Cruising on a sailing maxi-catamaran

Imagine spending a full day bobbing along the crystal-clear waters of Corsica, surrounded by vibrant landscapes and enjoying the comfort of a spacious sailing maxi-catamaran. That’s exactly what the “Au gré du Vent” cruise offers — a well-rounded, all-inclusive adventure exploring the Lavezzi Islands, Cavallo, and the Corsican coast. With a rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 18 reviews, this tour is clearly a favorite for many, but like all experiences, it’s worth weighing the pros and cons before booking.

What We Love About This Cruise is how it combines the appeal of luxury sailing with the chance to experience the natural beauty of Corsica in a relaxed setting. The onboard guides, Gwen and Claire, are consistently praised for their friendliness and expertise, making the journey feel personal and engaging. Plus, the inclusion of meals, drinks, and activities means you can truly unwind without worrying about extra costs — the package feels like excellent value for what’s offered.

A possible consideration is the weather dependency — since much of the day relies on wind conditions and good weather, some guests have noted that certain planned stops might be affected. For example, one reviewer lamented that “the weather didn’t permit us to visit all the planned spots,” which highlights the unpredictability of sailing trips. Still, the guides tend to adapt well, and the experience remains worthwhile even if plans change.

This tour is perfect for those seeking a relaxed, scenic day out; outdoor lovers, first-time visitors to Corsica, or anyone wanting a taste of sailing without the commitment of multi-day trips. It’s also ideal for travelers wanting a mix of adventure, comfort, and authentic regional flavors.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Meals, drinks, snacks, paddles, snorkels, and swimming fries are all covered.
• Beautiful Stops: Lavezzi Islands, Sperone, Santa Manza, Porto Novo, and more—each offers stunning scenery.
• Expert Guides: Gwen and Claire are praised for their hospitality and local knowledge.
• Flexible Itinerary: Depending on wind, stops at islands may vary, making each trip unique.
• Relaxed Pace: Plenty of time to swim, snorkel, paddleboard, or just soak up the sun.
• Practical Details: Departure from Santa Giulia, free parking, and easy access to the pontoon.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Departure

The adventure kicks off at Santa Giulia Beach, right in front of the Moby Dick hotel. You’ll find a parking spot just before the hotel’s private lot, pass under a wooden footbridge, and then walk a few minutes to the embarkation point. From there, the small, friendly crew welcomes guests aboard the maxi-catamaran “Ciao”.

The check-in process is straightforward and relaxed, often with some coffee and snacks to start your day. The sense of intimacy here is noticeable — the boat isn’t crowded, and the guides, Gwen and Claire, are warm and engaging.

The Journey Begins: Santa Giulia to Lavezzi Islands

After setting sail, you’ll enjoy about an hour of cruising along Corsica’s coast, with gorgeous views of rugged cliffs and shimmering water. Many reviews highlight how the sailing itself is a joy, especially with the sails hoisted and the wind in your hair. The guides are knowledgeable, sharing local insights and sometimes a few fun facts about Corsican history, nature, and marine life.

The Highlight: The Lavezzi Islands

The main magnet of this trip is the time spent around the Lavezzi Islands. This stop lasts approximately 2.5 hours, giving plenty of room for exploration. The island is known for its turquoise waters and striking granite formations, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging on the boat deck. Many guests rave about the clarity of the water and the variety of marine life spotted with snorkels.

Gwen and Claire serve a delicious onboard lunch, which many describe as a highlight. The menu features regional foods like Corsican cold cuts, cheeses with fig jam, pasta salad, and fresh fruit, paired with rosé wine. An aperitif and a local digestif complete the experience. Reviewers have noted that the meal is generous and well-prepared, contributing to the all-inclusive value.

Activities and Free Time

Post-lunch, the boat allows plenty of free time for swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing on deck. The paddleboards and snorkel gear are accessible throughout the afternoon, and guests often use them to explore the calm waters. One traveler mentions, “The paddles, snorkels, and swimming fries were at our disposal — we loved how much time we got to spend in the water.”

The crew is attentive, offering tips on the best spots for snorkeling or floating. Many guests find this part of the trip to be both relaxing and invigorating, especially after the hearty lunch.

The Return Journey: Scenic and Laid-back

As the day winds down, the boat heads back along the coast, with the wind guiding the journey. The final swim stop at Porto Novo is often a favorite, with guests enjoying a cold Pietra beer (a Corsican favorite) and one last swim before heading back to Santa Giulia. The return trip offers more gorgeous views and a chance to reflect on the day’s adventures.

