Scandola & Calanche de Piana: Half Day Boat Tour Porto

Summary

Red rocks, secret coves and UNESCO wonders by boat from Porto

You’ll feel Corsica’s wild side on this small-group boat trip from Porto to Scandola and Calanche de Piana. Listen to your captain’s stories as you glide past UNESCO-listed cliffs, spot hidden caves, maybe swim in crystal water if weather allows, and soak up those colors you won’t forget.

What’s the experience like?

I nearly lost my hat before we even left the dock in Porto — the wind had that salty bite, and you could smell sunscreen and diesel mixed together. There were just twelve of us clambering onto this semi-rigid boat, all squinting at the sun and laughing awkwardly when the captain (I think his name was Antoine?) asked who’d been on a boat before. He had that Corsican way of talking — half teasing, half proud — and he said something about “les roches rouges” that made everyone lean forward like we were about to see treasure.

The first time we drifted close to Scandola Nature Reserve, I remember how quiet it got. Even the engine seemed to hush. The cliffs looked almost fake — all jagged red and orange, with shadows hiding little caves. Antoine pointed out shapes in the rocks (“That one’s a lion if you squint,” he joked) and explained how this whole place is UNESCO-protected. I tried to repeat “Calanche de Piana” like he did but probably butchered it; he just grinned and kept going, telling stories about fishermen and storms. I could hear gulls echoing off the stone, which was kind of eerie but also cool.

We stopped for a swim near what they called the “natural swimming pool.” The water was cold enough to make me gasp (I’ll admit I hesitated), but two kids jumped straight in like it was nothing. The light bounced off the red rocks and turned everything coppery under the surface. Someone passed around a piece of local cheese — not sure where it came from — and it tasted salty-sweet, probably picked up flavors from being in someone’s backpack all morning. That moment felt real; not staged or rushed.

On the way back toward Porto, everyone was quieter. Maybe tired from sun or salt or just letting it all sink in. I caught myself staring at those cliffs one last time, thinking how they look different every minute as the light changes. I still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck somewhere gray — you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat trip to Scandola and Piana

• Depart from Porto
• Discover Scandola Nature Reserve
• Explore Gulf of Girolata
• Visit Calanche de Piana red rocks
• See caves and natural swimming pool
• Captain's commentary throughout trip

Top questions

How long is the Scandola & Calanche de Piana boat tour?

The half day boat trip lasts several hours, departing from Porto.

Is there a swimming stop during this tour?

Yes, there is usually a short swimming stop depending on weather conditions.

How many people are on each boat?

The boats carry up to 12 passengers per trip.

Is commentary provided during the cruise?

Yes, your captain provides live commentary throughout the tour.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Yes, children are welcome; ages 0-3 travel free sitting on an adult’s lap.

Are service animals permitted?

Service animals are allowed on board.

Is this suitable for travelers with spinal injuries?

No, it is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries.

Do I need special fitness for this trip?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels.

What’s included

Your half day includes a seat on a custom-built 12-seater semi-rigid boat departing from Porto with live commentary by your captain throughout the journey; an audio guide is included too. If weather allows, you’ll have time for a quick swim stop before heading back along those dramatic Corsican cliffs.