Porto-Vecchio: Boat Tour with Meal and Swim Stops

Planning a day on the water in Corsica? This Porto-Vecchio boat tour offers a relaxed, authentic way to soak in the island’s stunning coastline, combining a charming maritime experience with delicious food and refreshing swims. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what you can expect.

There are several things we love about this tour: the personalized service from friendly guides, the chance to lounge on a traditional heritage ship, and the delicious onboard barbecue that’s tailored to dietary needs. Plus, the small group size ensures a more intimate and less touristy vibe. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the trip depends on weather conditions—bad weather might lead to last-minute cancellations, so flexibility is key.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a laid-back yet memorable day with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying local flavors. It suits those who appreciate authentic, small-group adventures and aren’t fussed about extra add-ons like snorkeling gear or paddles, which are not included.

Good To Know

• Authentic heritage boat experience with a friendly crew
• Tasty onboard barbecue tailored to dietary preferences
• Swim, snorkel, and paddle at beautiful stops
• Flexible booking options with full refund for cancellations
• Personalized attention in a small-group setting
• Weather-dependent schedule means plan with a backup option

You can check if your dates are available here:

What Makes This Tour Special?

This boat tour stands out because it uses a maritime heritage vessel called Ulysse, which adds charm and character to your day on the water. It’s not a modern cruise liner or a giant catamaran; instead, it feels like being on a friendly, old-fashioned fishing boat, which makes the experience more authentic and intimate.

The crew—notably guides Maria and Jean-Michel—are praised for their kindness, attention, and knowledge. Their ability to cater to dietary restrictions, including vegan or gluten-free options, enhances the feeling of genuine care. One reviewer mentioned, “Thanks Maria and Jean-Michel for their explanations throughout the tour,” highlighting the attentive guidance you can expect.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Departure from Porto-Vecchio

The adventure kicks off from the port of Porto-Vecchio, where you’ll meet your crew onboard Ulysse, a vessel with a welcoming, vintage charm. The sailing pace is leisurely—about an hour of gentle cruising—allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic views of the Corsican coastline.

First Stop: Swimming and Snorkeling

Once at a turquoise-blue cove, the boat drops anchor for your swim and snorkel session. Reviewers mention that the waters are “straight out of a postcard,” delighting those who love a refreshing dip in clear, calm seas. Bring your own snorkeling gear if you have it, as gear isn’t included, and enjoy exploring the vibrant marine life.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Paddling and Relaxation

For the more adventurous, paddleboards are available, giving an extra layer of fun at the stopping point. Others prefer to simply relax on deck, soaking up the sun and the stunning surroundings. One guest remarked they loved trying paddleboarding, citing it as a highlight of the trip.

Lunch: A Flavourful Barbecue

Back on the boat, a delicious meal awaits. The crew prepares a barbecue of meat or fish with seasonal vegetables, cooked fresh onboard. The food is often praised as “excellent,” with the fact that the meal can be customized impressing many. Soft drinks and half a bottle of wine per person are included, making it a leisurely, wine-sipping lunch as you gaze at the scenery.

Return to Porto-Vecchio

After a few more relaxing moments on the water, the boat gently sails back to the port, wrapping up a memorable day of exploration and indulgence.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The price of $147 per person is quite reasonable for a full-day trip that combines sailing, swimming, and gourmet food. The tour includes the heritage sailing vessel, a delicious on-board meal, and drinks. However, it does not include snorkeling gear or paddles, so if you’re eager to explore underwater or paddle around, bring your own or rent locally.

The tour is 7 hours long, with the starting times varying based on availability. It’s worth checking the schedule in advance to plan your day accordingly. Also, be aware that bad weather can lead to last-minute cancellations, so keep a flexible mindset when booking.

The Experience on the Vessel

The boat itself adds a lot to the charm. As a heritage ship, Ulysse offers a nostalgic, peaceful sailing pace, perfect for those looking for a quiet escape away from crowds. The small group size—reviewers mention groups of just a few people—means more personalized attention from guides and a more relaxed atmosphere overall.

The crew is highlighted frequently for their friendliness and knowledge. Guests appreciate when guides like Maria and Jean-Michel share insights in English, French, or Italian, making it accessible to a diverse crowd. The sense of being on a pirate-like vessel enhances the fun and authenticity.

The Reviews Speak Volumes

Authentic, warm guides seem to be a recurring theme—reviewers consistently mention the guides’ kindness and attentiveness. Bernd from Austria praised the “excellent grilled food right on the boat” and “very friendly guides,” while Luiz from Brazil called the experience “a very exclusive day full of interesting adventures.” Guests also love the stunning views—many mention that the stops are “beautiful” and the water is “like a postcard.”

A few reviewers highlight how the small group size creates an intimate experience, making it feel more personalized and less rushed. The value for money comes from the quality of food, the authentic boat experience, and the scenic stops.

Highlights from reviews:

• “A delicious meal on the boat and paddleboarding along an idyllic beach” (Camille, UK)
• “Thanks to Jean-Michel and Maria for their kindness” (French traveler)
• “Great value for the money, totally worth it” (GetYourGuide traveler)

Practical Tips for Booking

• Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak season, as small groups fill quickly.
• Check the weather forecast as the trip may be canceled last-minute if conditions are poor.
• Bring your own snorkeling gear and paddles if interested in underwater exploration or paddleboarding.
• Consider bringing a hat, sunscreen, and waterproof camera to capture the views and stay protected.
• Dietary restrictions? Just let them know when booking; the crew is accommodating.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This experience suits travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic day in Corsica with a touch of authenticity. It’s perfect if you prefer small-group, personalized adventures over large cruise ships. It appeals to those who enjoy sailing, swimming in clear waters, and delicious, freshly cooked food onboard.

It’s also ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a balance of adventure and chill-out time, without the hassle of organizing transport or meals.

Final Thoughts

In the end, this Porto-Vecchio boat tour offers a wonderfully laid-back way to see Corsica from the water. The charm of sailing on an old maritime vessel, complemented by tasty food and refreshing swims, makes for a memorable day. The friendly guides, flexibility in dietary options, and small-group intimacy elevate the overall experience, giving you a genuine taste of Corsica’s coastal beauty.

While weather can be a wildcard, the overall value—combining scenic routes, excellent food, and personalized service—makes this a standout option for anyone wanting a relaxed, authentic maritime adventure.

FAQs

Is food included in the tour?
Yes, a meal cooked onboard, including starter, barbecue (meat or fish), and dessert, is included. Soft drinks and half a bottle of wine per person are also provided.

Can I bring snorkeling gear or paddles?
Snorkeling gear and paddles are not included, so you might want to bring your own if you plan to snorkel or paddleboard.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak French, Italian, and English, making the experience accessible to a wide range of travelers.

How long is the trip?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, with departure times varying depending on availability.

Is it suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or over 95 years old.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Trips can be canceled last-minute due to bad weather. It’s advisable to check the forecast and book with flexible cancellation options.

This detailed review aims to give you an honest, comprehensive look at what you can expect from this memorable Corsican boat experience—one that’s easy to enjoy and packed with authentic charm.

You can check if your dates are available here: