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Travelers seeking a combination of stunning scenery, authentic Corsican flavors, and relaxing time on the water will find this day cruise to the Cerbicales and Lavezzi Islands a solid choice. Offered by CHIOCCA croisières, this trip promises an inspiring day navigating the southern coast of Corsica, with plenty of opportunities to swim, explore, and enjoy local cuisine—all in a single day. With an average rating of 4 out of 5 from over 127 reviews, it’s clear that many visitors appreciate the experience, though there are some points worth considering.
One of the things we love about this tour is the authentic focus on the local landscape and marine parks. The captain’s knowledgeable narration about the beaches and limestone cliffs adds a layer of educational charm, and the on-board Corsican lunch offers a taste of regional flavors. However, a potential drawback is that the boat can get quite crowded, especially during peak times, which might affect the intimacy or comfort of the trip. This cruise is best suited for travelers who enjoy a lively atmosphere, want a straightforward scenic tour, and are happy to be on a larger vessel with up to 180 passengers.
If you’re after a day that combines spectacular views, cultural insights, and a relaxed pace, this cruise is a great pick. Families, groups, and solo travelers alike will find it accessible and enjoyable, especially with the option to swim and explore on the islands. Just keep in mind that the experience is quite popular, so booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot.
Key Points
- Scenic coastal navigation along the limestone cliffs of Bonifacio and the famous sea caves.
- Swimming breaks in turquoise coves, ideal for cooling off and relaxing.
- Authentic Corsican cuisine served onboard, with multiple menu options.
- Guided commentary about the beaches and marine parks from experienced captains.
- Large-capacity vessel suitable for groups but potentially crowded.
- Flexible departure options from Porto Vecchio, with some in high season from Pinarello.
A Closer Look at the Itinerary
Looking for more options in Porto Vecchio? Here are some other experiences worth considering.
Departure and Arrival
The tour kicks off sharply at 9 a.m. from the Porto Vecchio port, with some departures available from Pinarello during busy seasons. Guests are welcomed on board from as early as 8:15 a.m. for a light snack served by the crew—an appreciated touch that sets the tone for a leisurely day. The boat itself is sizable, accommodating up to 180 passengers, which means it can feel lively but may lack the intimacy of smaller vessels.
Navigating the Coast
The journey begins with a gentle cruise along Corsica’s southeastern coast. The captain points out notable beaches like Palombaggia, Santa Giulia, Rondinara, and Sperone. As you glide past these iconic spots, you’ll learn about their significance and natural beauty—an educational bonus for curious travelers. The highlight is the view of Bonifacio’s famous limestone cliffs and sea caves, which are truly breathtaking. Reviewers mention that the scenery here is “fabulous,” with some describing it as a “fabulous panorama” that makes you feel like you’re floating in a postcard.
The Lavezzi Islands Stopover
Around noon, the boat pulls into a cove within the Lavezzi Islands for a stopover with a delicious Corsican lunch. The menu is set to be selected onboard, with options to suit different tastes—something reviewers appreciate, especially when they mention the “correct” or “light” meals that don’t feel heavy after a morning of sightseeing. The lunch is served with drinks, and many note that the quality of the food exceeds expectations for a cruise meal, with some calling it “succulent.”
Swimming and Island Exploration
By 1:30 p.m., guests disembark on the islands for a swim, snorkel (though snorkeling gear isn’t included), or a chance to walk around and explore. The islands’ turquoise waters and rugged natural beauty offer great photo opportunities, and the calm seas make swimming quite enjoyable. Some reviews mention the water’s clarity and the peacefulness of these spots, making it easy to unwind.
Return Voyage and Additional Stops
The cruise continues with a scenic return route around the Island of Cavallo, with a final swim stop in a covey like Carratoghju or around the Cerbicales Islands at 5 p.m. This allows for one last dip before heading back to Porto Vecchio, arriving around 6 p.m. The entire day feels well-paced, balancing sightseeing, relaxing, and eating.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out
The Guides and Captain
The Chiocca family has a long-standing reputation, with Vincent Chiocca himself boasting 40 years of maritime experience. His son, Vincent Jr., carries on the tradition, having become a captain at just 18 and now sharing his love for the sea with visitors. While the reviews don’t detail the specific guides’ commentary, they highlight that the captain’s storytelling about Corsica’s coastal history and natural features is authentic and insightful.
The Food and Drinks
The onboard meal, with three menu options, consistently receives praise. Reviewers mention it as “correct,” “delicious,” or “bravo” to the crew. Drinks are included, which adds to the overall value, especially considering the price point of $129 per person. The meals provide enough sustenance without feeling overly heavy, perfect for a day in the sun.
The Views and Swimming Stops
The stops in turquoise waters are highly valued, with many noting the water’s clarity and the tranquility of these coves. The boat’s route along the cliffs of Bonifacio and past the marine parks means you’ll be surrounded by stunning natural scenery at every turn.
Practical Considerations and Tips
Price and Value
At $129 per person, this cruise offers a good balance of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and food. It’s reasonably priced given the length of the trip (about 9 hours including travel and stops) and the included meals and drinks. Some reviews mention that booking directly through the organizer might offer better prices, especially for groups.
Capacity and Crowd Levels
As a large-capacity vessel, the cruise can feel crowded, especially during peak season. If a more intimate experience is your preference, this might not be ideal. Early booking and arriving promptly are key to securing your preferred spot and avoiding the hustle.
What to Bring
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection. The water stops are refreshing, but the boat can get warm in the sun. Snorkeling gear isn’t included, so if you want to explore underwater, consider bringing your own.
Accessibility and Language
The tour is accessible for wheelchairs, and guides operate in English, French, and Italian, making it suitable for international travelers.
Final Thoughts
This day cruise offers a delightful blend of scenic coastal views, authentic Corsican cuisine, and leisure time on some of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere, want to learn about Corsica’s natural features, and love the idea of swimming in clear waters surrounded by dramatic cliffs.
While the large vessel might reduce the feeling of exclusivity, it ensures a lively, social environment. The knowledgeable captain and the delicious meal elevate the experience beyond just a boat trip. If you’re looking for a well-rounded day that combines sightseeing, relaxation, and tasty food, this cruise fits the bill.
This experience is particularly well-suited for families, groups, or solo travelers who want to enjoy a full day out on the water without fuss. Just be prepared for the crowds and ensure you book in advance to get the best experience.
FAQ
Is there a specific departure time?
Yes, the cruise departs at 9 a.m. sharp from Porto Vecchio. Some departures are also scheduled from Pinarello during high season.
How long does the tour last?
The entire day lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel, stops, and return.
What’s included in the price?
The price of $129 covers the boat ride, lunch with drinks, swimming stops, and guided narration.
Can I bring snorkeling gear?
Snorkeling gear is not included, but you can bring your own if you’d like to explore the waters more closely.
Is the boat suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s advisable to check with the provider for specific needs.
Are the meals vegetarian or customizable?
Menus are chosen onboard, with three options available. You should contact the supplier to specify dietary preferences.
What are the main highlights of this cruise?
Expect scenic views of Corsica’s coast, limestone cliffs, marine parks, and the opportunity to swim in turquoise waters, coupled with a delicious Corsican meal.
What should I pack for the day?
Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and possibly a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Is it worth booking directly with the organizer?
Some reviews suggest that booking through the official site may be more cost-effective and ensure transparency on pricing.
In essence, this cruise offers a splendid way to experience Corsica’s south coast in a day. It combines natural beauty, local flavor, and leisure in a manner that’s accessible and enjoyable—perfect for those looking to tick some iconic sights off the travel list without spending too much time or money.
