Corsica: Scandola, Girolata & Calanques Boat Day Trip

Summary

Red cliffs, wild coves and the quiet of Girolata only by boat

You’ll drift past Corsica’s wildest coastlines on this boat day trip from Sagone or Cargèse—exploring Scandola’s red cliffs, swimming off Capo Rosso, and pausing for lunch in Girolata village where cars can’t reach. Expect salty air, local stories from your captain, and moments of real quiet you might not expect from such famous places.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed was the salt in the air—kind of sharp, mixed with that faint piney smell you get near Corsican cliffs. We set off from Sagone (free parking, which honestly felt like a small miracle), and the captain—he introduced himself as Jean-Marc—cracked a joke about “not feeding the seagulls our breakfast.” The boat wasn’t huge, but it had this friendly vibe; people were swapping sunscreen and stories before we’d even left the dock. I liked that.

The Scandola Nature Reserve hit me harder than I expected. Those red rocks look almost fake against the blue water—like someone turned up the color settings just for us. Jean-Marc slowed down so we could spot some birds nesting in the cracks (he called them balbuzards—I think that’s osprey?). The wind picked up a bit around Capo Rosso, enough to make my hair stick to my face. There was this moment where all you could hear was water slapping against the hull and someone quietly munching on a sandwich behind me. Kind of peaceful, actually.

Girolata is only reachable by boat or hiking trail—felt like stepping into another world for those two hours. There’s a Genoese fort right above the little beach; we wandered up there after grabbing coffee at a place run by a guy named Marco who seemed to know everyone. Some folks went swimming in this cove with water so clear you could see every pebble under your toes. I tried to say “merci” in Corsican and got laughed at (good-naturedly). Lunch was simple but perfect—fresh bread, salty cheese, tomatoes that tasted like sunshine.

On the way back through the Calanques de Piana, late afternoon light made those cliffs glow orange-red. The guide pointed out shapes in the rocks—a lion here, an elephant there—and I swear I saw both for half a second before they disappeared again into just rock. We passed Capo Rosso’s natural arch too; some people jumped in for one last swim while I just sat with my feet dangling overboard, letting everything sink in. Still thinking about that view now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full-day cruise to Corsica highlights

• Depart from Sagone or Cargèse
• Visit Scandola Nature Reserve
• Pass by Gulf of Porto
• Pass by Calanques de Piana
• Stop 2 hours in Girolata village
• Lunch and stroll in Girolata
• Swim in wild cove near Girolata
• Visit Capo Rosso geological formations
• Swim in natural pool at Capo Rosso
• Return to departure point

Top questions

How long is the boat day trip from Sagone or Cargèse?

The full-day cruise lasts approximately 8 hours including stops.

Is there free parking at Sagone or Cargèse departure points?

Yes, free parking is included at both departure points.

Can you swim during the tour?

Yes, there are opportunities to swim in wild coves along the route.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No, lunch is not included but you have time to buy lunch in Girolata village during the stopover.

Are there restrooms on board?

Yes, there are two sanitary facilities and a shower available on board.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible and suitable for all fitness levels.

What sites do you visit on this boat trip?

The tour visits Scandola Nature Reserve, Girolata village, Gulf of Porto, Calanques de Piana and Capo Rosso.

Do I need to book ahead if departing from Cargèse?

If departing from Cargèse instead of Sagone, please send a message when booking to confirm your departure point.

What’s included

Your day includes all fees and taxes covered upfront plus free parking at departure. You’ll travel with an experienced local crew on board a comfortable small boat equipped with restrooms and outdoor deck space. A two-hour stopover lets you buy lunch or swim at Girolata village before returning along Corsica’s UNESCO-listed coastlines.