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Sailing Itinerary
Corsica 7-day sailing itinerary: Cannigione, La Maddalena Archipelago and Southern Corsica
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Explore your sailing route. Click on any location to see each stop. You can find detailed information on each day of the itinerary below with insider tips, recommended restaurants, drone spots, activities, and more.
Complete Itinerary
Detailed day-by-day guide with insider tips, ratings, and everything you need to know.
Sheltered sands and protected coves
Settle into the archipelago with short, scenic hops from Cannigione to Cala Portese and Cala Coticcio for swimming in clear, protected waters.
Mooring Information
Cannigione offers fuel, water, and provisioning before departure; confirm berth times in summer.
Cala Portese has a small field of mooring buoys; if full, anchor in sand with ample scope outside swim areas.
Cala Coticcio lies in a protected zone; anchoring is regulated and landing may be restricted—follow posted park rules.
Depths are generally 3–8 m in sandy patches; avoid dropping anchor on Posidonia seagrass.
Shelter is good from Mistral in parts of Cala Portese; expect gusts funneling between Caprera’s ridges.
Top Restaurants
Plan a shore dinner in La Maddalena town with waterfront seafood and pizza options.
Casual beach kiosks may operate seasonally near popular coves—confirm hours.
For a quiet night aboard, pick up fresh bread, cheeses, and fruit in Cannigione before departure.
Seek gelato and aperitivo spots around La Maddalena’s historic center.
Avoid planning meals ashore on Caprera where services are limited.
Activities
Swim and snorkel over the shallow sandy seabeds of Cala Portese.
Follow short paths ashore to low viewpoints above Cala Coticcio where permitted.
Beachcomb along the twin crescents of Spiaggia dei Due Mari.
Practice tender handling in tight coves and set a stern line if needed to limit swing.
Enjoy a quiet evening on the hook listening for shearwaters at dusk.
Water Sports
Stand-up paddleboarding along the lee of the beach at Cala Portese.
Snorkeling the rock-sand interfaces near the cove mouths for fish and sea stars.
Easy freediving in 3–6 m visibility over white sand.
Casual coastal kayaking along Caprera’s indented shoreline.
Practice low-impact swimming—no spear fishing in protected zones.
Drone Spots
Oblique shots of the twin beaches at Cala Portese from outside crowded areas.
Top-down captures of Cala Coticcio’s pool-like basin to highlight color gradients.
Golden-hour passes along Caprera’s granite slabs for texture and shadows.
High, wide frames showing Caprera with the La Maddalena channel beyond.
Observe national park drone rules; avoid overflying people and protected fauna.
Must See
Spiaggia dei Due Mari at Cala Portese, two beaches linked by a low sandbar.
Cala Coticcio (“Tahiti”), a narrow cove with pink granite and luminous turquoise water.
Views to Murru Rock from the Cala Coticcio area.
Granite and Mediterranean maquis landscapes that define Caprera’s shoreline.
Sunset colors reflected on Caprera’s pink-tinged rocks.
Services
Fuel, water, and groceries are available in Cannigione prior to casting off.
La Maddalena (Cala Gavetta/Cala Mangiavolpe) provides water, power, and waste facilities if needed.
Mobile coverage is generally strong around Caprera and La Maddalena.
Garbage disposal should be done at main ports—no dumping at anchor.
Carry park charts/zoning maps to identify anchoring and speed-limit areas.
Hazards
Shallow rock shelves border many beaches—enter coves slowly with a bow lookout.
Expect swimmer-only zones marked seasonally by buoys; keep well clear.
Avoid anchoring on Posidonia meadows; fines apply in protected areas.
Local gusts can swing boats unexpectedly in narrow coves—check clearance.
Dinghy traffic is heavy in peak months; maintain slow speeds near bathers.
Tips
Secure the La Maddalena Park permit before arrival; compliance is checked in season.
Target early arrivals (before 10:00) to find space on buoys or in sand patches.
Rig a stern line for tight coves to reduce swinging room and protect neighbors.
Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the clear, shallow waters.
