Porto-Vecchio: beginner diving in the Cerbicale Islands in the reserve

If you’re curious about exploring the underwater world around Corsica but aren’t ready for a full-scale certification or advanced scuba gear, this beginner diving experience at the Cerbicale Islands offers an inviting introduction. Perfectly suited for families, couples, or first-timers aged 8 and over, this trip combines a relaxed pace, expert guidance, and unforgettable scenery.

What really makes this tour stand out are the personalized guidance tailored to your comfort level, the chance to discover vibrant marine life, and the gentle descent that makes even total beginners feel confident. On the flip side, the tour’s duration is relatively short—just three hours—which might leave some craving more underwater exploration. Still, for a quick taste of scuba, it offers excellent value, especially considering all gear and transportation are included.

This experience is best suited for those seeking a low-pressure, beginner-friendly activity that emphasizes safety, fun, and natural beauty. Families with children 8 and up, couples, or solo travelers eager to try something new will find this adventure both accessible and memorable.

Good To Know

• Accessible for all ages: Suitable from 8 years old upwards, making it family-friendly.
• Personalized guidance: Small groups and tailored instructions ensure comfort and safety.
• All-inclusive experience: Wetsuits, snorkeling gear, and round-trip transport are included.
• Beautiful underwater wildlife: Expect to see unspoiled marine biodiversity.
• Gentle, flat water descent: Designed to be extremely beginner-friendly.
• Flexible cancellation policy: Free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from the Experience

This beginner diving experience is designed to be both accessible and enjoyable. Starting at Palombaggia Beach, you’ll meet your guides at a conveniently located beach hut by 2:00 p.m. After a 30-minute safety briefing, you’ll board a speedboat to the Cerbicale Islands—a stunning spot known for its calm, clear waters.

The transport itself takes around 20 minutes, giving you a chance to enjoy the scenic boat ride along Corsica’s rugged coast. Upon arrival, the waters are selected carefully for their flatness and clarity, which is ideal for those new to underwater activities. The focus here is on personalized guidance—your instructor will accompany you during the approximately 20-minute dive, ensuring your comfort and safety every step of the way.

Post-dive, you’ll have plenty of time to snorkel along the shoreline, marveling at the breathtaking marine life. Reviewers have highlighted the friendly and professional instructors, like Quentin, who is praised for his patience and clear explanations, making sure even the most nervous newcomers feel at ease. The soundscape of seagulls and gentle waves enhances the relaxed vibe as you explore the coastline from the water.

After roughly an hour of underwater activity and snorkeling, you’ll return to Palombaggia Beach by 5:00 p.m., feeling both refreshed and inspired. Throughout, all necessary equipment—including wetsuits, fins, masks, snorkels, and diving gear—is provided, so you only need to bring a swimsuit, towel, sunglasses, and a hat.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off with a meeting at Palombaggia at 2:00 p.m., where guides conduct a quick safety briefing. This session is essential for building confidence and ensuring everyone understands what to expect. Afterward, the speedboat whisks you to the Cerbicale Islands in about 20 minutes—an enjoyable ride that offers scenic views of Corsica’s coast.

Once at the islands, your instructor carefully chooses the best spot for your gentle descent into the water. This is where you’ll spend about 20 minutes underwater, with your instructor close by, ensuring a smooth experience. Many reviewers note that the water is flat and clear, making it an ideal environment for beginners.

Following your underwater exploration, there’s ample time for snorkeling, allowing you to admire the coastal cliffs, vibrant fish, and unspoiled surroundings. The sound of seabirds and the smell of ocean air create a tranquil backdrop, transforming the activity into a sensory feast.

Return to the boat, and then it’s a quick 20-minute ride back to the beach, arriving around 5:00 p.m. You’ll be dropped off either at your accommodation or at Kalliste Plongée, depending on your choice, completing an experience that’s as seamless as it is memorable.

What’s Included and What to Bring

Included in your package are all necessary equipment—wetsuits, fins, masks, snorkels, and scuba gear—as well as round-trip transportation, drinking water, and a certificate of participation, which adds a nice touch for those eager to remember their first underwater adventure.

You should bring a swimsuit, towel, sunglasses, and hat for comfort and sun protection. No alcohol or drugs are permitted, and safety is emphasized throughout, ensuring a secure environment for all.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Multiple visitors emphasize the professionalism and friendliness of the guides. One reviewer from Belgium called the instructors “very sympa,” while another appreciated the “excellent care and explanations” provided, especially Quentin, who was praised for his patience.

Many mention the stunning views and peaceful surroundings. One traveller noted, “Un endroit superbe pour découvrir la vie sous-marine,” highlighting how the calm waters make the experience accessible and enjoyable.

The small group setting seems to contribute significantly to the positive vibe, with reviewers appreciating the personal attention and feeling confident thanks to the instructors’ expertise.

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Price and Value Analysis

At $1,615 for a group of up to four, this tour might seem premium, but considering all gear, transportation, and personalized instruction, it offers good value. The experience is tailored to beginners, which means safety, comfort, and fun are prioritized—something that’s hard to put a price on.

The inclusion of a certificate also adds a memory keepsake, and the option to reserve now and pay later provides flexibility. For families or small groups looking for a safe, guided, and scenic introduction to the underwater world, this price point can be well justified.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This is ideal for families with children over 8 years old, first-time divers, or anyone wanting a gentle, guided introduction to scuba diving and snorkeling. It’s perfect for those who prefer small groups, personalized attention, and a relaxed pace. If you’re looking for a quick, scenic outing that emphasizes safety and natural beauty, this tour hits the mark.

However, if you’re after a longer or more adventurous underwater experience, you might find this short session more of a taster than a full immersion.

This beginner diving experience at the Cerbicale Islands offers an excellent balance of professional guidance, unspoiled scenery, and underwater discovery. It’s especially well-suited for those new to the sea or with young children eager to try something different. The calm, clear waters and friendly instructors make it a confidence-boosting venture into marine exploration.

While the three-hour duration is brief, the quality of the environment and guidance make every minute count. Expect stunning coastal views, a gentle introduction to scuba, and plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, all in a small, private group setting.

If you’re after a safe, accessible, and beautifully scenic way to get a taste of the underwater world around Corsica, this tour offers genuine value and an unforgettable start.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for kids aged 8 and over, as long as they are comfortable in water and meet the safety guidelines.

What should I bring on the day?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunglasses, and a hat. All diving and snorkeling equipment are provided.

Are there any health restrictions?
Yes, this activity is not suitable for pregnant women, people with claustrophobia, heart problems, epilepsy, or individuals over 75 years old. Also, those over 95, overweight individuals over 140 kg, or with a cold should consider their suitability.

How long is the actual underwater time?
You will spend around 20 minutes underwater with your instructor, which is perfect for beginners and first-timers.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides can speak French, English, and Italian, ensuring clear communication.

What is included in the price?
All necessary equipment, round-trip transportation, drinking water, and a participation certificate are included.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the activity.

Where does the tour start?
Meet at Palombaggia Beach at 2:00 p.m., or you may be picked up from your accommodation in Porto-Vecchio.

Is there an option to book now and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot without immediate payment, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

How does the weather affect the tour?
The tour is scheduled for calm, clear water conditions—if weather issues arise, the operator will advise on rescheduling or cancellation.

This beginner diving trip blends scenic beauty, expert instruction, and genuine fun—an ideal way to dip your toes into the underwater world of Corsica.

You can check if your dates are available here: