Corsica - Island lavezzi near corsica stock photo - Istock

Motor Yacht Charter
Corsica

Corsica is a dream destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers and those searching for ultimate relaxation on a motor yacht charter.

Venture beyond the French mainland to this captivating Mediterranean island, where dramatic limestone cliffs plunge into turquoise waters, secluded beaches beckon, and a rich cultural heritage infuses every port of call. From exploring remote nature reserves to savouring the local cuisine, a motor yacht charter offers unparalleled access to Corsica's unspoiled splendour.

Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply time spent with loved ones, a motor yacht charter in Corsica promises to be an unforgettable experience.

What Makes Corsica Special?

Wide Area to Explore

Corsica has over 1000 kilometres (620 miles) of coastline but if you want something more, you're also close to the Cote d'Azur and Sardinia's Costa Smeralda.

Hidden Coves and Secluded Beaches

Corsica is home to numerous hidden coves and secluded beaches, such as Cap Corse, which are only accessible by boat.

Excellent Sailing Conditions

Corsica enjoys great sailing conditions with steady winds, making it a paradise for sailing enthusiasts.

Rich Cultural Heritage

Corsica has a rich history and culture, with influences from Italy, France and beyond combining to create a unique and passionately held Corsican identity. Famous as Napoleon Bonaparte's birthplace, the island has a recorded history dating back to 560 bce so there's plenty to explore.

Gastronomic Delights

The food scene in Corsica offers a unique blend of French and Italian flavours influenced by the island's rich history and local produce. Corsican cuisine is known for using simple, fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.

Vibrant Nightlife

Corsica's coastal towns come alive at night with buzzing bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Island Hopping

Easy access to nearby French and Italian islands, including Sardinia and Elba.

Breathtaking Landscapes

Corsica offers stunning coastal scenery with its crystal-clear turquoise waters, rocky cliffs, and white sandy beaches.

Mountain Backdrops

You'll be wowed by the stunning views of Corsica's mountainous interior from the comfort of your yacht.

Corsica - Beautiful sunrise near Ajaccio with view on the island Sanguinaires - Getty - Potential Not To Be Missed

Visit the Iles Sanguinaires

This archipelago near Ajaccio is a designated reserve for sea birds and other wildlife, with a lighthouse, hiking trails, and excellent snorkelling opportunities.

Not To Be Missed

Lavezzi Islands

Cruise to the Lavezzi Islands, a protected nature reserve located south of Corsica. Anchor in the crystal-clear waters and snorkel among colourful marine life in the underwater caves and reefs.

Scandola Nature Reserve

Explore the UNESCO-listed Scandola Nature Reserve, known for its dramatic red cliffs, hidden coves, and diverse wildlife. Sail through the narrow fjords, admire the towering rock formations, and spot seals, dolphins, and seabirds along the way.

Calvi Town

Visit the charming town of Calvi, located on Corsica's northwest coast. Explore the historic citadel, stroll along the waterfront promenade, and relax on the beautiful sandy beach.

Gulf of Porto

Cruise through the Gulf of Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning landscapes and natural beauty. Admire the towering cliffs of the Calanques de Piana, visit the historic Genoese towers, and anchor in secluded coves for swimming and sunbathing.

Ajaccio Town

Explore the vibrant city of Ajaccio, the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. Visit the historic old town, discover the Maison Bonaparte museum and dine on fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants.

Porto-Vecchio Town

This upscale coastal town on Corsica's southeastern shore perfectly blends natural beauty and chic Mediterranean style. Enjoy the scenic harbour, indulge in the local cuisine and visit nearby beaches and historic sites.

Stargazing

Find yourself a quiet little bay to anchor for the night and enjoy stargazing from the deck of your yacht.

Iles Sanguinaires

Archipelago near Ajaccio with a lighthouse, hiking trails, lookout point, and excellent snorkelling opportunities.

Girolata Village

Remote, car-free village accessible only by boat or foot, nestled in a beautiful bay.

Corsica - Outstanding view on Bonifacio town from the sea. stock photo - Getty - Potential Hero

Bonifacio Town

Sail into the sheltered harbour at Bonifacio through a narrow passage in the surrounding cliffs. The town itself is perched up on the cliffs - explore the historic old town, visit the ancient citadel, and marvel at the stunning coastline views from above.

Best Times To Visit Corsica On A Motor Yacht Charter

The season in Corsica runs from April to October, with July and August being the peak months with the highest temperatures and most visitors. April to June and September to October are much quieter, and the temperatures are lower, but they are perfect for those looking to get away for a more peaceful experience.

Weather

Monthly weather for the area *

Avg. High Temp Avg. Low Temp Avg. Wind
JAN 1.5°C (35°F) -4.1°C (25°F) wind direction 189degS
FEB 2.9°C (37°F) -5.0°C (23°F) wind direction 150degSSE
MAR 5.5°C (42°F) -1.4°C (30°F) wind direction 195degSSW
APR 7.0°C (45°F) 0.2°C (32°F) wind direction 190degS
MAY 10.6°C (51°F) 3.7°C (39°F) wind direction 134degSE
JUN 16.4°C (61°F) 8.8°C (48°F) wind direction 178degS
JUL 22.4°C (72°F) 13.7°C (57°F) wind direction 222degSW
AUG 20.7°C (69°F) 11.4°C (53°F) wind direction 194degSSW
SEP 16.5°C (62°F) 8.2°C (47°F) wind direction 166degSSE
OCT 13.7°C (57°F) 7.0°C (45°F) wind direction 204degSSW
NOV 5.7°C (42°F) 0.8°C (33°F) wind direction 221degSW
DEC 4.6°C (40°F) -0.9°C (30°F) wind direction 207degSSW
* Weather information is based on the previous year's records at local weather stations.

Local Essentials

Language

The official language of France is French, and English is widely spoken.

Currency

The official currency of France is the Euro (€).

Tipping

Tipping in {{ location }} is generally not required as a service charge is included on the bill; however, if you receive exceptional service or want to express your appreciation, leaving a small tip is always a kind gesture.

Is A Motor Yacht Right For You

Speed and Range

Motor yachts have powerful engines, so typically offer higher speeds and can cover greater distances than sailing yachts.

Stability

Motor yachts generally provide a more stable platform than the average sailing yacht, both while cruising and at anchor.

Propulsion

Motor yachts rely exclusively on engine power, whereas a sailing yacht typically uses wind and sail as their primary source.

Fuel Consumption

While they can cover more range in shorter times than sailing yachts, this means motor yachts consume more fuel which can affect your final costs for the charter.

Itinerary Flexibility

Motor yachts are less dependent on wind conditions, allowing for more predictable and potentially wide-ranging itineraries and schedules.

Onboard Experience

The experience on a motor yacht is often more akin to a luxury hotel, with the emphasis on comfort and amenities.

Draft and Boat Hull Depth

Many motor yachts have a relatively shallow draft or hull depth, allowing them to access areas that deeper-keeled sailing yachts cannot.

Crew Specialisation

Crews on motor yachts focus more on navigation, hospitality, and maintaining complex systems, rather than sailing skills.

Target Audience

Motor yacht charters are likely to appeal to those seeking luxury, comfort, and efficiency of travel, rather than the sailing experience itself.

4 PLAY

Layout and Space

Motor yachts often feature more expansive interior spaces and amenities as the design isn't constrained by sailing requirements.

Charter Types In Corsica

Bareboat Motor Yacht Charters

A bareboat charter with Pure Yachting gives you the freedom to create your own itinerary and explore Corsica and beyond at your own pace. Tailor your trip to match your preferences, and if you need advice or inspiration our charter experts will always be on hand to suggest areas to explore.

We select our fleet of yachts from trusted operators, chosen by us for the quality of their boats and the fact they offer a high level of service. To charter a yacht you'll typically need a qualification such as the RYA Day Skipper, the AS104 Bareboat Cruising, ICC certification or be able to demonstrate relevant experience.

Skippered Motor Yacht Charters

With a professional skipper at the helm to confidently navigate around Corsica and beyond, you’re free to relax and enjoy every moment. The skipper's expertise ensures smooth sailing, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings.

However, if you fancy getting more involved, our fully qualified skippers will be more than happy to show you the basics, or help you brush up your sailing skills.

On skippered charters, there's also the opportunity to add a host or hostess who can prepare meals and help with tasks such as childcare, concierge services and housekeeping.

Crewed Motor Yacht Charters

Crewed yacht charters from Corsica come in many shapes and sizes, ranging from sleek superyachts to luxury catamarans, contemporary motor yachts to classic yachts and more, all with crews who are committed to ensuring your comfort, safety and enjoyment.

Each trip offers the opportunity to create a unique journey and our charter experts will guide you through choosing the perfect boat and customising the itinerary to your specification. Whatever your preferences, we take care of all the details, ensuring you and your party have a unique and unforgettable holiday.

How To Book

How To Book Your Motor Yacht Charter From Corsica

Corsica is a popular charter destination, and therefore, booking your dream boat in advance (typically six months ahead) is best to secure your preferred dates in this perfect destination.

You can search for your dream motor yacht via the link below, or if you want one of our charter experts to do the searching for you, click the link below to get them working on creating the perfect trip.

Pure Thoughts

With its stunning coastline, pristine beaches, historic ports, and rugged mountains, a motor yacht charter in Corsica provides a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and nautical adventure.

Make sure to visit the ancient city of Bonifacio, perched atop limestone cliffs, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea with its world-famous dramatic harbour entrance. Its narrow medieval streets and ancient citadel, have been inhabited since 700 AD, and you can enjoy spectacular views from the clifftop vantage points.

With over 1,000 KMS of coastline there is a lot to explore and it's always easy to find some off the beaten track locations. The UNESCO World Heritage site of Scandola Nature Reserve is a highlight for many sailors, with its red rock formations and rich marine life. The Lavezzi Islands in the south offer turquoise waters perfect for snorkelling and swimming. Inland, the mountainous terrain provides a dramatic backdrop and opportunities for hiking and exploration.

The island also has numerous picturesque and historically significant towns worth exploring. The capital city of Corsica, Ajaccio, was also the birthplace of Napoleon and is known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, along with a lively market in Place Foch. On the northwest coast, Calvi boasts a picturesque harbour, sandy beaches, a historic citadel and the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist. The southeastern town of Porto-Vecchio has a beautiful old town and a great natural harbour. Finally, located in the northeast, Bastia is a bustling old port known for its baroque churches combined with the the old town’s narrow streets.

From the glamorous harbours of the west coast to the secluded coves of the east, there's something for every sailor. The island's ideal position in the western Mediterranean also allows for potential side trips to neighbouring Sardinia or the French Riviera.

No trip to Corsica is complete without indulging in its regional cuisine. The island boasts a unique blend of French and Italian flavours, with fresh seafood, locally produced cheeses, and Corsican charcuterie taking centre stage.

Choosing Corsica for your motor yacht charter means embarking on a journey that combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and excellent sailing. Whether you're looking for relaxation on secluded beaches, adventures in nature, cultural exploration, or simply the joy of sailing in beautiful waters, Corsica offers it all.

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FAQ's

What Are The Main Things To Consider Before I Charter A Motor Yacht?

If you are doing a bareboat charter, you need to consider if you have the relevant sailing licences. If you are on a skippered or crewed charter, it's good to understand the weather conditions for the trip so you can bring the appropriate clothing and think about which locations you would like to visit so as you can let the skipper know.

How Do I Choose The Right Motor Yacht?

When chartering a motor yacht from Corsica, consider factors such as budget, yacht size and type, along with the crew when relevant to make sure they're a good fit for you and your party.

What Type Of Motor Yacht Can I Charter From Corsica?

There are typically five main types of boats and yachts you can hire in Corsica, which are Sailing Yachts, Catamarans, Motorboats, Gulets and Luxury Yachts (including Superyachts)

When Are The Best Times To Charter A Motor Yacht From Corsica?

For the ultimate sailing experience, May, June, September and October are genuinely the golden months, but the summer months are also popular, though the anchorages are busier.

How Do Charter Fees Work When Chartering A Motor Yacht?

Once you've found your perfect motor yacht, you will typically pay an upfront deposit fee for holding the boat (these vary from 20% to 50% of the charter fee), and then you will pay the rest one month before departure.

How Long Does A Motor Yacht Charter Typically Last?

The typical times for a motor yacht charter are either 7 or 14 days, but you can charter boats longer if you wish. Most charters, particularly in high season, start on Saturdays and finish seven days later.

What Happens If There Is A Problem With My Motor Yacht Charter?

The good news is we spend a lot of time vetting who we work with, so this rarely happens, but if there is a problem, you can contact your charter company or ourselves who will be available to sort out any issues.