If you’re eyeing a day on the water exploring Corsica’s spectacular coastlines, the Lavezzi Islands full-day tour from Bonifacio might just be what you’re after. We’ve looked into what this experience offers, and it’s easy to see why many travelers give it high marks. It’s a blend of scenic beauty, fun activities, and good food—all wrapped up in a manageable 9-hour adventure.
What we really like about this trip is how it balances guided exploration and free time for swimming or relaxing on the beaches. Plus, the inclusion of snacks, a full meal, and opportunities for snorkeling make it feel like more than just a boat ride. That said, it’s worth considering that the tour doesn’t include transport to and from the port, so you’ll need to plan your logistics accordingly.
This experience suits those who want a comprehensive day out on the water—whether you’re into swimming, learning about Corsican scenery, or just enjoying a laid-back day with good company. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling solo, as the small group size helps create a friendly vibe. If you’re planning for a family trip, note that children under 3 and pregnant women aren’t recommended, but older kids will likely enjoy the adventure.
Key Points
- Beautiful Scenery and Guided Insights: Enjoy stunning views of Bonifacio’s cliffs and learn about the islands’ history from knowledgeable guides.
- Multiple Swimming Stops: Relax in crystal-clear waters, explore coves, and snorkel with provided masks and snorkels.
- Delicious Food Included: Savor a morning snack, a full meal featuring local flavors, and an aperitif at the end.
- Small Group Experience: Limited to 12 participants, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.
- Activities for Everyone: Paddleboarding, snorkeling, swimming, and simply lounging on boat decks.
- Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the option to reserve without immediate payment.
The Experience in Detail
Starting from the picturesque port of Bonifacio, this tour sets the tone for a relaxing yet adventurous day. You meet your guide at the main port, on the north quay, pontoon D, ready to set sail. The boat itself is comfortable enough for a full day on the water, with plenty of space to spread out, even in the sun, as one traveler pointed out how some areas might be in direct sunlight—an important consideration if you’re sensitive to heat.
Once underway, the real magic begins. The crew takes you around the Lavezzi Islands, a protected archipelago famed for its stunning coves and clear waters. As you cruise, your guide shares insights about the area’s history, making this more than just a sightseeing trip. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable and friendly captains, with one traveler noting how their guide’s humor and passion made the day especially memorable.
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Snorkeling and Swimming
The highlight for many is the multiple swimming stops. The waters here are genuinely as beautiful as they look in photos—turquoise, calm, and inviting. The crew provides masks and snorkels, so you’ll have the chance to explore underwater life in the calm coves. Several visitors mentioned how the snorkeling was a real treat, with Benoît, the guide, knowing the best spots for swimming and exploring. Just remember, some reviews suggest updating the snorkel gear to improve comfort or visibility.
Beaches and Coves
The beaches on the islands are predominantly white sandy stretches, perfect for soaking up the sun and listening to the gentle lapping of waves. One reviewer described the swimming spots as “gorgeous,” emphasizing how peaceful and unspoiled the scenery is. You can lounge on the boat or walk along the coves for some quiet time away from crowds.
Food and Drinks
Food is a big part of the day. You’ll enjoy a morning snack before heading out, and later, a full meal, which includes local specialties like charcuterie and cheese. Several reviews highlight how good the food is, with one traveler mentioning the “excellent Corsican charcuterie and cheeses”—simple, honest fare that adds to the relaxed vibe. The tour also offers cold drinks and an aperitif at the end, perfect for toasting the day’s adventures.
More Great Tours NearbyActivities and Extras
Beyond swimming and lounging, you can try paddleboarding, which some guests found fun and a nice addition to the day. The crew’s emphasis on small-group interactions creates a friendly atmosphere where everyone feels involved.
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Overall Value
At $194 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience. It includes most essentials—snacks, meals, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and drinks—which makes it good value for a full day of activities and scenery. The small group size and knowledgeable guides contribute significantly to the overall quality, creating a personal, engaging experience.
What Could Be Better
While most reviews are glowing, there are some points to consider. One guest noted that the boat can get warm in the sun, and some snorkel masks might be better if upgraded. Also, since transport to the port isn’t included, you’ll need to organize your own way there, which can be a logistical consideration depending on where you’re staying.
Another review mentioned how the lunch portion might be small for some—a simple charcuterie platter for two—so if you’re very hungry, you might want to bring extra snacks. It’s worth noting that there’s no mention of vegetarian options, though they did accommodate one guest’s dietary needs.
Who This Tour is Perfect For
This trip is ideal for those who appreciate scenic boat rides combined with active swimming and snorkeling, all with a relaxed pace. It’s great for travelers who want to learn about the islands from a friendly guide while enjoying quality local food. The limited group size makes it perfect for anyone who prefers a more intimate experience rather than large, crowded tours.
If you’re traveling with well-behaved older children, they’ll likely enjoy the activities and scenery as well. However, it’s not suited for very young kids or pregnant women, based on safety recommendations.
FAQ
Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, masks and snorkels are provided as part of the tour, but some guests suggest upgrading the gear for better comfort or visibility.
Is transportation to the port included?
No, the tour does not include pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to make your way to the meeting point at the main port of Bonifacio.
What should I bring for the day?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes. The boat can get warm in the sun, so dress accordingly.
Can I bring extra food or drinks?
While drinks are provided, you might want to bring extra snacks if you’re especially hungry, as the included meal might be small for some.
Is the tour suitable for families?
It’s mainly intended for travelers over 3 years old and not suitable for pregnant women. Older children interested in swimming and snorkeling should enjoy it.
How long is the tour?
It lasts around 9 hours, starting from the port of Bonifacio, with multiple stops for swimming, exploring, and relaxing.
Bonifacio: Lavezzi Islands Full day Trip by Boat
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a day filled with stunning scenery, friendly guides, and memorable activities, this Lavezzi Islands boat trip hits the right notes. It offers a balanced mix of relaxation, exploration, and good local flavors, all wrapped in a small-group setting that feels personalized. The price reflects the comprehensive experience, and most travelers walk away with a sense of having truly enjoyed Corsica’s natural beauty.
This tour is especially worth considering if you love being on the water, exploring untouched coves, and tasting authentic Corsican food without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. Just be sure to organize your transport to the port and pack the essentials for a comfortable day under the sun.
In the end, it’s an experience that many seem to cherish—one that combines nature, culture, and good company into a single day of adventure. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small group of friends, it could be just the escape you need from the typical vacation grind.
Enjoy your trip and happy sailing!
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