Set out on a captivating journey along the rugged Corsican coastline with Cargèse’s Scandola, Girolata, and Piana afternoon boat tour. This 5-hour excursion promises to immerse you in the region’s natural wonders, from the ancient volcanic landscapes of Scandola Nature Reserve to the charming village of Girolata and the stunning Calanques de Piana. Explore the crystal-clear waters, marvel at the breathtaking scenery, and discover why this picturesque corner of the Mediterranean has captured the hearts of travelers from around the world. With guided tours, photo stops, and opportunities for swimming and relaxation, this unforgettable experience is sure to leave you in awe of Corsica’s unparalleled beauty.
Key Points
- This 5-hour boat tour departs from Cargèse and explores Scandola Nature Reserve, Girolata, and Calanques de Piana.
- The tour includes photo stops at Omigna Tower, Plage d’Arone, and Capo Rosso, as well as guided tours of the key sites.
- Visitors will have a 2-hour break in Girolata to explore the village or go swimming.
- Snorkeling in the Calanques de Piana is offered during the sunset.
- The tour is led by a knowledgeable Corsican guide and experienced captain, with a maneuverable ship for close navigation.
Tour Overview
The afternoon boat tour from Cargèse takes travelers on a 5-hour excursion to discover the stunning natural wonders of Scandola, Girolata, and the Calanques de Piana.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy photo stops at Omigna Tower, Plage d’Arone, and Capo Rosso, as well as guided tours of the Scandola Nature Reserve, Girolata, and the Calanques.
During the 2-hour break in Girolata, you can swim or explore the charming village.
The tour also includes a boat cruise through the Gulf of Porto and a chance to go snorkeling in the Calanques de Piana, where you’ll witness the breathtaking sunset colors on the red rocks.
The wheelchair-accessible tour is offered in both French and English.
Itinerary
Embarking from Croisieres Grand Bleu, the tour kicks off with photo stops at Omigna Tower, Plage d’Arone, and the striking red granitic rocks of Capo Rosso.
Next, guests are treated to guided tours of the breathtaking Scandola Nature Reserve, the charming village of Girolata, and the Calanques de Piana. During the 2-hour stop in Girolata, explorers can swim or freely wander the quaint streets.
The tour then cruises through the stunning Gulf of Porto before a final snorkeling adventure in the Calanques de Piana, where the sunset colors dance across the vibrant red rocks.
With a knowledgeable Corsican guide and a maneuverable boat, this tour provides an unforgettable journey through some of the region’s most captivating natural wonders.
Highlights
Travelers can admire the ancient volcano collapsed in the Scandola Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its breathtaking landscapes.
Guests can also discover the striking red granitic rocks of Capo Rosso, a natural wonder that showcases the region’s geological diversity.
During the 40-minute stop in Girolata, explorers can freely wander the charming village’s quaint streets or take a refreshing swim.
The tour culminates with an unforgettable snorkeling experience in the Calanques de Piana, where the sunset’s vibrant hues dance across the vibrant red rocks.
This afternoon boat adventure offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and the chance to take in the stunning scenery of Corsica’s western coast.
Inclusions
Along With the guided tours and boat cruise, the afternoon excursion includes a 40-minute stop in the charming village of Girolata, allowing guests ample time to freely explore its quaint streets or partake in a refreshing swim.
On top of that, weather permitting, the tour provides an opportunity for snorkeling amid the vibrant red rocks of the Calanques de Piana, where travelers can marvel at the sunset’s captivating interplay of colors against the stunning natural backdrop.
The tour also features a knowledgeable Corsican guide, an experienced captain and crew, and a maneuverable ship that enables close navigation, ensuring a comfortable and immersive experience for all participants.
Important Information
Schedules are typically subject to change depending on the season and prevailing weather conditions. Visitors are advised to dress warmly at the start and end of the season, as temperatures can be quite chilly out on the open sea.
Free parking is conveniently available near the port from which the tour departs.
The tour can be postponed or cancelled due to:
- Inclement weather
- Insufficient passenger numbers
- Other unforeseen circumstances
To ensure the best experience, it’s recommended to bring the following:
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Swimwear
- Towel
With these considerations in mind, adventurers can confidently embark on this captivating Scandola, Girolata, and Piana boat tour, ready to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Cargèse.
Boat Cruise
The boat cruise takes guests on a captivating journey through the Gulf of Porto, treating them to stunning vistas of the ancient volcano collapsed within the Scandola Nature Reserve.
Guests will sail past the vibrant red granitic rocks of Capo Rosso, marveling at the natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
The cruise includes a 40-minute stop in the charming fishing village of Girolata, where visitors can swim, explore, and soak in the serene atmosphere.
As the boat cruises towards the Calanques de Piana, passengers will be enthralled by the breathtaking sunset colors reflecting off the iconic red rock formations.
This unforgettable boat tour offers an immersive experience in one of Corsica’s most captivating natural wonders.
Photo Stops
Throughout the afternoon boat tour, guests delight in several photo opportunities at scenic locations along the way. The first stop at the historic Omigna Tower offers breathtaking vistas of the vibrant turquoise waters and rugged coastline.
Next, the boat pulls in at Plage d’Arone, where passengers can capture the stunning contrast of the white sand beach against the towering red cliffs of Capo Rosso.
The tour also features:
- Dramatic views of the ancient volcano collapsed in the Scandola Nature Reserve
- Picturesque glimpses of the charming fishing village of Girolata
- Breathtaking sunsets over the Calanques de Piana’s iconic red granite formations
- Chances to spot local wildlife, from seabirds to marine life
Unforgettable memories of Corsica’s natural splendor.
Guided Tours
As the boat glides past the dramatic landscapes, guests embark on guided tours that bring the region’s natural wonders to life.
Within the Scandola Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, an experienced Corsican guide leads visitors on an immersive exploration of this ancient volcanic wonder, pointing out the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this protected marine environment.
In Girolata, the guide provides insights into the history and culture of this quaint fishing village, allowing guests to discover its charming streets and local way of life.
Recap
The Cargèse afternoon boat tour offers an unforgettable journey through Corsica’s stunning natural wonders.
Witness the ancient volcanic landscapes of Scandola, stroll through the charming village of Girolata, and marvel at the breathtaking Calanques de Piana at sunset.
With guided tours, photo opportunities, and time for swimming, this 5-hour excursion promises an incredible adventure along the island’s captivating coastline.
