One boat. One protected sea. Big payoff. This half-day trip from Santa Giulia keeps things small-group and swim-focused, with snorkeling gear included and captain-led stops around the Lavezzi Islands. I love the mix of real water time (multiple swims) and the easy on-board comfort, and the vibe feels especially relaxed when the captain is in a good rhythm, like Hugo. One drawback to flag: this outing is not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, and pets aren’t allowed.

You start at the Santa Giulia pier across from the Moby Dick hotel, then sail south past wild coves and turquoise lagoons. The plan is simple and effective: a first swim around Roches Blanches, snorkeling at Lavezzu in the protected nature reserve, and a final dip in Porto Novo on the way back.

The included stuff is practical too: masks and snorkels, cold drinks, and Corsican cookies (canistrelli). Bring a towel and beachwear, because you’ll want to be ready to jump in right when the boat stops.

Key points to know before you go

• Small-group calm (max 12): you’ll spend more time swimming than waiting around.
• Snorkeling in a protected reserve: masks and snorkels are included for Lavezzu.
• Multiple swim chances: Roches Blanches first, then Lavezzu, then Porto Novo.
• Comfort plus little treats: cold drinks and canistrelli cookies onboard.
• Sea views that feel private: islands, lagoons, and rocks along the route south.
• Captains who know the coast: from Hugo to Patrick, the focus stays on safe, fun sailing.

Boarding at Santa Giulia Pier: where the day starts

Your meeting point is the Santa Giulia pier, opposite the Moby Dick hotel. Your captain waits there, and the whole process is refreshingly straightforward—no confusing back-and-forth, no long coach ride that eats your beach time.

This is a true half-day at sea. The tour runs about four hours, so you get the good stuff without turning it into a whole-day production. With a small group limited to 12 participants, you avoid that crowded-boat feeling that can put a damper on snorkeling.

Before you arrive, do the small prep that makes the trip smoother: sunglasses, beachwear, and a towel. If you forget the towel, you’ll be stuck either drying off in an awkward way or rushing through the wrap-up when you get back.

Sailing south past wild coves and turquoise lagoons

Once you’re onboard, the boat points south along a coastline of wild coves and bright lagoons. That matters, because the “how you get there” is part of the experience here—not just a transfer to the islands.

Between Santa Giulia and the Lavezzi area, you’ll see the sea in layers: calmer lagoon water near the shore, then deeper blues as the coastline opens up. It’s one of those stretches where the photos look good, but the real win is how quickly you start feeling like you’re out of the usual tourist routine.

The route also gives you those classic island-hopping views. Even if you’re not a hardcore snorkeler, you’ll still get a full “from the sea” perspective—rocks, small islands, and water that changes color as the boat turns.

Roches Blanches: the first swim stop feels like a warm-up

The first stop is Roches Blanches, described for a reason: the water there is crystal-clear. This is the moment where most people go from sightseeing mode to swim mode.

You’ll get a chance to jump in and take in the underwater look right away—often without needing perfect conditions or complicated gear. Since masks and snorkels are part of the included package, you can decide on the spot how much you want to see.

A practical note: the boat day is built around swimming. That means you’ll want to think like a beach person for this trip—get your gear ready, keep your towel handy, and don’t rely on having time to go back and forth for essentials once you’re in the water.

Cavallo by sea: seeing a private island without the fuss

Next comes Cavallo, a private island known for timeless villas that you can access only by sea. This stop isn’t about getting off and wandering. It’s about the view and the story, with the captain explaining what makes this island special in the broader archipelago.

Why this works: you get the Cavallo atmosphere without the crowds you’d expect on a regular island stop. From the water, the whole island feels more remote, and the villas feel like part of the scenery rather than the main event.

It’s also a nice tempo change. After your first swim, this is a calmer segment where you can watch the coastline, listen, and let your body reset before the snorkeling highlight.

Lavezzu snorkeling paradise: protected water and real marine life

This is the main event. The boat heads to Lavezzu, where snorkeling happens in the heart of a protected nature reserve. Here’s what I like about this setup: you don’t need to bring anything special, because masks and snorkels are included.

Once you’re in the water, you’ll be able to observe abundant marine life in clear water. The key word isn’t just “snorkeling.” It’s that the water is described as clear enough for you to actually look around, not just float and hope.

You’ll likely find yourself doing the simple things well: slow movements, steady breathing, and paying attention to what’s around rather than what’s far away. That’s when snorkeling turns from casual to memorable.

One bonus that people appreciate: the day doesn’t treat snorkeling like a checkbox. The itinerary is built to include actual swim time, and the overall pacing supports that. You’re not being rushed from one spot to the next like it’s a sprint.

Porto Novo on the way back: a final dip with fewer distractions

On the return, the plan includes a final swim in Porto Novo, in an unspoiled bay. This stop is a great way to end the day because it feels like you’re sealing the experience, not just checking out.

By this point, you’ve already had the big snorkeling moment, plus the earlier swims. So Porto Novo can be more relaxed—less about hunting for marine life and more about enjoying the sea one last time.

There’s also something satisfying about a final swim near the end of the outing. You’re already dressed for the beach, the boat’s moving at the pace of a wind-down day, and you’re not stressing about the next activity.

On-board comfort: drinks, cookies, and the small moments that matter

Between swim breaks, you get cold drinks and Corsican cakes on board. Included with that are canistrelli cookies, which are a very Corsican-style snack: sweet, simple, and easy to eat while you’re sitting back and letting the salt air do its job.

These little pauses matter more than they sound. After time in the water, it’s nice to cool down, sip something cold, and have a quick snack without having to figure out where to go next.

Captains also shape the tone. In the experience you’re booking, you may meet captains like Hugo or Patrick, and the general theme is professional sailing paired with friendly energy. That kind of atmosphere makes a difference when you’re sharing a small boat with other people.

Price and value: what $76 covers in a four-hour sea day

At about $76 per person for roughly four hours, this isn’t a bargain “half-hour speedboat” deal. You’re paying for time on the water, a small group setup, included snorkeling gear, and onboard refreshments.

Here’s why that can feel like good value for the right traveler:

• Snorkeling gear is included (masks and snorkels), so you’re not shopping rentals.
• Swim stops are built in, not tacked on as short looks.
• Cold drinks and canistrelli cookies mean fewer extra purchases.
• Small group size (up to 12) keeps the day calmer and more comfortable.

If you were to piece together a similar day on your own—boat time, gear, and refreshments—it usually stops being cheaper fast. So the price starts to make sense when you want an easy, low-effort day that still feels authentic.

Who this trip suits (and who should pass)

This one is a strong match if you want:

• a calm, small-group boat day
• snorkeling with included gear
• multiple chances to swim
• a route that focuses on the islands from the water

But it’s not a fit for everyone. It’s not suitable for:

• children under 3 years
• pregnant women
• people with mobility impairments
• wheelchair users

Pets are not allowed too. If any of these apply to you, it’s worth looking for another style of coastal outing.

Also, think about your comfort with being on the sea for the full half-day. The itinerary is swim-based, so you’ll want to feel good about getting in and out of the water a few times.

Practical packing tips for a smoother Lavezzu day

Keep your packing simple. The essentials are given, but it’s your job to bring them:

• Sunglasses (the water glare can be strong)
• Towel
• Beachwear

A small reality check: since the trip revolves around water stops, you shouldn’t plan to rely on time to dry off or change later. So wear what you’ll swim in, and keep the towel accessible.

If you’re sensitive to any travel day surprises, also know that the operator may adjust where you depart based on the day’s situation. In one case, a rider who couldn’t start from Santa Giulia ended up departing from Porto Vecchio two days later with a different captain. That suggests the team is set up to keep the experience going even if things shift.

Should you book the Santa-Giulia to Lavezzi Islands half-day trip?

If you want a sea day that’s relaxed, swim-focused, and genuinely built around clear-water snorkeling, I’d say book it. The small-group limit helps a lot, and the included masks and snorkels remove friction.

It’s especially worth it if you care about getting out beyond the usual shoreline routine. Roches Blanches, Lavezzu, and Porto Novo together make the trip feel like more than one quick stop—it’s a sequence of different water moments.

Skip it if you fall into the listed non-suitable categories, or if you’re not comfortable with a four-hour outing where the main activities revolve around swimming.

FAQ

Where is the meeting point for the Santa-Giulia to Lavezzi Islands trip?

You meet at the Santa Giulia pier, opposite the Moby Dick hotel. Your captain is waiting there.

How long is the trip, and how many people are in the group?

The duration is about 4 hours, and the group is limited to 12 participants.

What’s included in the price?

Included are masks and snorkels, cold drinks, and Corsican cookies (canistrelli).

What should I bring with me?

Bring sunglasses, a towel, and beachwear.

Is free cancellation available?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?

No. It’s not suitable for children under 3 years, pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users. Pets are also not allowed.