Ajaccio: Scandola – Girolata – Piana – Capo Rosso Tour

If you’re cruising around Ajaccio and looking for a day that combines jaw-dropping scenery, fascinating marine life, and a genuine sense of wild Corsican beauty, the Neptune Cruise Ajaccio tour might just be your ticket. This 9-hour adventure takes you through some of Corsica’s most iconic natural sites — from the UNESCO-listed Scandola Nature Reserve to the dramatic Piana’s Calanques and the inviting natural pools of Capo Rosso. It’s a well-rounded journey, blending awe-inspiring landscapes, opportunities for swimming, and fascinating insights from knowledgeable guides.

What I find especially appealing about this trip is how it balances structured sightseeing with moments of relaxation and fun. Two things that particularly stand out are the chance to see dolphins and marine animals (if luck is on your side), and the excellent guidance from guides like Lionel, who are praised for their attentiveness and friendly demeanor. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that because the tour involves multiple boat transfers and stops, it’s a long day — around nine hours — so it demands a decent level of energy and comfort with boat travel.

Another consideration is that food isn’t included, so you’ll want to bring your own snacks or plan for a beachside lunch in Girolata. While this might be a minor inconvenience for some, it also offers the flexibility to enjoy a picnic or pick up local treats along the way. This tour offers exceptional value for those eager to see Corsica’s coast from the water, especially given the small group size and the chance to swim in turquoise waters.

Key points / Takeaways

• Unique access to UNESCO-listed Scandola: Only reachable by sea, making this a special highlight of the trip.
• Small group experience: The guide and captain keep the group intimate, often just around 12 people, which enhances the personal touch.
• Multiple swimming opportunities: From the reserve’s waters to Capo Rosso’s pools, there’s plenty of chances to cool off.
• Expert guidance and commentary: Guides like Lionel are praised for their attentiveness and friendliness.
• Dolphin sightings possible: The tour often offers the chance to see playful dolphins, adding a magical touch.
• Flexible, unhurried pace: With roughly 9 hours, you get a comfortably paced day with time to explore and relax.

Starting Point and Transportation: Getting on Board

The tour kicks off at 4 Quai Napoléon Parking, a convenient central location in Ajaccio. The initial part involves a lively 80-minute speedboat ride that whips you along the coast, giving you a preview of the stunning vistas to come. For those staying in Porticcio, there’s a possible pick-up point right in front of the tourism office — a nice touch for travelers who want a seamless start without extra fuss.

The boat itself is a semi-rigid, which is small enough to navigate narrow coves and close to the coast, but large enough to handle the day’s demands comfortably. As you whisk across the water, I love how the scenery quickly unfolds — dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and the shimmering sea that invites plenty of photo stops.

The Magic of Scandola: UNESCO’s Jewel

Once you arrive at the Scandola Nature Reserve, you’ll immediately understand why it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Accessible only by boat, it’s a rare chance to see a landscape of craggy volcanic formations, lush marine life, and rare flora. The guide often arranges a photo stop and a guided tour of the area, where you’ll hear about the geology and ecology that make this spot so special.

The two-hour visit includes opportunities to snorkel, swim, and spot marine creatures. Many reviews mention the turquoise waters and the thrill of swimming amidst such natural beauty. Guides like Lionel excel at making everyone feel safe while encouraging you to explore underwater with snorkeling gear and even a sea scooter for extra fun.

A standout aspect is the chance to see dolphins, which often join the boat — a bonus that truly elevates the experience. One traveler mentioned, “Our guide Lionel was very attentive to our comfort, he knew how to put us in a good mood while being respectful of safety.”

Lunch in Girolata: A Wild Beachside Break

After exploring Scandola, the boat takes you to the Gulf of Girolata for a beachside lunch. The beach is unspoiled, sometimes even occupied by cows wandering nearby — a reminder of how untouched this part of Corsica is. While lunch isn’t included, the stop allows you to relax, walk along the beach, and soak in the wild scenery.

Girolata itself is quite a character — accessible only by boat or a scenic hiking trail, adding to its charm. Many travelers rave about the atmosphere here, describing it as a “little piece of paradise.” You’ll find options to enjoy a picnic or pick up snacks, giving you flexibility in how you spend your time.

