Corsica Yacht Charter - Luxury Mediterranean Sailing, Itineraries and Tips

Book a 7–9 day Corsica yacht charter in May or early June to enjoy mild seas and limited crowds. Start with Calvi and work south along the west coast to Porto, Girolata, the Piana cliffs, Ajaccio, and Bonifacio, then loop back via Cap Corse. Charter with a modest crew and an exceptional captain to unlock the best anchorages and avoid crowded marinas.

Before departure, stock a mix of local products and staples, because some coves offer limited services. A grill on deck makes sunset dinners effortless, while a small cooler keeps drinking water and wines chilled. In Corsica you will find museums and ancient fortifications in Bastia and Ajaccio, including sites tied to Pasquale paoli, which enriches off-boat excursions. The pointe of Cap Corse provides dramatic viewpoints and perched villages with impressive height. For the user navigating this coast, a simple day-by-day plan and a compact navigation app help keep legs aligned with the weather.

Sample 7-day loop: Day 1 Calvi to Girolata and Scandola Reserve (permit required) by late afternoon anchor near the coast. Day 2 Girolata to Porto for calm afternoons and a hike along cliffs. Day 3 Porto to the golfo region near Piana for the famous height cliffs and viewpoints. Day 4 Piana to Ajaccio, exploring the old town and the ancient citadel. Day 5 Ajaccio to Bonifacio along the southern coast, with a stop at secluded coves. Day 6 Bonifacio to Bastia via Cap Corse, stopping at small harbors. Day 7 Bastia back to Calvi or a final night ashore in a perched village. Typical legs run 20–40 nautical miles, with 4–6 hours of sailing per day depending on wind.

When planning, check terms carefully: some operators include provisioning credits, others bill separately for yacht equipment or tender days. To avoid surprises, request a written list of included hours and a clear note on port dues. If you crave authentic Corsican flavor, book evenings at small towns with grill-friendly waterfronts and plan trips during mild days that maximize outdoor time at viewpoints along the pointe. Note that some marinas can be expensive, so balance stops with anchorages in quiet coves whenever possible.

Best Charter Bases in Corsica: Ajaccio, Bastia, Calvi, Porto-Vecchio and Bonifacio

Ajaccio stands out as the most versatile base for a Corsican yacht charter. This base makes it easy to sail across Corsica. Its sheltered harbour, the quai, and a capable staff ensure smooth berthing and quick shore access. A local guide can map a day ashore, while the city itself pleases travellers with markets, museums, and the promenade along the water. Provisioning is straightforward, with additional paid berthing options during the peak period. For lazy afternoons, loungers line the quay and offer pleasant views of pristine water. For a longer cruise, a pelosa detour can be added.

Bastia anchors the northern leg with a solid, protected harbour and quick access to the Cap Corse trail. From Bastia you can hop along illetes and pristine coves across the coast. Calvi follows with a dramatic citadel backdrop and a busy quay; staff coordinate daily provisioning, and there is a dependable guide network to tailor shore visits. The piana cliffs nearby are a favourite option for a half-day excursion. Typically, Bastia serves as a practical overnight stop on a northern loop.

Porto-Vecchio marks the southern hinge, with long sands and the santa giulia area, a favourite anchor for travellers. theres a warm welcome for travellers. From here you can easily reach Bonifacio’s dramatic limestone cliffs and the gorgeous scenery of southern Corsica. The region hosts pleasant towns and nearby cities with markets and cafes that suit a relaxed pace. Santa giulia beach remains a must-do for many guests, while the marina provides reliable staff, fuel, and shore facilities to keep the boat ready for the next hop.

Bonifacio completes the southern arc with iconic scenery and a compact, efficient harbour. Its entry requires careful handling, but the reward is immediate access to pristine coastlines and quick hops to the Calanques de Piana and other coves along the southern coast. A practical tip: plan for a day ashore to walk the ancient citadel and enjoy the gorgeous scenery, then switch back to Porto-Vecchio for beaches, or return to Ajaccio for a final provisioning run. This cross-base approach balances northern and southern highlights for travellers who want to see Corsica itself rather than a single area.

7-10 Day Itinerary: From Ajaccio to Porto-Vecchio with Must-See Stops

Day 1: Set sail from Ajaccio at first light toward Capo di Feno, choosing a sheltered cove for the first stop. In January, cooler mornings bring crisp air as the sails rise. The fresh breeze keeps the deck lively, and your yachts continue exploring the coast along dramatic headlands and hidden bays.

