Corsica's west coast is the Mediterranean at its most dramatic — limestone sea cliffs, granite coves, and the extraordinary cliff-top city of Bonifacio. This 7-day circuit covers the highlights.
Corsica's west coast circuit runs from Calvi in the north to Bonifacio in the south, hugging a coastline of extraordinary dramatic beauty. The mistral is the defining weather feature — a northwesterly that can strengthen rapidly. Check forecasts obsessively and keep an escape anchorage in mind.
Corsica's coast — dramatic limestone cliffs meet the Mediterranean in one of France's finest sailing grounds
Day by day
1
Day 1 — Calvi
Explore Calvi's Genoese citadel and prepare the boat. Sail a short hop south to Girolata (20nm) — only accessible by sea or a 2-hour hike.
2
Day 2 — Girolata to Porto15nm
A short sail into the extraordinary red granite gorge of the Gulf of Porto. UNESCO World Heritage site.
3
Day 3 — Porto to Ajaccio35nm
Napoleon's birthplace and Corsica's capital. Excellent restaurants, good provisioning, and a large marina.
4
Day 4 — Ajaccio to Propriano40nm
Southbound down the west coast. Anchor in Campomoro bay — one of Corsica's finest.
5
Day 5 — Propriano to Bonifacio30nm
The destination. Arrive at Bonifacio's cliff-top harbour in the afternoon for the full dramatic effect. Explore the old town perched 70m above the water.
6
Day 6 — Bonifacio to Figari Bay15nm
Explore the southern tip of Corsica before heading north.
7
Day 7 — Return to Ajaccio or Calvi (one-way charter)
Key anchorages
Girolata — no road access, extraordinary setting. Campomoro — wide sandy bay with a Genoese tower. Bonifacio — marina or anchor off; the former is more convenient. Cala Longa (near Bonifacio) — beautiful alternative to the crowded town anchorage.
Provisioning & marinas
Provision at Calvi or Ajaccio. Bonifacio marina: $88–$132/night peak season, essential to pre-book in July/August. Propriano and Porto have smaller marinas with fewer facilities. The mistral means secure marinas are often preferable to anchoring — budget for more marina nights than you'd plan in Greece.
Frequently asked questions
Is Corsica difficult to charter?
Corsica requires solid intermediate experience. The mistral can be dangerous; the coastline is rugged; and the Strait of Bonifacio is one of the Mediterranean's most challenging passages. Not recommended for first-time charter sailors.
Is a one-way charter possible in Corsica?
Yes — Calvi to Bonifacio (or Ajaccio) with a repositioning fee is standard. Most charter companies based in Ajaccio or Calvi offer one-way options.
Do I need to clear customs between Corsica and Sardinia?
No — Corsica is France (EU) and Sardinia is Italy (EU). No customs formalities required.
