Bonifacio: Boat Trip to La Maddalena & Lavezzi Islands

Nestled in the stunning Bouches de Bonifacio International Marine Park, the enchanting islands of La Maddalena and Lavezzi offer a captivating escape from the mainland. Set out on a boat trip through this protected archipelago, where dramatic granite cliffs rise from the crystal-clear turquoise waters. Explore hidden coves, discover diverse marine life, and savor local Sardinian cuisine as you learn about the rich cultural heritage of this picturesque region. The journey promises to unveil the natural wonders and captivating landscapes that have enchanted visitors for centuries.

This experience made our list of the 9 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Bonifacio.

Contents hide

1 Bouches De Bonifacio International Marine Park

2 Lavezzi Archipelago Exploration

3 Maddalena Archipelago Cruise

4 Mythical Caves and Cliffs

5 Swimming Stops Along the Way

6 Lunch in the Maddalena

7 Snorkeling and Paddling

8 Practical Travel Information

9 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

Explore the stunning natural beauty of the Bonifacio Strait, including the Lavezzi Archipelago and Maddalena Archipelago, on a boat tour from Bonifacio.
Discover the dramatic granite cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear turquoise waters of the protected Bouches De Bonifacio International Marine Park.
Cruise through mythical caves and caverns, such as the Grotte de la Vierge and Grotte du Sdragonatu, and admire the impressive geological formations.
Enjoy swimming and snorkeling stops to immerse in the vibrant underwater ecosystems and connect with the captivating marine environment.
Savor a delicious lunch on one of the Maddalena Islands, showcasing the best of Sardinian cuisine and the breathtaking natural surroundings.

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Bouches De Bonifacio International Marine Park

The Bouches de Bonifacio International Marine Park is a protected natural area located at the southern tip of Corsica and the northern tip of Sardinia, spanning the narrow strait between the two islands. It’s renowned for its rugged coastlines, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and diverse marine life.

This transnational park was established in 1999 to preserve the unique ecosystem of the Bonifacio Strait. It’s home to a variety of rare and endangered species, including the Mediterranean monk seal, Posidonia seagrass meadows, and numerous species of fish, birds, and invertebrates.

Visitors to the park can explore its hidden coves, sea caves, and dramatic cliffs, while respecting the fragile environment and its protected status.

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Lavezzi Archipelago Exploration

After exploring the protected Bouches de Bonifacio International Marine Park, the boat tour heads towards the Lavezzi archipelago, a captivating collection of uninhabited islands off the southern coast of Corsica.

Visitors are enchanted by the Lavezzi Islands’ dramatic granite cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The tour offers a chance to swim, snorkel, and discover the islands’ unique flora and fauna, including rare seabirds and marine life.

The experience is further enhanced by:

Cruising through the archipelago’s mythical caves and caverns
Enjoying a scenic lunch in the Maddalena Archipelago
Using provided snorkeling gear to explore the underwater world
Observing the islands’ diverse bird and plant life
Indulging in an aperitif while taking in the stunning landscapes

Maddalena Archipelago Cruise

Cruising through the captivating Maddalena Archipelago, the boat weaves past the islands’ dramatic granite cliffs and hidden coves, revealing the region’s stunning natural beauty.

As the tour progresses, passengers have the chance to disembark and explore the pristine Maddalena National Park, a protected area renowned for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life.

During the lunch stop, guests can savor local delicacies while taking in the breathtaking vistas of the archipelago.

Throughout the journey, the expert crew provides informative commentary, sharing insights into the history and ecology of this remarkable destination.

The Maddalena Archipelago cruise offers a unique opportunity to take in the captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage of northern Sardinia.

Mythical Caves and Cliffs

During the boat tour, passengers frequently marvel at the mythical caves and dramatic cliffs that line the shores of the Bonifacio region. Sculpted by wind and water over centuries, these geological wonders captivate visitors with their raw, untamed beauty. Towering limestone formations jut out from the crystalline waters, inviting exploration and evoking a sense of ancient, primordial wonder.

The Grotte de la Vierge is a stunning blue-hued cavern with a serene, cathedral-like atmosphere.

The Grotte du Sdragonatu is a vast underground chamber with intricate stalagmite and stalactite formations.

The Grotte des Elefants is renowned for its towering, elephant-shaped rock structures.

The Grotte des Deux Ouvertures is a dual-entrance cave with awe-inspiring views.

The Grotte de la Cathedrale is a majestic, cathedral-like cavern with impressive vaulted ceilings.

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Swimming Stops Along the Way

The boat tour’s swimming stops offer passengers a refreshing respite, allowing them to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Bouches de Bonifacio International Marine Park.

Donning snorkeling gear, guests can marvel at the vibrant underwater ecosystems teeming with marine life, from schools of colorful fish to the occasional sea turtle or dolphin sighting.

These swimming breaks provide a chance to cool off and fully take in the natural beauty of the region.

Floating effortlessly in the turquoise waters, visitors can gaze up at the dramatic cliffs and caves that line the coastline, creating a truly memorable experience.

The swimming stops are a highlight of the tour, offering a chance to connect with the stunning marine environment.

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Lunch in the Maddalena

After the refreshing swimming stops, passengers move on to a delightful lunch in the heart of the Maddalena Archipelago.

The tour provides a chance to savor local Sardinian cuisine on one of the islands, allowing guests to fully enjoy the culture and flavors of the region.

The lunch menu typically features:

Fresh seafood dishes, such as grilled catch of the day or pasta with clams
Homemade Sardinian pastas and risottos
Seasonal vegetable dishes
Local cheeses and cured meats
A selection of regional wines to complement the meal

Dining in the tranquil settings of the Maddalena Islands offers a truly memorable experience, blending the beauty of the natural surroundings with the delicious tastes of Sardinian gastronomy.

Snorkeling and Paddling

Visitors will have opportunities to snorkel and paddle around the crystalline waters of the Maddalena and Lavezzi Islands. Equipped with provided masks, snorkels, and paddles, they can discover the rich marine life and explore the archipelago’s hidden coves and grottoes at their own pace.

From colorful schools of fish to captivating rock formations, the snorkeling and paddling activities allow guests to fully enjoy the natural splendor of this protected coastal region.

Whether floating above vibrant coral reefs or gliding along the rugged shoreline, these activities offer a chance to connect with the breathtaking marine environment in an intimate, hands-on way.

Practical Travel Information

Typically, the tour departs from the Main Port of Bonifacio, specifically the North Quay, Ponton D, where participants check in for the excursion.

Travelers are encouraged to bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen to fully enjoy the activities and scenery during the 7-hour boat trip.

Plus, the cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour includes:

Morning snack
Cold drinks
Aperitif
Swimming stops along the way
Lunch in the Maddalena Archipelago

While the experience isn’t suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, or people prone to seasickness, the tour offers an opportunity to discover the stunning Bouches de Bonifacio International Marine Park and surrounding islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is not specified. However, the tour indicates it is not suitable for young children, pregnant women, or those prone to seasickness, suggesting a moderate group size to ensure a comfortable experience for all participants.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Options for Lunch?

Lunch is provided in the Maddalena Archipelago, but there’s no mention of dietary restrictions or options. Guests should check with the tour provider about any special dietary needs they may have prior to the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling or Paddle Gear?

Yes, guests can bring their own snorkeling or paddle gear. However, the tour also provides masks, snorkels, and paddles for use during the trip. This allows guests to choose whether to use their own equipment or the gear provided.

How Long Is the Boat Ride Between the Different Locations?

The boat ride between the different locations on the tour typically takes about 45-60 minutes. Passengers can expect to travel through scenic waterways, visiting the Lavezzi archipelago and Maddalena archipelago off the northern coast of Sardinia during the full-day excursion.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

This tour is not suitable for children under 3 years old. Pregnant women and individuals prone to seasickness are also not recommended to join this excursion due to potential safety concerns during the boat ride.