Monitor VHF 16 and local weather for Mistral bursts that can funnel through channels.
Turquoise lagoons and white sand
Drift in the luminous shallows of Porto della Madonna between Santa Maria, Razzoli, and Budelli, a signature stop of the archipelago.
Mooring Information
Porto della Madonna is best as a day stop; set in sand in 3–8 m with excellent holding.
Expect dense mooring fields and tight spacing by midday—lay short scope with care.
Avoid the shallow rock tongues that project between Santa Maria and Budelli.
Some seasonal buoys mark swim zones; keep dinghy speeds to a minimum.
Overnighting is possible only in settled weather; it is often rolly after sunset.
Top Restaurants
No services on the islets—bring a packed lunch and ample drinking water.
Plan dinner ashore in La Maddalena town later in the day.
Seek simple seafood and pizza near the waterfront after returning to port.
Stock snacks and fruit in Cannigione or La Maddalena before heading out.
Carry waste back to port; do not dispose of trash at anchor.
Activities
Snorkel over sand patches and low rock reefs with excellent visibility.
Paddle a SUP across the lagoon to explore small inlets at slack wind.
Take a dinghy circuit around the islets in calm conditions to scout anchor options.
Beach time on Santa Maria, keeping clear of marked dune restoration areas.
Photography from the bow at anchor to capture the lagoon’s color gradients.
Water Sports
SUP sessions across glassy water in the morning before boat traffic builds.
Gentle snorkeling along granite edges for wrasse and sea urchins.
Short free-dives on sandy drop-offs, maintaining buddy protocols.
Casual swimming from the stern with a safety line in busy periods.
No motorized sports inside protected zones; respect speed restrictions.
Drone Spots
Top-down frames of sand bars and boulder gardens at Porto della Madonna.
Oblique views toward Razzoli’s rugged skyline over shallow turquoise water.
Aerials of Santa Maria’s beach early or late to avoid crowds.
Maintain line-of-sight and avoid overflying protected bird nesting areas.
Check park and national regulations; permits or no-fly rules may apply.
Must See
Santa Maria’s main beach with powdery white sand and clear, shallow water.
The iconic turquoise channel enclosed by Razzoli, Santa Maria, and Budelli.
Pink granite boulders sculpted by wind and waves around the lagoon.
The protected Pink Beach (Spiaggia Rosa) of Budelli—admire from a distance only.
Subtle color shifts in the sandy seabed that give the lagoon its luminous hue.
Services
Fuel, water, and waste disposal at La Maddalena (Cala Gavetta/Cala Mangiavolpe).
La Maddalena town offers supermarkets, bakeries, and pharmacies.
Park rangers patrol in season; have your permit ready for inspection.
Mobile data is generally available; coverage may dip in narrow channels.
Dinghy docks are limited—anchor off and swim ashore where allowed.
Hazards
Numerous unmarked rocks just below the surface—use a bow lookout.
Strong gusts can funnel between islets during Mistral events.
Rollover swell can enter with southerlies despite apparent shelter.
Busy traffic from trip boats increases wake and noise midday.
Poor visibility of swimmers in bright glare—post a stern swim flag.
Tips
Arrive before 10:00 for space and the calmest conditions.
Anchor strictly in sand—weed beds are protected and fines apply.
Respect closures: no landing or swimming at Budelli’s Pink Beach area.
Keep a continuous watch; excursion boats and tenders transit narrow gaps.
Have a backup anchorage on Caprera or Spargi if the lagoon is saturated.
Granite isles and Corsican charm
Hop across the strait to Lavezzi and Cavallo for sculpted granite coves, then relax at Santa Giulia before a night in Porto-Vecchio.
Mooring Information
At Lavezzi, use designated reserve mooring buoys where available and follow park wardens’ directions.
Anchoring at Lavezzi is only in clear sand outside marked zones; keep distance from rocks.
Cavallo has a small harbor with limited space; check depths and availability before entering.
Santa Giulia offers day anchoring on sand in moderate depths with good holding.
Reserve a berth at Porto-Vecchio during peak months; expect Mediterranean stern-to mooring.
Top Restaurants
Look for marina-front seafood and grills in Porto-Vecchio for a convenient dinner.
In the old town, small bistros serve Corsican charcuterie and cheeses.
Santa Giulia’s seasonal beach venues offer casual lunches with sea views.
Book ahead in July–August; popular terraces fill around sunset.
Opt for an early lunch at anchor to avoid crowds ashore.
Activities
Snorkel the granite gardens of Lavezzi in calm conditions.
Swim and wade across the shallows at Santa Giulia.
Walk up to Porto-Vecchio’s citadel for sunset views over the bay.
Browse local produce markets and pick up Corsican specialties for the boat.
Evening passeggiata along the marina quays.
Water Sports
SUP across Santa Giulia’s lagoon-like bay in light winds.
Snorkel around Cavallo’s rocky points for schools of small reef fish.
Practice beach launches and landings with the tender at Santa Giulia.
Avoid high-speed craft near swimmers—speed limits are enforced.
Use a swim ladder and stern line in light chop to re-board safely.
Drone Spots
Lavezzi’s boulder fields from 60–90 m AGL to showcase patterns and shadows.
Cavallo’s sand tongues and granite knobs at first light.
Santa Giulia’s sandbar and lagoon contours from a safe, legal distance.
Wide shots of Porto-Vecchio’s salt pans and marina at sunset.
Comply with French UAS regulations and any local park restrictions.
Must See
Lavezzi’s twin opposing bays with sandy bottoms and round granite boulders.
Cavallo’s Double Plage with shallow, luminous water.
Santa Giulia’s bright white sand and shallow, Caribbean-like lagoon.
Porto-Vecchio’s fortified old town and harbor promenade.
Nearby beaches Palombaggia and Santa Giulia noted for clear turquoise water.
Services
Porto-Vecchio provides fuel, water, electricity, and waste disposal.
Supermarkets and bakeries are a short taxi or walk from the marina area.
Chandleries and repair services are available for routine needs.
Public water taps and laundries operate in season—check hours locally.
Good mobile coverage and ATMs near the waterfront.
Hazards
Mistral accelerations in the strait can create steep chop and gusts.
Unlit rocks and cardinal marks—avoid late arrivals around Lavezzi.
Occasional surge in open anchorages with southerly swell.
Ferry traffic between Sardinia and Corsica—maintain a good watch.
Shallow bars and swimmers near Santa Giulia require low speeds.
Tips
Time the Bocche di Bonifacio transit to avoid strong Mistral; seas build quickly.
Keep a sharp eye on charts around Lavezzi/Cavallo; rocks rise abruptly from clear water.
Carry lines and fenders ready for quick mooring at Porto-Vecchio fuel and reception docks.
Have euros/cards handy for buoy or harbor fees where applicable.
Confirm overnight wind shifts; move into Porto-Vecchio if swell is forecast.
From a perfect crescent to a fjord-like harbor
Anchor at Rondinara for a swim stop before entering Bonifacio’s spectacular cliff-lined harbor for a night under the citadel.
Mooring Information
Set the hook in clean sand at Rondinara with good holding and gradual depths.
Keep clear of the central weed beds; reposition if the anchor drags in seagrass.
Bonifacio’s approach is narrow with high cliffs; call the marina as you enter the inlet.
Expect stern-to berthing with laid lines; bow thrusters help in crosswinds.
Fuel and water are available inside—time visits to avoid queues.
Top Restaurants
Marina-side terraces serve fresh fish, grilled meats, and pasta.
Citadel eateries offer cliff views and regional specialties.
Lunch ashore at casual beach spots near Tonnara in settled weather.
Seek gelato and cafés near the upper town’s viewpoints.
Reserve for groups; split the bill across cards is commonly accepted.
Activities
Swim from the stern and snorkel the rock fringes at Rondinara.
Paddle a SUP across the bay in morning calm.
Climb to Bonifacio’s citadel for sweeping views over the strait.
Join a short boat tour to caves and arches outside the inlet (weather permitting).
Evening walk along the quay for sunset photos of the harbor.
Water Sports
Flatwater SUP in Rondinara’s lee before thermal breezes rise.
Snorkel patches of rock between sandy tongues for small reef life.
Short tender rides at idle speed near Bonifacio’s cliff base.
Practice safe swimmer retrievals and ladder use in gentle swell.
Avoid towing toys in the narrow Bonifacio approach.
Drone Spots
Aerials of Rondinara’s near-perfect symmetry from moderate altitude.
Bonifacio harbor entrance with towering cliffs at golden hour.
Long reveals of the citadel skyline and harbor basin.
Keep well away from people and sensitive sites; observe urban drone limits.
Check for local restrictions and any temporary bans before flight.
Must See
Rondinara’s almost perfect horseshoe bay with transparent water.
Bonifacio’s limestone cliffs carved by wind and sea.
The medieval citadel and maze of lanes atop the promontory.
Nearby sea caves and coastal stacks accessible on local boat tours.
Le Calanche di Fazio, Tonnara, and Piccolo Sperone beaches south-west of town.
Services
Bonifacio marina supplies fuel, water, shore power, and waste reception.
Provisioning is available at small supermarkets and bakeries in town.
Basic chandlery items and service technicians can be arranged via the marina.
Public showers and laundries operate seasonally—verify hours.
ATMs and pharmacies are within walking distance of the quay.
Hazards
Crosswinds at the harbor entrance can push bows off line—use engine bursts.
Ferry and excursion boat wash near the inner basins.
Weed patches at Rondinara reduce holding—reset if dragging.
Katabatic gusts can descend from cliffs in the evening.
Narrow fairways inside—maintain low speed and vigilance.
Tips
Aim to enter Bonifacio with good visibility and minimal crosswind.
Prepare long stern lines and fenders on both sides ahead of arrival.
Mind outbound traffic hugging the opposite wall of the channel.
Confirm overnight fees and water/power tokens with the marina office.
Book a dinner spot early—harborfront venues fill quickly in summer.
Granite sculptures and quiet sands
Skirt Capo Testa’s sculpted coastline and settle for a peaceful night on sand at La Marmorata.
Mooring Information
Capo Testa coves are small and exposed—use only in light winds and swell.
Cala Spinosa has limited swinging room; consider a stern line to rocks if appropriate and permitted.
La Marmorata offers sandy bottoms with decent protection in settled northerlies.
Check depth gradients; some bays shoal quickly near the beach.
If wind rises, move toward more protected anchorages east of Santa Teresa.
Top Restaurants
Seasonal beach spots near La Marmorata offer simple lunches.
Head to Santa Teresa Gallura for broader dining choices and evening promenades.
Book popular spots in July–August to avoid waits.
Consider an onboard barbecue in quieter coves.
Pick up pastries and bread early from town bakeries before departing.
Activities
Swim from the stern in calm windows between gusts.
Snorkel the rock-sand edges for bream and damselfish.
Stretch legs on short paths above Capo Testa’s boulders.
Photograph unique rock shapes sculpted by wind and sea.
Enjoy a relaxed beach afternoon at La Marmorata.
Water Sports
Stand-up paddling in the lee of coves when winds are light.
Mask and snorkel along granite blocks for clear-water views.
Short, sheltered tender runs to explore adjacent inlets.
Avoid kiting/windsurfing unless conditions and zoning are suitable.
Wear booties around rocks to protect feet when wading.
Drone Spots
Arcing shots over Capo Testa’s rock labyrinth at sunrise.
Oblique frames of La Marmorata’s sand against cobalt water.
Long pans revealing the strait with Corsica in the distance.
Mind wind shear around headlands; maintain generous buffers.
Confirm local UAS rules; avoid overflying beaches with people.
Must See
Wind-carved granite formations around Capo Testa’s headland.
Cala Spinosa’s pocket beaches tucked beneath cliffs.
La Marmorata’s bright white sand contrasting deep blue water.
Views across the strait to the cliffs of Bonifacio on clear days.
Mediterranean scrub perfuming the trails above the coves.
