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The Near Ajaccio: Cruise to Piana Scandola cliff tasting sunset tour offers a captivating day on the water, beginning near Ajaccio at Tiuccia. This 6-hour boat excursion takes you along Corsica’s UNESCO-listed west coast, with highlights including sea caves, creeks, and an inaccessible village. The tour is ideal for those who love scenic boat rides, local food tastings, and nature exploration in a small, intimate group.
While weather can influence the experience, the expert native captain provides informative commentary throughout, making it both visually stunning and educational. With delicious food and drink onboard and spectacular sunset views, this tour offers a well-rounded day on the water with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy Corsica’s natural beauty.
Most suited for active visitors who appreciate unique stops like Girolata and the Scandola reserve, this trip is not designed for pregnant travelers or those with mobility issues.
Key Points
- 6-hour boat tour departing from Tiuccia near Ajaccio
- Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Scandola and Calanques de Piana
- Visit the village of Girolata, inaccessible by road, with a chance to swim
- Delicious Corsican food and drinks served onboard during the cruise
- Informative commentary from a local native captain
- Small group experience limited to 12 participants for personalized attention
Starting Point and How to Find It near Ajaccio
This tour begins at the small beach of Tiuccia, located 20 kilometers from Ajaccio. The meeting point is in front of the Mare Bellu ticket office, with stairs that lead down to the boarding beach on the left side. Coordinates 42.0653114, 8.7382746 help locate the exact spot.
Once there, you’ll find a vessel equipped with individual chairs, offering shade or sunbathing areas and a toilet onboard, making the journey comfortable for all participants. The manageable size maxes out at 12 guests, ensuring a personalized and relaxed atmosphere.
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Exploring Corsica’s Iconic Sea Caves and Creeks
The vessel heads out to explore the creeks of Piana, showcasing dramatic rock formations and faults that have earned their spot on the UNESCO list. These caves and geological features are highlighted through commentary from the captain.
The Calanques de Piana are a highlight, with stops that allow sailing close to caves and faults, offering dramatic photo opportunities. The boat also pulls into natural pools and coves where swimming and snorkeling are available, with snorkel masks provided for those eager to see underwater life.
Discovering the Village of Girolata by Sea
One of the most unique aspects of this cruise is the visit to Girolata, a village that cannot be reached by road. Approaching from the water, the setting appears idyllic and untouched, perfect for swimming breaks in the clear waters.
The stopover at Girolata provides a chance to explore a small, picturesque settlement and enjoy a refreshing swimming session. This stop is ideal for those wanting a blend of exploration and relaxation in a truly remote location.
Capo Rosso and Its Natural Attractions
The trip includes a stop at Capo Rosso, where you’ll admire its famous rock arch and natural swimming pool. The spectacular rock formations make this a favorite photo spot, especially as the boat slowly navigates around the headland.
This part of the tour allows for picture-perfect moments and a chance to appreciate Corsica’s rugged coast up close. The onboard commentary adds context to the geological significance of these natural marvels.
More Great Tours NearbyFood, Drink, and Entertainment Onboard
Throughout the cruise, Corsican tastings of local foods and drinks are served on deck, making it a culinary highlight. You can sip local beverages and enjoy delicious bites as the boat glides along.
The vessel’s stereo system plays local music, creating a lively, relaxed vibe. For a different perspective, an underwater vision camera offers glimpses below the surface, adding an extra layer of enjoyment.
Guests are encouraged to sunbathe or relax in the designated sunbathing area while soaking in the scenery. The feast and drinks combined with the sunset create a memorable atmosphere.
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Sunset Sailing and the Return Journey
As the tour approaches its end, the boat heads back along the coast, providing the perfect sunset views over the sea. The magical lighting and calm waters make this a peaceful moment to reflect on the day’s sights.
The return trip is a tranquil experience, with the captain’s informative narration continuing as you watch the colors change over Corsica’s coast. This sunset sail is a fitting finale to a day filled with spectacular scenery and memorable stops.
Practical Details and Group Experience
The tour is operated by MARE BELLU and is designed as a small group experience, limited to 12 participants. This ensures a more intimate setting and personalized attention from the native captain, Hervé, who is known for his passion and local knowledge.
Booking is flexible with options to reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The 6-hour trip usually starts at a selected time, with weather conditions being a key consideration for safety and comfort.
Participants should bring swimwear, towels, and sunscreen, and should be prepared for an active day with swimming and exploring stops. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments.
Comparative Highlights with Similar Tours
This excursion stands out because of its focus on small group size, delicious tastings, and a personalized commentary from a local native captain. It also offers exclusive access to Girolata, plus stops at Capo Rosso and the Scandola reserve.
Similar experiences include boat trips to Lavezzi Islands, sightseeing tours in Ajaccio, and other Scandola-focused cruises, but this tour’s inclusion of tastings and swimming stops gives it a distinctive edge for those seeking a well-rounded, relaxing day.
Final Thoughts on the Corsica Coastal Cruise
This 6-hour boat tour delivers stunning views of Corsica’s UNESCO-listed sites in a small-group setting with local expert guidance. The combination of natural beauty, cultural stops, and onboard food tastings creates a balanced experience suitable for those who enjoy scenic exploration with a touch of local flavor.
While weather dependency and the lack of accessibility may limit some guests, the spectacular scenery, informative commentary, and unique stops like Girolata make this trip worthwhile. The sunset finale adds a memorable, emotional closing to a day filled with nature, culture, and relaxation.
This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy boat journeys, swimming, and natural wonders, and who want to experience Corsica from a personalized and up-close perspective.
✨ Book This Experience
Near Ajaccio : Cruise to Piana Scandola cliff tasting sunset
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not explicitly described as kid-friendly, but children comfortable with boat rides and swimming should enjoy the experience.
What should I bring for the weather?
Participants should bring sunscreen, swimwear, and towels. The tour is subject to good weather conditions, so check the forecast before booking.
Are food and drinks included?
Yes, Corsican tastings of food and drink are served onboard during the cruise, highlighting local specialties.
Can I participate if I am not a strong swimmer?
Swimming is available in the coves and pools, but participants should be comfortable in the water. Snorkel masks are provided.
What is the group size?
The experience is limited to 12 participants, ensuring a small, intimate group.
Is there any special equipment provided?
Yes, snorkel masks are available for swimming stops, and the vessel has onboard stereo and toilets for comfort.
What are the main sights I will see?
You will see Scandola Nature Reserve, Calanques de Piana, Capo Rosso, and the inaccessible village of Girolata.
How do I book or cancel?
Reservations can be made with the option to pay later, and cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
