The ultimate guide to a Corsica yacht charter: Where to go and what to see

Published 21 setembro 2026

A captivating blend of French and Italian influences and famous for its dramatic wild landscapes, abundant nature reserves, and picturesque anchorages (although probably most famous for being Napoleon Bonaparte’s birthplace), a Corsica yacht charter is a highlight of Mediterranean cruising.

From wild and windy Cap Corse in the north to the port of Bonifacio on the southernmost tip a stone’s throw from Sardinia, there is a lot to discover during a luxury yacht charter in Corsica. Well protected and largely unspoiled, hidden coves and pristine deserted beaches provide some of the most stunning anchorages in the Mediterranean.

Why choose Corsica for a yacht charter?

Lying in the middle of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, the island of Corsica offers the yacht charterer over a thousand kilometres of beautiful and wild coastline to explore.

Home to dramatic limestone cliffs, UNESCO-protected nature reserves and secluded white-sand beaches accessible only by sea, the island has an unspoiled character that continues to captivate the superyacht crowd.

The best places to visit in Corsica by yacht

A Corsica yacht charter offers an experience of many contrasts. From narrow bays and unspoilt coves to red rock cliffs, vibrant underwater worlds and ancient towns and citadels. Whether you’re spending a week exploring everything this French territory has to offer, or pairing the highlights with nearby Sardinia, it’s one of the Mediterranean’s most rewarding destinations.

for one of the Mediterranean's most dramatic arrivals

Bonifacio

Perched on a dramatic limestone cliff overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, Bonifacio, Corsica, is one of Europe’s most stunning coastal settings. An essential stop on any yachting tour of the region, it captivates all who visit with its beautifully preserved medieval architecture in the Old Town (Vieille Ville) and bustling harbour area below. But the deck of your yacht is the most spectacular spot to gaze at Bonifacio and appreciate its unique and mesmerising setting.

for history, beaches and mountain scenery

Calvi

A historic port city on the northwest coast of Corsica, Calvi is famous for its massive 13th century Genoese citadel and six kilometre crescent of white sand beach. The city’s storied history is defined by ancient invaders, a fierce loyalty to Genoa (unlike much of Corsica) and the belief that Christopher Columbus was born here.

Arriving by your yacht, you can fully appreciate the beauty of this town and its setting as you see the magnificent citadel tower above the red-tiled roofs, book-ended by forested mountains and the picturesque marina. For those visiting in the summer months, Calvi is a lively cultural hub with a variety of festivals and concerts.

for Corsica at its wildest

Scandola Nature Reserve

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this Corsica nature reserve is the island at its wildest. A collapsed volcano that fell into the sea millions of years ago, chartering here feels otherworldly. Step aboard your tender to navigate between the colourful canyons and coves, as magnificent deep orange cliffs tower overhead.

for a remote stop accessible from the sea

Girolata

Girolata Bay is one of the Scandola Nature Reserve’s most beautiful anchorages. Located on the park’s southern edge, the bay is backed by red rock cliffs and is a favourite spot for yachts to stop for swimming, diving and all manner of watersports. Only accessible by boat, tourists come by water to visit the small village of Girolata and its ancient fort. Once the masses depart mid-afternoon, take your tender ashore and discover the local Scandola lobster at one of the rustic seaside restaurants.

for beaches and southern Corsica

Porto-Vecchio

A Porto-Vecchio yacht charter offers famous Corsica beaches, a bustling port with Roman origins and a 16th century Genoese citadel. Disembark your yacht to wander the maze of narrow cobblestone streets lined with boutique shops, cafés and historic spots before an evening promenade along the marina.

You have some of Corsica’s most idyllic beaches here, including Palombaggia, Santa Giulia, Cala Rossa and Pinarello – all with impossibly blue waters and soft sand for a day at leisure.

for swimming and snorkelling

Lavezzi Islands

South east of Bonifacio en route to Sardinia you will find the Lavezzi Islands Nature Reserve, where a scattering of granite boulders, beaches and islets emerge out of the water. Offering 80,000 hectares of scuba diving, including the famous 'Grouper City' renowned for the massive fish species that can reach up to 100kg and 1.5m in length, it is the ideal spot for exploring beneath the waves.

Lavezzu Island is the largest, with a chapel, two cemeteries and a lighthouse, while Cavallo is the only inhabited island – fiercely protected by the watchmen (not even a single sunlounger is permitted to mar the breathtaking coastline), it’s a dreamy blend of French soul and Italian style.

Which are the best beaches to visit on a Corsica yacht charter?

Corsica’s beaches are so varied you could find yourself on a wind-swept stretch of white sand in the morning and then a sheltered, deserted rocky cove for lunch, in very different terrain. Many of the best can only be reached by boat, making them wonderfully private and exclusive.

best for iconic Corsican scenery

Palombaggia

Palombaggia is a firm favourite with the superyacht crowd. Stretching three kilometres around the bay, it’s one of the longest beaches in Corsica and also one of the most popular, particularly with twitchers as the nature reserve on the neighbouring UNESCO World Heritage Cerbicale islands provides the rare chance to sight crested cormorants up close and personal.

Above the waves, Palombaggia beach is defined by red rocks, powder white sands and umbrella pine trees. Below the surface, encounter mullet, silverfish, octopus, sole and the famed salema porgy fish, a golden striped hallucinogen if consumed.

best for a sheltered anchorage

Rondinara

Rodinara is one of the most secluded beaches in Corsica, tracing a near perfect C-shape that culminates in two headlands that almost touch at the entrance to the bay.

Perfectly placed for yachts visiting the historic port and natural harbour of Porto Vecchio, Rondinara beach is also sheltered from the wind and ideal for safe family swimming, marking it out as one of the best beaches in Corsica.

best for escaping the crowds

Saleccia

Enticingly remote and easier to access by boat than by land, Saleccia beach is recognised by its long curve of pearl white sand. Little fishing boats bob at anchor on translucent waters as local fishermen unload their fresh catches of succulent octopus and squid.

Known for its rustic landscape and family-friendly gastronomy, Saleccia is often described as one of the wildest beaches on the island and frequently ranked as one of the top 10 beaches to visit when on a Corsican beach holiday.

best for swimming and snorkelling

Lotu

Sharing Saleccia’s stunning Agriates desert coastline is Lotu (or Loto) beach, an isolated find for those keen on avoiding crowds. Affectionately known as ‘wilderness beach’ it is another of Corsica’s beaches only accessible by boat – a true hidden gem.

A favourite anchorage for small yachts and fishing boats, its wooden jetty stretches out to clear azure waters where bathers and snorkellers while away the hours exploring this endless expanse of beautiful beach.

best for calm turquoise water

Santa Giulia

Often described as the most beautiful beach on Corsica, Santa Giulia beach is renowned for its turquoise waters contrasted by emerald green vegetation that lines the gently sloping hills. The aquamarine lagoon waters that lap the sandy Santa Giulia beach are calm and shallow – ideal for families with young children who like to paddle, or for making use of your yacht’s watertoys.

best for combining beach and culture

Calvi Beach

Corsica’s Calvi is widely considered to be one of the best beaches on the island. A long sweeping coastline enjoys some of the clearest water drawing snorkellers from far and wide, framed by stunning views of the centuries-old citadel and old port.

Stretching almost 6km in length, space is never an issue on Calvi beach. Pairing privacy with mouth-watering eateries, pine woods and mountains, jazz beats can be heard floating on the breeze thanks to Calvi’s year-round festival vibe.

What can you do on a Corsica yacht charter besides visit the beaches?

While the beaches are one of Corsica’s biggest draws, look beyond these perfect sands and you’ll find dramatic cliffside citadels, rugged mountain gorges, protected marine reserves for diving and unique island wines.

Snorkel and dive in clear Mediterranean waters

Corsica’s rugged coastline creates an extraordinary underwater world, with clear Mediterranean waters, granite formations and rich marine life. Divers can anchor off Calvi to explore the wreck of a B17 American bomber, or head to Mérouville, also known as Le Sec du Pellu, where granite pinnacles are home to dusky groupers, red gorgonian walls, barracuda, amberjack and dentex.

For both divers and snorkellers, the Lavezzi Islands are a highlight, with crystal-clear water, giant granite boulders and abundant marine life just south-east of Bonifacio.

Hike through dramatic mountain landscapes

Corsica’s rugged interior makes it ideal for active charters, with hiking routes that reward early starts with mountain views, natural pools and quiet trails far from the coast. For serious walkers, the famous GR 20 crosses the island over 180km, but you don’t need to leave your yacht for two weeks to enjoy Corsica on foot.

Instead, choose shorter routes such as the 90-minute Tête de Mort loop above Ajaccio, with panoramic views across the city and sea before breakfast back on board. For something more challenging, Paglia Orba is one of the island’s most spectacular hikes, climbing through a sweeping valley to a ridgeline with far-reaching views and natural pools for a cooling swim along the way.

Explore historic towns and citadels

Remnants of Corsica’s fascinating naval history are evident all along the coastline in the form of 16th century cliff-top towers and citadels. The medieval fortified town of Bonifacio is the best example of the island’s past, with narrow streets, massive fortifications and stunning vista from its clifftop setting. The view from the citadel over the surrounding town and the Bonifacio Straits in particular is worth the steep climb. The Citadelle de Corte with its 15th-century castle and barracks is another worthy climb for its spectacular views over the ancient town, while the 15th century Genovese-built Citadelle de Calvi towers over the bustling port.

Experience Corsican food and wine

Corsica is famous for its produce and wine, and there is no better way to enjoy a uniquely Corsican gastronomic experience than with an intimate private lunch or dinner at one of the rustic family-run restaurants nestled in the Corsican hills. Vinophiles looking for experiences beyond the beautiful beaches of the island will surely enjoy exploring the vineyards of, one of the most renowned wine-growing regions in the whole of France.

What does a seven-day Corsica yacht charter look like?

A seven-day Corsica yacht charter gives you enough time for a memorable introduction to the island, combining headline destinations with quieter anchorages and hidden coves. Depending on how deeply you want to explore, it can also be paired with Sardinia, allowing you to experience two of the Mediterranean’s most rewarding cruising grounds in one itinerary.

Calvi → Scandola & Girolata → Ajaccio → Roccapina → Bonifacio → Lavezzi Islands → Porto-Vecchio

Seven days discovering the best of Corsica

If you have never visited the glittering isle of Corsica before, or have only stopped by a handful of its towns, this itinerary will give you a taste of the island’s culture, landscapes and beaches. Start in Calvi, exploring its historic citadel and charming old town before meeting your yacht and enjoying a warm welcome from the crew. As you settle into life at sea, your yacht will cruise to Scandola and Girolata – the wild, dramatic side of the island, where rugged cliffs, hidden coves and crystal-clear waters are best appreciated from the water. Both are protected areas, making this an ideal place to explore by tender, take to the water on your yacht’s watertoys or head below the waves for snorkelling and diving.

Moving on to Ajaccio, explore Corsica’s palm-fringed capital, famous as the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. Wander its historic streets, browse the market or linger over lunch by the waterfront before slowing the pace at Roccapina, where spectacular scenery surrounds a beautiful anchorage.

Then comes Bonifacio, where towering limestone cliffs, a historic citadel and a dramatic harbour entrance make for an unforgettable arrival by yacht. From here, cruise to the Lavezzi Islands for turquoise waters, granite islets and secluded coves – a striking contrast to the wild west coast. Conclude your seven-day Corsica yacht charter in Porto-Vecchio, where some of the island’s most famous beaches meet a lively old town.

Bonifacio → Lavezzi Islands → La Maddalena → Porto Cervo → Costa Smeralda

Seven days from Corsica to Sardinia

For a spectacular start to your journey, arrive in Bonifacio, where towering limestone cliffs, a historic citadel and a dramatic harbour entrance make for an unforgettable arrival by yacht. From here, cruise to the Lavezzi Islands for turquoise waters, granite islets and secluded coves – a striking contrast to the wild west coast – before crossing the Bonifacio Strait into Sardinia.

Navigate the La Maddalena archipelago, hopping between its secluded islands and hidden coves, before cruising the coastline of the Costa Smeralda and around Porto Cervo. Spend your days swimming from the yacht, exploring the islands or lingering over long lunches ashore, then watch the sun set over the glittering marinas as evening falls.

Experience Corsica from the water with the help of a Burgess private yacht rental

Looking to book a private yacht charter in Corsica?

At Burgess, we pride ourselves on crafting unforgettable yachting experiences. With our extensive fleet and decades of experience, we ensure every charter is tailored to perfection. Whether you’re new to yachting or a seasoned sailor, let us take care of the details while you embrace the journey.

Speak to our Burgess Corsica charter experts and let us organise the ultimate itinerary for you today.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Corsica good for a yacht charter?

Corsica is a brilliant destination in the Mediterranean for a yacht charter. It feels gloriously wild, with granite peaks tumbling through lush forests down toward luminous turquoise water. There’s a real mix of activities here, from snorkelling and diving to wandering historic towns and dining at acclaimed restaurants.

Which part of Corsica is best for yacht chartering?

The southern tip of Corsica, centred around Bonifacio and Porto-Vecchio, is widely considered the best region for yacht chartering. This area offers dramatic limestone cliffs, high-end marinas, proximity to the pristine Lavezzi Islands marine reserve, and easy island-hopping access to northern Sardinia.

What are the best places to visit in Corsica by yacht?

Corsica's best yacht destinations include the dramatic white limestone cliffs of Bonifacio, the volcanic red rock grottoes of the Scandola Nature Reserve, the crystal-clear waters of the Lavezzi Islands, and the lively medieval citadel harbour of Calvi.

Which Corsica beaches are best reached by yacht?

Corsica offers some exceptional beaches best reached by yacht, including the remote white sands of Saleccia and Lotu in the Désert des Agriates, the superyacht-favoured Palombaggia near Porto-Vecchio, and the striking turquoise cove of Roccapina in the southwest.

How long do you need for a Corsica yacht charter?

We’d recommend a week for a Corsica yacht charter, allowing you to enjoy a mix of popular hotspots and hidden gems and go at a slower pace. If paired with a Sardinia yacht charter, you may only need to do a few days around Corsica for just the highlights – but we’d recommend taking the time to get under the skin of this wild island.

When is the best time to charter a yacht in Corsica?

The best time to charter a yacht in Corsica is between May and September. The shoulder months offer warm weather, comfortable sea temperatures and fewer crowds, while July and August offer peak summer vibrancy.

Where should you start a Corsica yacht charter?

Most Corsica yacht charters start in Ajaccio, Bonifacio, Porto-Vecchio or Calvi, depending on your preferred coastal route, flight access and whether you plan to cross into Sardinia.

Corsica or Sardinia: Which is better for your yacht charter?

Choosing between Corsica vs Sardinia for a yacht charter depends on your style: Corsica offers wild, rugged nature and quiet coves, while Sardinia delivers glamorous nightlife, high-end dining, and the famous turquoise waters of the La Maddalena archipelago. Because the two islands are only about 9 to 10 miles apart, many charter itineraries combine both – your Burgess charter broker will discuss your preferences and curate your itinerary from there.

To find out more about Burgess’ yachts for sale and yachts for charter, please contact a Burgess broker. Alternatively, get in touch with one of our offices directly: London, Monaco, New York, Miami, Singapore or all other locations.

- Yachts, prices and availability are correct at the time of publication.