Blue Ocean Club
7 days · 7 stops

Corsica's Scandola Reserve

The yacht cuts through the sapphire waters of the Gulf of Ajaccio, the imperial city shrinking in your wake. This is Corsica’s wild west coast, a journey from the birthplace of Napoleon to the fiery, volcanic cliffs of the Scandola Nature Reserve. Feel the warm breeze carry the scent of the maquis as you cruise towards ancient Genoese towers and secluded coves, accessible only by sea. Each anchorage reveals a new facet of the ‘Île de Beauté’, from bustling citadel towns to quiet fishing hamlets where time seems to stand still.

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  1. DAY 01

    Ajaccio & Sanguinaires Islands

    Embark at Port Charles Ornano in the vibrant, historic city of Ajaccio. Once settled, we cruise out of the gulf towards the Îles Sanguinaires, a string of porphyry islands that glow deep red in the setting sun. The air is warm, perfumed with the herbs of the surrounding maquis.

    • Explore Maison Bonaparte, Napoleon's ancestral home
    • Browse the fresh produce at the Marché Central d'Ajaccio
    • Take the tender for a close-up view of the Sanguinaires archipelago
    • Enjoy a first swim in the clear waters of Anse de Minaccia
    Anchorage
    Anse de Minaccia
    Dining
    Le 20123 for an authentic Corsican dinner, or the chef's welcome meal aboard.
  2. DAY 02

    Cargèse

    A gentle morning cruise brings you to the striking village of Cargèse, perched on a headland overlooking the sea. The town is distinguished by its two 19th-century churches, one Latin and one Greek, which face each other in a symbol of its unique history. The small port below is a charming place to step ashore and absorb the serene atmosphere.

    • Visit the opposing Latin and Greek churches
    • Hike a section of the coastal path from the port
    • Enjoy paddleboarding and kayaking off the Plage de Pero
    • Discover the secluded Plage de Chiuni by tender
    Anchorage
    Anse de Peru
    Dining
    A Muvra, offering fine seafood and excellent views over the port.
  3. DAY 03

    Calanques de Piana

    Navigate into a geological wonder, the Calanques de Piana. These crimson granite cliffs, sculpted by wind and water, plunge dramatically into an emerald and turquoise sea. We spend the day exploring this magnificent stretch of coastline by yacht and tender, discovering hidden grottoes and secret coves.

    • Kayak through the natural rock arches and caves
    • Hike to the Genoese Tour de Capo Rosso for astounding views
    • Swim and snorkel at the isolated pebble beach of Anse de Ficaghjola
    • Capture photographs as the setting sun ignites the colour of the cliffs
    Anchorage
    Golfe de Porto
    Dining
    Le Casabianca in the nearby village of Porto, or a private barbecue on a secluded beach arranged by the crew.
  4. DAY 04

    Girolata & The Scandola Reserve

    Today you enter the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Scandola Nature Reserve, a sanctuary for marine life and rare birds. We anchor in the bay of Girolata, a tiny fishing hamlet accessible only by boat or a long footpath. The village, with its Genoese fort and handful of houses, feels wonderfully isolated from the modern world.

    • Explore the Scandola Reserve's volcanic coastline by tender
    • Snorkel in the protected waters, rich with fish
    • Walk up to the Genoese watchtower overlooking the bay
    • Watch the wild cattle that sometimes roam the village beach
    Anchorage
    Anse de Girolata (on a mooring buoy)
    Dining
    Le Bon Espoir, a simple, revered restaurant on the beach serving fresh-caught fish.
  5. DAY 05

    Pointe de la Revellata

    After a final morning exploring the northern reaches of Scandola, we cruise towards the magnificent Revellata peninsula. This protected finger of land marks the entrance to the Bay of Calvi. We anchor in a sheltered cove at its base, a perfect spot for watersports with the citadel of Calvi visible in the distance.

    • Enjoy high-speed fun on the water toys in the calm bay
    • Tender trip to visit the lighthouse at the tip of the peninsula
    • Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Anse de l'Alga
    • Watch the sunset with cocktails on the sundeck, overlooking the sea
    Anchorage
    Anse de l'Alga
    Dining
    A bespoke dinner prepared by your private chef, served on the aft deck under the stars.
  6. DAY 06

    Calvi

    Awake to the impressive sight of Calvi's citadel, a fortified city perched on a rocky promontory. Spend the day exploring its ancient cobbled streets and browsing the chic boutiques and cafés along the bustling Quai Landry. The long, pine-backed Plage de Calvi provides a beautiful setting for a final afternoon of relaxation.

    • Wander the narrow lanes of the historic Calvi Citadel
    • Relax at a chic beach club on the Plage de Calvi
    • Stroll the vibrant marina front of Quai Landry
    • Visit the Chapelle de Notre-Dame de la Serra for panoramic views of the bay
    Anchorage
    Port de Calvi
    Dining
    U Fanale for refined waterfront dining or A Pignata for an upscale take on traditional Corsican food.
  7. DAY 07

    Disembark in Calvi

    Enjoy a final leisurely breakfast on board, taking in the view of the citadel and the bay one last time. The yacht is berthed in Port de Calvi, providing a seamless transition for your onward journey. Reflect on a week spent discovering the raw and refined beauty of Corsica's west coast.

    • Enjoy a final swim from the yacht's platform in the calm morning waters
    • Take a last stroll along the quay to buy local artisanal gifts
    • Savour a final Corsican breakfast prepared by your chef
    • Easy transfer to Calvi–Sainte-Catherine Airport
    Anchorage
    Port de Calvi
    Dining
    A final espresso and traditional Corsican 'canistrelli' biscuit at a quayside café.
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