Exploring the untamed coastal landscapes of Corsica’s Scandola Nature Reserve has never been easier. Travelers can embark on an eco-friendly boat tour that showcases the reserve’s diverse wildlife and captivating scenery. Glide across the crystal-clear waters, keeping an eye out for majestic sea eagles and swift peregrine falcons soaring overhead. The tour includes a stop in the remote village of Girolata, accessible only by sea, providing a unique glimpse into the local way of life. With knowledgeable guides on hand to share their expertise, visitors are sure to gain a deeper appreciation for this natural wonder. But the adventure doesn’t end there, as an optional extension to the Calanche de Piana promises to leave an indelible mark on the senses.
This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Corsica.
Key Points
• The Scandola Nature Reserve Eco-Boat Tour offers visitors a chance to explore Corsica’s pristine coastal landscapes and witness endemic wildlife.
• The tour includes a 30-minute stop in the remote village of Girolata and an optional 1.5-hour extension to the Calanche de Piana rock formations.
• The tour is led by a knowledgeable French-speaking guide who provides live commentary on the local ecosystem and unique flora and fauna.
• The tour can be booked with flexible starting times, and there is a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior to the tour.
• The eco-friendly boat operates in electric, silent mode within the Scandola Reserve, ensuring a sustainable and immersive experience.
About the Scandola Nature Reserve Eco-Boat Tour
The Scandola Nature Reserve eco-boat tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore Corsica’s pristine coastal landscapes aboard an environmentally-friendly, hybrid vessel.
Travelers can expect to witness the reserve’s endemic fauna, including majestic sea eagles and peregrine falcons, while learning about the local ecosystem from the tour guide’s live commentary.
The tour also includes a stop in the remote village of Girolata, accessible only by sea, allowing guests to enjoy the area’s tranquil atmosphere.
Plus, travelers have the option to extend their journey with a visit to the stunning rock formations of the Calanche de Piana, providing a comprehensive exploration of Corsica’s natural wonders.
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Tour Duration and Scheduling
According to the information provided, the Scandola Nature Reserve eco-boat tour typically lasts 3-4.5 hours, depending on the selected option.
Travelers can check availability for preferred starting times, as the tour runs at various intervals throughout the day.
The standard 3-hour tour includes a 30-minute stop in the remote village of Girolata, while the optional 1.5-hour extension allows guests to explore the stunning rock formations of the Calanche de Piana.
The tour’s scheduling and duration features include:
- 3-4.5 hour total tour length
- Flexibility in starting times to accommodate travelers
- 30-minute stop in Girolata village and optional 1.5-hour extension to Calanche de Piana
Tour Language and Guide
The tour features a live French-speaking guide who provides onboard commentary throughout the eco-friendly boat journey.
Guests can expect an informative and engaging experience as the guide shares their expertise on the local ecosystem and the unique flora and fauna found within the Scandola Nature Reserve.
The guide’s knowledgeable narration will enhance visitors’ understanding and appreciation of this remarkable protected area.
Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or simply interested in learning more about the natural wonders of Corsica, the live commentary in French ensures you’ll gain valuable insights during the tour.
With the guide’s guidance, you’ll come away with a deeper understanding of this remarkable natural treasure.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Guests can check availability for the eco-friendly boat tour and select their preferred start time. A reservation can be made without immediate payment, allowing visitors to secure their spot and pay later.
On top of that, guests enjoy the convenience of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility should their plans change.
The booking process for this tour offers several key benefits:
- Flexibility to reserve now and pay later
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the tour
- Ability to check availability and choose a suitable start time
This convenient booking approach ensures a stress-free experience for visitors exploring the Scandola Nature Reserve on an eco-friendly hybrid boat.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyTour Inclusions
This eco-friendly boat tour includes a 3-hour journey through Corsica’s stunning Scandola Nature Reserve, with live commentary in French provided by an onboard guide.
