From Ota: Scandola Nature Reserve Eco-Friendly Boat Tour

If you’re considering a boat trip around Corsica, especially to see the spectacular Scandola Nature Reserve, this tour from Porto might just be one to add to your list. While I haven’t done it myself, I’ve dug into what makes this experience special—and what you should keep in mind before booking.

What really draws us in is the chance to explore a UNESCO World Heritage site in a way that respects the environment, sailing in silence on a hybrid, eco-friendly boat. Plus, the visit to the secluded village of Girolata sounds like a peaceful escape that’s only possible by sea. On the flip side, some reviews flag issues like less-than-ideal seating views and logistical quirks, so it’s worth weighing these factors. This tour seems like a great pick for those who love nature, wildlife, and scenic coastlines—especially if you’re keen on eco-conscious travel.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly focus: The boat is a hybrid vessel, allowing for quiet exploration and less environmental impact.
• Unique access: Only reachable by boat, Girolata offers a chance to visit a truly remote village.
• Wildlife spotting: Expect to see local seabirds like sea eagles and peregrine falcons, along with marine life.
• Flexible options: You can upgrade your tour to include the Calanche de Piana rock formations for breathtaking views.
• Duration and pricing: At around 3 to 4.5 hours and $53 per person, it offers a full experience at a reasonable price.
• Potential drawbacks: Seating arrangements and the timing of stops might not suit everyone, and some found the stop in Girolata less compelling.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This boat trip from Porto is designed to give you a balanced mix of nature, scenic beauty, and a taste of local life. The tour starts at the Nave Va kiosk, where you’ll pick up your tickets and then board the eco-friendly hybrid vessel. The emphasis on a quieter, greener mode of transportation means you’ll be traveling with less noise and pollution, which enhances the experience of observing wildlife and the stunning coastline.

Your adventure begins with a 20-minute guided cruise across the Gulf of Porto. This initial leg serves as a warm-up and provides great views of the surrounding cliffs and waters. Be prepared for some beautiful scenery, with cliffs and caves making for excellent photo opportunities. Many reviews mention how the views are truly stunning, especially when the boat glides past rugged rock formations and striking coastlines.

Next, you’ll arrive at Girolata, a tiny coastal village that’s only accessible by boat or on foot. You’ll have around 30 minutes to explore—enough time to wander the narrow streets, spot the wild cows roaming freely, or take a quick swim at the beach. Some travelers, like one reviewer, found this stop somewhat “pointless,” but others appreciate the chance to stretch their legs and enjoy the quiet atmosphere of this untouched village.

The core of the tour is the 100-minute visit inside the Scandola Nature Reserve. This UNESCO-listed site is protected, so the boat can only approach so close, but it’s enough to see the spectacular cliffs, sea caves, and endemic wildlife from a respectful distance. Expect to learn about the ecosystem from onboard commentary, which is in French, so a basic understanding of the language helps. Wildlife lovers will enjoy spotting sea eagles and falcons soaring overhead or perched on rocky ledges, as one reviewer pointed out.

Finally, the tour concludes with another 30-minute sightseeing cruise of the Gulf of Porto, giving you a last glance at the dramatic coastline before heading back to port. If you’ve upgraded, you’ll enjoy the optional extension to Calanche de Piana, a zone famous for its pink granite rock formations shaped by centuries of wind and sea spray—an incredibly photogenic landscape.

The Experience in Detail

The Boat and Comfort

The boat itself is described as eco-friendly and hybrid, which is a significant plus if you’re eco-conscious. It’s designed to operate quietly, especially when in the Scandola Reserve, minimizing disturbance to wildlife. Priority boarding ensures you get good seating, but some reviews note that if you’re seated inside or on the wrong side, you might miss out on the best views. Others appreciated sitting upstairs, especially on the second deck, which offers better vantage points for photos.

The Itinerary Breakdown

• Gulf of Porto (20 mins): A gentle introduction with panoramic views of the coastline. Expect to get a feel for the area’s dramatic cliffs and sea caves.
• Girolata (30 mins): Offers a rare glimpse of a village only accessible by sea, nestled among striking natural surroundings. You can explore the village, enjoy a swim, or just relax.
• Scandola Nature Reserve (100 mins): The highlight of the trip. You’ll get to see cliffs, caves, and marine life from the boat. The reserve is highly protected, so the approach is respectful and limited in proximity, but the scenery more than makes up for it.
• Gulf of Porto (30 mins): A scenic cruise back, offering more spectacular views of the coastline.

