Porto-Vecchio: Half-day private dive to the Cerbicale Islands

If you’re dreaming of exploring Corsica’s underwater scene without the crowds and with personalized attention, this half-day private dive to the Cerbicale Islands might just be a highlight of your trip. While I haven’t personally tried it, I’ve gathered enough details to give you a good sense of what you can expect.

What truly stands out about this experience is its focus on safety and tailored experiences—they’re serious about making sure everyone feels comfortable, whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced diver. Plus, you’ll love how the sites are carefully chosen for their calm waters and clarity, making it a great environment for exploring. On the downside, if you’re short on time or prefer broader, more adventurous dives, this might feel a bit limited. However, for those wanting a relaxed, intimate introduction to Corsica’s underwater beauty, this tour fits the bill.

This experience is best for travelers seeking a calm, scenic, and personalized diving outing—it’s especially suited for beginners because the focus on safety and comfort is clear. It’s also ideal for anyone wanting to see less-crowded, wild sites that haven’t been overrun by travelers.

Key Points

• Personalized private group experience for more tailored attention
• Suitable for both beginners and experienced divers, thanks to instructor-led safety
• Exploration of wild, unspoiled dive sites away from crowds
• Flexibility in timing with options in the morning or afternoon
• All gear is included, so you don’t need to bring much
• The tour provides an opportunity for snorkeling and underwater exploration beyond the dive

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Dive Experience

When you sign up for this half-day private tour with KALLISTE PLONGEE, you’re signing up for more than just a quick dip. Starting at either 8:30 AM or 2:30 PM at their hut on Palombaggia Beach, you’ll first get equipped with all the necessary gear—long wetsuits, fins, and diving equipment. If you’re used to diving, you’ll appreciate the attention to safety and the experience of the instructors, who ensure everyone is comfortable and well-prepared.

You’ll then board a boat with the guides, Ange and Cyril, heading toward the Cerbicale Islands. These sites are carefully selected to offer flat, clear waters, ideal for a relaxed dive experience. The underwater scenery is described as wild and rich, promising a good variety of marine life and underwater features. Expect to dive with your instructor for about an hour, during which you’ll see what makes Corsica’s marine environment special.

After the dive, you’ll enjoy a snack and some downtime to absorb the beauty of your surroundings, with the sounds of seagulls in the background. If you’re interested, you can also snorkel around the islands or try underwater scooters (which they can provide). The return is scheduled around noon or early evening, depending on your chosen start time.

The Dive Site: A Closer Look

The Cerbicale Islands are a highlight of this tour, chosen specifically for their peaceful, flat waters and good visibility—perfect for enjoying the underwater world without the usual turbulence or crowds. The fact that the site is still relatively untouched by mass tourism means you’ll have a more authentic and intimate experience.

Many reviewers note that the site offers wild, rich scenery, with some describing it as a highlight of their Corsican trip. The underwater landscape features formations and marine life that are less disturbed by heavy tourism, which adds a special touch to your outing.

The underwater scooters are a bonus, giving you a fun way to explore more of the underwater surroundings if you want a break from traditional diving.

The Focus on Safety and Comfort

Safety seems to be at the core of this experience, which is reassuring whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned diver. The fact that one instructor stays on the boat ensures surface safety, while the dive itself is supervised by professionals. The use of long wetsuits and quality gear enhances comfort and safety, especially in Corsica’s sometimes cooler waters.

The tour’s emphasis on tailor-made experiences means that the instructors are willing to adapt to your comfort level. The age restrictions (not suitable for children under 4, pregnant women, or those with certain medical conditions) show a clear focus on ensuring everyone’s safety.

Practical Details and Booking

Starting at Palombaggia Beach, the meeting point is very straightforward—just contact the hut directly with coordinates provided. This makes it easy to find and plan your day.

Flexibility in booking is a plus: you can reserve now and pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The group is private, so the experience is exclusive and personalized.

Price-wise, considering all gear, the private attention, and the included snacks and snorkeling, it seems like a good value if you’re looking for a high-quality, intimate experience rather than a large group tour.

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What People Say

While reviews specifically for this tour are limited, the overall provider rating of 4.9 suggests high satisfaction. Travelers tend to appreciate the personalized care, the scenery, and the peace of mind with safety protocols in place. One reviewer noted, “The water was so calm and clear, it felt like floating in a private aquarium,” which captures the experience well.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this half-day private dive to the Cerbicale Islands offers a wonderful way to enjoy Corsica’s marine life in a relaxed, safe, and personalized setting. It’s best suited for those who want to avoid busy tourist spots and prefer a more intimate encounter with nature. If you’re new to diving but eager to explore underwater, this tour might be a perfect choice thanks to its focus on safety and comfort. More experienced divers will still find value in the undisturbed sites and the flexibility of the experience.

If you’re after a scenic, calm, and well-organized activity that combines the thrill of diving with the tranquility of unspoiled nature, this tour ticks many boxes. Just keep in mind the physical restrictions and the time commitment—this isn’t a full-day adventure but a well-paced, focused outing.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s ideal for both beginners and experienced divers. The focus on safety and the presence of professional instructors make it accessible for those new to scuba or snorkeling.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunglasses, and maybe a hat. All diving gear, wetsuits, fins, and snorkel equipment are provided, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own.

Can I snorkel after the dive?
Absolutely. You can enjoy snorkeling around the islands if you wish, and underwater scooters are available to enhance your exploration.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Are children allowed on this tour?
This experience isn’t suitable for children under 4 years or individuals with certain medical conditions, so check your health status before booking.

Is there an option to reserve and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay nothing upfront, making planning easier without immediate commitment.

If you’re after a quiet, scenic, and safe introduction to Corsica’s underwater world, this private tour seems like a well-thought-out, enjoyable option. It balances adventure with relaxation, perfect for those looking to experience Corsica beyond the usual crowded spots, all while ensuring you’re in good hands.

You can check availability for your dates here: