. Also, for those who prefer alcohol with their excursions, be aware that drinks are extra.

This cruise seems ideal for travelers seeking a calm, scenic day with a good mix of sightseeing, swimming, and tasty bites. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy being on the water, want a taste of Corsica’s coastline, and don’t mind paying a little extra for drinks or proteins.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery of Ajaccio’s golf course and coastlines.
• Comfortable catamaran with a friendly, attentive team.
• Swimming stops in turquoise coves perfect for a quick dip.
• Catering options including medium-sized salads with various proteins.
• Flexibility: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Duration of about four hours makes it a manageable day trip, especially if you want a relaxed pace.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from this Catamaran Cruise

This 4-hour cruise offers a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation aboard a medium-sized catamaran. You’ll set off from Ajaccio, heading toward the Sanguinaires Islands, which are considered some of the most picturesque spots in Corsica. The journey is designed to showcase the Gulf of Ajaccio, with highlights including views of the golf course and surrounding coastal scenery that are especially striking under the sun.

The Itinerary and Sights

Right from the start, you’ll be treated to the magnificent scenery—think rolling hills, crystal-clear waters, and rugged coastlines. The boat will cruise along the Gulf, giving you plenty of opportunities to take photos of the landscape and spot local wildlife or seabirds. The real highlight here is the Sanguinaires Islands, a small group of islands famous for their striking beauty and wild nature.

While the cruise doesn’t specify a detailed stop at each island, the main focus is on the enjoyment of the surroundings and the chance to swim in the wildest coves of Ajaccio Gulf. The water is described as turquoise and inviting, perfect for a refreshing break. The boat will anchor in a few locations where you can jump in, swim, or just relax on the deck.

The Swimming Experience

A key feature of this tour is the swimming stop in turquoise waters. Many reviews highlight this as a favorite part. You’ll love the way the calm, clear water makes for an ideal swim, especially in the more secluded coves. Keep in mind, though, that the exact spots can vary depending on weather and sea conditions, but the focus remains on giving guests a chance to cool off.

The Catering and Drinks

Food is included in the ticket price, with a focus on medium-sized salads with a vinegared rice base and various toppings like cucumber, radish, edamame, avocado, and pineapple. The proteins you can choose—teriyaki chicken, marinated salmon/shrimp, or falafels—add a nice touch, especially if you’re hungry after swimming or just want a light meal. The salads are garnished with red cabbage, raspberries, and sesame seeds, offering a sweet or savory sauce.

A snaking, soft bar is available on board, but alcoholic beverages are extra, so if you want a cold beer or a glass of wine, you’ll need to buy it separately. This setup makes the cruise flexible, but also means you might want to budget a little extra for drinks.

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The Atmosphere and Service

From reviews, it’s clear the team is attentive and focused on making the experience memorable. One reviewer even mentioned, “Staff was most hospitable,” which indicates a friendly and accommodating crew. The cruise’s size is comfortable enough to foster a relaxed, intimate environment without feeling crowded.

Is This Tour Worth It?

When evaluating value, consider the combination of scenic views, swimming, and catering included in the price. For around four hours, it’s a fairly relaxed way to explore the coastline, especially if you’re into being on the water and taking in beautiful vistas. While it’s not a high-adrenaline adventure, the peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery make it a good option for travelers looking to unwind.

The flexibility of being able to cancel up to 24 hours in advance and reserve now, pay later adds convenience, especially if your plans are still flexible. The fact that reviews praise the beauty of Corsica’s coastline and the hospitality of the crew is promising.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who desire a relaxed day on the water with scenic views, a bit of swimming, and light catering. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a moderate pace and don’t mind paying extra for drinks. If your main goal is a peaceful, picturesque experience with the chance to cool off and enjoy Corsica’s natural beauty, this tour ticks those boxes.

It may not be the best choice for those seeking a fast-paced or highly adventurous activity or travelers with specific dietary needs, since the menu is quite limited. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or require a lot of entertainment, you might find this tour a bit tranquil, but overall it’s a calming, scenic option.

Final Thoughts

The Ajaccio catamaran cruise to the Sanguinaires Islands offers a fine way to enjoy Corsica’s coast from a comfortable, scenic vantage point. The stunning views, swimming opportunities, and friendly crew are what most travelers rave about. It’s a laid-back experience that balances sightseeing with the chance to relax and cool off in beautiful waters.

If you’re someone who loves being on the water, appreciates nature’s quiet moments, and values good service, this tour is likely to satisfy your expectations. It’s not overly elaborate or packed with activities, but that’s part of its charm—offering a peaceful escape for a few hours.

For those seeking a straightforward, scenic day with memorable views and some swimming, this cruise could be one of the highlights of your trip to Ajaccio.

FAQs

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers the cruise itself, catering (salads with various proteins), and soft drinks. Alcoholic beverages are available but not included.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Is this experience suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-focused, it might suit families with older children who enjoy swimming and being on boats. Always check with the provider if you have specific needs.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, and perhaps a towel. The tour provides the main experience and catering.

Are the swimming spots safe?
The waters are described as turquoise and inviting, perfect for swimming, but always follow crew instructions and be cautious of sea conditions.

Is food included?
Yes, a light salad meal with proteins is included in the ticket price. Extra drinks, especially alcoholic ones, are at an additional cost.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour’s availability is subject to weather conditions, so check in advance. You might be able to reschedule or get a refund if canceled.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Travelers who want a relaxed, scenic experience with the chance to swim, enjoy good food, and take in Corsica’s beautiful coastlines. It’s perfect for those looking for a peaceful day on the water rather than high-energy adventure.

In the end, this catamaran cruise offers a pleasant way to see Corsica’s natural beauty in a calm, enjoyable setting. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small group, the views and the sea breeze can make for a memorable day. Just remember to bring your sunhat and an appetite for a light, tasty meal — and enjoy the ride.

You can check availability for your dates here: