Corsica: Calanques de Piana, Scandola & Girolata Boat Day Trip

Summary

Boat through Corsica’s red cliffs, Scandola Reserve and Girolata’s wild shores

You’ll ride by boat through Corsica’s dramatic Calanques de Piana and into UNESCO-listed Scandola Reserve, swim in clear coves with local wine and charcuterie on deck, then dock at Girolata—a tiny fishing village only reachable by sea—for lunch or a quiet wander. It’s not just scenery; you’ll feel Corsica’s wild side up close.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really know what to expect from a day trip to the Calanques de Piana and Scandola Reserve, but that first glimpse of those red cliffs—almost glowing against the blue water—kind of stopped me. Our captain, Jean-Baptiste, had this easy way about him (he joked about his “Corsican GPS” which apparently means “I just know these rocks by heart”). The air smelled salty and sharp, with a hint of pine when we got close to shore. I kept thinking: how is this even real?

We slid into little coves where the water turned that unreal turquoise you see on postcards. At Anse de Muretta, Jean-Baptiste handed out slices of cured ham and poured us cold rosé—he called it “nustrale,” which I guess means something like “ours” in Corsican. I tried to say it; he laughed (I definitely butchered it). Swimming there felt different—quiet except for the splash and the low hum of cicadas somewhere up in the rocks. It was one of those moments you sort of want to bottle up.

Afterwards we headed towards Girolata, which you can only reach by boat. There were wild cows just hanging out on the beach—no joke—and a couple of old fishermen fixing nets near the little restaurants. We had about an hour or so to grab lunch (I went for grilled fish overlooking the bay), but honestly I could’ve just sat on the sand watching boats drift in. The whole day felt a bit like being let in on a secret part of Corsica most people never really touch.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Excursion to Calanques and Girolata

• Ride to Capo Rosso
• Swim at Anse de Muretta
• Enjoy "nustrale" aperitif with charcuterie and rosé
• Visit Scandola Reserve UNESCO site
• Travel to Girolata fishing village
• Free stop for 1h15 lunch or picnic

Top questions

How long is the day trip to Calanques de Piana and Scandola?

The tour lasts a morning with about 1 hour 15 minutes free time in Girolata for lunch before returning.

Is swimming included during the boat tour?

Yes, there’s a swimming break at Anse de Muretta in turquoise waters during the trip.

Does this tour include food or drinks?

The captain prepares a tasting of local charcuterie and rosé wine (“nustrale” aperitif) on board.

Can I get lunch in Girolata?

You have free time for lunch in Girolata; several seaside restaurants are available at your own expense.

Is hotel pickup included for this Corsica boat tour?

The tour includes private transportation but does not specify hotel pickup; check with your provider.

Are children allowed on this boat trip?

Travelers under 6 years old are not accepted on this tour.

Is this suitable for travelers with health issues?

This tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation along Corsica’s coast by boat, guided stops at Capo Rosso, Calanques de Piana, Scandola Reserve and Girolata village, plus a swim break with local charcuterie and rosé wine served onboard before your free time for lunch by the sea.