Day 2: From there, push down toward Scandola Reserve and the Girolata inlet. The route features striking red cliffs and emerald water. Make a stop to explore the coast by tender and do a bit of snorkeling around sheltered rocks. Then glide to the Lavezzi archipelago, where clear water and small coves invite calm exploring on the bow.

Day 3: In the Lavezzi archipelago, anchor for a calm lunch and a short exploring by dinghy. The water glows fresh and turquoise, a Balos-inspired scene on Corsican shores, with a few islets dotting the horizon and hidden coves ready for exploring.

Day 4: Early morning sail to Bonifacio, where white cliffs soar above the quay. Look for a sheltered mooring near the old town, then take a tender to the citadel and the harbor. Late in the day, climb to a peak vantage for dramatic views over the strait and the sea beyond.

Day 5: From Bonifacio, head toward the Porto-Vecchio coast, skirting golden coves along Palombaggia. Drop anchor near Santa Manza or Cala Rossa for a sheltered swim and easy exploring along the coast. The vibe is ideal for long swims and breezy deck time.

Day 6: Make a short hop to Tamaricciu beach for a leisurely morning, then set sail along the coast toward sheltered coves near Porto-Vecchio for snorkeling and relaxing on deck among red rock faces and turquoise water.

Day 7: Finish in Porto-Vecchio with a calm morning tied to the harbor, then stroll to the old town and enjoy a fresh seafood lunch. If time allows, visit nearby coves for a final swim before lifting anchor and closing the charter with memories of these striking coastlines.

Seasonal Sailing Windows: Optimal Times for Calm Seas, Light Winds and Clear Anchorages

Target May or September for Corsica sailing to enjoy calm seas, light winds and clear anchorages.

These windows provide pleasant temperatures and long days on the water, with natural light that makes marine scenery and anchor drops especially nice. Plan a 6–10 day itinerary to sample several coves across the costa and along the mountainous hinterlands without crowd pressure. This whole approach improves safety and comfort.

Best windows at a glance

Spring (April–June) offers rolling seas on the northern coast and milder conditions overall; sheltered bays near sarténe and Cap Corse stay calm, with winds slightly stronger in exposed sectors. This period remains ideal for visiting ruins along secluded inlets and for comfortable overnights after active days on deck.

Autumn (September–October) remains the main shoulder season, with light winds, long hours of daylight and calm anchorages across the island. balos-style comparisons aside, Corsica's anchorages deliver clear water, natural coves and fewer bars ashore as crowds ease.

Summer (July–August) brings higher activity and more bars in port, but you can still find nice, sheltered anchorages if you sail early and finish by afternoon. The main routes along the coast stay pleasant, with steady breeze and pleasant sea state for day trips between bays.

Practical tips for planning days on the water

Reserve accommodation in the main harbors for easy access across the island, then hop to nearby bays for swimming and snorkeling. A typical day includes 4–6 hours of sailing, with 2–3 hours anchored in a sheltered spot for lunch and exploration. In addition, check the morning forecast and be prepared to adjust your course by small degrees if a northerly breeze ramps up. For a relaxed pace, start near the costa, swing north along the shore, then finish with a sunset in a peaceful bay and a pleasant dinner at a harbor bar. Your guide helps map the day from sheltered coves to the main harbor. Pack essential products for comfort on deck.

Onboard Provisions: Packing List, Provisions, and Dining Tips for a Corsican Charter

Pack a compact seven-day kit with quick-dry layers, sun protection, and waterproof bags.

Clothes should cover warm days and cooler nights: breathable tees, polo shirts, linen shorts, light trousers, a windbreaker, and one nicer outfit for evenings ashore. Include swimwear, a rash guard, a wide-brim hat, and sunglasses.

Footwear includes deck shoes, non-slip sandals, water shoes, and slippers for the cabin. Add a small dry bag for shore visits to hidden beaches or perched coves, plus a compact towel set and a lightweight rain shell for sudden showers.

Onboard provisioning blends yacht pantry staples with Corsican markets. Stock olive oil, coffee, tea, rice, pasta, canned tomatoes, crackers, and a few sweet snacks. Focus on local produce when ashore: bright tomatoes, citrus, fennel, herbs, cheeses, and charcuterie; grab fresh fish if available. Reserve a couple of shopping days in port to refresh dairy and produce, and coordinate with staff to catch markets at their best times.

Wine, water, and non-alcoholic options should be arranged in advance for days at sea. Bring a mix of Corsican wines and a spare bottle for special dinners. When a beach visit is possible, reserve a table at a restaurant perched above the costa or a sheltered anchorage to enjoy a sunset with a view of the golfo.

Dining on board benefits from a flexible plan: breakfasts with coffee and croissants, lunches centered on fresh produce, and dinners featuring a signature Corsican dish. Share preferences with the staff so meals adapt to trips and schedules. If you dine ashore, choose a known restaurant with a view and a wine list that matches the menu; in many bays you’ll find a hidden gem with seafood and regional herbs. If your yacht has suites, the crew can arrange a private dining service on deck for a more intimate experience.

Daily rhythm matters: set times for swimming, island visits, and meals; avoid crowded ports during peak hours and head for quieter coves when cruising along wild coastlines. When weather shifts or seas get difficult, rely on the crew’s guidance and adjust plans to stay safe.

Storage on board keeps clutter down: use labeled bins, dry-storage compartments, and vacuum bags; rotate items to prevent dampness and keep the galley organized. Store away from salt spray, and keep an extra shore bag ready for quick trips to shore.

Though weather shifts may alter plans, the crew keeps operations smooth, and you still enjoy the best coves and coastal views. Visiting Corsica by charter blends incredible scenery with practical provisioning and memorable dining moments along the golfo, from bustling towns to hidden plages along the costa.

Thanks for planning with care–your days cruising Corsica will pair exquisite produce, local wine, and refined meals with time under blue skies and calm seas.

Porto-Vecchio Beach Highlights: Palombaggia, Santa Giulia, Cala Rossa – Access, Best Times and Tips

Visit Palombaggia at sunrise for calm water, warm light and a natural backdrop of tamaricciu and limestone; this quick start sets a stellar tone for the day and helps you avoid crowds that usually fill the central corse coast later.

• Palombaggia

  Access: From central Porto-Vecchio, take the D368 route toward Palombaggia. Parking is limited, so arrive early or use a resort shuttle in peak season; the road narrows near the beach, so drive with care. The cove sits on a limestone coastline framed by natural dunes and tamaricciu clusters.

  Best times and tips: Weekdays in May–June offer a quieter environment; July and August bring crowds, so consider a dawn or late-afternoon swim when the water is usually warm and the climate feels more pleasant. Water can feel cool in shoulder seasons, so bring a light wetsuit if you plan longer underwater explorations; shade is scarce on the sand, so bring a sun shelter. Enjoy a quick snack with Stella wines from nearby producers, then take a shoreline stroll to spot almost desert stretches where the light shapes the sands beautifully. For wider options, the official nautique guide on the website lists organized tours you can take from lospedale and port areas.

  Practical: If you want to see more coves, the coastline between Palombaggia and nearby beaches offers stunning limestone shelves and turquoise water; bring water shoes for rocky entries and plan a short, safe coastal walk to capture the best photos.

• Santa Giulia

  Access: The beach sits along a broad lagoon just east of Porto-Vecchio; a central parking zone and short walk lead to soft white sand. The area is well signposted, with easy access from the main coastal road and nearby resorts, ideal for a relaxed family day.

  Best times and tips: Santa Giulia usually enjoys gentle seas and shallow water–great for swims and kid-friendly play. Arrive early to dodge mid-day crowds, especially in July–August; late afternoon light adds a warm glow on the water and beach faces, making photos pop. The lagoon’s natural shelter keeps currents mild, contributing to a climate-friendly swim environment; snorkel around the western edge for a peek at underwater life, if weather is calm.

  Practical: Browse nearby food stalls for light bites and local wines; the nearby regions produce crisp whites and rosés that pair well with seafood. For a deeper dive into local culture, consult the nautique guide on the Corsican website for guided tours and tasting itineraries that highlight the island’s wines and cuisine.

• Cala Rossa

  Access: A scenic, more rugged option south of Santa Giulia; reach via a coastal road from the lospedale area and park at the small lot before a short walk to the cove. The limestone shoreline forms dramatic shapes, with sheltered pockets and turquoise water that invite a quick swim and exploration.

  Best times and tips: Cala Rossa shines in late afternoon light when the cliff faces capture a warm glow and the water becomes pleasantly calm; mornings can be breezier and the coves feel more intimate, especially outside peak season. In shoulder seasons, you’ll find space to enjoy the views and take photos without the heavy crowds. If you’re up for more, consider a guided tour that includes coastal stops to observe the underwater limestone structure and natural habitats.

  Practical: Water shoes help on the rocky entries, and a light shade is handy during peak sun. For a fuller experience, pair your visit with a coastal stroll through tamaricciu groves and a stop at a local beach-side pick for food and wines; the guide and website list options for organized tours that suit a nautique mood and a Stella-tasting break.