Santa-Giulia: Half-day trip to the Lavezzi Islands

If you’re planning a day on the water around Corsica, a half-day trip to the Lavezzi Islands from Santa Giulia could be just what you’re looking for. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on reviews and details, it seems like a lovely way to experience some of Corsica’s most beautiful spots without spending a whole day on a boat.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the intimate setup—limited to just 12 people—which makes for a more relaxed and personal experience. Plus, the chance to snorkel in protected waters and enjoy fantastic sea views are big pluses. One thing to consider, though, is the tour’s duration—at just four hours, it’s a quick taste of the islands, so if you’re after a full-day adventure, you might want to look for longer options.

This experience suits travelers who want a comfortable, scenic outing with easy access to nature and marine life, especially if snorkeling is a highlight for you. It’s also ideal for those who prefer small-group tours over large, crowded excursions.

Key Points

• Small group size offers a more personal and comfortable experience.
• Snorkeling in protected waters allows close encounters with marine life.
• Unspoiled scenery and stunning sea views are central to the trip.
• Relaxed pace with multiple swimming and snorkeling stops.
• Informative guides with local knowledge enhance the experience.
• Cost-effective at $99, considering the boat, snorkeling gear, and refreshments included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

This trip begins at Santa Giulia beach, where you’ll meet your captain and board the boat, Libertà. The boat is typically cozy, limited to a small group, which means you’ll get a more relaxed experience—not the chaos of larger cruise vessels.

The journey starts heading southward, cruising between the wild coves and turquoise lagoons that make Corsica’s coastline so special. The boat’s route is designed to maximize your scenic views, giving you plenty of opportunities to snap photos of rocks, islands, and shimmering water.

The Stops: Highlights of the Day

Roches Blanches: Your first stop is at this luminous spot, perfect for a swim in the crystal-clear sea. The reviews highlight this as a favorite part—”a superbe après-midi,” as Vincent put it, with family and friends enjoying the water. The calm, protected waters make it ideal for a relaxing float or some light snorkeling.

Cavallo Island: Heading past this private island, you’ll learn about its history and see its old villas, only accessible by sea. While there’s no snorkeling here, the views of the island’s timeless villas against the sea backdrop are quite something.

Lavezzu: The real star of the trip—this is the snorkeling paradise. With masks and snorkels provided, you’ll have the chance to observe marine life in clear waters. Reviews consistently praise the abundance of fish and the quality of the snorkeling spots, making it a real highlight of the experience. As Mathilde noted, “a grand temps de baignade,” or plenty of swimming time amid fish.

Porto Novo: On your way back, you’ll stop for a final swim in this pristine bay. It’s a chance to unwind and soak in the last views of unspoiled nature.

What’s Included and What to Bring

You’ll receive masks, snorkels, cold drinks, and Corsican cookies (canistrelli), which add a local touch to your refreshment. The drinks are appreciated, especially on warmer days, and the cookies are a nice snack to enjoy while cruising or relaxing in the water.

What to bring? Sunglasses, a towel, and beachwear are essentials. Since pets and children under 3 aren’t allowed, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a bit of water activity and a relaxed pace.

The Experience and Atmosphere

From reviews, it’s clear that the guides make a difference. Descriptions highlight knowledgeable and friendly skippers, like Hugo and Patrick, who go out of their way to make the trip enjoyable. Mathilde appreciated that her guide even lent her mother a fridge to keep her medicines cool—a small gesture that shows attention to detail and genuine care.

The boat itself is described as comfortable, and the small group size means fewer crowds and more personal attention. You’ll love the sea views—between islands, lagoons, and rocky outcrops—these make for great photo opportunities. Despite some mentions of choppy waves, most travelers found the boat trips safe and enjoyable, thanks to the professionalism of the skippers.

The overall atmosphere is one of relaxed discovery. Whether you’re swimming amid schools of fish or lounging with a snack, the tone set by the crew is friendly and laid-back.

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The Value for Money

At $99 per person, this tour is quite reasonable, especially when you consider the inclusions—snorkel gear, drinks, cookies—and the personalized experience. Reviewers mention that the stops feel well-paced, and the highlight spots are worth the price for their scenic beauty and marine life encounters.

If you’re someone who wants to see unspoiled parts of Corsica without the hassle of organizing transport or gear, this tour offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to do so. It’s a good value for those looking for a balanced mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and light adventure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is most suited for travelers who appreciate small-group tours and want a relaxed, scenic outing. If you love snorkelling and being in the water, you’ll find this especially appealing. It’s also great for those interested in discovering sites that are away from the usual tourist trails, in a setting where guides are knowledgeable and friendly.

However, it’s not ideal if you’re traveling with very young children under 3, pregnant, or have mobility issues, as the tour isn’t designed to accommodate those needs. If you’re after a full-day adventure or want more extensive exploration of Corsica’s coastline, consider longer or different tour options.

Final Thoughts

For a quick, laid-back taste of the Lavezzi Islands, this half-day trip from Santa Giulia hits the right notes. It combines stunning scenery, marine encounters, and personalized service with a reasonable price. Whether it’s your first time exploring Corsica’s coast or you’re returning and want a relaxed day on the water, this tour offers a memorable snapshot of the region’s beauty.

The mix of knowledgeable guides, unspoiled locations, and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling make it a solid choice for travelers who value comfort and authenticity in equal measure. Just remember, it’s a shorter trip—great for a quick escape, but if you’re craving more time in the water or to explore further, you might look for longer excursions.

If you’re ready for a peaceful, scenic boat ride with friendly company and plenty of chances to swim, this could be one of your highlights in Corsica.

FAQ

Is transportation to and from the hotel included?
No, you’ll need to arrange your own transport to Santa Giulia pier, but the meeting point is clearly opposite the Moby Dick hotel.

How long is the tour?
It lasts 4 hours, which is perfect if you want a taste of the islands without dedicating a full day.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunglasses, a towel, and beachwear. It’s also a good idea to wear or bring a hat for sun protection.

Are snacks and drinks included?
Yes, cold drinks and Corsican cookies are provided on board.

Can children join this tour?
It’s not suitable for children under 3 years, so check your children’s ages before booking.

What is the group size?
Limited to 12 participants, making for a more intimate experience.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, masks and snorkels are included, so you can enjoy the underwater scenery easily.

Is this tour available in other languages?
The live guide speaks French, so some content is shown in its original language. Keep that in mind if you’re not fluent.

This Lavezzi Islands trip offers a relaxed, scenic, and engaging way to see parts of Corsica that are mostly untouched and beautiful. If you enjoy small-group adventures with opportunities to swim, snorkel, and enjoy spectacular views, give it a look.

You can check availability for your dates here: