Bonifacio cliffs from the sea hit hard. On this Porto-Vecchio day cruise, I love the sail along the limestone sea caves and that you get a real break at the Lavezzi Islands (including lunch in a cove), not just a quick drive-by. My main caution: it’s a 180-passenger ship, so the vibe is more “organized day out” than quiet and private.

You start early with a crew welcome and snack around 8:15 a.m., then the boat leaves 9 a.m. sharp. If you want a straightforward, high-value day in southern Corsica—marine park scenery, swimming stops, and an onboard meal—this one fits.

Key Things to Know Before You Go

• Bonifacio sea-cave views from the water on the way to the islands
• Lavezzi Islands cove stop at midday with lunch served onboard
• Two swimming windows (plus another chance depending on the route)
• 180-passenger capacity keeps it affordable, but adds crowd energy
• Lunch includes drinks, and you choose from three menu options
• Snorkeling gear isn’t included, so pack your own if you plan to gear up

Porto-Vecchio Morning: 8:15 Welcome, 9 a.m. Departure, and a Full Day Rhythm

This is a classic “one-day loop” cruise with tight timing. You’re welcomed on board around 8:15 a.m. for a snack served by the crew, and the ship leaves 9:00 a.m. sharp from the port of Porto Vecchio.

That early start matters. It gives you more daylight for the coastal scenery, and it helps the captain line up stops near the best water conditions. If you’re late to check-in, you’ll feel it quickly—this trip is built around that departure.

Also note the route can shift with weather. Even the approach toward the Lavezzi Islands via Bonifacio cliffs is described as depending on conditions, so don’t plan anything else super time-sensitive the same day.

Sailing the Extreme South: Bonifacio Limestone Cliffs, Caves, and Famous Beaches

The best part of the morning is watching southern Corsica unfold from the sea. As you head toward the Lavezzi Islands, the captain guides you past the coastline with a list of beaches you can actually see from the water—Palombaggia, Santa Giulia, Rondinara, and Sperone come up in the narration.

Then you reach the Bonifacio section, and this is where the cruise becomes more than just transport. You’ll marvel at the limestone cliffs sculpted by wind and the famous sea caves. It’s a big-sky kind of scenery moment: white rock, deep water, and the coastline changing shape every few minutes.

Practical tip: bring sunglasses and a hat. The boat runs along the coast, and with all that open sea time, you’ll want eye protection fast. Also, if you’re prone to motion sensitivity, a light layer helps—wind can swing around the deck.

12:00 Lunch in a Lavezzi Cove: Three Menu Options, Drinks Included

At 12:00 p.m., the schedule centers on food and water together. You stop in a cove on the Lavezzi Islands, and the meal is served onboard. This is also when the tour gives you flexibility: the lunch comes with three menus to choose from.

One value point here is that lunch doesn’t mean you’re stuck on shore. You eat while anchored near the islands, which keeps the day feeling like a cruise rather than a bus-and-restaurant routine. And yes—drinks are included, which you’ll feel good about later when you realize how much time you spend outside in the sun.

Two small realities to plan for:

• The lunch is served in a big-capacity setting (180 passengers), so it’s efficient rather than fancy.
• Your menu choice is something you’ll want to sort ahead if possible. The info specifically suggests contacting the supplier to choose your menu for the onboard service.

1:30 Island Time on the Lavezzi Islands: Swim, Or Visit, Then Reset

At 1:30 p.m., you arrive on the islands. This is your “use it or lose it” window, because the cruise format doesn’t drag the island time too long. You’ll be able to swim or visit the island, depending on what you prefer and what’s practical with the day’s conditions.

Why this part is worth it: the Lavezzi area is known for its dramatic coastlines and clear water, and the cruise structure lets you experience that directly rather than just viewing it from a distance.

A good mindset: treat the 1:30 window like a choose-your-own-adventure hour. If you’re a swimmer, prioritize water early. If you prefer walking and views, bring water and slow down—heat can sneak up even on a breezy day.

3:30 Return via the Island of Cavallo: More Sea Views, Less Hurry

At 3:30 p.m., the cruise turns back toward Porto Vecchio along the Island of Cavallo. This segment is mainly about stretching the scenery time and keeping things moving smoothly.

You’re not stuck in one spot. The captain’s narration continues, and the coast keeps changing. It’s the kind of return that still feels like part of the outing, not a cooldown.

5:00 p.m. Swim Stop in Turquoise Water: Carratoghju or Cerbicales

Just when you think the best water time is done, the schedule gives you another swim opportunity. Around 5:00 p.m., you stop in a cove with turquoise waters—either Carratoghju or the Cerbicales Islands, depending on the day’s plan.

This is a smart design choice for a one-day cruise. Most people want at least two chances to get in the water: one earlier when energy is high, then one later when you’re ready to linger a bit. It also balances the day if weather affects earlier portions.

If you’re bringing a towel, you’ll be glad. Sea air and spray can leave you damp, and you’ll want comfort for the ride back to port.

The Chiocca Family Captain Touch: Why the Storytelling Adds Real Value

This cruise isn’t only about geography; it’s also about the people. For four generations, the Chiocca family has been sharing time on the sea, and you meet the captain—Vincent Chiocca—who’s described as having 40 years of experience.

What you should expect from this kind of captain-led narration is practical context. You’ll hear the coast described in a way that feels tied to work, weather, and real knowledge—not just brochure language. The notes emphasize authenticity and sea-side stories passed down from parents and grandparents, and that’s the difference between “watching rocks” and understanding why a coastline looks the way it does.

There’s also a generational angle worth appreciating. Vincent Chiocca Junior (born in 1977) followed the family path early, studied at the Merchant Marine school in Sète, and became a captain by 17. Even if you don’t catch every detail, this background signals that the cruise is run by people who know the sea as a daily environment, not only a scenic product.

Boat Size and Comfort: The 180-Passenger Reality Check

Let’s talk about the biggest practical factor: the ship holds 180 passengers. That’s not automatically bad—it helps keep the trip priced at $129 per person while still serving lunch and drinks and running multiple stops.

But it does affect the feel. Expect more movement in shared spaces, and when everyone hits the deck at once, you’ll notice it. If you love quiet and you hate crowds, this might not match your style.

One small note that comes up: some passengers mention no music onboard, so don’t expect a party vibe. This is more about the sights, the captain’s commentary, and the sea time than background entertainment.

Food and Drinks on Board: Why the Lunch Is Usually the Main Event

Lunch is included, and the day is designed around eating where you can still see water. That makes the meal feel integrated rather than interrupting your day.

From the feedback, the food tends to land as a strong point. One note calls out a light dessert but a meal that’s still considered correct. Another highlights a succulent meal and gives credit to the team. The common thread: people focus on the meal quality and the effort of the crew.

Here’s how I’d use that info to plan your expectations:

• If you’re hungry, you’re covered. Lunch with drinks is part of the package.
• Don’t treat dessert as the highlight; think of it as a finish.
• If you’re picky or have dietary needs, you’ll want to confirm your menu option early since there are three menu choices.

Price and Value: What $129 Buys You in Southern Corsica

At $129 per person for a one-day cruise, value comes from what’s bundled, not just the scenery. You’re getting:

• A full Mediterranean coastline outing
• Marine park island time at both the Lavezzi area and the Cerbicales connection
• Lunch plus drinks
• Multiple swimming stops

When you break it down, it’s a strong deal if you’d otherwise spend money on ferry access, separate tours, and then food near the port. The cruise also saves you stress: one schedule, one departure point, and you’re guided along coastlines you’d struggle to experience in a simple day on your own.

The tradeoff is the ship size. You’ll pay less than you would for a small-boat experience, but you give up some privacy. If you’re choosing between “cheap and social” versus “quiet and exclusive,” your choice is basically what kind of day you want.

Who Should Book This Cruise (and Who Might Want a Different Day)

This fits best if you want a direct route to the highlights of southern Corsica without complicated planning. You’ll likely enjoy it if:

• You’re happy on a larger boat and you want the full island-and-swim package
• You like guided narration and seeing multiple famous coastline sections from sea level
• You want a one-day format that includes lunch and drinks

It might be less ideal if:

• You want a lot of uninterrupted time onshore. The island stop is time-limited, and swimming is a big part of the plan.
• You dislike crowded deck moments.
• You’re traveling during a period where weather could throw off schedules. Weather can lead to changes, and on at least one occasion the cruise was canceled due to conditions.

Should You Book This Lavezzi & Cerbicales Day Cruise?

If you’re looking for an efficient, high-value Corsica day—Porto Vecchio in the morning, Bonifacio cliffs in the middle, Lavezzi water time at midday, and another swim late afternoon—I’d say yes. The combo of island stops, lunch onboard with three menu choices, and included drinks makes this cruise feel like it’s built for people who want a satisfying day with minimal hassle.

Book it if you’re flexible and you like day-cruise energy. Consider something else if you’re chasing total quiet or want long, slow island wandering. For most people who want the extreme south of Corsica in one go, this is a practical and enjoyable way to do it.

FAQ

What time does the cruise depart from Porto Vecchio?

Boarding starts around 8:15 a.m., and the boat departs from the port of Porto Vecchio at 9:00 a.m. sharp.

Is lunch included, and are drinks included?

Yes. Lunch and drinks are included as part of the onboard meal at the Lavezzi Islands cove stop.

How does the lunch menu work?

You choose your menu from three options served onboard. The information also suggests contacting the supplier to choose your menu for onboard service.

How much time do I get on the Lavezzi Islands?

You arrive at about 1:30 p.m. for swimming or visiting the island, then the cruise returns at about 3:30 p.m.

Are there swimming stops during the day?

Yes. There is a stop for swimming with lunch around 12:00 p.m., and there’s another swim stop around 5:00 p.m. (Carratoghju or the Cerbicales Islands).

Do I need snorkeling gear?

Snorkeling gear is not included. If you want to snorkel, you should plan to bring your own.

What languages are available for the tour guide?

The onboard tour guide is available in English, French, and Italian.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the cruise is listed as wheelchair accessible.

Where is the meeting point?

The meeting point is listed at H7RM+FF Porto-Vecchio, France.