Ajaccio
The magnetism of the Mediterranean
As a French commune only seven miles from the Italian island of Sardinia, Corsica is a blend of French and Italian culture. The locals feel more Italian than French but enjoy francophile staples like boulangeries and charcuterie. The capital port city, Ajaccio, sits on the western side of a natural paradise with astonishing peaks and sprawling beaches.
Ajaccio’s small streets are steeped in Napoleonic history including Maison Bonaparte, the infamous commander’s ancestral home. Tucked away in the mountainous countryside you’ll find vineyards, endless hiking trails and wild boar (see charcuterie). The Ajaccio Market displays fresh honey, organic wine and aromatherapy oils harvested from the hills. Ajaccio is a gateway to the beaches along Corsica’s shores and the forests, canyons and coves hidden in the Mediterranean mountains.
Path Through Prunelli
Au revoir to the Corsican coast and bonjour to the island’s granite hills and small-town charm. Drive down a scenic highway and winding roads through the Prunelli Gorges to see Corsica’s natural beauty. Stop to admire Tolla Lake, taste Corsican spuntinu, and visit the villages of Ocana, Tolla, and Bastelicaccia with high granite houses and flourishing gardens. On the way to each stop, you’ll learn about history, geography, and cultural traditions.
Napoleon Invasion Tour
Follow Napoleon Bonaparte’s footsteps on a historical walking tour of Ajaccio’s Old Town. You’ll pass by the cathedral where Napoleon was baptized and visit multiple squares with statues dedicated to the man himself. You’ll have an hour to explore the Fesch Museum independently and visit the floors highlighting Napoleon. Then, you’ll finish the tour with an immersive cultural experience where you’ll be served traditional Spuntinu (small Corsican plates) as you watch a film about Napoleon’s life.
Local Artisans Trio Tour
Explore the outskirts of Ajaccio while immersing yourself in the flavors and aromas of Corsican products. You’ll venture out to a honey farm, an essential oils distillery, and a vineyard in the wild countryside. First, you’ll taste Corsican honey and learn about the benefits of beehives at the honey farm. Next, you’ll discover 13 essential oils, floral water, and massage oil at an organic essential oils distillery. Finally, you’ll visit a local vineyard to sip wine paired with local specialties.
Ajaccio from the Sky: Helicopter Tour
Ajaccio
Discover Corsica from above on a 20-minute helicopter ride where the sky is (literally) the limit. After an initial safety briefing at the helicopter pad, you’ll fly over the rugged Sanguinary Islands, get striking aerial views of Monte Gozzi, and see the beautiful beaches of Capo di Feno, Tiuccia, and Lava (no, not the flaming hot one). Once you’re back on land, you’ll be taken back to the ship with plenty of unique memories (and pictures) of Ajaccio’s gorgeous North Coast landscapes to share.
Energy Level
Duration
Type
Highlights
- Fly over the Sanguinary Islands, Capo di Feno, Lava, Tiuccia and Monte Gozzi
- Admire the island of Corsica from a new aerial point of view on a 20-minute helicopter ride
- This experience is not suitable for Sailors with vertigo
- Please be aware this Shore Thing is not wheelchair accessible
- Sailors should consider their physical fitness level and medical history when determining whether this Shore Thing is appropriate
- Approximately 20 minutes of flight time
- This Shore Thing is weather dependent
- This Shore Thing is considered 'daring' and not for the faint of heart. Sailors are reminded that they assume full risk and responsibility
- Sailors should bring cash if they want to purchase local products
- This Shore Thing operator has received third-party certification based on the Global Sustainable Tourism Council criteria
If you make a cancellation prior to the first day of your voyage and at least 24 hours (unless otherwise stated in the tour details) prior to the start of your Shore Thing, you will be refunded to the original form of payment after midnight Eastern Standard Time (EST) on the day of cancellation.
If you make another purchase prior to midnight EST, after canceling a booking eligible for a refund, the credit from the canceled booking will be applied to your new booking. Therefore, you’ll only be charged for the price difference between the canceled and new experience. If you have remaining temporary credit left on your account after you’ve made another experience purchase, the remaining credit will be refunded to your original form of payment after midnight EST.
If you cancel a Shore Thing during your voyage and are eligible for a refund, a credit will be applied to your folio and not to your original form of payment.
Please visit this link for more information regarding Shore Things terms & conditions.
Ajaccio by Bike
Ajaccio
Hop on a bike to discover the white, sandy beaches and lush terrain of Corsica. You’ll meet your guide at the pier and ride to Punta de la Parata, a rugged seaside locale overlooking the Gulf of Ajaccio. The panoramic views feature the Iles Sanguinaires, an archipelago of four islands at the entrance of the gulf, plus Genoese towers dating back to the sixteenth century that stand guard over the harbor. After taking in the views and snapping some photos, you’ll make your way back to the pier.
Energy Level
Duration
Type
Highlights
- Pedal to Punta de Parata, a rugged seaside locale
- Discover the idyllic scenery of Corsica with its white sandy beaches and lush mountains
- See the Iles Sanguinaires, an archipelago of four islands at the entrance of the Gulf of Ajaccio
- Marvel at the sixteenth century Genoese towers that safeguard the harbor
- Please be aware this Shore Thing is not wheelchair accessible
- Sailors should consider their physical fitness level and medical history when determining whether this Shore Thing is appropriate
- Sailors should know how to ride a bike
- Closed-toed shoes are required
- Gratuities are included
- Sailors should bring cash if they want to purchase local products
- Approximately 4-hours of bike time
- This Shore Thing operator has received third-party certification based on the Global Sustainable Tourism Council criteria
If you make a cancellation prior to the first day of your voyage and at least 24 hours (unless otherwise stated in the tour details) prior to the start of your Shore Thing, you will be refunded to the original form of payment after midnight Eastern Standard Time (EST) on the day of cancellation.
If you make another purchase prior to midnight EST, after canceling a booking eligible for a refund, the credit from the canceled booking will be applied to your new booking. Therefore, you’ll only be charged for the price difference between the canceled and new experience. If you have remaining temporary credit left on your account after you’ve made another experience purchase, the remaining credit will be refunded to your original form of payment after midnight EST.
If you cancel a Shore Thing during your voyage and are eligible for a refund, a credit will be applied to your folio and not to your original form of payment.
Please visit this link for more information regarding Shore Things terms & conditions.
Kayak the Gulf of Ajaccio
Ajaccio
Paddle through the Gulf of Ajaccio to discover idyllic beaches, fishermen's ports, and city walls. Start your adventure by walking to the Tino Rossi Marina and Fishing Port to launch your kayak into the water. As you paddle past the port, you’ll circumnavigate the ancient citadel wall. On the other side, you’ll reach Saint-François Beach. Next, you’ll head to Miot Square before arriving at Trottel Beach. After relaxing in the sand, you’ll return to the starting point on foot.
Energy Level
Duration
Type
Highlights
- Enjoy a (gorgeous) stroll to the Tino Rossi Marina and Fishing Port
- See Ajaccio’s impressive citadel walls and other hidden gems while paddling your way through the Gulf
- Relax and take in the stunning views from Trottel sandy beach
- Approximately 2 hours of kayaking
- We recommend Sailors bring a bag or backpack to carry belongings
- Gratuities are included
- Sailors should know how to swim
- Please be aware this Shore Thing is not wheelchair accessible
- Sailors should consider their physical fitness level and medical history when determining whether this Shore Thing is appropriate
- Sailors should bring cash if they want to purchase local products
- This Shore Thing operator has received third-party certification based on the Global Sustainable Tourism Council criteria
If you make a cancellation prior to the first day of your voyage and at least 24 hours (unless otherwise stated in the tour details) prior to the start of your Shore Thing, you will be refunded to the original form of payment after midnight Eastern Standard Time (EST) on the day of cancellation.
If you make another purchase prior to midnight EST, after canceling a booking eligible for a refund, the credit from the canceled booking will be applied to your new booking. Therefore, you’ll only be charged for the price difference between the canceled and new experience. If you have remaining temporary credit left on your account after you’ve made another experience purchase, the remaining credit will be refunded to your original form of payment after midnight EST.
If you cancel a Shore Thing during your voyage and are eligible for a refund, a credit will be applied to your folio and not to your original form of payment.
Please visit this link for more information regarding Shore Things terms & conditions.
Sanguinaires Beach Life — Half-day at Le Palm
Ajaccio
Hop on a motor coach toward Sanguinaires Beach, seeing seaside villas and (almost) hidden coves along the way. Grab a lounger to bask in the sun, and plunge straight into the turquoise waters. After your free time of salt and sand, you’ll head back to the port.
Energy Level
Duration
Type
Highlights
- Relax or make a splash—Spend time at the beach doing what you like or doing nothing at all (we won't judge)
- Approximately 30-minute drive to/from the beach location
- Sun loungers and umbrellas are included
- Please note that Sailors wishing to use any bar or cafe facilities will be expected to purchase a food or beverage item
- This Shore Thing is not wheelchair accessible
- Please note that there will be no lifeguards on duty. Sailors are reminded that they assume full risk and responsibility if swimming
- Sailors should wear their swimwear, and bring a change of clothes and towel
- Head's up: depending on the season, these waters are home to a native jellyfish population
- Please keep in mind that cancellations made within 72 hours or less are subject to a 100% cancellation penalty
If you make a cancellation prior to the first day of your voyage and at least 24 hours (unless otherwise stated in the tour details) prior to the start of your Shore Thing, you will be refunded to the original form of payment after midnight Eastern Standard Time (EST) on the day of cancellation.
If you make another purchase prior to midnight EST, after canceling a booking eligible for a refund, the credit from the canceled booking will be applied to your new booking. Therefore, you’ll only be charged for the price difference between the canceled and new experience. If you have remaining temporary credit left on your account after you’ve made another experience purchase, the remaining credit will be refunded to your original form of payment after midnight EST.
If you cancel a Shore Thing during your voyage and are eligible for a refund, a credit will be applied to your folio and not to your original form of payment.
Please visit this link for more information regarding Shore Things terms & conditions.
Name that language
Besides French, Corisican (which is similar to Italian) is widely spoken.
Corsica catches your attention with its rugged hills and sandy beaches. After a day of wandering along its streets and shores, Ajaccio will convince you to stay a little longer. Its French-like streets paired with an Italian mindset makes for a slower pace of life that redefines island time. The vistas from mountain peaks and Genoese watchtowers overlooking the Gulf of Ajaccio keep you in a state of awe. Whether you spent your time in Ajaccio by the beach or ventured inland to climb high peaks, a day in Corsica never disappoints. Napoleon Bonaparte may have put Ajaccio on the map but it still resides as a hidden gem in the Mediterranean.
***Please be aware that all Sailors may be required to show proof of vaccination (a photocopy is acceptable) in Ajaccio, and a photo ID may also be required to return to the ship. Sailors should also bring masks with them as they may be required in some establishments.