What’s Included and What You Need to Know

This tour offers a comprehensive package—drinks, snacks, lunch, paddles, snorkels, and swimming fries are all included, making it excellent value. The departure time varies depending on availability, but typically, the trip lasts about 9 hours, perfect for a full-day escape.

You’ll want to bring essentials like sunglasses, a towel, comfortable clothes, and biodegradable sunscreen, along with your camera. Weather can influence the experience, so packing a light jacket or beachwear is wise.

The guides speak both French and English, ensuring smooth communication for international travelers.

Practical Considerations

The tour operates with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if your plans change. Booking is also straightforward with a “reserve now and pay later” option. The boat is designed to accommodate groups comfortably, providing enough space for everyone to enjoy the trip without feeling crowded.

Insights From Reviews

Several reviewers mention the knowledge and friendliness of Gwen and Claire, describing them as “top hosts” who show guests the best spots and keep the atmosphere lively yet relaxed. Others appreciate how well-organized the trip is, noting the professionalism of the crew and the varied, regionally inspired menu.

One guest noted, “The boat is well equipped, and the guides are very accessible and passionate,” emphasizing the personalized touch that makes this experience stand out. Another pointed out how the crew’s adaptability meant their plans were adjusted smoothly due to weather, which they appreciated.

Notable Praises

• Spectacular scenery and photo opportunities especially around the islands
• Expert guidance making navigation and local insights engaging
• Comfortable boat layout allowing everyone to have space
• Quality of food and drinks exceeding expectations for an all-day excursion
• Availability of water activities like paddleboarding and snorkeling at no extra cost

Potential Limitations

Some reviews mention that bad weather could impact the planned stops. For instance, one guest expressed disappointment that “the weather didn’t permit us to visit all the planned spots,” reminding travelers that sailing trips are somewhat weather-dependent. Nevertheless, the crew tends to adapt, and many still enjoyed the journey.

The Bottom Line: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This sailing cruise is ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a relaxing day surrounded by natural beauty. It’s perfect if you enjoy water activities, regional cuisine, and scenic sailing without the hassle of planning each detail. The all-inclusive approach simplifies things, allowing you to focus on enjoying your day.

If you’re after authentic regional experience combined with the comfort of a well-organized boat trip, this could be your perfect Corsican escape. However, travelers sensitive to weather fluctuations should be aware that some stops might be affected.

The combination of stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and inclusive amenities makes this a popular choice for those wanting to experience Corsica’s coast in style.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts about 9 hours, including sailing, stops, lunch, and free time for swimming and activities.

Where does the tour depart from?
Departure is from Santa Giulia Beach, right in front of the Moby Dick hotel. Parking is free just before the hotel’s private lot.

What’s included in the price?
Drinks, snacks, lunch, paddles, snorkels, and swimming fries are all included. The package covers most essentials for a full day of fun.

Is the trip suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed pace and family-friendly activities suggest it’s suitable for children who enjoy water activities and being on a boat.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a towel, comfortable clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, camera, and weather-appropriate gear like a jacket or beachwear.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility.

Is there a guide on board?
Yes, guides speak both French and English and are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

What if the weather isn’t ideal?
The crew tries to adapt the itinerary based on conditions, but some stops might be limited or altered if weather is unfavorable.

How many people are on the boat?
Group sizes are usually manageable, with enough space for everyone to enjoy the trip comfortably.

Is the experience worth the price?
Given the all-inclusive meals, drinks, activities, and the chance to visit iconic islands, many guests feel the experience offers excellent value for money.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a day on the water in Corsica with this sailing maxi-catamaran offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic regional flavor. The well-organized tours, friendly guides, and stunning scenery make it suitable for travelers seeking a memorable, hassle-free escape. Whether you’re snorkeling in turquoise waters, savoring local cheeses onboard, or simply basking in the sun, this cruise delivers a genuine taste of Corsica’s natural beauty.

Ideal for those who prioritize comfort, scenic exploration, and good company, this experience is one to consider for your Corsican itinerary. Keep in mind the weather can influence the day’s course but trust in the crew’s ability to make the most of it. This cruise is a delightful way to spend your day and create lasting memories in one of France’s most captivating regions.