Rent a boat Corsica – The guide to rent a boat in Corsica
Corsica, one of the largest islands in the Mediterranean Sea, is rightly nicknamed the ‘Island of Beauty’, and this for a good reason. With its stunning coastline bathed in azure waters, charming cities and small villages with remarkable heritage, and rugged hinterland, Corsica is a true gem. It’s no wonder that it’s a popular destination for those seeking a little farniente.
Corsica has much to offer visitors, from its maquis-covered landscapes to its fine-sand beaches along the seaside.
Despite being attached to France, the island has a unique culture and dialect that add to its charm and allure as a Mediterranean island destination.
If you’re planning a seaside stay, now is the time to book your vacation rentals and discover Corsica at your own pace.
What to visit in Corsica?
Corsica is a stunning Mediterranean island with a rich history and diverse landscapes that offer something for everyone. Discover Ajaccio. Located on the west coast of Corsica, Ajaccio is the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte and a city full of history. Visit the Fine Arts Museum in the Fesch Palace to see a unique collection of portraits and documents related to the Bonaparte family. Don’t miss the chance to tour Napoleon’s birth house and explore the narrow streets and villas of the old town, including the cathedral where he was baptised in 1771.
Another popular summer destination on the western coastline, Calvi offers a range of water activities, including sea excursions, scuba diving, and kayaking. Its marina is a hub for yacht enthusiasts, and the citadel atop a hill overlooking the city is a must-see landmark. Moving on, discover Belgodère. This mediaeval city built on the side of a hill is home to the ruins of a 13th-century castle and picturesque chapels along its streets.Further to the east, Bastia is known for its huge marina and port, as well as its district of the Old Port, which is perfect for a stroll. It is also the entry point to Cap Corse, the northern tip of Haute-Corse. This part of the island is a perfect destination for a hike, following the coast and reaching one of the most beautiful Corsican beaches, Barcaggio.
L’Ile-Rousse, a Corsican town in Balagne, is also a must-see destination in this part of the island. Corse-du-Sud also conceals superb white sand beaches for seaside stays, particularly on the side of Porto-Vecchio. With its azure and calm waters, the beach of Santa Giulia, with its calm and azure waters, is perfect for swimming. The Sanguinaires Islands archipelago is also a stunning destination, consisting of four islands situated at the entrance of the Gulf of Ajaccio, surrounded by sea and mountain, cliffs, and rocks.
Scuba diving enthusiasts, on the other hand, can head to the southern tip of Corsica, to the natural reserve of the Bouches de Bonifacio, which separates the territory from Sardinia. This breathtaking site is classified as a Natura 2000 natural reserve and is home to a diverse marine fauna, including groupers, colourful fish, and gorgonian coral carpets.
The Scandola nature reserve, which is accessible by boat from Calvi and other locations, is another great spot for diving. This reserve features turquoise waters that are frequented by swordfish and moray eels, and where you can also spot dolphins. Its mountainous peninsula is adorned with tranquil creeks. Further south lie the calanques de Piana, some of which soar nearly 300 metres above sea level. This location lends its name to a delightful village that boasts pastel-coloured houses.
How can I get to Corsica?
For those in a rush, air travel is the preferred option, with flights from Paris and other major French cities taking about 2 hours. Depending on your travel plans, you can choose to land in Calvi, Ajaccio, Figari, or Bastia, all of which have international airports.
Alternatively, you can reach Corsica by boat, which is less expensive but still comfortable. Some ferries have onboard facilities such as restaurants, bars, and shops. The ferry ride from Piombino in Italy takes about 3 hours, while the journey from Nice and Toulon takes roughly twice as long.
How can I get around during my trip to Corsica?
To explore the Corsican coastline freely, taking a Corsican boat is the best option. This allows you to visit the main destinations along the coast and also explore the natural beauty of places like the Corsican islands of Lavezzi located near Bonifacio.
Alternatively, you can take the bus or a taxi, although the latter can be expensive. For a different experience of the island’s interior, a train is a great option, with affordable fares and multiple routes available. The railway network connects cities like Calvi and Bastia, Ajaccio and Calvi, and Ajaccio and Bastia, among others.
If you prefer to travel at your own pace, you can rent a car, motorcycle, or scooter from a Corsican rental agency. You could also consider taking the Corsican ferry to add some spice to your trip.
When is the best time to visit Corsica?
Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, Corsica is accessible year-round with 2,800 hours of sunshine annually. However, the summer months remain the most popular time to visit, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C, while the sea maintains a pleasant temperature of around 25°C, making it perfect for swimming and water sports.
If you’re a hiker, the best time to visit is at the end of the season when the temperatures are around 20°C, usually in September. However, in October, you may encounter rainy weather. For those looking to avoid the strong summer heat, a visit to Corsica in May or June can provide a pleasant Corsican weekend without the crowds and high temperatures.
What are the best vacation rental options in Corsica?
There are various vacation rental options to consider when planning your trip to Corsica. If you prefer to stay in one location throughout your stay, a vacation residence (“la résidence de tourisme”) may be the most suitable and affordable option. Corsica also has numerous campsites, but keep in mind that you will be living in a communal setting.
If, on the other hand, you plan to move frequently and explore different areas of Corsica, a hotel may be more convenient. However, it’s worth noting that hotels can be more expensive than other rental options.