8 Day Corsican Shores, Under Sail Aboard Le Ponant (2024)

Overview

“Eternity. It is the sea mingled with the sun”, according to a poem by Rimbaud. Whether you are a lover of the sea or a curious traveller, experience once again the indescribable joy of navigating under sail, bathed by the wind and sea spray, surrounded by the elements. Take your place aboard Le Ponant, a majestic three-mast yacht with elegant lines and an interior design created by the Jean-Philippe Nuel studio to be a warm and intimate setting with a very distinctive personality. As if you were on your very own yacht, match your inner tempo to the boat’s subtle oscillations and savour the freedom...read more of living in the moment, being fully present for your trip.

Aboard its emblematic yacht, PONANT is reshaping the contours of cruising and invites you to experience a new way of discovering the wonderful Corsican shores. Departing from Nice, between wild paradises and heavenly beaches, iconic ports of call and private moments, the very essence of the Isle of Beauty will reveal itself.

As you are carried by the wind from one cape to the other, discover the multiple facets of the island. To the north, in Calvi or Saint Florent, the craggy terrain of the Balagne region and Cap Corse stretch out towards the sea. There, under the watchful eye of emblematic summits and of shores eroded by sea spray, the historic citadels and the villages clinging to the heady maquis invite you to immerse yourself in this still-unspoiled natural environment.

Slowly, the south of the island and its idyllic beaches will beckon you. Drawn by the spellbinding song of these sandy sirens, you will heed the call at full sail. On the way, the stunning spectacle of the archipelago formed by Pointe de la Parata and the Sanguinaires Islands indicates the entrance to the Gulf of Ajaccio. This long line of crests seems to extend the coast like a backbone and, for a moment, your vessel, and perhaps even time, seem brought to a standstill.

You will then set a course towards the southern tip of the Isle of Beauty, to uncover its dreamy scenery. In the Gulf of Sant’Amanza, the azure Mediterranean and its fish-rich waters merge with the different varieties of plants and shrubs warmed by the sun, inviting you to refocus on what is truly important. With your senses awakened, you will then sail towards the incredible landscape offered by Bonifacio and the fortress with winding streets suspended on its ivory cliffs.

In the Gulf of Roccapina, on the beach of Erbaghju, the iconic Domaine de Murtoli emerges. Nestled between fragrant scrubland and turquoise sea, shielded from prying eyes, this unique hotel destination invites you to celebrate the Corsican way of life at its most vibrant and generous. The activities, designed for you and with you, create possibilities for returning to what is essential, in a setting conducive to contemplation. At your own pace, immerse yourself in wild and stunning panoramas, away from the crowds, and enjoy moments spent in harmony with nature.

Cruise Itinerary

Departs: 18:00

Located on the stunning French Riviera, Nice is renowned for its captivating seaside views and vibrant culture. Begin your visit with a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, where the azure Mediterranean Sea meets the bustling city. The historic Old Town, with its narrow streets and colorful buildings, offers a delightful maze of artisan shops, cafés, and the famous Cours Saleya market.

Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Marc Chagall National Museum and the Musée Matisse, both housing impressive collections. For a taste of local life, visit the Liberation Market, featuring fresh produce and regional specialties. Don’t miss Castle Hill, offering panoramic views of the city and the sea, making it a perfect spot for photographs.

Arrives: 10:00 Departs: 18:00

Saint-Florent, nestled at the base of the Cap Corse peninsula in Corsica, is a charming blend of French and Italian influences, often compared to a mini Saint-Tropez.

This picturesque seaside town is centered around a bustling marina, lined with chic cafés and gourmet restaurants. The town is renowned for its white sandy beaches such as Plage de la Roya, which offers leisurely activities and watersports in a stunning setting.

For those interested in culture and history, the Genoese Citadel provides insight into Saint-Florent's past with its commanding views over the bay. The town also serves as a gateway to the renowned Patrimonio vineyards, inviting visitors to taste some of Corsica's finest wines.

Arrives: 08:30 Departs: 16:30

Located on the west coast of Corsica, Ajaccio is surrounded by green-hued mountains, with shady palm fringed squares and pleasure boats bobbing in the bay. The city is best known as the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte and his legacy dominates the city in its statues and street names. Ships will dock at Gare Maritime d’Ajaccio.

Top Things to Do in Ajaccio:

walk the Route des Cretes
take a boat ride to the Isles Sanguinaires
explore Maison Bonaparte
tour the Prunelli Gorges

Arrives: 08:30 Departs: 16:00

Spend exceptional moments sailing aboard Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s first luxury polar exploration vessel and the first PC2-class polar cruise ship capable of sailing into the very heart of the ice, on seas and oceans which the frozen conditions render inaccessible to ordinary ships. Le Commandant Charcot is fitted with oceanographic and scientific equipment selected by a committee of experts.

Take advantage of the on-board lectures and opportunities for discussion with these specialists to learn more about the poles. Participate in furthering scientific research with PONANT and let us discover together what these fascinating destinations have yet to reveal to us.

Nestled between majestic cliffs, and surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, lies the unique hilltop fortress town of Bonifacio. Here the citadel seems to have grown right out of the limestone cliffs, and medieval houses perch precariously on the edge. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the cruise terminal.

Top Things to Do in Bonifacio:

tour the old streets on the Petit Train
cruise the Lavezzi-Cavallo archipelago
hike up Montée Rostello to St Roch Chapel
take a scenic drive to Bavella

Arrives: 10:45 Departs: 19:45

Nestled between Bonifacio and Sartène, the Gulf of Roccapina offers some of the most iconic landscapes in Corsica. Along the shore, rocky cliffs sculpted by erosion stand as guardians of idyllic beaches, basking in the delightful scent of myrtle. The nearby maquis hides a true treasure: the iconic estate of Murtoli. Stretching to the paradisiacal beach of Erbaghju, this hotel destination celebrates the Corsican way of life and its island traditions like nowhere else.

Arrives: 08:30 Departs: 18:00

Located on the island of Corsica, Calvi is a beach town with a medieval past. Its cobbled streets climb up to an imposing Genoese Citadel which overlooks a sweeping bay of powdered white sand fringed by maritime pine trees. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be proved to Quai Landry.

Top Things to Do in Calvi:

take in the views from the citadel
view Christopher Columbus' house
visit nearby Ile Rousse
stroll the rustic streets of Pigna
drive the scenic south coast

Arrives: 06:00

Note: Ship ports may not be located in the starting & ending cities listed. Port and transfer details will be provided in your travel documentation. The provided itinerary is for informational purposes only. Activities and sightseeing attractions listed may not be available or achievable within the time in port.