From Palau: South Corsica Trip by Wood Speedboat with Lunch

If you’re dreaming of sailing between Sardinia and Corsica, this tour might catch your eye. We’ve looked into it thoroughly to give you a real sense of what to expect, whether you’re considering booking or just curious about what’s on offer.

What instantly caught our attention is the adventurous spirit of this journey — a wooden speedboat whizzing across the sea, with plenty of spots to swim and snorkel. Plus, the delicious lunch on board sounds like a nice touch that adds to the relaxing vibe. On the flip side, this tour isn’t for everyone; it’s a full-day adventure that depends on weather, and it involves being on a boat with limited shelter, so if you’re prone to seasickness or want a more relaxed experience, it might be worth considering your options.

This trip seems best suited for active travelers who love spending time on the water, exploring secluded spots, and enjoying a good dose of sunshine and sea air. It’s genuinely appreciated by those who value knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, but do keep in mind the weather-dependent nature of the itinerary.

Key Points

• Beautiful Locations: Stops at Lavezzi and Piana offer some of the most scenic views in Corsica.
• Flexible Itinerary: Skippers tailor the route based on weather, ensuring the best experience.
• Comfortable Boat: The wooden motorboat has a vintage feel, with amenities like a sunbathing area, shaded space, and a bathroom.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: Multiple stops for swimming and snorkeling make the day active and refreshing.
• Fresh, Local Food: A hearty onboard lunch with fish and local produce is included, adding to the enjoyment.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, creating an intimate atmosphere and personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What This Tour Is All About

This tour is a seven- or eight-hour adventure that departs from northern Sardinia — either Palau or La Maddalena — taking you across the Strait of Bonifacio to explore the southern Corsican archipelago. The journey is designed to be a mix of sightseeing, swimming, relaxing, and good food, all wrapped up in the charm of a vintage wooden boat.

The Departure & Transportation

Starting from Palau or La Maddalena, you’ll meet your crew at a designated point whose exact location may vary. From there, a well-equipped, classic-looking boat awaits — think polished wood and a cozy vibe. If you’re coming from Palau, a small boat might take you to the main vessel, which happens smoothly and quickly, according to reviews. The maximum capacity is 10 plus crew, which keeps things intimate and manageable.

The Skippers & Guides

One thing many travelers highlight is the knowledgeable crew. They’re not just boat drivers but also storytellers, sharing anecdotes about the islands, cliffs, and local legends. According to reviews, captains Marco and Federico are friendly and attentive, always checking in to make sure everyone is comfortable and safe. They’ll decide on the best route based on weather, which actually works out well because it means less chance of a bumpy ride or missing out on the best spots.

The Itinerary Breakdown

While weather conditions may influence the exact stops, here’s what you can generally expect:

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Crossing from Sardinia to Corsica

The adventure kicks off with a scenic sail across the Strait of Bonifacio. You’ll witness the sea stretching wide between two islands, with plenty of opportunities for photos. This part of the journey alone sets a memorable scene — there’s something special about heading out on a vintage boat into open water.

Stop at Lavezzi Island and Cala Acciarino

The first main stop often is Lavezzi, a tiny island with crystal-clear waters. Here, you’ll have about an hour for swimming and snorkeling at Cala Acciarino, a small cove renowned for its turquoise waters. This stop is perfect for those who love a quick dip in unspoiled nature, with lots of colorful fish darting around. The reviews are glowing here: “All the places we stopped were so beautiful,” says Rashmi from the US.

Piana & the White Cliffs of Bonifacio

Next, the boat might cruise past or dock near Piana and the striking white cliffs of Bonifacio. If mooring is available in the harbor, you might get a chance for a short walk in the town of Bonifacio, known for its dramatic cliffs and lively streets. If not, the crew might simply anchor nearby, giving you a chance to admire the cliffs from the sea.

Swimming & Snorkeling in Iconic Spots

Multiple stops are included for swimming and snorkeling. Expect to spend about an hour at each, giving you enough time to float in calm waters and explore marine life. Many reviews mention the waters’ clarity and abundance of fish, making these stops particularly memorable.

Lunch on the Boat

One of the highlights is the onboard lunch — a generous spread of fresh fish, antipasti, and local produce. Reviewers rave about the quality: “The antipasti was very complete, and the pasta was delicious.” It’s served while you’re floating in a scenic spot, making for a laid-back yet delicious experience. The meal is hearty and well-loved, providing energy for the rest of the day.

Return Journey & Final Stops

After lunch, the boat might stop under the cliffs of Bonifacio or spend some time cruising back toward Sardinia. There’s also a chance to have a small snack or enjoy drinks while soaking in the views.

Real Traveler Insights: What People Say

The reviews paint a clear picture of what this trip offers. Paola from Poland calls it “the best time in my life,” highlighting how special the experience was. Rashmi emphasizes the comfort of the boat and the beauty of each stop, as well as the crew’s friendliness and knowledge. One reviewer from Spain notes that if they could give more stars, they would, praising the crew, the boat, and the “almost magical” calas.

Multiple travelers mention the stunning scenery and crystal waters as their favorite parts. The delicious food onboard is another big plus, described as “very special,” with fresh seafood and local touches making it stand out.

On the practical side, many appreciate the small group setting and the flexible itinerary that adjusts for weather, ensuring they still had a spectacular day despite sea conditions. The boat’s amenities, including a bathroom, a sunbathing area, and shaded space, contribute to comfort during the long day on the water.

Price & Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the overall experience seems to offer excellent value. You get a full day of sightseeing, swimming, good food, and personalized service in an intimate group. The inclusion of lunch and the small-group setting makes it feel well worth the price, especially considering the quality of guides and the stunning locations visited.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for active travelers who enjoy being on the water, exploring scenic spots, and sampling local cuisine. It’s perfect if you love small-group outings, want to avoid large crowds, and are comfortable on a boat for several hours. However, if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a more relaxed, land-based tour, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts

This South Corsica trip by wooden speedboat offers a compelling combination of adventure, scenery, and good food. The vintage boat, knowledgeable guides, and carefully chosen stops make it a memorable experience, especially for those who love a day spent exploring the sea’s hidden gems. The flexible itinerary and small-group nature mean it’s tailored for a more personal and authentic outing, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up breathtaking views.

It’s a perfect choice for travelers who crave active, scenic adventures and enjoy good company on the water. If you’re looking for a full-day escape into Corsica’s stunning coastlines and you’re comfortable on a boat, this tour won’t disappoint.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, giving plenty of time for sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing onboard.

Where does the tour depart from?
Depending on your booking, you’ll meet at the port of Palau or La Maddalena. The exact coordinates are 41.180763244628906, 9.386578559875488.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear. It’s also a good idea to wear comfortable clothing for the boat and bring some water.

Are there any age restrictions?
Infants up to 11 months are allowed free of charge but must be notified to the skipper. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

What kind of boat is used?
The boat is an 11-meter Sorrentine Gozzo Aurora with a vintage feel, equipped with a bathroom, sunbathing area, shaded space, and safety gear.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the itinerary may change depending on weather conditions, as decided by the skipper, to ensure safety and the best experience.

How many people are on each tour?
Groups are limited to 10 participants, making it a more intimate experience.

What is included in the lunch?
A onboard meal featuring fresh fish, antipasti, pasta, and local produce, often with drinks and a small snack.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing for flexible planning.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, it’s generally suitable for older children comfortable on a boat. Always notify the provider if traveling with infants or young kids.

If you’re craving a day of sea, sun, and spectacular views with a touch of adventure, this trip might just be the perfect fit. Just remember to check the weather forecast and come prepared for a fun, scenic ride through some of the most beautiful waters in the Mediterranean.

You can check availability for your dates here: