If you’re dreaming of Corsica’s pristine beaches, this boat tour to Saleccia and Ghignu might catch your eye. We haven’t personally taken this exact trip, but based on reviews and the tour details, it offers a pretty appealing way to see some of the island’s most stunning shorelines while enjoying a relaxed boat ride. It’s perfect for travelers craving a peaceful escape, gorgeous scenery, and a bit of swimming in clear waters—without the hassle of driving or hiking.
What really stands out about this experience are the breathtaking beaches—white sands stretching for over a kilometer and waters so transparent you’ll want to gaze into them forever. Plus, the boat trip itself gets good marks for being comfortable and lively, with music, snorkel gear, and an easygoing crew. On the flip side, some reviews mention the trip feeling a bit rushed or pricey for what’s delivered. Still, if you’re after a scenic, unspoiled corner of Corsica, this tour could be worth your time. It’s best suited for those who love a mix of nature, quiet beaches, and a relaxed boat ride.
Key Points
- Stunning Beaches: Saleccia and Ghignu are some of the most beautiful spots in Corsica, accessible only by boat.
- Comfortable Experience: The boat is well-rated for comfort, music, and friendly crew.
- Snorkeling & Swimming: Includes time for swimming, with masks and snorkels provided.
- Limited Food & Drinks: You’ll need to bring your own if you want snacks or beverages.
- Duration & Flexibility: The trip lasts around 3 hours but reviews suggest some trips might feel shorter.
- Beautiful Views & Wildlife: Expect scenic landscapes, occasional cows wandering, and clear waters.
What the Tour Actually Looks Like
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Meeting Point & Access
Starting your journey from Ile Rousse, you’ll spot the green boat that’s your ride for the day. The meeting is straightforward, and the crew is generally friendly, making for a smooth start. The boat cruise to the Agriates Desert takes about 30 minutes—just enough time to relax and enjoy the views of the coast.
The Beaches of Saleccia & Ghignu
Saleccia Beach is a highlight for many travelers. Stretching over 1 km, it boasts dazzling white sand dunes and turquoise waters that seem to go on forever. The scenery here is quite diverse—dunes, desert rocks, and mountain backdrops that make it a photographer’s dream. We loved the way the sands shift in color and shape, giving each visit a new feel. You might even see cows wandering or taking a break nearby, adding to the raw, untouched vibe that makes Saleccia special.
Ghignu Beach is often praised as one of the most protected beaches in the area. Its gentle waters are superb for swimming, and the surrounding low hills filled with fragrant Maquis vegetation add a visual charm. The water here is considered among the purest around Corsica. The waves are calm, making it perfect for a relaxing swim and soaking in the surroundings. Wild cows roaming nearby lend a rustic, untouched feel to this isolated spot.
Time Spent on Each Beach
Most reviews indicate that the time allocated for swimming and exploring is around 45 minutes. Some travelers, however, express that the trip feels a bit rushed or that they didn’t get as much time as hoped. One review even noted, “We started from the port of Isola Rossa and took a half-hour boat ride to see Saleccia from afar, then another ten minutes to Ghignu, with only 45 minutes for swimming.”
More Great Tours NearbySnorkeling & Marine Experience
Masks and snorkels are included, giving you a chance to see the underwater world. While some reviews mention snorkeling was enjoyable, others note the presence of jellyfish and small fish, which might be less impressive than hoped. A few travelers wished for more snorkeling stops or longer swimming time to fully enjoy the waters.
The Crew and Atmosphere
The skipper and crew generally receive positive comments for their friendliness and professionalism. One reviewer noted, “Our guide gave us a friendly and energetic welcome,” which sets a good tone for the trip. The onboard music adds a relaxed vibe, making the journey more enjoyable.
Is It Worth the Price?
At $88 per person, the price is fairly standard for a half-day boat tour, especially considering the included snorkeling gear, crew, and the scenic experience. Some reviews suggest it’s a bit pricey, especially given the relatively short duration—some travelers felt it was not quite 3 hours, more like 2 hours and 20 minutes. The value depends on how much you prioritize scenery, comfort, and the experience of exploring these remote beaches.
What You Get for the Price
- Comfortable boat ride with music and snorkel gear
- Access to two of Corsica’s most mesmerizing beaches
- Scenic views of the Cap Corse mountains
- An easy, no-hassle way to reach these secluded spots
However, the lack of included food and drinks means you’ll need to bring your own snacks, which could add to your overall expense if you want a proper picnic. The short swimming and beach time mean you’re mainly paying for the scenic boat ride and the chance to see unspoiled beaches without the effort of hiking or driving.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic escape from the more crowded parts of Corsica. It suits travelers who enjoy boat rides, stunning coastal views, and peaceful beach time. It’s not a deep adventure or a lengthy excursion—more of a quick, beautiful snapshot of Corsica’s natural beauty. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner who appreciates quiet, scenic beaches and easygoing boat trips, this could be a perfect fit.
It’s also suitable for those who want to avoid hiking or driving, as access to the beaches is only by boat. Families with older kids might appreciate the gentle ride and scenic stops, but with no specific mention of child-friendly amenities, those with very young children should consider how long the boat ride and beach stops will hold their little ones’ attention.
The Bottom Line
If you’re after a peaceful, scenic escape to some of Corsica’s most beautiful, untouched beaches, this boat tour from Ile Rousse offers a memorable way to see Saleccia and Ghignu. The experience shines thanks to the stunning scenery, friendly crew, and the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters. While some reviews point out the trip feels a bit short or that the cost isn’t the best value, most agree that the beaches themselves are truly worth it.
This tour is a good choice if you appreciate relaxed days on beautiful beaches, don’t mind bringing your own snacks, and are looking for a hassle-free way to reach some of Corsica’s hidden treasures. Just keep in mind that the experience is somewhat limited in swimming time, which might be a drawback if you’re eager to spend hours in the water.
In summary, this trip is best suited for those who want a scenic, unspoiled getaway with a comfortable boat ride, and who value the chance to see Corsica’s coast from a different perspective. It’s a straightforward, beautiful excursion that offers a taste of the island’s wild, natural charm.
Ile Rousse: desert of the agriates : Saleccia – Ghignu
FAQs
How long is the boat trip?
The trip is advertised as lasting 3 hours, but some reviews suggest it may feel shorter—around 2 hours and 20 minutes. The cruise includes time for sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing.
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes the boat cruise, a skipper and crew, masks and snorkels for marine exploration, and music onboard. Food and drinks are not included, so bring your own if you want snacks or beverages.
Do I need to bring anything special?
It’s a good idea to bring sunscreen, water, and possibly a towel. Since food isn’t included, packing some snacks or a light picnic is recommended. Also, consider bringing your own water shoes if you prefer.
Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the gentle cruise and calm waters could make it suitable for older children. However, very young kids might get restless during the short stops and boat ride.
How accessible are these beaches?
They are only accessible by boat, which adds to their preserved, untouched charm. The boat ride is straightforward and doesn’t require any hiking or strenuous activity.
What do travelers think of this experience?
Reviews are generally positive, highlighting the stunning beaches and friendly guides. Some mention the trip feeling a bit rushed or expensive for the duration, but most agree that Saleccia and Ghignu are worth the visit.
In the end, this boat tour offers a lovely way to see some of Corsica’s most beautiful beaches with minimal effort. If you’re after peaceful, scenic beaches with good company and comfortable transportation, it’s a trip worth considering. Just plan ahead for snacks and be ready to enjoy the pristine waters and breathtaking views.
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