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Wildlife and Ecology

This tour is great for nature lovers. The onboard commentary provides insight into the local ecosystem, which enhances the experience. Birdwatchers will find it rewarding, with sightings of sea eagles and peregrine falcons. Marine life sightings are possible, and the quiet nature of the hybrid boat makes it easier to observe without disturbing the environment.

Visiting Girolata

The 30-minute stop in Girolata is a highlight for many, as it offers a glimpse into a village that feels almost untouched by time. The few streets are scenic, and the resident wild cows add a touch of rustic charm. Some reviewers, however, found this stop a bit underwhelming or unnecessary, especially if you’re not interested in wandering around or swimming.

Optional Extension to Calanche de Piana

The upgrade to include the Calanche de Piana is highly recommended if you want to see one of Corsica’s most iconic landscapes. The pink granite formations are striking and make for a memorable photo session. This part of the tour takes about an hour and offers a different dimension to your experience.

Price and Value

At around $53 per person for a 3 to 4.5-hour tour, the price feels reasonable given the scenery, wildlife, and the eco-conscious approach. Food and drinks are not included, so bringing your own snacks or water is advisable—especially if you’re planning to spend a good chunk of time on the boat. The tour offers good value for those interested in ecology and scenic beauty, but some might find the stop in Girolata less engaging.

What Reviewers Say

Many reviews echo the stunning beauty of the scenery, with comments like “la réserve de Scandola” and “parfaite” indicating satisfaction. However, some travelers noted issues, such as seating views being less ideal if seated inside, or feeling the stop at Girolata was “pointless.” One traveler highlighted that the boat ride was sometimes quick, which might make it feel rushed—something to consider if you prefer a more leisurely pace.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is tailored for nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and those who appreciate scenic coastlines. It’s suitable for travelers interested in eco-friendly travel, as the hybrid boat minimizes environmental impact. Given the language of the onboard commentary is French, basic understanding of the language will enhance the experience, but it’s not a deal-breaker. It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues or electric wheelchairs, as only non-electric wheelchairs are permitted onboard, and the tour involves some walking and swimming at Girolata.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a unique way to experience Corsica’s breathtaking coastline and wildlife, this eco-friendly boat tour offers a compelling combination of scenic vistas, ecological respect, and small village charm. The approach to the Scandola Nature Reserve feels intimate, and the optional extension to the Calanche de Piana adds an extra layer of visual drama.

While some may find the stops a little rushed or the seating arrangements less ideal, overall, the trip balances natural beauty with responsible tourism. It’s a journey that suits travelers who value scenery, wildlife, and a quieter, more sustainable way of traveling on the water.

This experience is especially well-suited for those who want to see Corsica’s wild side without the crowds, and who appreciate a boat ride that’s gentle on the environment. If that sounds like your kind of outing, it’s likely to leave you with plenty of memorable moments.

FAQ

Is the boat tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Only non-electric wheelchairs are allowed onboard, and some walking may be involved. It might not be ideal if you require extensive mobility assistance.

How long is the tour?
The basic tour lasts approximately 3 hours, but with the optional extension to Calanche de Piana, it can go up to 4.5 hours.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps some snacks or drinks, as food and beverages are not included.

Will I get good views?
Yes, the boat’s design and the route focus on scenic vistas of cliffs, caves, and wildlife, and many reviews praise the stunning scenery.

Is the tour eco-friendly?
Absolutely. The vessel is a hybrid, allowing for silent, environmentally conscious cruising—particularly important in the protected Scandola Reserve.

Can I swim during the tour?
Swimming is possible at Girolata’s beach, which is part of the stop. Just bring your swim gear.

Is there a language barrier?
The onboard commentary is in French. Basic understanding will enhance your experience, but it’s not strictly necessary to enjoy the scenery.

Whether you’re after incredible views, wildlife spotting, or a peaceful escape to a remote village, this tour offers a meaningful glimpse of Corsica’s natural beauty—just keep your expectations aligned with the practicalities, and you’ll likely find it well worth the price.

You can check availability for your dates here: