Catamaran cruise to the Lavezzi Islands

Corsica looks different from a catamaran. This 9-hour semi-private cruise from Croisière Exclusive sends you to the Lavezzi Islands for morning swimming, snorkeling gear on deck, and plenty of time in the water.

What I like most is how the day stays social without feeling cramped. You get an attentive captain, welcome coffee with canistrelli, and a real lunch break with local touches. The second big win for me is the active setup, paddles, snorkeling masks, and even the provided swimming gear so you can spend less time figuring things out and more time enjoying the sea.

One consideration: the timing leans toward water time and short stops, like brief photo breaks at Cavallo. If you prefer long shore exploring over frequent swimming sessions, this day might feel a bit boat-forward.

Key highlights before you go

• Semi-private feel on a comfortable catamaran, not a huge cattle-car day trip
• Carrataghju secret beach begins with a morning swim and a laid-back onboard welcome
• Lavezzi and Cavallo mix, including a quick Cavallo photo stop and longer time in the Lavezzi area
• Drinks plus real Corsican lunch, with menu differences by season
• Onboard water fun: paddles, snorkeling masks, and provided swim gear

From Croisière Exclusive onto the water in one smooth morning

You meet at Croisière Exclusive, look for the sign, and the boats are right in front. It is a small detail, but it matters. No wandering, no guessing where to line up, just a quick handoff to the crew.

The cruise runs for about 9 hours, and the boat is described as comfortable with a captain and staff who focus on doing the day well. Expect a relaxed rhythm from the start, including time to settle in and get ready for the first water stop. With a strong satisfaction level across bookings, this is the kind of outing that tends to run on schedule and stays friendly.

That first stop at Carrataghju: swim, coffee, and canistrelli

The morning starts with Sylvain welcoming you aboard, and yes, his southern accent is part of the charm. The plan is to head out and then reach Carrataghju, described as a secret beach. Translation: you get that classic “we found a good spot” feeling without having to work for it.

You start with a morning swim right away. Then it shifts to something more human, coffee with canistrelli (the Corsican cookie you want to eat before your first big swim). The combination sets the tone. You are not just being transported. You are being taken on a day.

Practical note: if you run cold easily, bring your jacket. Sea wind can cool things down after the swim, and even on a warm day it is better to be comfortable than brave it.

Sailing past the millionaires vibe: Cavallo photo stop done right

After the initial stretch and the first main stop with photo time and free time, the cruise moves toward the Cavallo side of the story. Cavallo is known as an island of billionaires, so even the quick moments can feel fun to watch.

You get a Cavallo photo stop, about 15 minutes. That is not a long beach visit. But it does give you a chance to capture views and see the vibe from the water, which is honestly the best way to enjoy it anyway. You are on a boat, and the sea is doing the storytelling.

If you want deep exploration on land, you might feel the time is short. If you want a scenic overview without logistics, it works.

Lavezzi Archipelago time: where the best water moments happen

The main event is the Lavezzi Archipelago stop, about 2.5 hours. This is where the cruise gives you what you actually came for: time to swim and snorkel around the area.

Before the lunch break, the day includes welcome refreshments at anchor, plus an aperitif served with something described as a genuine island planter. It is the kind of onboard detail that makes the whole day feel more personal than just a standard stop-and-go itinerary.

Then lunch lands. And after lunch, the schedule stays flexible. You have more free time on this stretch, plus snorkeling masks and paddles available so you can choose your level of adventure:

• If you want to snorkel, grab a mask when the boat is settled.
• If you want calm, float and enjoy the water without rushing.
• If you want movement, use the paddles and explore the area in a way that feels controlled.

One small reality check: snorkeling time is only as good as your confidence in open water. If you are new to snorkeling, start simple and keep your expectations realistic. The advantage here is that the gear is provided, so you are not hunting down equipment or learning on the fly.

Lunch by season: paella in low season, Corsican platters in high season

Lunch is included, and it changes depending on the season, which is useful to know. In low season, you are looking at paella with seafood and chicken, followed by fresh fruit salad. In high season, the menu shifts to Corsican cheese and charcuterie platters, mixed pasta salad, then melon and fresh fruit salad.

Either way, lunch comes with cold drinks: rosé wine, still and sparkling water, plus a local digestif. That combo matters on a sea day. Cold drinks keep you hydrated, and the digestif creates a nice end-of-meal rhythm without turning the lunch into a party you did not sign up for.

Also, the crew seems to keep things smooth and adaptable. There is emphasis on professionalism and good humor in the day-to-day, which shows up in how lunch is served and how the flow is managed while people are moving between swimming and eating.

Paddles, snorkeling masks, and the “French fries” swim gear

This cruise is built around active breaks. Onboard you get paddles, snorkeling masks, and provided swimming French fries. That last phrase is amusing, but the point is not. The boat gives you the extra gear so you can stay in the water longer without needing to bring your own.

Here is how I would play it for maximum fun:

1. Start with the swim when everyone is freshest, then pause for coffee or an early snack.
2. Use snorkeling masks in the most settled moment at anchor, not while the boat is in motion.
3. Take your time. This is not a race through stops.

If you love being in the water but hate complicated plans, this is a strong match. If you prefer long, dry breaks, you may find yourself checking the water more than you expect.

And bring biodegradable sunscreen. You will thank yourself later, especially when you are moving between shade and sun repeatedly.

Porto Novo at the end: final swim, frappes, and Pietra

Toward the later part of the day, you sail along the coast to Porto Novo. The schedule includes another photo stop with beer, plus free time for swimming and snorkeling, then local snacks. You also get a final swim and snack at Porto Novo, with frappes and Pietra.

This is a good way to avoid the classic “last hour fatigue.” Instead of ending on a dry, rushed return, you get one last burst of water time and a treat that feels local. Pietra is a Corsican beer, and frappes are a perfect sea-day sweet drink, cold and refreshing without being fussy.

The final sailing back to port takes about an hour. By then, the day should feel pleasantly complete: sun, salt, food, and a few great view moments.

Price and value around $212 for a 9-hour sea day

At about $212 per person, this cruise is not the cheapest way to do Corsica. But it is also not trying to be. The value comes from what is bundled into the 9-hour experience:

• Semi-private outing feel on a comfortable catamaran
• Captain and fuel included
• Drinks served throughout the day
• Lunch included
• Snacks at the later stops
• Paddles and snorkeling masks provided
• Swimming French fries provided

If you were to piece this together yourself, the “boat + time at anchor + meals and drinks + gear” combo would add up fast. Here, you pay for convenience, plus the fact that the crew controls the timing so you get several distinct water sessions instead of one short stop.

There is also quality in the operation. The transport rating shows that most people rate it as a perfect experience level, and the overall satisfaction score is very high. In plain terms, the day seems to work smoothly.

Who should book this Lavezzi catamaran cruise

This trip fits best if you want Corsica in a practical, water-focused way. It is ideal for:

• Couples who want scenic islands without car logistics
• Families who like swimming breaks and included snacks
• Anyone who prefers a guided day with gear provided
• People who like a semi-private feel and a crew that stays attentive

It may not be your best pick if:

• You want long shore time and hiking
• You dislike swimming and snorkeling
• You are sensitive to schedules with multiple short stops

What to pack for Corsica sea air and swim time

The list is simple, and I agree with all of it:

• Towel
• Sandals
• Biodegradable sunscreen
• Jacket
• Beachwear
• Outdoor clothing

A jacket is the one people forget. Even if it is warm at departure, wind off the water can make you feel chilly during breaks, especially after you get out of the water.

Also, if you have allergies or special dietary requirements, let the operator know ahead of time. The day includes lunch and multiple food moments, so it is worth flagging needs early.

Should you book this catamaran cruise to the Lavezzi Islands?

Book it if you want a fun, guided sea day built around real swimming time, snorkeling gear, and a lunch that actually feels Corsican. The itinerary is structured to give you multiple water moments, plus the right kind of social onboard pace, welcome coffee, aperitif, drinks, and snacks without making the day complicated.

Skip it if you mainly want to walk around on land for hours. This is a boat-centered experience, and Cavallo is especially brief. You still get the views and the vibe, but the heart of the day is in the water.

If your idea of a great trip is to relax, swim, and let the crew handle the moving parts, this one is a strong match.

FAQ

Where do I meet for the cruise?

You meet at Croisière Exclusive. There will be a sign that says Croisière Exclusive, and the boats are right in front of it.

How long is the catamaran cruise?

The duration is 9 hours.

What islands are included in the day?

You visit the Lavezzi Archipelago and make a Cavallo Island photo stop, with sailing along the coast toward Porto Novo.

Is swimming and snorkeling included?

Yes. Swimming is part of the plan, and snorkeling masks are provided. Paddles are also provided.

What food and drinks are included?

Lunch is included, and drinks are provided throughout the day. You also get snacks at later stops and an aperitif at anchor.

Does lunch change by season?

Yes. In low season, lunch is paella with seafood and chicken, followed by fresh fruit salad. In high season, lunch includes Corsican cheese and charcuterie platters, mixed pasta salad, melon, and fresh fruit salad.

What languages are spoken by the guide?

The live tour guide offers French and English.

What should I bring?

Bring a towel, sandals, biodegradable sunscreen, a jacket, beachwear, and outdoor clothing.

Can I cancel or change plans?

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later to keep plans flexible.

Do I need to tell them about allergies or dietary needs?

Yes. If you have any allergies or special dietary requirements, let the operator know.