The Piana Calanques: Majestic Rock Formations

Next, the boat heads toward Piana’s Calanques, where massive granite cliffs rise dramatically from the sea. These rocks are sometimes ocher, pink, or volcanic, creating a palette that’s truly photogenic. The guided stops here include visits to caves, like the famous Lovers’ Cave, and opportunities for snorkeling and swimming.

This part of the trip is often praised for its breathtaking scenery. One review mentions, “The colossal granite rocks, sometimes pink and volcanic, create a majestic spectacle above the sea.” It’s a visual feast that makes you feel tiny in the face of nature’s grandeur.

Capo Rosso: Swimming in Natural Pools

The final highlight is Capo Rosso, a pink granite cape that juts into the Gulf of Porto. This spot is perfect for a refreshing swim in the natural pools formed by the rocks. The landscape here is enchanting, with rugged cliffs and clear waters that invite you for a last dip before returning.

The one-hour stop allows plenty of time to relax and take in the views, which many travelers say leave a lasting impression. One review notes the “enchanting landscapes that leave an indelible impression,” emphasizing how this spot caps off the day beautifully.

The Return Journey: A Relaxing Cruise Back

After a full day of sightseeing, the 80-minute speedboat ride back to Ajaccio offers a laid-back chance to reflect on the day’s sights. Many travelers mention how the boat’s smooth ride and the stunning sunset views make this a peaceful end to a busy day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for active travelers who enjoy boat rides, swimming, and natural scenery. Families with older children, couples, or small groups seeking an authentic, scenic day out will find it rewarding. Keep in mind that because the tour involves some boat transfers and swimming, it’s not ideal for pregnant travelers, those with back problems, or anyone with mobility issues.

The small group size makes for a more personal experience, and the attentive guides like Lionel are often praised for their friendliness and knowledge. It’s also a good choice if you want a flexible day — you can bring your own snacks, enjoy multiple swim stops, and take plenty of photos.

At $154 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the length, destinations, and included activities like snorkeling equipment, drinks, and marine life viewing. While food isn’t included, the opportunity to explore some of Corsica’s most iconic natural sites from the water makes it worth the investment. Many reviews highlight how guides like Lionel go out of their way to make this a memorable, comfortable trip.

If you’re craving an authentic Corsican adventure that combines stunning scenery, marine life, and small-group intimacy, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for those who love being on the water, exploring rugged coastlines, and taking plenty of swims in crystal-clear waters. You’ll appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the chance to experience places that are otherwise difficult to access.

However, if you’re not comfortable on boats or prefer a shorter, less active day, this might be a bit demanding. Also, since food isn’t included, be prepared to pack a picnic or plan to eat in Girolata.

All in all, Neptune Cruise’s day trip offers a memorable way to enjoy Corsica’s coast, especially if you value authentic landscapes over touristy gimmicks. It’s a genuine, scenic experience that captures the island’s wild spirit and natural beauty.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for older children who are comfortable on boats and enjoy swimming, but very young children or infants might find the long boat rides and activity level challenging.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, towel, beachwear, and plenty of sunscreen. Since food isn’t included, carrying some snacks or a picnic is a good idea.

Can I see dolphins?
While dolphin sightings are not guaranteed, many travelers report seeing dolphins during the tour, adding a magical touch to the day.

How long are the boat rides?
The total boat time is approximately 2 hours (split into different segments), with additional time spent exploring each stop on land and in the water.

Is the tour physically demanding?
It involves some walking and swimming, so it’s best suited for travelers with a moderate level of fitness. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, those with back problems, or people over 75.

What language is the tour guide?
Guides speak French, and the trip is conducted in that language.

To sum it up, this Neptune Cruise tour offers an engaging, scenic, and slightly adventurous way to discover some of Corsica’s most spectacular natural sites. With attentive guides, plenty of swimming and photo opportunities, and access to places you can’t reach by land, it’s a solid choice for travelers looking to maximize their Corsican coast experience without breaking the bank.