Ajaccio: Excursion, Sailing Scandola Nature Reserve

If you’re considering a boat trip around Corsica, especially one that promises both nature’s beauty and a bit of adventure, this Sailing Scandola Nature Reserve tour from Ajaccio might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t done this exact trip myself, I’ve looked into what makes it special (and what to keep in mind) to help you decide if it’s the right fit.

What we love about this experience is the small, human-sized boats that foster a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere — perfect for chatting with the crew and fellow travelers. Plus, the all-inclusive nature takes the guesswork out of planning, meaning your focus can be on enjoying the scenery and the company.

One possible consideration? The duration of around 8 hours might feel long if you’re not used to full-day boat trips or traveling with little kids. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a full day of exploring by sea and don’t mind a bit of a boat ride.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day with a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and local flavor, this tour could suit you well. It’s particularly appealing for travelers who love stunning coastlines and natural wonders, and who enjoy a small group setting for a more personal experience.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience simplifies your day, including meals and activities
• Small group size (limited to 12 participants) enhances intimacy and flexibility
• Focus on scenic highlights: Scandola Reserve, Girolata, Calanques de Piana, Capo Rosso
• Perfect for those who enjoy a full-day adventure with swimming, sightseeing, and leisurely stops
• Suitable for travelers comfortable with boat trips lasting around 8 hours
• Not ideal for children under 6 or pregnant women due to boat ride length and activity nature

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and First Leg: The Journey Begins

The tour kicks off early from Gueritte sur le port Tino Rossi, a convenient and scenic meeting point in Ajaccio. From there, you board a human-sized RIB — a small, nimble boat designed for a relaxed, fun sailing experience. The boat’s size promotes conversations, and the crew’s friendly vibe makes for a welcoming start.

The Marvels of Scandola Reserve

The highlight of the trip is undoubtedly the Scandola Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This area is famous for vertiginous cliffs, inaccessible islets, and an array of caves. The boat will cruise along the cliffs of Ryolites, showcasing dramatic rock formations that have been shaped over eons.

A real treat here is the one-hour trip to Pointe de Scandola, including a swim stop in the calm, turquoise waters. This break lets you dip your toes in nature’s pool, and many travelers describe the experience as “full of surprises”. You might find yourself marveling at the flora and fauna that thrive in this wild environment.

Exploring Hidden Spots and Caves

The boat will weave through caves and along inaccessible islets, revealing spectacular views that are hard to reach otherwise. The vivid contrast of the red granite cliffs and the blue sea creates photo opportunities you won’t want to miss. As one visitor shared, “It was a wonderful trip — magnificent rocks formation, swimming in turquoise water, a little village with cows on the beach.”

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Lunch in Girolata

Midday brings a relaxing stop in Girolata, a charming fishing village in the Corsican Regional Nature Park. Here, you get about two hours to enjoy lunch — and the views are as good as the food. Several restaurants serve delicious local produce, often with a view. Reservations are recommended, but you can also bring your own picnic and enjoy it on the beach, which is often quiet and scenic.

The Coastline and Calanques de Piana

Post-lunch, the boat heads towards Calanques de Piana, an area renowned for heart-shaped cliffs and red granite formations. This stretch offers some of the most breathtaking scenery on Corsica’s west coast. The boat will navigate through caves and along cliffs, giving you a sense of the scale and beauty of this rugged coastline.

Final Stop: Capo Rosso and Snorkeling

The journey wraps up at Capo Rosso, where you’ll have the chance to swim in the clear waters. Bring your masks and snorkels to see schools of fish and underwater life — a refreshing way to end a busy day of sightseeing.

What the Reviews Say

One traveler from Canada raved: “It was a wonderful trip — magnificent rocks formation, swimming in turquoise water, and a small village with cows on the beach. Beautiful nature and very exciting sailing on the small speedy boat.” That sense of awe at the landscape seems to be a common theme among reviewers.

Another from France shared: “Le skipper et son assistante nous ont fait vivre un vrai moment d’aventure et de découverte, avec beaucoup d’attention, de gentillesse et de professionnalisme.” Clearly, the crew’s friendliness and professionalism add to the overall positive experience.

What Makes It Stand Out

The stunning views of cliffs, caves, and islets are consistently praised. The small-group setting and all-inclusive format also receive high marks for making the day both comfortable and memorable.

Possible Downsides

While most reviews are glowing, some might find the long boat ride demanding, especially if they’re prone to seasickness or traveling with very young children. The tour is not suitable for kids under 6 or pregnant women due to these factors.

The Practical Side: What to Expect and Bring

Duration and Group Size

At 8 hours, this is a full-day outing — so it’s best suited for those who enjoy spending a good chunk of time on the water. The small group (up to 12 people) means more personalized attention, but also requires early booking to secure a spot.

What to Bring

The tour suggests packing beachwear — think swimsuits, towels, and sunscreen. It’s a good idea to bring snorkel masks and fins, as the waters are clear and full of fish. Bring some snacks or a small picnic if you prefer not to dine out in Girolata, and a camera to capture all those incredible views.

Cost and Value

While the price isn’t explicitly listed, the all-inclusive nature and small-group experience often justify a higher cost than larger tours. Considering the comprehensive itinerary, stunning scenery, and local guide, many would find this day trip good value for a memorable Corsican adventure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This sailing trip is ideal for adventurous travelers who love nature and scenic landscapes, and who enjoy a full-day boat experience. It’s perfect if you thrive on exploring inaccessible natural sites, swimming in pristine waters, and prefer a smaller, more personal group rather than large cruise-style tours.

Since the trip involves a boat ride of several hours, it’s best for those comfortable with being on the water for an extended period. It’s not a great pick for very young children or pregnant women, but older kids who enjoy boat rides could find it a memorable experience.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6 due to the length of the boat ride and activity nature. Older children who enjoy boat trips should find it enjoyable.

What languages are the guides speaking?
The live tour guides speak French and Corsican, so some familiarity with these languages can enhance the experience.

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

Is lunch included?
Lunch isn’t included, but you’ll have two hours in Girolata to eat at local restaurants or enjoy a picnic. The tour is all-inclusive in terms of activities and boat ride.

What should I bring?
Pack beachwear, sunscreen, possibly snorkel gear, and a camera. Remember to bring towels if you plan to swim.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
While not explicitly stated, boat trips like this are generally weather-sensitive. It’s wise to check the forecast and understand the cancellation policy if bad weather is forecasted.

How big are the boats?
They are described as “human-sized RIBs,” small and nimble, which helps foster a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

What are the main highlights?
Expect stunning cliffs, caves, turquoise waters for swimming, and a chance to see Corsica’s wild coast from a unique perspective.

How long is the entire trip?
Approximately 8 hours, including stops for swimming, lunch, and sightseeing along the coast.

Final Thoughts

This Ajaccio sailing adventure to the Scandola Nature Reserve offers a well-rounded taste of Corsica’s most spectacular coastal scenery. The combination of natural wonders, charming villages, and intimate boat experiences makes it a solid choice if you’re after an authentic, memorable day on the water.

While it’s not suited for very young children or those with mobility issues, it shines for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, swimming, and exploring rugged coastlines. The small group size and friendly crew help create a more personal, engaging atmosphere — ideal for those wanting to connect with nature and fellow explorers.

If you’re craving dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters combined with a touch of adventure, this tour will likely deliver exactly that. Just be prepared for a full day, and consider your comfort with boat trips before booking.

Happy sailing and exploring Corsica’s stunning coast!

You can check availability for your dates here: