Boat trip to the Corsican archipelago

Traveling to Sardinia and craving a taste of the nearby Corsican islands? This boat trip to the Corsican archipelago, operated by Mistral Estasis, promises to ferry you across the waters for a day filled with scenic views, island stops, and a taste of local beauty. While some travelers found the experience memorable, others voiced concerns about comfort, service, and boat condition.

In this review, we’ll unpack what makes this trip stand out—both the highlights and the pitfalls—so you can decide if it aligns with your vacation style. Whether you’re searching for a quick adventure or a scenic escape, here’s everything you need to know about this eight-hour tour.

Three Things We Like About This Tour

1. Access to Stunning Islands
The trip offers two main stops: Lavezzi beach and Isola Piana, both known for their striking natural beauty. You’ll get a chance to see these islands up close, with enough time for a swim, sunbathe, or just soak in the views.

2. Scenic Landscape Insights
Before returning, travelers can admire Punta Sperone and other southern Corsican landscapes. For those interested in geography and coastal scenery, this adds a wonderful visual element to the day.

3. Lunch on Board
The onboard meal, featuring pennette with tomato sauce, wine, and water, is a practical perk, saving you the hassle of finding a meal elsewhere. It’s not gourmet, but it’s convenient and included in the price.

You can check if your dates are available here:

One Consideration Before Booking

Boat Condition and Comfort
Some reviews highlight that the vessel is somewhat aged and not ideally suited for comfort. The boat is actually a deep-sea fishing motorboat, which might be less stable and roomy than modern passenger boats. This could be a dealbreaker for those prone to seasickness or seeking a plush experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip appeals most to travelers seeking quick access to iconic islands with a focus on scenery rather than luxury. It’s suitable for those who are curious about the Corsican landscape, don’t mind a somewhat basic boat, and want the convenience of an all-in-one day out. However, if comfort or expert guide commentary is your priority, you might want to explore other options.

Good To Know

• Scenic island stops provide ample time to enjoy the natural beauty of Lavezzi and Isola Piana
• The boat’s age and condition may impact comfort, with some travelers describing it as “poor” or “not suitable for long trips”
• The lunch included offers basic but practical food and drinks, saving you money and time
• Landscape views before the return journey add a memorable element, especially the promontory of Punta Sperone
• The group size appears to be limited, enhancing intimacy, but some reviews note overcrowding
• Guides’ knowledge varies; some travelers found the crew uncommunicative, while others appreciated the scenery

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Departure and Timing

The tour departs at 9 a.m. from Santa Teresa Gallura’s port. Arriving early (at least 40 minutes to an hour before) is recommended to avoid last-minute stress and ensure smooth boarding. The full experience lasts around 8 hours, offering a full day of exploration, weather permitting.

The Journey to the Islands

The boat ride itself is speedy, giving travelers a sense of adventure as it cuts through the water at high speed. One reviewer noted that the sea can be quite choppy, especially for those susceptible to seasickness, so packing medication or choosing a less turbulent day is wise.

Island Stops: Lavezzi and Isola Piana

Lavezzi Beach is the first main stop, with about a two-hour window. Reviewers often describe this as the highlight—crystal-clear water and soft sands make it perfect for swimming or a leisurely sunbathe. However, some mention the boat itself is older and less comfortable for lingering on the deck.

The second stop at Isola Piana offers similar time for exploration and relaxation. Reviewers say this island is striking, with rugged landscapes and fewer crowds, making it worth the stop. The two-hour duration per stop is usually enough for a quick dip, photos, or a stroll.

Lunch Onboard

The included lunch—pennette with tomato sauce, accompanied by water and wine—is simple but practical. One reviewer called the pasta “overcooked” and “not very appetizing,” but appreciated the convenience. No extra snacks or coffee are offered, so if you’re a foodie or need caffeine, plan accordingly.

The Return Journey and Final Landscape Views

Before arriving back at around 5 p.m., the boat makes a scenic cruise past Punta Sperone and other southern Corsican coastlines. Travelers rave about these views, which provide a fitting end to the day.

The Boat and Crew

While the professionalism and kindness of the crew are praised by some, reviews give a mixed picture. One reviewer described the captain as “unpleasant” and noted a lack of engaging commentary. Others appreciated the small group size, making for a more intimate experience, even if the boat’s condition was less than ideal.

Practicalities

• Price: At $129 per person, the tour is priced reasonably given the inclusions. However, some felt that the value was compromised by the boat’s condition and limited service.
• Group Size: Limited, but overcrowding was reported on some trips, which could impact comfort.
• Language: Guides speak Italian and French, which might influence the experience depending on your language skills.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This boat trip offers a quick, scenic escape to the Corsican islands, with the chance to enjoy beautiful beaches and landscapes. It’s best suited for adventurers comfortable with older boats and those wanting to skip the hassle of arranging their own transport to these islands.

If you’re after a leisurely, luxury experience with expert guides and top-notch boat comfort, this might fall short. However, if you’re looking for a cost-effective, straightforward tour to see the islands’ natural beauty, it can be a good choice.

The included lunch and scenic cruise make this a practical option, though expectations should be managed around boat comfort and service levels.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Travelers eager for remarkable scenery and island exploration, especially those comfortable with a speedboat ride and less plush amenities, will likely enjoy this trip. It’s great for small groups who want to avoid large tourist crowds and focus on natural beauty.

For seasickness sufferers or those craving luxurious comfort, other options might be more suitable.

FAQs

What is the departure time?
The tour departs at 9 a.m. from Santa Teresa Gallura, so arriving early is encouraged.

How long is the trip?
It lasts about 8 hours, including travel, stops, and cruising back.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, a lunch of pennette with tomato sauce, water, and wine is included onboard.

What should I bring?
Bring personal belongings for the beach, like towels, sunscreen, and swimwear. Note that baby strollers, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed onboard.

Is the boat comfortable?
The boat is an older, deep-sea fishing vessel, which some reviews describe as poor in condition, potentially impacting comfort.

Is there commentary during the trip?
The crew’s ability to explain the sites varies; some travelers found them uninformative or inattentive.

Can I see the landscapes?
Yes, the journey offers beautiful views of Corsican coastlines, especially around Punta Sperone.

What about seasickness?
The boat travels at high speed and can be bumpy, so seasickness is a risk for sensitive travelers.

Are there guides speaking English?
The tour is operated in Italian and French, so language may impact your experience depending on your fluency.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if plans change.

To sum it up, the Boat trip to the Corsican archipelago offers a practical way to see the islands with minimal fuss, provided you’re realistic about boat comfort and service. It’s perfect for travelers craving scenic views and island exploration rather than a luxury cruise. While some aspects could be improved—like boat condition and onboard amenities—the natural beauty of the islands makes this a memorable day out for adventure-seekers and landscape lovers alike.

You can check if your dates are available here: