Day 3 in Bonifacio, Corsica – Boat Ride – Exploring Bonifacio from the sea
It was our third day in Bonifacio, we started the morning with a boat ride along the town and coastline. We purchased our tickets at the Marina (Port of Bonifacio) and boarded immediately, as the boat was leaving shortly. Usually, the boats run once every hour, with one going up and another coming down.
This boat tour offers a unique perspective of Bonifacio, allowing you to admire its natural rock formations and the town itself from the sea. Later that day, we continued our adventure by exploring the uninhabited Lavezzi Islands. This activity was part of our full 3-day Bonifacio itinerary, which covers all the highlights across the island.
Sailing on the Tyrrhenian Sea
We boarded our boat and began our sail on the Tyrrhenian Sea, part of the Mediterranean. The boat was not crowded, so we were able to pick a great spot, even though we were the last to board. As we sailed for a few minutes, the Port faded behind us, and the view of the Citadel gradually disappeared from sight.
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Sailing through the narrow passage into the sea
Majestic Cliffs and Napoleon’s Hat
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Sea cave shaped like Napoleon’s Hat
Soon, we approached the majestic cliffs from below. One of the first highlights was a sea cave known as Napoleon’s Hat, named for its shape. The cave, with its multiple smaller chambers and clear turquoise water running inside, created a mesmerizing scene. Our boat entered as far as it could without hitting the roof before turning back.
The Aragon Steps and Upper Town
A few minutes later, we spotted the Aragon Steps carved into the cliff face, looking almost like a straight line drawn on the rock. From the water, we could see people walking along the path, but they appeared incredibly tiny compared to the towering cliffs. This gave us a dramatic sense of just how high and massive the cliffs really are.
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Aragon steps and people walking around it
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Aragon Steps
As we continued, the Upper Town of Bonifacio came into view. The famous hanging houses perched on the cliffs were thrilling to see up close, and even more so knowing people still live there.
Sutt’a Roca and Le Grain de Sable
We sailed around Sutt’a Roca, the rock formations in the sea, and then around the iconic Le Grain de Sable rock. Up close, Le Grain de Sable looked enormous. The aerial view of the Sable Rock standing in the Tyrrhenian Sea was a great sight as well when we went along the Campu Rumanilu trail. Read more about our Campu Rumanilu adventure here. The boat slowed at every spot, allowing us to take pictures and fully enjoy the view. The aqua-green water was so clear that we could even spot some fish swimming below.
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Le Grain de Sable rock
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Sialing around Le Grain de Sable rock
A Memorable Adventure
The boat tour was about 2 hours and was a wonderful experience, offering a unique way to admire Bonifacio from the sea. The combination of cliffs, caves, rock formations, and the town itself made this one of the most memorable adventures of our Corsica trip.
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Clear turquoise waters, fish visible below
Later in the day, we headed to the stunning Lavezzi Islands, famous for their crystal-clear waters and unique rock formations. We even went snorkeling, exploring the vibrant underwater life and enjoying the turquoise waters. You can read about our full adventure at Lavezzi Islands, including snorkeling tips and must-see spots, here.
Tour we Recommend
Take a boat trip to the breathtaking Lavezzi Islands, where you can swim in crystal-clear turquoise waters and relax on pristine granite-lined beaches.
Find the best Lavezzi Island tours here.
Explore Bonifacio from a boat: Visit Bonifacio by Sea
Where to Stay
Stay near the Port of Bonifacio or uphill in the old town.
Here are some suggestions for up hill hotels with sea view
Colomba Hôtel Centre-Ville Historique
Here are some good hotels facing the harbor downhill
Best Western Hotel du Roy d’Aragon
Appartement vue sur le port – Chez Carlu
Travel tips for Boat ride in Bonifacio
Booking the Boat Tour
There’s no need to book tickets in advance. Boat tour tickets can be easily purchased from several booths at the Marina (Port of Bonifacio), making it convenient and flexible.
Boat Ride Duration & Tour Options
The boat ride around Bonifacio lasts approximately 2 hours. These rides can also be combined with trips to the Lavezzi Islands or other water-based tours, depending on what you’d like to explore.
Best Time to Visit
The best months for a boat ride around Bonifacio are May -June or late August – October, when the weather is pleasant and crowds are fewer. July and August are the hottest months and also the busiest. While conditions are ideal for being out on the water, expect crowds and higher demand.
Extra Tip
For the best views and photos, go around noon, when the light is brightest and the water colors stand out, just be prepared for the heat.
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