Guests can look forward to a 30-minute stop in the remote village of Girolata, accessible only by sea, where they’ll have the opportunity to explore the local environment.
Plus, an optional 1.5-hour extension allows visitors to witness the breathtaking rock formations of the Calanche de Piana.
The tour is designed to be eco-friendly, with the boat operating in electric, silent mode while navigating the Scandola Reserve.
However, guests should note that food, drinks, and wheelchair accessibility aren’t included in the tour.
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Tour Exclusions
Food and drinks aren’t included in the tour package, though guests are welcome to bring their own refreshments.
Plus, the eco-friendly boat tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, as it only allows for non-electric wheelchairs.
While the tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the Scandola Nature Reserve, there are a few exclusions to keep in mind:
- Food and drinks aren’t provided, so guests should plan accordingly.
- Electric wheelchairs aren’t permitted on the boat, as only non-electric models are allowed.
- The tour may not be the best option for those with mobility challenges, as the boat may not be accessible for all.
Important Considerations
Certain considerations are worth keeping in mind when booking the Scandola Nature Reserve eco-friendly boat tour. For instance, the boat operates in electric, silent mode only while within the Scandola Reserve itself, providing a more immersive and environmentally-friendly experience.
Guests can bring their own food and drinks, and swimming is possible at the beach in Girolata village. While non-electric wheelchairs are allowed, electric wheelchairs aren’t suitable for this tour.
For morning departures, there’s a 30-60 minute stop-over in Porto. And if the Calanche de Piana option is selected, there will be a mid-tour stop to drop off and collect customers.
With a little planning, adventurers can fully enjoy this unique nature excursion.
Visiting the Calanche De Piana
Travelers who opt for the Calanche de Piana extension on the Scandola Nature Reserve tour will be treated to a stunning display of towering, reddish-orange rock formations carved by centuries of wind and water erosion.
This optional 1.5-hour boat excursion takes visitors to witness the breathtaking Calanche de Piana, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its dramatic and otherworldly landscape.
The tour includes:
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Sailing along the coastline to admire the intricate, sculpted cliffs from the water.
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Stopping at select viewpoints to capture photographs of the awe-inspiring rock formations.
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Learning about the unique geology and ecological significance of this protected natural wonder from the onboard guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Boat Tour Suitable for Young Children?
The boat tour may be suitable for young children, as it allows stops for swimming and exploration. However, the length of the tour and potential sea conditions should be considered when deciding if it’s appropriate for young kids.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Boat Tour?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the eco-friendly boat tour of Corsica’s Scandola Nature Reserve. The boats are designed for human passengers only, and bringing pets would not be permitted for safety and environmental reasons.
Are There Any Hiking Opportunities During the Boat Tour?
There are no hiking opportunities during the boat tour. The tour focuses on exploring the Scandola Nature Reserve and the remote village of Girolata by boat. Guests can swim at the beach in Girolata, but there are no scheduled hiking activities.
Are There Any Restrooms or Facilities on the Boat?
The eco-friendly boat has on-board restrooms and basic facilities available for guests. While there are no extensive amenities, the boat is equipped with the necessary conveniences to ensure a comfortable experience during the 3-4.5 hour tour.
How Frequently Do the Boat Tours Operate on a Daily Basis?
The boat tours operate multiple times throughout the day, with check-in times varying. Customers can explore the availability of departure times when booking their tour to find the best option for their schedule.
Recap
The Scandola Nature Reserve Eco-Boat Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Corsica’s stunning coastline in an eco-friendly manner.
Travelers can witness the reserve’s diverse wildlife, including sea eagles and peregrine falcons, while navigating the waters in an electric-powered boat.
With knowledgeable guides providing live commentary, visitors can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the local ecosystem.
An optional extension to the Calanche de Piana UNESCO World Heritage site adds to the tour’s allure, providing a chance to witness the region’s dramatic rock formations.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Boat Tours & Cruises in Corsica
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