Santa Teresa: Speedboat tour around Lavezzi and Piana Island

Santa Teresa: Speedboat Tour around Lavezzi and Piana Island

Imagine cruising across crystal-clear waters, surrounded by rugged islands and dramatic coastlines. That’s what this speedboat adventure in Corsica promises—an 8-hour journey filled with scenic stops, fascinating sights, and a dash of adrenaline. Offered by Escursì, this trip is rated highly at 4.7 out of 5, and for good reason: it’s a lively, well-organized way to explore some of Corsica’s most captivating spots from the comfort of a speedy boat.

What sets this experience apart is the combination of fun, scenery, and authentic exploration. We love how the tour combines a sense of adventure with enough time ashore to truly enjoy the islands’ unspoilt beauty. One thing to keep in mind is that it’s a full-day outing, so you’ll want to be prepared for a long, active day on the water. But if you’re after a flexible, memorable way to see Corsica’s southern archipelago, this trip might be just what you need—especially if you enjoy lively boat rides and scenic vistas.

Key Points

• Spectacular views of Corsica’s islands, with clear waters and rugged coastlines
• Onboard lunch featuring local-style pasta, wine, and desserts
• Two stops on the unspoilt Lavezzi island and Piana Island for exploration and relaxation
• Knowledgeable guides sharing stories and interesting facts about the islands
• Flexible boat options with comfortable interiors and amenities
• Small group size (limited to 12), ensuring personalized attention

An Unforgettable Day on the Water

The tour kicks off in Santa Teresa di Gallura, where you’ll meet your skipper and hop onto your chosen speedboat. Depending on availability, you might find yourself aboard the sleek Mistral, the spacious Estasi or Scirocco, or the roomy Mistral 2. All models boast comfortable interiors, sundecks, and amenities like stereo systems and toilets—perfect for a day on the water.

Once underway, your voyage takes you across the Bocche di Bonifacio, a narrow strait renowned for its striking landscape and strategic importance. The pace is lively but smooth, with the thrill of speed combined with the comfort of a well-equipped boat. The skipper will share stories about the islands’ history and geography, making the journey as informative as it is fun.

Exploring Lavezzi Island

After about an hour of cruising, the first stop is Lavezzi Island, a tiny paradise known for its untouched nature and quiet coves. Travelers on this tour mention that the two-hour stop is perfect for exploring the island’s monuments, relaxing in tranquil coves, or just soaking in the spectacular scenery. The calm waters around Lavezzi make it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging on the boat deck.

One reviewer notes, “The island’s natural beauty is just breathtaking—completely unspoilt and peaceful, perfect for just unwinding.” The guides are generally well-informed, sharing local insights and answering questions, which enhances the experience for those interested in the island’s background.

Lunch on Board

As you relax on deck, a delicious onboard lunch awaits. The menu typically includes pennette with tomato sauce, fresh bread, water, wine, coffee, myrtle, and a sweet dessert. Guests consistently praise the meal as simple but tasty, and a great way to fuel up for the second half of the day. It’s worth noting that the lunch is served in a relaxed setting, so don’t expect gourmet delicacies, but rather hearty, Sardinian-style fare.

Navigating Past Cavallo Island and Piana Island

After lunch, the boat passes in front of Cavallo Island, a small but striking landmass connected to Corsica by a sandbar at low tide. While there’s no stop here, the cruise offers fantastic views and photo opportunities.

Next, you’ll head towards Piana Island, a highlight for many travelers. The shallow, sandy seabed between Piana and Piantarella beach is a scene you won’t forget. It’s a favorite with visitors for its stunning colors and calm waters—ideal for wading or just marveling at the landscape. A tender transfer allows for a two-hour stop on Piana Island, giving you time to explore its natural beauty, relax on the beach, or take a dip.

One reviewer emphasized how the quiet coves on Piana Island are perfect for disconnecting from the world, offering serene moments away from busy tourist spots. The guides are attentive and often point out interesting facts about the geology and flora, adding educational value to the trip.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Itinerary Breakdown

• Departure from Santa Teresa di Gallura: The journey begins early, with most tours starting in the morning. The boat departs after meeting at the port, which involves a short walk from the parking lot. The initial navigation across Bocche di Bonifacio sets the tone for the day—fast, scenic, and full of anticipation.

