Blue & Beyond #5 - Corsica Yacht Charter

Corsica is a truly stunning island located in the Mediterranean. Over the years, this island has been ruled by various nations but today it is officially part of France. All Corsicans speak French although they have their own local dialect, a Romance language that is more closely linked to Italian.

07 July 2016
The Corsicans are known for their fiery and independent spirit, so don't be disheartened if it is difficult to engage with the locals. Just enjoy their delicious fare, making sure to try the Fiadone, which is a Corsican-style cheesecake made with brocciu cheese, and stocking up on some real Corsican charcuterie, as it is difficult to purchase away from the island.

What to do in Corsica?

What isn't there to do in Corsica! Any charter holiday here will be incredibly varied, from hiking and canyoning to leisurely cruises in unspoilt territory. Expect to enjoy spectacular views as you have lunch onboard, taste the local cuisine at rustic establishments, visit the white sandy beaches and enjoy afternoons bathing in shallow, warm waters. The crew of M.Y FIRECRACKER, a sleek, stylish and sporty Sunseeker Predator, will be only too happy to give their recommendations on the best things to do in the area.

Fun facts about Corsica

The Romans considered it the most backward region with rebellious and fierce slaves; Napoleon was born here in 1769; they have a rich wine history with a perfect wine making climate but very few are exported so, if you find a Corsican wine, buy it; it’s the 4th largest island in the Mediterranean; there are more than 200 beaches to discover; it’s extremely mountainous with its highest peak being 2,700m.

Corsican phrases to help for those brave enough to give it a go

Hello   Bonghjornu
How are you? Cumu site?
Very well, Thank you Bè, vi ringraziu
Please Per piacè
Thank you Grazie
I don't know Di nunda
Yes
No Innò
Excuse me Scusatemi
Goodbye Avedeci
Do you speak English? Parlate Inglese?

Sample itinerary for your dream charter in Corsica

Our experienced charter team will happily offer advice or a full itinerary, depending on your desires. Below is an example itinerary taking you all the way round the island.

Bonifacio

Ask the crew to take you to the glorious Rondinara beach. With its translucent waters and soft sand, you won't be disappointed spending an afternoon bathing here in one of the most beautiful settings in the Mediterranean.

Home to Corsica's most dramatic port, in a deep-water inlet beneath limestone cliff, Bonifacio is located at the extreme southern tip of the island. This is a beautiful historic town perfect for exploring by boat to discover all the little coves and grottos. Visit the island’s top golf course, Sperone, with its spectacular cliff-top setting, or head to Rue Doria in the old town for a spot of shopping. The marina provides a good variety of places for eating and drinking and is often frequented by the wealthy yachting clientele; it’s also the hub for the town’s nightlife, with many of its bars staying open until the early hours. For those looking to party, head to nearby Porto Vecchio for Europe’s biggest open air nightclub, Via-Notte. Regardless of its size it remains elegant and sophisticated and attracts the best international DJs, as well as boasting four theme bars, exotic vegetation, swimming pools, fountains and a large dancefloor in the centre. Dance the night away before heading back to your luxury charter yacht for a detoxifying breakfast and a refreshing morning swim.

Ajaccio

An afternoon wandering round Ajaccio will give you great insight into Corsican culture. Pass by Napoleon’s home, and don’t forget to stop by the Farmers’ Market on Place Foch to give your senses a real treat. It’s filled with jams, cheeses, chutneys, meats, freshly baked breads and much more. For dinner, head to trendy the Route des Sanguinaires to experience exquisite gastronomic creations and stunning sea views at L’Altru Versu, owned by the Mezzacqui Brothers. Alternatively, head to Bistrotello across town, owned by the same family, where each Friday evening the two brothers join their father with guitars and serenade the diners.

Girolata

Take a leisurely cruise up to the tiny village of Girolata and enjoy the beautiful sights along the way as you head up the West Coast, stopping en route at the UNESCO Marine World Heritage Site of Scandola. The mottled-pink volcanic rocks are only accessible by boat and snorkelling is a must, with an abundance of marine life including dolphins and seals. Then delight in a delicious lunch onboard whilst admiring the unspoilt coastline.

Calvi

Cruise overnight to the sophisticated and popular resort of Calvi, a beautiful destination brimming with super yacht owners jostling for space in the glittering waters. The history of Calvi claims that it’s the birth place of Christopher Columbus, and although his rumoured house was destroyed by Nelson in 1794, the ruins and a statue of Columbus remain. Calvi is the perfect destination for some shopping, eating, indulging and generally relaxing. The narrow, white sandy beach is a major draw, with its shallow waters stretching along the length of the bay. Popular activities here include windsurfing, water-skiing, jet skiing and paragliding.

Bastia

On your way to Bastia, ask your captain to stop by Saint-Florent, sometimes described as the Corsican St Tropez, and if you can get across to Plage de Saleccia you can enjoy a picnic lunch on this long and undeveloped expanse of dazzling white sand. Corsica is known for its natural beauty and unspoilt by development so don’t expect the same sophistication as the French and Italian Rivieras, but it definitely deserves its name ‘Ile de Beauté’.
Spend a day wandering round the streets of Bastia, taking in the historical and vibrant neighbourhoods of Terra Vecchia and Terra Nova. It is the ancient capital of Corsica and located on the north east of the island. One of the city’s hotspots is Place Saint Nicolas; this huge square has many shops, cafes and restaurants for you to enjoy. Bastia is not the chicest of Corsican locations but you will enjoy a hearty and rustic local cuisine.

To book yourself a dream Corsican charter, contact the charter brokers at bluewater for their recommendations. We will be only too happy to offer a free quote on your next charter booking.