Services
Fuel and water available at Santa Teresa Gallura’s harbor.
Supermarkets and small produce shops serve quick reprovisioning.
Pharmacies and ATMs located near the town center.
Basic marine services and chandleries available locally.
Good cellular coverage for weather updates.
Hazards
Overfalls and confused seas near the headland in strong winds.
Rocks awash close to cliffs—keep a safe offing.
Sudden gusts can overpower sail plans—reef early.
Swell wraps into open bays with westerlies; avoid overnighting in exposed spots.
Watch for swimmers close to beach edges in clear water.
Tips
Cross the strait earlier in the day before thermal and Mistral winds peak.
Keep a conservative sail plan around Capo Testa where gusts are common.
Have alternate anchorages marked in case swell builds.
Replenish water and groceries in Santa Teresa if needed.
Watch for fishing pots near headlands and in sandy bays.
Pristine bays and a lively harbor
Swim the postcard bays of Spargi before an evening alongside in La Maddalena for services and a walk through the historic center.
Mooring Information
Cala Corsara has sand patches in 4–8 m; set with minimal scope to reduce swing.
Cala Soraja and Cala Granara are small—expect tight spacing and frequent turnover.
Avoid stern lines to rocks unless confident and conditions allow; protect the shoreline.
La Maddalena’s Cala Gavetta and Cala Mangiavolpe offer secure berths with shore power.
Contact the harbor office early afternoon for arrivals; peak season is very busy.
Top Restaurants
Choose casual seafood, grilled fish, and pasta near La Maddalena’s waterfront.
Pizzerias and trattorias crowd the lanes—walk a block back for quieter tables.
Make reservations for larger crews in July–August.
Enjoy aperitivo on the quay before dinner.
Pick up local pastries for tomorrow’s breakfast.
Activities
Snorkel the rock-sand edge for excellent visibility and sea grass meadows nearby.
Beach time on Corsara and Granara, rotating anchorages as space allows.
Afternoon gelato and shopping in La Maddalena’s old town.
Top up water and fuel while lines are set in the marina.
Evening passeggiata along the quay to plan the final day.
Water Sports
SUP along Spargi’s calm coves in morning light.
Freedive short drops off granite ledges within safe limits.
Practice anchor swims to check set and chain lay.
Short tender rides between adjacent beaches at idle speed.
No jet skis in the park; observe posted restrictions.
Drone Spots
Top-down views of Corsara’s sand tongues and boulders.
Oblique pans over Soraja’s luminous shallows.
La Maddalena harbor at blue hour with town lights.
Launch from legal zones only; avoid disturbing wildlife.
Keep altitude conservative to minimize noise in busy bays.
Must See
Cala Corsara’s white sand wedges framed by sculpted granite.
Cala Soraja (Ciaccaro) with crystal shallows on Spargi’s east coast.
Cala Granara’s beach, occasionally visited by curious wild boars.
La Maddalena’s historic center with narrow lanes and waterfront promenade.
Harbor views across to the Palau channel at sunset.
Services
Fuel and water at Cala Gavetta or Cala Mangiavolpe; expect queues late afternoon.
Supermarkets and bakeries within a short walk of both marinas.
Waste reception and recycling facilities available on the piers.
Basic chandlery and service contacts through the harbor office.
Good mobile coverage for updated forecasts.
Hazards
Shallow reefs and unmarked rocks between Spargi and nearby islets.
Ferry routes between Palau and La Maddalena—keep clear of approaches.
Posidonia meadows are protected; avoid dragging through weed.
Sudden wind shifts can turn bays rolly—have plan B ready.
Swimmer density near beaches requires strict no-wake operation.
Tips
Arrive at Spargi before 10:00 for better anchoring options.
Have the park permit visible; rangers patrol frequently.
Rotate crew for swims; designate a watch on deck at crowded anchorages.
Confirm marina bookings and ask for berth orientation (port/starboard).
Use biodegradable cleaners; gray water discharge is regulated.
Quiet coves and a relaxed finish
Enjoy gentle hops to Porto Rafael and Cala Villamarina before a last swim at Le Saline and an easy return to base.
Mooring Information
Anchor in sand off Porto Rafael with good holding and a short dinghy ride to the square.
Cala Villamarina is a deep, sheltered inlet on Santo Stefano; approach slowly and check depths.
Old jetties at Villamarina may be used cautiously; confirm condition before coming alongside.
Le Saline offers sand anchoring in a sheltered gulf with easy beach access.
Plan fuel and water top-ups at La Maddalena or Palau before late afternoon queues.
Top Restaurants
Simple cafés at Porto Rafael for light lunches and espresso.
Seasonal beach bars near Le Saline for casual snacks.
For a celebratory dinner, head back to La Maddalena or Cannigione.
Reserve ahead on weekends when local traffic increases.
Pick up gelato in town for an easy dessert onboard.
Activities
Dinghy ashore at Porto Rafael for coffee in the square.
Hike to Fort San Giorgio via the clear path visible from the sea.
Swim and snorkel at Le Saline’s sandy beach with clear entry.
Birdwatch quietly from the beach margin without disturbing wildlife.
Pack up and stow gear for an efficient return and handover.
Water Sports
Flatwater SUP along Porto Rafael’s shoreline in morning calm.
Snorkel around the rocky edges of Villamarina’s inlet.
Practice gentle beach landings with the tender at Le Saline.
Short swims on a float line while someone stands anchor watch.
Avoid motorized toys near the lagoon and swim zones.
Drone Spots
Porto Rafael’s pastel villas and tiny harbor from a modest altitude.
Le Saline’s lagoon and beach geometry from top-down angles.
Oblique frames of Capo d’Orso and Palau channel at sunset.
Respect privacy in residential areas and avoid overflying crowds.
Check local guidance regarding flights near protected wetlands.
Must See
Porto Rafael’s intimate piazzetta and sculpted granite backdrops.
The path to Fort San Giorgio (Napoleon’s Fort) above Villamarina with sea views.
Le Saline’s light-colored sands and shallow, turquoise water.
The pond behind Le Saline, an oasis for migratory birds including flamingos.
Evening light on the Capo d’Orso headland across the bay.
Services
Fuel and water at La Maddalena (Cala Gavetta/Cala Mangiavolpe) or Palau.
Waste and recycling facilities available at main harbors.
Grocery top-ups possible in Palau and La Maddalena centers.
Harbor offices can advise on weather and ferry movements.
Good mobile coverage for final weather checks.
Hazards
Ferry wash in the Palau channel—keep wide of routes and terminals.
Shallow patches and rocks near Santo Stefano—follow charts closely.
Afternoon gusts can raise chop in otherwise sheltered bays.
Respect protected bird areas at Le Saline’s lagoon—no drones or loud noise nearby.
Swimmers close to the beach—maintain strict no-wake zones.
Tips
Keep well clear of the Palau–La Maddalena ferry routes; they run frequently.
Return to base early to refuel and complete checkout without queues.
Mind afternoon sea breezes that can make anchorages choppy.
Carry cash for moorings or beach services that may not take cards.
Secure loose items on deck for the final short passages.
Corsica 7-day sailing itinerary: Cannigione, La Maddalena Archipelago and Southern Corsica
Sail a classic week from Cannigione across the La Maddalena Archipelago and on to southern Corsica, returning via Capo Testa and Spargi to La Maddalena and Palau. The route links calm, sandy anchorages like Cala Portese, Porto della Madonna, and Rondinara with unmissable stops at Lavezzi, Cavallo, Santa Giulia, Porto-Vecchio, and the cliff-top citadel of Bonifacio. Expect fine white sand, granite headlands, and striking turquoise shallows. The area includes protected zones: secure the La Maddalena Park permit, anchor strictly in sand away from Posidonia seagrass, and respect access limits at sensitive beaches such as Budelli. In summer, arrive early at popular coves and pre-book marina berths at Porto-Vecchio or Bonifacio. This itinerary suits crews seeking relaxed coastal hops, excellent snorkeling, and memorable evenings in historic harbors.
