Blue Ocean Club
Blue Ocean Club cruising guide

Yacht charter in Corsica & Sardinia

Cruising Corsica and Sardinia combines granite coastlines, protected archipelagos, and deep natural harbours across the Strait of Bonifacio. Charters often run between southern Corsica and northern Sardinia, linking sheltered anchorages with established marina hubs. The region suits guests looking for varied itineraries that incorporate secluded bays, dramatic cliff-top harbours, and reliable sailing conditions. Sea conditions in the strait can be demanding when westerly winds funnel between the islands, making experienced crew and flexible route planning valuable.

Best time to charter

The cruising season runs from May to October. July and August bring warm temperatures, low rainfall, and peak marina occupancy, particularly around the Costa Smeralda. May, June, and September offer quieter anchorages and steady sailing breezes. October sees cooler evenings and increasing frontal activity. The prevailing westerly and north-westerly winds, notably the Mistral, can accelerate significantly through the Strait of Bonifacio.

Anchorages and harbours to know

Bonifacio

This deep limestone fjord in southern Corsica provides secure shelter from prevailing winds, with berths situated beneath the medieval citadel.

Cala di Volpe

A wide, sheltered bay on Sardinia's Costa Smeralda offering good holding on sand and protection from westerly breezes.

Lavezzi Islands

A granite archipelago south of Corsica offering anchorages in designated zones, subject to Bouches de Bonifacio Nature Reserve environmental restrictions.

Cala Coticcio, Caprera

Located in the Maddalena Archipelago, this narrow cove features granite surrounds and clear water, with access regulated by park authority mooring buoys.

Rondinara Bay

A semi-circular Corsican bay situated between Bonifacio and Porto-Vecchio, providing sandy holding and protection from most winds except easterlies.

Practical tips

  • Getting there: Olbia (OLB) for Sardinia; Figari (FSC), Ajaccio (AJA) and Bastia (BIA) for Corsica. Porto Cervo is about 30–40 minutes from Olbia airport; Bonifacio is about 25 minutes from Figari.
  • Charter tax: Italian VAT (Sardinia) of about 22% is usually added to the charter fee (Charters starting in Corsica pay French VAT at 20% instead.).
  • Porto Cervo is about 30–40 minutes from Olbia airport (OLB), whilst Bonifacio is about 25 minutes from Figari (FSC). Ajaccio (AJA) and Bastia (BIA) serve Corsica.
  • Cruising the Maddalena Archipelago requires a paid permit purchased in advance, whereas the neighbouring Lavezzi Islands require strict compliance with designated nature reserve zoning rules.
  • The Strait of Bonifacio funnels wind and sea; monitor Mistral forecasts closely and maintain alternative anchorages on eastern coastlines during strong westerly conditions.
  • Secure marina berths in Porto Cervo, Bonifacio, and La Maddalena well in advance if chartering during July and August, as transient dockage fills quickly.

Yachts listed for Corsica & Sardinia

All cruising area guides · Charter cost and APA guide