• First stop at Lavezzi Island: About two hours ashore. Expect unspoilt beaches, quiet coves, and a chance to explore the island’s monuments. The guided commentary enriches the experience, making you appreciate the island’s natural and cultural significance.

• Lunch onboard: Served amidst stunning views. The meal is simple but well-prepared, featuring local flavors and beverages, including wine and myrtle liqueur. Perfect for relaxing and recharging.

• Cruise past Cavallo Island: A quick but picturesque passage with ample photo moments.

• Second stop at Piana Island: Also about two hours. Expect shallow waters, sandy seabeds, and tranquil coves—ideal for swimming, relaxing, or exploring. The tender transfer makes the visit comfortable and accessible.

• Return to Santa Teresa: The trip wraps up in the late afternoon, with plenty of time to reflect on a day filled with scenic beauty and adventure.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Limited to 12 participants, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere. This smaller group size ensures personalized attention, more opportunities to ask questions, and a relaxed vibe. Guests report that the guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and accommodating—adding a personal touch to the experience.

What to Bring

To make the most of your day, pack comfortable shoes (for brief wades or exploring), a sun hat, towel, sunscreen, water, snacks, and casual clothes suitable for hot weather and boat trips. It’s also advisable to arrive early at the port to secure parking—port access can be tricky, and the parking lot fills up quickly.

Considerations

While this experience is fantastic for those seeking scenery and a fun day on the water, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments, mainly because of the physical demands of boat transfers and walking ashore. Also, weather conditions influence the itinerary; the skipper may adjust stops or routes for safety.

How This Tour Offers Real Value

At $153 per person, this trip offers a cost-effective way to see some of Corsica’s most impressive islands without the hassle of planning individual boat hires or multiple excursions. The inclusion of lunch, fuel, insurance, and landing fees simplifies budgeting, making it easier for travelers to focus on enjoying their day.

The small-group setting enhances the experience—allowing for more interaction, better opportunities for photos, and a more relaxed atmosphere. The boat options, like the spacious Scirocco or Riviera models, are well-equipped for comfort, and reviews mention the quality of the guides and crew as major plus points.

Why It’s Worth Considering

If you’re someone who craves adventure combined with scenic relaxation, this tour ticks all the boxes. The stops at Lavezzi and Piana Islands are among the most visually stunning spots in southern Corsica, and the speedboat allows you to cover more ground than a ferry or slower boat could.

The onboard lunch adds a touch of local flavor, and the expert commentary enriches the experience with historical insights and fun facts. Plus, the narrow time window for each stop keeps the day dynamic without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts

This Santa Teresa speedboat tour is a fantastic option for travelers looking to maximize their time exploring Corsica’s waters and islands. It perfectly balances adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty, making it suitable for those who want an active yet comfortable day out.

The small group size, combined with quality boats and knowledgeable guides, results in a personalized experience that feels both fun and authentic. Although it’s a full day—and that means packing accordingly—it’s a manageable, rewarding way to see Corsica from a different perspective.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a photo enthusiast, or just in search of a day of sun and sea, this tour delivers stunning vistas, interesting sights, and a genuine taste of Corsica’s coastal charm.

FAQs

What is the duration of this tour?
The trip lasts approximately 8 hours, including boat transfers, stops, and lunch.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 12 participants, making it intimate and personalized.

Are meals included?
Yes, a full onboard lunch with pasta, bread, water, wine, coffee, and dessert is included.

What boats are used for the tour?
Options include Mistral (Viking 36), Scirocco or Estasi (Bertram 38), and Mistral 2 (Riviera 38). All are equipped with amenities for comfort.

Can I bring my own snacks or drinks?
While lunch is provided, bringing additional snacks, water, and sun protection is recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The activity is best suited for adults and older children, especially because of the physical requirements of transfers and walking ashore.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes, sun hat, and sunscreen are recommended. Bring sturdy shoes for short walks or exploring.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility issues?
No, due to the physical nature of boat transfers and walking onshore, it isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or pregnant women.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The itinerary may be adjusted or stops canceled for safety reasons. It’s advisable to check the forecast and be flexible with plans.

This speedboat tour offers a fantastic way to explore Corsica’s southern islands with a mix of scenic stops, cultural insights, and lively boat rides. It’s a top pick for travelers eager to see the islands from a fun, authentic perspective.