From Ota: Scandola Nature Reserve Eco-Friendly Boat Tour

Key Points

• Eco-friendly hybrid boat offers a quiet, low-impact way to explore the Scandola Nature Reserve
• 3 to 4.5 hours tour with priority boarding and live French commentary
• Includes a 30-minute visit to the secluded village of Girolata, accessible only by sea
• Opportunity to upgrade experience with an optional trip to the Calanche de Piana
• Wildlife sightings feature sea eagles, peregrine falcons, and marine life
• Tour departs from Nave Va kiosk in Porto

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Corsica’s Ecological Marvels on an Eco-Friendly Boat

The From Ota: Scandola Nature Reserve Eco-Friendly Boat Tour offers an engaging way to see some of Corsica’s most dramatic landscapes. For $53 per person, this 3 to 4.5-hour experience features a hybrid vessel that sails silently through the waters, minimizing environmental impact. Departing from Nave Va in Porto, the tour provides a balance of wildlife viewing, scenic beauty, and cultural discovery, making it ideal for those who appreciate nature and tranquility.

This tour is especially appealing to visitors who value sustainability and want to explore Corsica’s UNESCO-listed Scandola Nature Reserve without the noise and pollution often associated with motorized boats. The priority boarding ensures a comfortable journey with prime seating options, allowing everyone to make the most of the views. For those interested in extending the adventure, an optional upgrade includes a visit to the Calanche de Piana, renowned for its pink granite formations.

Departing from Porto’s Nave Va Kiosk for a Coastal Guided Tour

The journey begins at the Nave Va kiosk in Porto, where guests check in and board the eco-hybrid boat. The vessel’s silent electric mode is used when inside the Scandola Reserve, enhancing wildlife observation without disturbance. The group then sets off across the Gulf of Porto, with a 20-minute guided tour that introduces the area’s geography and notable features.

The meeting point is straightforward, and tickets are collected at the kiosk before boarding. The boat’s design emphasizes sustainability, and the friendly crew assists with boarding and provides insights throughout the trip. The tour’s timing is flexible, lasting between 3 to 4.5 hours, depending on options selected, with departures available in the morning.

Scenic Route through the Gulf of Porto

The first major leg of the tour takes place in the Gulf of Porto, where a guided 20-minute overview sets the scene for the journey. This stretch showcases stunning coastal views, including nearby cliffs and coves, providing a picturesque start to the adventure.

The gulf functions as a natural gateway to the Scandola Reserve. It also offers opportunities to spot marine life and seabirds from the boat, such as oysters, ospreys, and peregrine falcons, all observed respectfully from a distance. The guided commentary enhances understanding of the area’s geological and ecological significance.

The Hidden Charm of Girolata Village

A highlight of this tour is the 30-minute stop in the remote coastal village of Girolata. Only accessible by sea, Girolata presents visitors with a glimpse of Corsica’s traditional life. The village features narrow streets, a small beach, and wild cows wandering freely.

Guests can take a leisurely walk around the village, enjoy the scenery, or cool off with a swim. The resident wild cows are a charming sight as they roam the streets and beaches, adding a rustic touch to this peaceful spot. The stop provides a perfect break from the boat ride and an authentic experience of Corsica’s seafront life.

More Great Tours Nearby

Viewing the Spectacular Rock Formations of Calanche de Piana

For those who choose the upgrade, the tour continues with a second part visiting the Calanche de Piana. Known for its pink granite cliffs, this geological formation has been shaped by centuries of wind and sea spray into dramatic, towering sculptures.

The rock formations present a striking contrast to the lush greenery or the water below. The optional excursion lasts about 1.5 hours, offering more opportunities for picture-taking and appreciating the natural artistry of Corsica’s coast. The visit is ideal for photography enthusiasts and those interested in geology.

Exploring the Scandola Nature Reserve from the Water

The main attraction of this tour is the Scandola Nature Reserve, a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. The 100-minute guided tour inside the reserve allows guests to see coastal caves, sea stacks, and endemic wildlife.

Marine life is abundant here, with dolphins and other species often visible from the boat. Birdwatching opportunities include sea eagles and peregrine falcons, which soar overhead or nest on the cliffs. The guides explain the ecological importance of the reserve and its protected status, all while maintaining respectful distances to avoid disturbing the environment.

Return Journey and Additional Coastal Sightseeing

After exploring the reserve, the boat heads back toward Porto, offering 30 minutes of sightseeing in the Gulf of Porto. This final leg provides a fresh perspective on the coastline’s rugged beauty, with chances to spot more marine life or coastal features.

The return is smooth, and the group arrives back at the Nave Va dock in Porto. The whole experience emphasizes a calm, eco-conscious approach, making it suitable for nature lovers, families, and those seeking a peaceful escape into Corsica’s natural scenery.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Accessibility, and Tips

Guests gather at the Nave Va kiosk in Porto to collect tickets before boarding. The boat accommodates non-electric wheelchairs but not electric wheelchairs due to weight restrictions. The tour is conducted entirely in French, with live commentary that enhances the experience.

What to bring includes a towel and sunscreen to stay comfortable during the trip. Swimming is possible at Girolata’s beach, so packing swimwear is recommended. The boat stays in electric, silent mode when inside the Scandola Reserve, minimizing disturbance to wildlife.

Considerations and Limitations of the Tour Experience

While the tour offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere, some reviews note that boarding can be challenging due to the process, or that certain stops like Girolata may feel brief or somewhat limited in time. The guides provide information in French, which may be a limitation for non-French speakers.

The popularity of the tour means that seating in prime spots can be in high demand, so priority boarding helps ensure a comfortable experience. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those who prefer longer stops at each location.

Final Thoughts on the Corsica Eco-Boat Adventure

This eco-friendly boat tour offers a relaxed, environmentally conscious way to see Corsica’s most iconic coastal sights. The combination of wildlife viewing, scenic stops, and the chance to visit the secluded village of Girolata makes the experience memorable.

The optional extension to Calanche de Piana adds a layer of geological wonder to the journey, appealing to photography lovers and geology fans alike. Despite some minor concerns about boarding and stop durations, the overall experience delivers a balanced mix of nature, culture, and stunning scenery.

This tour suits nature enthusiasts, families, and those seeking a peaceful, eco-aware adventure along Corsica’s rugged coast. The price point is reasonable for the quality of the experience, especially considering the environmentally friendly approach and rich wildlife encounters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the boat tour suitable for children?
The information does not specify age restrictions, but the calm, scenic nature of the ride suggests it could be suitable for families, provided children can handle a boat trip of around 3 to 4.5 hours.

What languages are available for the commentary?
The commentary is conducted live in French only. Non-French speakers may want to prepare with a translation app or guided notes.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, guests can bring their own food and drinks for the tour, making it easy to enjoy a picnic or snacks onboard.

Is swimming allowed at Girolata?
Yes, swimming is possible at the beach near Girolata, so bringing swimwear is advisable if you want to cool off.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and a towel are recommended. Bring layers if the weather is changeable.

How long is the optional Calanche de Piana extension?
The optional trip lasts about 1.5 hours and takes you to see the colorful rock formations.

Is the tour accessible for non-electric wheelchairs?
Yes, non-electric wheelchairs are allowed onboard, but electric wheelchairs are not due to their weight.

Are there any restrictions on smoking?
Smoking is not allowed onboard the boat.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
Expect to see sea eagles, peregrine falcons, and marine life such as dolphins, from a respectful distance.

This eco-friendly boat tour from Porto combines spectacular scenery, wildlife, and authentic culture—perfect for those looking to experience Corsica’s coast responsibly and peacefully.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby