A Corsica luxury yacht charter encompasses a selection of distinctly unspoiled landscapes, cosmopolitan coastal cities and an array of sun-kissed beaches primed for the Superyacht Set. From quaint fishing villages to picturesque bays, the Corsican coastline is the perfect vacation hotspot for a sophisticated and memorable Mediterranean adventure.
In this article:
- Corsica Yacht Charters: At a Glance
- Popular Destinations for Yacht Rentals in Corsica
- Highlights of a Corsica Yacht Charter
- Who goes on a Corsica yacht charter?
- History and Culture
- Types of Yacht Charters in Corsica
- How much does it cost to charter a yacht in Corsica?
- When is the best time for a Corsica yacht charter?
- Where should I begin my Corsica yacht charter?
- Popular Marinas and Anchorages in Corsica
- Local insight
- How to book your Yacht Charter in Corsica
Perfectly positioned between the south of mainland France and west of mainland Italy, Corsica is the fourth largest island in the Mediterranean and although officially a part of France for over 200 years, the island benefits from influences from both countries. Embodying a sweet Mediterranean fusion of chic café society, traditional, rustic cuisine and spectacular scenery, a yacht rental in Corsica is one to remember.
- Breathtaking Scenery
Corsica's 620-mile-long coastline is renowned for its stunning beauty, with rocky cliffs, secluded coves, and crystal-clear waters. - Delectable Cuisine
A delicious mix of French and Italian flavors, Corsican cuisine is some of the best you will find, with fresh seafood, charcuterie, and local cheeses being the top favorites. -
Cultural Richness
Corsica has a rich cultural history that sets it apart from other regions in France, boasting a unique blend of Italian and French influences, wonderful architecture and traditional music. -
Beautiful Weather all year round
With an average of 300 sunny days per year, Corsica is an ideal destination for yachting and enjoying a variety of adventurous or relaxed outdoor activities. -
Abundant Marine Life
The waters around Corsica are teeming with marine life, making it a popular destination for underwater enthusiasts with a passion for diving and snorkeling. -
World-Class Wine
Corsica is home to some of the best vineyards in France, producing high-quality wines that will leave you wanting more. -
Great Island Hopping Opportunities
With over 200 beaches and numerous islands, Corsica is a great place to explore by luxury charter yacht, giving you the freedom to choose and create your dream itinerary.
Corsica has a number of popular destinations that draw in the yachting elite each year. The historic capital city of Ajaccio is a particularly popular starting point for those embarking on their charter yacht thanks to its large marina, beautiful beaches and historical sites. Boasting all the glamour and sophistication of the Côte d’Azur, Ajaccio is always bustling with activity. From the port, charter guests can step off their vessel and explore the trendy waterfront promenade that stretches west, buzzing with chic shoppers enjoying the lavish boutiques during the day and elite partygoers when the sun goes down.
Another stunning medieval town is Bonifacio, particularly popular with the yachting crowd thanks to its harbor, which is conveniently sheltered by dramatic high cliffs. From here, charter guests can explore the narrow streets and ancient buildings in the old town or cruise over to the nearby Lavezzi Islands, which are protected nature reserves.
A short distance away lies the ever-charming Porto-Vecchio, a town that effortlessly oozes French charm. Bursting with character and elegance, Porto-Vecchio is home to a bustling port with Roman origins and a lively marina, both of which are overlooked by a picturesque old town and a 16th-century fortification. With a sweeping selection of tranquil beaches here too, Porto-Vecchio is a destination for a superyacht charter bucket list.
A Corsica yacht rental vacation offers a mesmerizing selection of things to see and do. Here are our top picks of some of the most outstanding:
- Plage de Santa Giulia: Located on the south coast of Corsica, this picture-perfect beach offers a superlative combination of fine white sand and crystal-clear waters.
- Hiking in the Corsican mountains: Corsica's rugged landscape is a hiker's paradise, with miles of trails through stunning mountain scenery. Top hikes include the Cascades de Purcaraccia and Capo Rosso hiking trails.
- The Lavezzi Islands: Located off the southern coast of Corsica, these uninhabited islands offer a tranquil escape and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
- Bonifacio: Home to the most beautiful harbor and medieval citadel, Bonifacio is a place unlike any other in the world.
- The Genoese towers: These historic watchtowers dot the Corsican coastline and offer a glimpse into the island's turbulent past.
- The birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte: Head to the capital city of Ajaccio and discover where the great explorer was born at the museum dedicated to his life and legacy.
- The nightlife in Porto Vecchio: With a combination of extremely good bars, restaurants and nightclubs to choose from, Porto Vecchio is the perfect place to unwind after a day on the water.
There are many reasons why people choose to explore Corsica on a yacht, mainly because the stunning Mediterranean isle can offer something for each and every member of the yacht charter party.
Some people may be looking for a luxurious vacation experience, while others may be interested in exploring the natural beauty of the island. Corsica's coastline and surrounding waters are home to beautiful beaches, secluded coves, and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal destination for those who enjoy water activities like swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Corsica yacht charters are also popular among couples looking for a romantic getaway or families who want to spend quality time together while enjoying the outdoors. Additionally, Corsica's rich history and culture make it an appealing destination for those with a passion for history and mesmerizing architecture.
Spanning thousands of years, Corsica boasts an eclectic mix of Mediterranean, Italian, and French influences, and its people are known for their strong sense of identity and pride in their history and traditions. The island has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and over the centuries, it has been ruled by various powers, including the Greeks, Romans, Pisans, Genoese, French, and British.
Much of the island's history is reflected in its impeccable architecture, such as medieval citadels, Genoese towers, and fortifications that bear witness to the island's turbulent past. If you're wanting to learn more about Corsica's history there are multiple fascinating museums that dive into the island's past, including the Museum of Corsica in Corte and the Bonaparte House Museum in Ajaccio.
The people of Corsica choose to celebrate their heritage and traditions through music, food and festivals. Popular festivals of celebration include the Fiera di u Vinu wine festival and the Santu Petru di Tallà which brings everyone together to create the most spectacular atmosphere.
As one of the most popular parts of the Mediterranean, the south of France and Corsica attract a considerable amount of superyachts each summer. Not sure what type of vessel to pick in Corsica? Let's narrow down the main differences between the two:
A crewed motor yacht charter in Corsica beckons guests with its decadent allure and offers them the best of both worlds. Think your own private chef, five-star hotel service and amenities onboard your plush paradise, giving you and your charter guests unparalleled freedom to explore in private luxury. With a yacht charter itinerary put together entirely to meet your needs, make the most of your freedom at sea and anchor at otherwise inaccessible bays dotted along the glittering Mediterranean coastline.
If you are looking to lap up the splendor of Corsica and the nearby cruising grounds of France at a slower rhythm (combined with considerable outdoor deck space) a sailing yacht charter is an ideal fit. Combined with Corsica's enviable climate, averaging more than 300 days of sunshine per year, you'll bronze in timeless style.
There are many charter yachts available to rent in and around Corsica, given its perfect position between France and Italy. For convenience we have listed the average prices for motor yacht and sailing yacht charters in Corsica below;
For motor yacht rentals in Corsica, prices can range from $15,000 to $2.75 million p/week per week, plus expenses
For luxury sailing yacht rentals in Corsica, prices can go from $13,800 to $597,000 weekly, plus expenses
The optimal times for yacht charters in Corsica's turquoise-clear waters are typically late May to early October. During this time, you can still enjoy beautiful warm weather, with the later months offering the warmest swimming temperatures.
June and September are generally considered the best months for sailing in Corsica, as they offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds than the peak months of July and August.
Many yacht charters begin at Port Ajaccio Tino Rossi in the Corsican capital of Ajaccio which is located on the island's west coast. The city is located in one of the most beautiful bays in the world, surrounded on three sides by mountains that protect it and make it an excellent destination for private yacht charters.
The large marina comes equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and services that are designed to meet the needs of large vessels of up to 100m (328ft). The 300-boat yacht marina is also in very close proximity to all the must-see sites and has a large base of pleasure boats too.
The city is located in one of the most beautiful bays in the world, surrounded on three sides by mountains that protect it and make it an excellent destination for private yacht charters. From here, charter guests have to chance to explore the region's 200 or so sand and pebble beaches, as well as venture the impressive rocky coastlines that Corsica is renowned for.
Itineraries
- Port de Plaisance de Porto-Vecchio: Situated in a scenic bay on the southeast coast of Corsica, Port de Plaisance de Porto-Vecchio is a large marina that can accommodate up to 450 boats. With easy access to the charming town of Porto-Vecchio, this marina is particularly popular thanks to its great amenities and its scenic surroundings.
- Port de Plaisance de Calvi: Situated on the northwest coast of Corsica, Port de Plaisance de Calvi is a modern marina that can accommodate up to 700 vessels. Just a few steps from the old town of Calvi, this marina is convenient and picturesque and also allows you to be in close proximity to all the excellent restaurants, historic sites and beautiful boutiques.
- Port de Bonifacio: Well protected from winds and boasting stunning views of the Bonifacio citadel, Port de Bonifacio is one of the most popular marinas on the island. With around 450 berths, the marina has all the amenities you could need including fuel, excellent restaurants and shops.
For nights not spent at the marina, there is a myriad of pretty anchorages to be found in secluded coves and sheltered bays all around the coastline of this beautiful island. The bay of Pinarellu Bay is sheltered from the winds from northwest to southerly and is especially popular with the yachting elite due to its good anchoring in shallow sandy waters.
Cala Lazarina is another popular anchorage that can be found on the Lavezzi Islands in southern Corsica, a few miles offshore. This place is very well protected from the winds, the coastal sandy shallow water perfectly holds the anchor. For relaxation, guests can choose one of the two picture-perfect beaches that provide soft white sands and turquoise waters, perfect for a day of beach combing and snorkeling.
Described as paradise on earth, Salechia anchorage is a small bay with a superlative combination of white sands and crystal clear azure waters. The coastal sandy zone is not very shallow - up to 5m deep, and holds the anchor well, so you can quite literally swim in clear water from your yacht.
Lastly, you can not miss Girolata Bay. Accessible only by boat or foot, the bay has a small anchorage that is popular with yachts, offering stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and coastline which remains comfortable and calm, even in the highest season.
- The currency used in Corsica, as well as the rest of France, is the Euro. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller transactions.
- Corsican cuisine is known for its emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Some popular dishes include charcuterie (cured meats), seafood, and cheese. Corsican wines and liqueurs are also well-regarded.
- The official languages of Corsica are French and Corsican. While French is widely spoken, some locals may also speak Corsican, a language that is similar to Italian.
- As an island with vibrant culture, there are many festivals and events throughout the year that could mean that Corsica feels a little busier. One of the most famous is the Fiera di u Vinu, a wine festival held in September that celebrates the island's wine-making traditions. Other popular festivals include the Fiera di a Castagna (chestnut festival), held in November, and the Festival de Musique de Calvi, a music festival held in July. Make sure to join in if this sounds like something you would enjoy, or organize your vacation around these dates to avoid any unwanted crowds.
- If you are driving around Corsica, please be aware of the narrow and winding roads, particularly in the mountains. Drivers should be prepared for steep inclines and hairpin turns, and be sure to drive carefully.
- Corsicans are known for their hospitality and warmth towards visitors. It's common to be invited to share a meal or a drink with locals, particularly in smaller towns and villages. Embrace the opportunity to meet new people and experience the local culture.
With its unique history, picturesque coastline, fascinating culture and array of world-class beaches, Corsica is undoubtedly one of the most dreamy destinations in the Mediterranean. Therefore, we advise you to book your yacht charter well in advance of your trip to secure your perfect yacht on your preferred dates. If you leave it too late, the selection of yachts at your disposal will be reduced and you may not be able to explore the destinations you have your heart set on. Plus, finding dates when everyone in your charter party is available can be tricky; the longer you leave it, the more challenging it will be.
For more information about renting a private luxury charter yacht in Corsica please contact your preferred yacht charter broker, they can help you plan your perfect yachting vacation itinerary, combining your party's needs with recommendations about the best time to visit.
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